I never bring anything too complicated because I am easily distracted and make mistakes or waste massive time figuring out where I was. Precut if you are doing a new project because space may be at a premium. I always make one of the blocks on a new project so I have an idea or how to do it. In a noisy or busy place I have trouble following directions. I also read over directions of new projects and make notes to myself. I would make sure I took time at home before the retreat. All this because I'm easily distracted.