What to bring to a CSM event…

It’s exciting to be able to attend a CSM event - but how do you know you what to bring? Here are some considerations. Note - while it is possible to bring too much yarn - ensure you bring some!

• Name tag for you and your table (this helps persons drop stuff off for you when you’re not there)

• Extra long extension cord, plug adapter (2-to-3 prong or reverse), computer powerbar

• Machine table/stand

• Chair (if not provided)

• Machine lighting (more the better)

• Your complete machine including yarn mast/topper, ribber arm/dials, extra cylinders, weight buckle, weights, heel forks, multiple bonnets/cast-on items and ribber/cylinder needles

• Towel or oil mat for under machine

• Tool bag with tools just for your machine: non-magnetic screwdriver, crescent wrench, extra machine screws/cylinder spring, safety pin.

• Working tools like: latch hook, pickup tools, scissors, ruler, crochet hook, darning needle, stitch markers, oil, oil rag

• Sock and scrap yarn

• Small trash bag

• Small snacks like granola bars (if allowed)

• Energy drinks (if allowed)

• Yarn swift and cone winder (optional)

• Simple pattern(s) to work on

Other considerations:

• event directions, address and host contact info

• local venue list (if wanting to play tourist while there)

• cash and credit

• a medication and emergency contact list readily available if the need arises

• list of questions or goals

• Notepad and extra pens, jiffy/black marker

• Smartphone with power cord/adapter and emergency power pack (if applicable)

• Give-aways like yarn or extra tools (optional)

• pleasure reading, headphones, ipod

• light sweater (in case room slightly chilly)

• headlamp (in case power goes out), flashlight

• Extra Batteries (AA, AAA)

• Travel fan

• apron to protect your clothes

• extra ziploc bags

• 6mm split rings (to make Universal or Regular Cast-On Bonnets)

• Colorful nail polish and remover to mark cylinders

• “Ravel” cord/No. 3 or #10 Cotton Thread (a scrap yarn stand-in if not ribbing)

• label maker

• paper towels

• travel sewing kit

• “go bag/backpack” - see below - a great way to do what you need to do before bed without making noise in the room you might share at an event.

*I prefer to have a backpack with me with toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, bottle of water, my meds, store bought treats/energy drink.

I find when I attend an event I spend A LOT of time at the event and very little doing anything else.

Have a GREAT TIME! Remember to walk around and introduce yourself to others. How much socializing that you participate in is certainly up to you.

If you’re flying with your machine (check-in or not), it’s a great idea to include laminated photos of your machine taken apart as they appear in your case as well as the assembled machine itself. Ensure “Fragile Antique Circular Sock Machine” is noted externally and internally. Save the TSA slips.

Its NEVER a bad idea to ask EVERYONE INVOLVED at the airline for info on carry-on info if planning on attempting to bring your machine into the cabin however be aware they might make you check it.

Have something to add? Please email me at karenramel@yahoo.com