It's time for my annual guild retreat again! I've been doing this for 20 years and I've learned a few things along the way.
I shared how to pack HERE and some good tips HERE so I decided to share my thoughts going into this year's retreat. I hope you find this information helpful to keep in mind before you leave on your next retreat.
Sewing Time
- Verify your machine is in good working order and has been serviced. Make sure all of the parts needed are included. Don't show up without your machine foot, it will impede your sewing abilities!
- Pre-wind lots of bobbins and bring extra thread, needles, and rotary blades. Even if you don't need them, someone is sure to, and then you will have a new best friend!
- Cut strips, blocks, or even make up entire pre-cut kits. Sitting at your machine sewing will be more productive than waiting in line for the cutting mat or iron!
Social Time
- Bring healthy snacks to share (and non healthy ones will be appreciated as well!)
- Bring magazines to pass along after you've read them. I've discovered magazines this way that have become favorites.
- Have an open mind and make it a goal to meet someone new, or get to know an acquaintance better. This will be even more rewarding than a finished sewing project!
Unwinding Time
- Bring several books to read. You might not like your first choice, or you might finish it.
- Bring walking shoes. Take a walk before or after every meal, or in the mornings, or whenever it feels best. Your body will thank you.
- Check out the facilities online and see if there is a pool, or hiking trails. Plan accordingly. Or bring your own yoga mat...this is a retreat for your body as well as your sewing projects, reward it!
I would love to hear about your retreat tips and advice. And remember, I'm available to teach at your retreat if you want to hire me, visit my workshops page HERE. I can customize an experience just for your group!
Diane
I have taught at several large retreats but I have only attended one. I have an annual retreat with 6 of my closest quilting friends each year and we have always said it would be fun to join a larger group sometime. We always have too much food (no matter how many times we try to change this!) and enough projects to keep us busy for a year! Thanks for your tips. Have fun!!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips! I've never been on a sewing retreat! Have fun!
ReplyDeleteSometimes it is a good idea to bring a spare machine. My friend's machine broke down completely in the first 10 minutes of a class. Someone else had brought a spare machine and loaned it to her. That saved the day and we made a new friend!
ReplyDeleteGreat tips-a couple of new ones for me(always a surprise LOL). 1 of my guilds is having a Cape getaway 1st weekend of March. If I give you credit (obviously! Librarian here-) could I send it out to these gals? I'm secretary. Thanks-wouldn't do it without permission. Susan R
ReplyDeleteDiane, where does your guild go for retreat?
ReplyDeletewe are both in GA. I am in charge of our Cotton Patch (Athens) retreat and we go to FFA. in Covington. I'd like to have another choice to give to the girls.
Joan G
You should have a great time. That's what it's all about.
ReplyDelete