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HOW TO: Pack for a Cross Stitch Retreat
RYRY McGUY - What I brought with me to my very first Cross Stitch Retreat
-Join me while I review the supplies and other items I packed for the first ever Stitch North retreat, which just happened to be my own first retreat of this nature as well.
This is not a sponsored video and there are no affiliate links to any of the items I've mentioned.
Please feel free to email or write a comment if you have any questions or want to know further details about anything that I've shown in this video.
Instagram: @ryrymcguy
Email: theryrymcguy@gmail.com
#howto #crossstitch #retreat
Пікірлер: 113
I’ll be sure to take a chair pillow another time. It’s the only thing I wish I had.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Oh yes, that's something we discussed prior to the retreat as well but I didn't get my act together enough to pack one. I'll be adding it to next year's list. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this video - I absolutely love your tin and all the accessories in it and all the tips you’ve shared. I was recommended your channel because I registered for Stitch North 2023 and wondered what to pack (I like to be prepared well ahead apparently 😁) and I’ll start creating my organised pack straight away - this is absolutely brilliant anytime, not just for a retreat!! 😍 Wish I could sew so well, your work is beautiful, precise and practical. Can’t wait to watch all your other videos! ☺️
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I love how excited everyone is for Stitch North 2023 and it's still a whole year away! I think we're all going to have our bags packed and ready well ahead of time. hehe! I'll likely do an update about a month before to include some awesome tips from fellow viewers. Until then, happy stitching!
Cat hair is a specialty fiber!!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
HAHA that's one way of putting it. Very specialty. ;)
I can't believe all the stuff that came out of that little tin. It's a stitching treasure box. Love it.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Funny, right? Maximum use of minimal space. :)
Such a great video and very informative. Thanks so much for sharing your ideas!
@RyRyMcGuy
Жыл бұрын
My pleasure! I'm glad you liked it. I should watch it again and see if it needs updating. 😉
@Stitchinginthebluegrass
Жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy I went to a stitch retreat last week and it really helped. I need to add tweezers as we have 4 dogs and you know those hairs get everywhere!
@RyRyMcGuy
Жыл бұрын
@@Stitchinginthebluegrass oh yes! Can't forget the tweezers! :)
Well done! I've been a quilter for many many years and gone on numerous retreats for quilting. Have recently taken up cross stitching after about a 35 year break and haven't gone on any retreats yet. But your video is certainly a wonderful reminder of what is essential for a successful retreat. Thank you so much!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
My pleasure, and thank you for watching!
Very informative on what to take on a retreat. The bag you made is great! Marilyn
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! I had a big break from sewing and I'm so happy to be back into it again.
It was so nice to travel through your bag with you! I feel like I'm getting an inside look at the tips and tricks and I guess, culture or common knowledge of the stitching community--all while I sit here with my crochet hook making cables :D It does make me think about essentials for my own craft, and what I might bring. One non-craft-specific thing is lip balm! I'm never without it--can't stand chapped lips.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I'm with you on the lip balm! In fact, I have so many tucked away everywhere in drawers and pockets and bags that I don't even think about it. Do you have a favourite?
@thornsilverhollysong1715
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy I don't have a favorite brand, but a few I like are lipbalms made of beeswax, or anything peach or vanilla scented!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
@@thornsilverhollysong1715 there are so many great ones out there. It would be difficult for someone not to find one. Currently I like the unscented one by Muji.
What a useful video! This is terrific for someone who has never been to a cross stitch retreat (like me). I loved seeing everything and hearing why you chose it. I think your fabric choice shows what good taste you have! I actually think your bag is prettier! ( I seriously hope you are not on the same wave length as Caroline because she hates me! And I wouldn’t want you to hate me!). Rederries and flax seed? Ok! Emergency Chocolates are a great idea. Your tin was a wonder! Every stitcher should have one. And your needle book with the bag in the bag- you really are so very clever! Agree with your advice re: checking bags. I lost an entire hand pieced quilt top on the way to a quilting workshop once and the bag was never found. I’m still traumatized. Where did you get that clever little wooden stand? I’m so glad you had a wonderful time- it sounds like a total blast!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your hand pieced quilt top. That's terrible and very unfortunate. And if you do a search for "wood embroidery hoop stand clamp", I guarantee you'll find the exact model through Amazon, Etsy, or another more local retailer. I'm not disappointed with mine. :)
Thank you for the video. You packed some great items. Two things I always pack is my Halo light and an extension cord.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Great tip! I've heard so many good things about the Halo light. We were advised that we wouldn't have outlets at out table at the retreat, hence the rechargeable light and power bank.
I loved this video so much! Going on a retreat next weekend, and will definitely be creating my own little travel tin full of goodies! Also, the fabric for the pouch and the bag, so much fun~!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Yay for retreats! Hope you have a fantastic time. And as others here have said: "Take fewer clothes, bring more money." 😁
Thanks! Very helpful!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Glad it helped!
Thanks for showing all your stitching accoutrements. I have a notions bag with similar items in it and it goes with every project that I’m working on. Except for mine has no emergency chocolate in it, so I’ll have to add that. I like your portable stitching light and charger. Great ideas!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Oh yes, don't forget the emergency chocolate! :)
Great video. I would never be brave enough to go to a retreat alone I admire people who can do that. Stitching in hand makes for a very portable craft.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Oh yes, I'd love to learn how to stitch in hand. I'll have to make more of a concerted effort because it gives you so much more freedom.
@teresaboyer5707
2 жыл бұрын
I just cannot get my stitches to lay as nicely as I want with in- hand stitching. If you figure out the secret, be sure to let me know!
This video was so helpful and well thought out! I'd like to know where to get the scissor sharpener! That would be a great addition to my own travel pack! I'm so glad you made this video for those of us who have never been to a retreat and have no clue what to bring! Looking forward to seeing more from you in the future - you and Stanley!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I'm glad it was helpful! I bought my sharpener through Amazon. Do a search on Fiskars Sew Sharp (or Sewsharp) Scissors Sharpener. It was less than $8 CAD. Good luck!
This was so helpful! I signed up for Stitch North next year and it will be my first retreat and I’m already trying to think of everything I will need to bring. Thank you for putting this together!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
My pleasure! I've been getting lots of feedback and suggestions on what others like to bring, so I'll probably have an update closer to next year's event. Looking forward to seeing you next year!
Thanks for the tips. I hope one day to find a retreat and head off packed up with all the paraphernalia required 😉
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, and I hope you manage to find a retreat to attend, too. It was great fun!
Dearest RyRy.. This was very informative. A few items I would not have thought to bring . You did a great job on your small tote. I use Udderly smooth lotion. It absorbs well and doesn't feel like you have gunk on your hands.I must tell you WHERE HAVE BEEN all this tjme. Your a great floss tuber and I'm so glad Ellen got you going .Until next time ..Be safe and be well! Susan from British Columbia
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your kind words, Susan. I'm glad you're enjoying my little videos. And we definitely have Ellen to thank. :) Thank you also for the hand cream recommendation. I've heard of it before but look forward to giving it a try now.
You are a genius Ryan!!! I was on my first retreat this week too, and would have loved this info before I left. I am quite jealous of your tote and tin full of necessities….especially the EMERGENCY chocolate!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much, Margaret! I appreciate that. I thought if I was looking for something like this, then others might be as well so I wanted to share what I learned from my own experience. And yes! We all need a stash of emergency chocolate somewhere. 😉
❤❤❤
Thanks for this very helpful video! I registered for Stitch North and it will be my first retreat so this is great info : )
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I'm so excited for you! I can't believe we have to wait for a whole year before it happens again. At least we'll get in lots of stitchy time before then.
Thank you so much for sharing. I love how neat and tidy everything is.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! 😊 I tend to get very scatter-brained when things are messy around me. And traveling can add another level of stress, so I always appreciate the value of being organized when doing so.
@yonwife5879
2 жыл бұрын
I speed watched your video as it came through in the middle of the night for me, and I had to have you on mute because I’ve broken my headphones 😁 so I’ve just rewatched whilst doing the ironing. Much better. The video was brilliant the first time round but much better with volume 🗣. I will certainly use this to help me pack for future retreats, as I always take way too much stuff. I also like the thought of taking snacks just for me but not sure I would get away with that. Any hoo. Thank you again and hugs to Stanley.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
@@yonwife5879 well I'm glad you got to watch it with the sound! I'm trying to have captioning but it's not always successful. And you should definitely have something you enjoy to snack on. It's a retreat after all! :)
Luv your Tote and Project Bag😍 Love your flosstube, I’ll be going on my first retreat in a few months and I have no idea what all to pack, thank you so much looking forward to the next flosstube🌻
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you! And good luck with your first retreat! I look forward to hearing how it goes. :)
Thank you for your video. I didn’t know what I will need for my first retreat stitch north of next year
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I'm glad it was helpful! Did you register yet for next year? I hear it's booking up super fast.
@jocelynemaurice4001
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy yes i am in for April. Are you going?
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
@@jocelynemaurice4001 I'll be going in April as well, although I'd love to go to both! 😁
@jocelynemaurice4001
2 жыл бұрын
I have a question, I can’t find your rechargeable battery. Would you have a link to where I could buy one?
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
@@jocelynemaurice4001 I checked the product and it says "not available" now, but I'll include it here anyway. I hope the link works. It looks like there are others that have similar features. www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B085C86F2H/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I wonder if you can demonstrate the wrap around zipper assembly?
@RyRyMcGuy
Жыл бұрын
Hi Carole! Maybe one day, I'll get my act together enough to make a demonstration video. In the meantime, I invite you to check out these links to two tutorials that off instructions. The first is for the "continuous zipper" installation: kzread.info/dash/bejne/nm2io9JyqqvLlJc.html . The second is for the "wide open zipper tab": kzread.info/dash/bejne/aJ-aqNmjosWZe7g.html . In case the pasted links don't work, you can do a KZread search on those terms and you'll find lots of tutorials. Best of luck and please reach out here or via email if you need anything. Cheers!
@carolekierulf3739
Жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy Thank tou Ryan. I will check those tutorials. This will be my first attempt at making a project bag and pouch.
@carolekierulf3739
Жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy Looked at both videos. The continuous zipper looks a little more complicated. However, I wonder if I can combine the two methods so that the pouch/bag opens wider. Should be interesting.
@RyRyMcGuy
Жыл бұрын
@@carolekierulf3739 that's exactly what I do for my project bags! And that's the reason I shared both with you. I actually find the continuous zipper part the easiest. It means there's one less bulky seam to sew. Perhaps poke around KZread for another tutorial so you can get more comfortable with the process. Can't wait to hear how it goes!
Very helpful! I just went to my first stitching class and couldn't believe the setup people had - I've since bought a daylight halo go light and I'm putting together my pouch of things to take to the next one I go to so thank you for putting this together!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I'm glad it was helpful! It was quite impressive and also slightly intimidating to see everyone's setup, from the minimal to a recreation of one's home setup. Having been on one already, you're at an advantage that you know what works for you and what you can do for next time. Cheers!
@jocelynemaurice4001
2 жыл бұрын
Hello Jeanne. Does the halo go light comes with a bag to protect it during transport?
@jeannelandes4970
2 жыл бұрын
@@jocelynemaurice4001 No it doesn't but several people have recommended a knitting needle case to store it in
@jocelynemaurice4001
2 жыл бұрын
@@jeannelandes4970 thanks
@jocelynemaurice4001
2 жыл бұрын
@@jeannelandes4970 thanks for thé advice, i have one year to get ready for my first retreat
Thanks so much, Ry, for your great videos. I love your easy manner 😊 Found your packing video very informative and I’m really interested in your table/clamp stand. Any info you can share would be awesome 😎 Living in San Diego, I’m a little bit envious of your cooler weather. Please keep your great videos coming. Stitch on!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Michelle! It's April and cold and raining here and I'm ready for Spring to begin so don't be too jealous. 😊 And thank you so much for the kind compliment! I bought the stand through Ali Express, but if you do a search for wood embroidery hoop clamp or stand, you'll find options that are much closer to home. I've seen my model on Amazon and many Etsy sellers offer it as well. Good luck!
@michellecuster7549
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy thanks for your kind help. I was able to find 2 or 3 frames just like yours and hopefully I’ll get one for our Road-trip in June. Don’t forget to floss 😊
Thanks for sharing and lots of useful tips. Great to hear you enjoyed the retreat. I love going to them. Sadly the next one for me in Scotland that I'm going to is November but sure there will be one or two stitchy days in between
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
November will be here before you know it. Time seems to fly by at an ever-increasing speed! And hope you get to enjoy plenty of stitchy days in between! :)
Ryyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!! I listened to what you had to say about going on my first retreat and am going to try and register for the All Things Autumn Retreat at the Biltmore in November. Thank you THANK YOU!!!!!!! Fantastic video. I'm making my list of things to pick up in case I'm able to get in to this retreat.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Oh yay!!! Hope the stars align for your November retreat! Can't wait to hear how it works out for you, and thank you so much for watching!
@kathymathews2804
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy I didn't get in. It sold out in 2 minutes. Very disappointed but I guess this retreat just wasn't mine.
@kathymathews2804
2 жыл бұрын
Wait! They just sent me an invoice. Does that mean I got in????????
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
@@kathymathews2804 Oh wow! That's awesome! I know that people cancel so it's quite possible you moved up the list. Excellent!!!
@kathymathews2804
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy squeal!!!!
Love the project bag/tote fabric! Do you happen to remember what line it is? I really enjoyed this flosstube! Such a great resource. Thank you so much!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you! I bought this from Michaels Crafts in Toronto while they were clearing out their fabric inventory and unfortunately don't recall the name. I poked around online though, and I suspect it might be similar to, if not exactly the same as, Wanderlust by QT Fabrics. The ones available have either a brown or chambray background (lots of Etsy shops seem to have it) but mine is a cream background so perhaps it was either a knockoff or an exclusive for Michaels. Best of luck with your hunt!
@qwiltergrl
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for sharing the clues! I’m on the hunt. Fingers crossed!
🦋🦋🦋
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
🥰
Hi Ryan, thank you for this video I see a few accessories I will add to my stitching bag. What is the name of your table clamp and where did you purchase it? It looks like the perfect device to hold a small project. Hope to see you at StitchNorth 2023.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Cathy! I purchased mine from AliExpress but if you do a search on Wood Embroidery Hoop Clamp, you'll find sellers a little closer to home like Etsy and Amazon. Prices seem to be variable so don't be afraid to shop around. Good luck!
You know how to pack for a retreat?? Take less clothes and more money!! Your suggestions are wonderful, enjoyed them very much!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Honestly, I love your suggestions more, and shame on me for not including them in my video! I don't think I wore half the stuff I packed and I easily spent double what I had intended to. hehe.
Reusable Water bottle and large coffee mug.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent suggestions! The retreat had easy and bountiful access to both water and coffee (and tea) but having those items would definitely improve one's experience. I think I'll tweak this video prior to the next retreat to include all of the great suggestions like this that I've received. Thank you!
Hi Ryan! Enjoyed your video. Love the fabric used on your bag. Do you mind sharing the designer's name?
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! And that's an excellent question. Unfortunately, I don't know the designer's name. I bought it at Michaels when they had deeply marked down their fabrics and were clearing them out. I checked their website and couldn't find any info about fabrics by the yard either. Sorry.
@nmbishop17
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy No worries! Thanks for checking!!
Ryan, Where did u get that solar power bank please?
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I bought it from Amazon. This particular model is a 26800mAh High Capacity Solar Bank Charger by Yacikos. I paid less than $30CAD but have a look around and find a model that best suits your needs and price point and don't forget to check out the reviews, too. I was drawn to the solar-charging feature and haven't been disappointed yet.
@vickieking1934
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy ty so much, going to get one now.
Can I ask the name of your table stand and where you got it?
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Sure! I got it from Ali Express. You can find exactly the same model through Amazon or Etsy as well. Do a search on "wood embroidery hoop stand clamp" or a combination of those words and you should be able to see some options available.
Hello Ryan, thank you for your video. I would like to know the name of the small black scissors you used with the serrated combination blade. I couldn’t catch the name from the video. Thank you.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Sharon! Yes, the small black scissors are by Kelmscott Designs and the particular model I showed is called Joji and they're 3.75". I have another model called Grocery Girls and they're smaller, measuring in at 2.5" and also have one side that's serrated. I bought mine from an Etsy seller for about $20CAD but I think a few major retailers carry the brand as well. Type the name in google and see what comes up that's most convenient for you. Good luck and happy snipping!
@sharonb4352
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy Thanks, Ryan!
Very helpful video. I've yet to go to a retreat, I was very tempted by Stitch North but found out too late. I have a similar tool kit but the handy tape cutter you have caught my eye. What's it called and where did you find it? Also could you point me to a tutorial to install a zipper like the one on your tote? Or maybe that could be future content. 😉 Enjoying your channel, stay safe.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Hi, Lorna! I'm glad you found it helpful. I hope you joined the Stitch North Facebook group so you can get the latest news about the next retreat. And I bought the tape cutter at a Japanese stationery shop in New York called Kinokuniya. You can find them listed for sale on Etsy and other online retailers though, if you do a search for "clip on washi tape cutter." Hope you find one! And that's a great idea about the zipper tutorial. You're not the first person to ask and I haven't found a good tutorial online so maybe I'll make one of my own. :)
@crossed_threads
2 жыл бұрын
@@RyRyMcGuy please do! I'm a novice sewist but would love to learn. I'll certainly do a search for that little gadget. Love me a gadget!I'm not on FB so won't be able to join the SN group, unfortunately. Sounds like there's alot of info there. Cheers Ryan!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
@@crossed_threads no worries. If you're on Instagram, you can follow @evertotes for more information on Stitch North when it becomes available.
Hola Ryan from California…. I really interested in the stand loops where I can find one of those???…thanks and advance!!!!
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I bought mine from Ali Express but if you do a search on Wood Embroidery Hoop Clamp (or any variation of that), you'll find other sellers on Etsy or even Amazon that will have faster shipping. Good luck!
Is there a site where I could find retreats that are coming up in my area? I live in Memphis, Tennessee.
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
I suggest you start with Froggingnews.com . They have a decent list of retreats nationally. There are also retreats hosted by needlework shops so it might be helpful to check the ones in your area.
How can I find out about retreats that are coming up?
@RyRyMcGuy
2 жыл бұрын
Oh, and don't forget searching for cross stitch retreat groups on Facebook. That's been a great resource for me. Good luck!