Recently we’ve been in the process of moving cities, visiting relatives and generally moving about the country which has ment a lot of staying with friends and families and not being near my machine or fabric supplies. Initially this was incredibly frustrating with my head continuously trying planning projects but not being able to move on to the realms of choosing fabrics, starting them or being able to tryout steps to see if the rest of a project is feasible.
After a while though I’ve got used to adapting my plans to involve more hand sewing that can be transported, started, stopped and packed away in between.
And… Its been great! By the end of each trip I’ve had time to plan new projects, I get home, organise it and pack it up for the next trip. Whilst away I’m able to escape the sometimes stressful travel situations and still feel like I’ve accomplished something, especially when I’m able to start and fully finish a project. There’s also the added satisfaction of knowing that its all been completed with my own hands.

Here are my top tips to pack up your little escape whilst moving about.

Tools:
Collect together all your tools and work out which ones you need. I’ve started using these needle match books that Wildolive has a tutorial for here. I’ve adapted them to have pretty patterns and and left a space to write on to differentiate different sets on needles.  Along with needles you’ll most probably need thread, small scissors (if traveling by air remember to check their regulations on scissors, sometimes it’s safer to just take nail clippers if you are unsure), pen/pencil, some pins. You may also need an erasable fabric markers, glue pens, small embroidery hoops, epp papers depending on what projects you are planning.

 

Projects:
Pack more than one project. I usually have about three, one is a small hand sewing project or part of one, probably some EPP. Then I might have an embroidery project or a pieced block such as a block from the farmers wife sew-along. And then, for in case I finish those I have some scraps and hexagon papers as a kind of ongoing everlasting EPP quilt.

 

 

Storage:
Different people like storing their projects in different ways so it’s best to work out what is best for you. In the past I’ve used sandwich tubs, pencil cases and zip lock bags which are great for throwing in with your other travel packing without taking up to much space but you could also make or buy more specific storage options such as Noodlehead’s Maker’s tote or a SewDemented’s Sew together bag (been meaning to make this one for ages!).

 

 

Just remember you don’t need your entire sewing room packed in your suitcase!