I check out their boutique first. They sell magazines, quilt books, accessories, some small and large quilted items. Then I hit the vendors and then finally check out the quilts. Bring snacks, large tote and water, cash, credit cards and enjoy yourself.

Extra batteries for camera - if that type - I really messed up one year!

Dress in layers - some shows cold - some hot.

I take a little list of supplies - for new or already started quilts.

Relax! Enjoy!

Be on the lookout for things you NEED because you will see a million things you WANT. keep your checkbook in mind at all times. It can get away from you. Look at everything! My favorite things were the classes I got to take. I never knew I would enjoy it so much. Best of all ~ have fun rubbing elbows with all the people who love quilting as much as you do. =) Take pictures!

Along with all the other wonderful suggestions so far. - when you pick up business cards write on the back of the card what they sell,who you talked to, if you talked to anyone in that booth, and write down the item you were/may be interested in.
I hate it when I get home with a handful of business cards and can't remember what I really liked about that vendor.

Relax, have fun! I hope you have a safe trip.

You will have a great time at the Tucson Quilt Fiesta! I have gone for the past 5 years and every year it gets better. Plenty of quilts to view and lots of vendors with tons of stuff to buy or just get ideas from.

I take a huge tote bag (I don't care for backpacks altho they are great for those who like them) and a very small purse/wallet that I can sling cross-wise over my shoulder to the opposite hip (taking in my regular purse is a pain). The little purse is big enough for cash and my driver's license. I like to use cash as it's easier than managing credit card slips and such and also gives me a hard spending limit which makes me really think about what I want to buy.

I'll be there on Saturday and can hardly wait! ENJOY!!!

Thank you for all the advice...now to go charge my camera.

When you look at the quilts at a quilt show, don't just give your time to the quilts you love. Take time to study the quilts you don't like. Figure out why you don't like them. Maybe even take pictures of them too. It is a way to learn without wasting your time/money on something you won't like when it is done. A quilt show is an educational experience.

You are gonna have fun.

Hi Tucsonquilter. You'll have a great time at the Tucson Quilt Fiesta. There are lots of vendors, and the local quilt shops are there too. There is a beautiful raffel quilt this year. We have a historical bed turning. (My husbands grandmothers quilt is in it this year). There are over 300 quilts on display. Why not stop by the get aquainted table and become a member. I have been quilting for 15 yrs. and never joined the quild. This is my first year of membership and I am having so much fun.

Can't suggest what to bring, but I can suggest what not to bring...your husband! Especially when his back is out and all he can do is sit and wait for you to finish looking!