quilter309

I always take cash to the vendor booths and use my credit card at Hancocks. Some vendors still use paper forms, so who knows where you credit card number lays until they get back to their store. Most of my cash is in my shoe between the insole and the shoe until I need it. I just take my shoe off in the privacy of a bathroom stall and pull it out as I need it. The shoe "system" and a fanny pack, along with a cloth, zippered shoulder bag let me shop till I drop.

Longarm

Whenever I go where there will be crowds I carry my purse across my chest as I need to carry meds. But for someone who doesn't need to carry a purse and only wants something small I made a Quiltsmart cell phone case for a family member. This will hold a cell phone and credit cards, id and cash. With a long thin strap it can safely be carried almost anyway you want - across your chest, tucked inside your top or even around your waist and tucked into pants pockets. If you are concerned about the card readers just stick some aluminum foil in it to wrap around your card. Another thing I have done is gotten a low limit card and made sure it was 100% protected from liability if lost or account number stolen.
You can't be too careful anywhere and I believe in better safe than sorry. Also the cell phone case will hold my digital camera perfectly and makes an easy way to carry it.

Longarm

Carol J.

When you use your credit card, be sure to keep your receipts. I had a waiter tack on $10 to my food ticket one time and in checking my receipts, found that out when my bank statement came. I got my money back when the bank helped me make the claim. I had my receipt.
Vendors are charged a percentage of the amount on the credit card slip and for purchases under $10 they lose money.
Be careful at all times with your money and credit cards. Be aware of people bumping into you and never lay down your purse without one hand on it and a cord of some kind. The crowds at the show can be confining and the ones who are out to take your money act quickly.
Have fun and don't pass up a good deal

Carol J.

QuiltNama

I take cash for small purchases, restaurants, and water. Everything else credit card or bank card. Use a small bag that fits around the neck with cell phone, cards and small amount of cash as you hands will be busy with looking and buying. Go to the downtown area as they have many shops with books, thread and notions as well as fabric that seem to be a bit cheaper than a lot of the booths at the show. The whole town turns out for this 4 day event, it is a lot of fun but take lots of pictures as you will have creative overload and forget a lot of stuff. If possible go to the Show of Eleanore Burns, it is lots of fun and she signs books as well as gets her picture taken with you. Find a good parking spot and take the shuttle buses that run, been there quite a few times and just park in the down town. Chances are it will be warm, so dress comfortable with a light sweater or jacket that you can take off. Go with a few ideas in mind for things to look for or you will come home with wayyyyymore that you intended to. Ask me how I know that one!!!!It will be the most crazy fun and exhausting 4 days that you will spend. So many ideas and so little time. Enjoy
Brenda

krisgray

I don't go anywhere w/o a card. Never know when you might need it (car breakdown, e.g.). However, it so easy to overspend using plastic only. Sew, I will be taking cash for the vendors.

KwiltyKahy

I use a fanny pack, it's amazing how much I can fit in it. I like it because you can also pick up business cards from the vendors and you have some place to put them. "In style"?, make your own style!!!

jgriinke

I myself don't like a paper trail! So, when I go to shows, I take cash. I save up before going and that way, my DH doesn't know exactly how much I spent. I do take a CC with, just in case.
I love the comment about, "be sure to wear clothes." LOL
That may get very interesting if you don't.?!?!

vassarpm

take both and set a limit,after many trips there see the quilts first ,carry camera , wear comfort,shop last, they wull be glad to rake you cash or credit, have a great time,also more than one show in town.

sandygoshorn

Mona - I saw these in Harriet Carter's latest catalog. Around $10 I think'
Sandy

melodyr

They take plastic, and yes, everyone should have a shielded sleeve for any of their cards, wherever you go...thieves even go to grocery stores these days. ATMs are conveniently placed around the venue too...some vendors will even take a personal check! Some folks even throw another pair of comfy shoes in their bag to switch out...it really helps. Wheeled carts/totes are not allowed in the display area, but there is a fantastic package check manned by volunteers in the lobby of the CC.(scooters, walkers and wheelchairs are the only devices allowed) I carry a shoulder tote that I stuff small purchases in, with my small wallet. (big enough for d.licence, cards and some cash) Take a small notebook and pen! It is priceless. The show book has the quilter's name and a description of each quilt, but you always need extra when you see them yourself. I always take a picture of a quilt and then another one of the show tag. If you can't see the number, it is hard to match up your pictures with the book when you get home, since it is just text.There are many seating ares inside the show and in the big vendor tent...you can also purchase snacks in the lobby.(fruit, water, small cold sandwiches...even peel and eat shrimp)I carry a bottle of water and a few PB crackers. The food tent outside has all sorts of food...KY bar-b-q, fresh strawberry shortcake (sold by the boy scouts)drinks, and many types of sandwiches.

Ask anything you want...I'll find an answer! Oh, yeah...go by the MAQS YoYo's table in the lobby and get a $1 chance on the quilt they are raffling off...this year it is done with batik fabric and is stunning! (Mom is a YoYo)