Saturday, September 25, 2010

What Should I Pack for My Retreat?

I’m getting ready to head to three quilt retreats in October. I’m really looking forward to these retreats, but packing for them can be daunting. I wrote up a “To Take to Retreat” list to help me. I thought it might help you too. When you get ready to go to a retreat, you could just copy it and print it out…checking things off as you get them together. Here’s what I need to take.


 
RETREAT LIST
Sewing machine
  • Straight stitch throat plate and zig-zag throat plate
  • Extra machine needles
  • Darning foot/1/4” foot
  • Foot pedal/cord
  • Electrical cord
  • Extension Table for the machine
  • Pre-wound bobbins (extra bobbins)
  • Accessory box
  • Rubber mat for under sewing machine
  • Bendable Brite Light
Other 
  • Extension cord/power strip
  • Neutral threads/threads to match projects
  • Rulers/mat/rotary cutter
  • Chair/cushion
  • Sew Ezi table
  • Stiletto/porcupine quill
  • Scissors
  • Pins
  • Hand sewing needles
  • Pin cushion
  • Seam ripper
  • Tape measure
  • Bag for garbage
  • Iron/ironing surface
  • Spray starch/Best Press
  • Quilting gloves
  • Cone adapter
  • Supplies for classes
  • Projects
  • Project supplies

These are things I personally like to take.

  • Camera/batteries
  • Pen/paper
  • Book/iPad
  • Pillow
  • Silk Sack
  • Coffee Mug
  • Footies (something to put on your feet if you like to sew without shoes)

 

6 comments:

Kathleen Loomis said...

I always take several gallon-size zip lock bags. Good for organizing your leftovers or unfinished projects to take home.

Have fun on your retreats!

Quilter Beth said...

That is a great idea! I'll add that to my list.

Laura said...

I've never been to a retreat, and I've only taken one workshop (that was one day long) but it seems to me that you're taking EVERYTHING you might need. But I bet you feel like you're forgetting something or you won't bring that one thing you'll end up needing. If there's a store nearby, you can always buy what you need, even though you might have 2-3 already at home.

k.somerville said...

a nice candle, a journal, and some fabric to give away to any lovely new friends you might meet. Also, if you are not traveling on a plane, bring some homemade cookies - then maybe someone will give you some cool fabric back! Lastly, I sometimes try to bring a little gift for the teacher because workshop retreats are hard work :)

Unknown said...

Your list is great...I will use it next time I go to a retreat. I like the other ladies' comments as well. What a great 'thank you' for the instructor to make her feel appreciated!

Lis Harwood said...

Thanks for the list - really helpful. I'm looking forward to reading about your retreats on your blog as I've been charged with organising one for next November here in UK. I found your blog when looking for sew-ezi table reviews (great review btw) and am now following you. Lis x