Quilt Retreat Must-Haves
What is considered a quilt retreat must-have? I thoroughly enjoy attending Quilt Retreats. It doesn’t matter if it is a weekend-long or an all-day one; Quilt Retreats are a great way to share with like-minded people. I am a list maker, and I have found that to create the best experience at a retreat, I need to remember all the necessary items. I am sharing my list with you. It is in no way complete, but it works for me most of the time. If you have more suggestions, please share!!
Quilt Retreat Sewing Machine Stuff
- Sewing machine, recently cleaned and oiled (manual if needed)
- Foot pedal and cord (there is a story behind this one)
- Extension cord and power bar
- Extra needles
- Lots of bobbins, pre-wound ahead of time is helpful
- Screwdriver for your machine
- Lint Brush
- Machine Oil – if needed
- All the machine feet you may need
- Fabric scraps for testing tension or other issues
- If you tilt your machine at home, don’t forget to bring something to help you tilt your machine at a retreat (for example – rubber, wedge-like doorstops)
- I tape a small paper bag to the table (to the right of my machine) and use it for threads and such. Others have created their own fabric thread catcher to use.
Project(s) for Quilt Retreats
- Fabric for your projects
- Small, fun projects for when your energy starts dropping
- Bring extra fabrics in case you don’t like one of your scraps once you start assembling
- Handwork project in case you get tired of your project or your machine malfunctions
- Thread
- Notions
- Scissors or thread snips
- Small or medium cutting mats
- Rotary cutter and extra blades
- Several rulers – I always bring my favorite: 6″x24″, 6″x12″, 12″ or 12 1/2″ square, 6″ square and 1″x6″
- Seam ripper – hopefully not needed
- Pins and pin cushion
- Measuring tape
- Finishing supplies if you complete a top early: batting, backing, and tools you use for layering
- Pressing ma or ironing board and iron – depending on the retreat setup
- Light or a magnifier
- Cushion for sitting on.
Other stuff
- Paper, sketchbook or notebook, and writing utensils
- Post-it notes or a notepad (they work well for labeling units)
- Glue stick (comes in handy at times – especially if you are paper piecing or applique)
- Masking or scotch tape
- zip lock bags if you have multiple steps and units. It helps to keep things organized.
- Spray starch or sizing along with a spray bottle filled with water
- Glasses
- Prescriptions, ibuprofen (may be necessary if you take daily meds)
- Refillable water bottle
- Band-aids, Kleenex, lip balm, hand lotion
- Layered clothing including a warm sweater or jacket.
- I’m not too fond of sewing with my shoes on, so I also have slipper socks that I bring to use at the retreats.
- Snacks, chocolate, or granola to munch on at your machine
- Stain remover pen
- Phone and charger
Depending on what type of quilt retreat I am attending, I may edit my checklist. This provides a general idea of the items needed. Focus on the basics for your first quilt retreat. Check out what other quilters bring with them. Add to your own quilt retreat list.
There are times that I hold a day-long quilt retreat. Join my Facebook page below to keep informed of future retreats and classes.
Until next time.
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