Original Sewing and Quilt Expo, Raleigh NC: Preparing

I made it! The eve of what we have dubbed at the house Quilt*con. Tomorrow starts three days at the Original Sewing and Quilt Expo in Raleigh, NC. I'm signed up for five hands on classes and six lecture type classes. We're talking 12 hour days of learning, absorbing, and meeting new people. I might not make it, but if I don't it wont be for lack of preparing!

Having attended Dragon*con (a 30K+ attended sci-fi con), I've learned a few things about how to both survive and enjoy these events. The most important thing is to have a well stocked bag that is both light and functional. Want to show off your custom quilted shoulder bag? Save it for another day unless your custom quilted bag happens to be a backpack with two padded shoulder straps. Here's a check list of the things you don't want to forget!

• A notebook. This is my black book of art and ideas that pretty much goes everywhere with me. I love the hard covers that makes it usable anywhere and can be a little table in a pinch. It is on the heavy side though - so something smaller could be a good option.
• Tickets, maps, event info.  Do any research you can. If you can find a map of the building, take a look it and figure out what floors things are on as well as the entrances and exits. An idea of the layout will help when you're searching for the room your panel is in.
• Headphones. Often, the social aspects can be exhausting. A pair of head phones (music on or not) can be a really good way to take a little break.
• Personal items. Chapstick, advil, breath mints, bandaids, and nail clippers. Yep. They will come in handy.
• A little something small for downtime. Books are a good choice. Here I have a sandwich bag project (ie, it fits in a sandwich bag!)
• Pen. Oh that crafty pen. It loves to stay behind. I like to bring a pencil too.
• Hard Candies. Never know when that sugar low is coming. Sometimes you find yourself parched or hungry and hard candy can do the trick for a short time.

Not Pictured, but coming with me..

• Hand Sanitizer
• Camera
• ID and a little bit of cash in small denominations
• Peanut Butter sandwich and granola bar
• Water bottle

I'm certain there will tons of blog-o-tunities throughout the event. I expect to be mostly offline so the info might be a few days coming, but it is coming! Be sure to stay tuned!




I'm quite excited. In addition to the event, my best in the world is coming for the last day and half. Can't wait to see her! If you'll be there - drop me an email, I'd love to meet you too!