Next Thursday, I'll be headed out to the Creating Keepsakes Convention (CKC) in Valley Forge, Pa. I am going with my sister-in-law, Elisa, who I have finally convinced to attend with me after years of talking about how much fun I had the ONE time I went back in 2006.
Since this is her first CKC, she's asked, "What should I take?" An excellent question since you could end up bringing a lot of stuff if you don't plan carefully. The CKU event staff has provided a list of suggested supplies to bring for your classes, but what do you take for the evening crops?
Class Supplies
Let's tackle the class supply list first. CKC suggestions and then my opinion in parentheses:
- Straight-edge, micro-tip scissors (CTMH variety)
- Personal 12" x 12" paper trimmer (Will probably use the Provo Craft trimmer–it won't take up too much room since you never have enough space to spread out)
- Adhesives, both wet and dry (Herma Dotto and EK Success pen)
- Black archival journaling pen (American Crafts)
- Paper piercer and mat (might skip this one)
- Stapler (nope)
- Regular hole punch (check)
- Black and brown distressing ink (Colorbox Cat's Eye)
- Corner rounder (Creative Memories)
All of these items fit in my All My Memories Tote-Ally Cool Tote.
Crop Supplies
1. Figure out what projects you want to work on. An album or pages or both? I'm going to take two album projects. Technically we have two nights to crop because Thursday is the Sketches Crop where we make 12×12 pages and projects provided by the vendors. So Friday night I'll work on my honeymoon album and Saturday night I'll do the book on the bike trek my husband took over Memorial Day weekend.
2. Organize your projects using Zip-A-File or other container. In the pictures below, you'll see I've got the photos, paper, embellishments, etc. in their own bundles. That way everything is kept together.
3. Collect your tools. Based on the projects I'm taking with me, I'll bring:
- Making Memories trimmer (we'll have a bit more space at the crop tables to use it, plus the others in the group may want to use it too)
- Stamp pads and stamps (CTMH Accessories Case)
- Xyron "X"
- CTMH Edge Distresser
- Creative Memories mini trimmer (for cutting photos)
- Sketch file and books (1 or 2)
Because I've kept my tool list project-based, it reduces the amount of stuff to carry.
Note: I'm not bringing Cricut. I may cut my letters in advance or leave a space for them on the layout and add them when I return.
4. Extras:
- Candy or gum
- Pain reliever
- iPod w/headphones
- Seat cushion
- Sweater/sweatshirt
- Camera
Finally, I'll load up everything in my Crop 'n' Style XXL Organizer. My Crop 'n' Style and the AMM tote are pre-packed with tools so there's really not much I need to add except my projects. I know this comes across as a tad anal, but I'm forgetful and it's a precaution. All I have to do is grab and go.
Is there anything else you would bring to a weekend crop? What are your packing tips?
Thanks for the tips! i’ll try hard not to overpack!