Monday, March 4, 2013

Everything You Wanted to Know About Retreat But Were Afraid to Ask


Hello retreaters!  It's hard to believe but retreat is almost here!!!  For those of you who are going Aimee has put together this fantastic post that hopefully covers everything you need to know.  Of course if we did miss something please don't hesitate to ask!

Where are we going?  The Franciscan Guest House, 26 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME - 207-967-4865.
When can I get there?  Check in time is 3PM.  Please check in at the front desk for your key.
Can I carpool? Always a good idea!  Please post on Big Tent if you are in need of a ride or would like to provide one.
Are there any quilt shops on the way?
  • Portsmouth Fabric 112 Penhallow St, Portsmouth NH (big selection of modern fabrics, don't miss the sale section in the basement).  
  • Knight's Quilt Shop 1901 US Route One, Cape Neddick, Maine (mainly traditional but has a lot of Moda).
  • Mardens, 1247 Main St, Sanford, ME (this is a surplus and salvage shop similar to Building 19, so the selection is what it is.  Prices are $4-5/yd.  I have found Anna Maria Horner, Amy Butler, Heather Ross, Joel Dewberry & Jennifer Paganelli there among others.)
Suggestions for what to bring? 
- sewing machine (do not forget the power cord and foot pedal!)
- presser feet, screw driver, etc
- sewing machine manual
- sewing machine needles
- pins
- marking pen
- seam ripper
- bobbins
- thread
- scissors
- rotary cutter
- rulers
- cutting mat (we only need a few people to bring these and we share)
- iron (same as above, no need to bring an ironing board - those are provided)
- starch/Best Press
- projects (fabric, batting, etc) 
Is there anything else I should bring?
- toiletries & hairdryer (the hotel does not provide even basic shampoo)
- iPod and headphones (the room can get a bit loud at times and it's nice to have the option to zone out on your own)
- snacks
- wine/alcohol/beverage of choice
- walking shoes (personally, I need to get out and get some fresh air and the Kennebunkport area is beautiful and walking/jogging friendly)
- seat cushion (some of our more petite members found the chair height to be a bit low - alternatively you can use a bed pillow from your room)
- cash
What will be provided?
- breakfast each morning
- lunch on Saturday (sandwiches and salad)
- water, coffee and tea throughout the day
- power strips, lighting, work tables
- ironing stations, cutting tables
- design walls
- take out menus for area restaurants for dinner options if you choose not to go out
Is there any programming?  No, the entire weekend is open sewing time.  While we do lock the sewing room at night we will happily make arrangements for early birds/night owls to have a key so you can sew whenever you want. 
Any other suggestions? 
- please label your items that are generic (rotary cutters, scissors, etc)
- I made this portable pressing table for last year's retreat and loved having it.

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