Currently Stitching: Preparing for Quilt Retreat!

I am feeling very grateful on this beautiful, beautiful morning. We've had an amazing break in the weather here and it's just a glorious, sunny, breezy day. I hope all of you get some days like this before the end of summer. I've got the house opened up and it's giving me all kinds of motivation in my studio today!

I've got a local quilt retreat coming up next weekend and it's time to get some projects prepped. But first, coffee, of course! ☕️ As you can see, I have begun the piles and preparations already. But let's take a step back and talk about what prep actually looks like. 

I keep a general packing list for whenever I'm getting ready for retreat. Tools, rulers, thread, power cords, extra needles, bobbins, and everything else I always need when I'm traveling and sewing. It's like bringing a mini studio with me. Fortunately in case I forget anything, the other quilters at retreat usually have what I'm missing, and they love to share. In the same spirit, I like being extra prepared, just incase someone else needs something.

Additionally, I like to pack certain items that I know the retreat host will provide - like irons or cutting mats and tools. There's always a long line for both of these stations, even when there are multiple places to work. I did not bring some of these things to my first retreat and I spent quite a bit of time waiting around. Which did have its benefits because I got to talk to all of the ladies and look at their tools and projects. But I like to be able to keep working continuously. 

I went to a weekend retreat and this was my setup! One of the fun things about these longer hotel retreats is you can really get nested in your space. It also means there needs to be a major degree of organization because there's only so much space and things get out of hand fast! This picture was before everyone else arrived and chaos ensued.

Here's a retreat I recently attended. This was a day time only retreat, which I also really enjoyed. It's a fairly similar setting up for other retreats, but the space here was a little smaller and I had to be creative with the way I used it. I am so glad I brought my popup table and extra ironing tools, they were clogged the whole time. We had some amazing demos that most of us ended up making, so everyone needed to iron pretty much all day long.

Another thing I like to do is make a project list. That way I know all the fabric I'm bringing with me. As an added bonus, I can check them off as I get each one done, which always feels great! I start by going through my project wish lists and inspiration, and then rifle through any kits I've been holding on to. (I mostly pick these up when I'm traveling or I'm at the store for something else. I know that never happens to any of you!)

Once I've chosen what I'm going to be working on, I sit down with the pattern(s) and look over the instructions. I like to get as much cutting done ahead of time as I can. Sometimes it takes me a few times through to understand the entire pattern, so I would rather spend that extra time reviewing at home. That way I can relax, sew and enjoy myself while sitting and catching up with the other quilters, instead of getting bogged down during retreat.

To get started, I'm cutting up the pieces for this "Slow Summer" kit.

It came from a shop up the street from my house. It was hanging in the front window when I walked in and I just knew I had to make it! It's so soft and sweet and summery! I can't wait to share it once it's all finished.

This patriotic kit was from another local shop. These patriotic batiks are just a pure joy and I knew I wanted to work with them. 

Originally, these fabrics came with another quilt and made the "1776" pattern (shown above). But I was looking through some of the books on my self and saw the "Starburst" pattern, and thought to myself this is it! Stars and Stripes in a star pattern! What could be better?! So now I'm learning all the ways there are to cut diamonds and triangles with 60 degree cutters. 

Something else I like to do when packing for retreat is to bring any leftover fabric or scraps with me. There have been so many times where I have cut and sewn carefully, I took the time to get to know the pattern, and I went over everything so many times! And yet... I made cutting or measurement error. Or I missed a section in a larger pattern. Or I lost a piece somewhere while packing. If I bring the extra, then I don't have to worry about issues like that. Both of the kits I've started getting ready have new patterns for me. I know I feel better if there's a bit extra fabric, just in case. 

I don't think I want to bring another quilt project with me. Two is a lot for three days. But I think I'm going to work on a few bags I have started. They need to be quilted, have the zipper installed, and then lining added. I would also like to get some seasonal wall hangings done. Fall is just around the corner and I have nothing for my walls.

I saw this Thanksgiving panel at a shop the other day 🍁👀🍁

Then I started looking around at the line associated with... and then I suddenly found myself with some coordinating solids in my hands... one thing led to another and now I'm scheming about all the things I could make. (I think we've all been there...)

I also spotted this sweet little wall hanging in another shop while I was looking for batting.

It was very reasonably priced and the last one! I am very excited to have wall hangings done that I can leave up through October and November, instead of just Halloween.

I still have to get these two kits cut up and ready to go! But they have very approachable instructions and I think I can get them knocked out so I can take them along! 

Lastly, I've got to get my bag(s) all loaded up! I like to get everything laid out and check it off the list. As you can see I've got quite a few contraptions for holding thread, notions, pressing tools, and everything else. It'll all go into the mega rolling bag that also holds my sewing machine.

Remember when you're packing things to start with the heavy stuff at the bottom, and work your way up. There are so many pockets in this bag and I use them to try and keep everything from getting squished. Also remember to put your needle down before loading up your sewing machine! It protects you and your machine.

Thanks for reading! I hope this episode helps you feel like you can be better prepared for your next retreat. Wish me luck! Check back soon to see what I made at retreat.