My First Papercrafting Retreat

Last month I did something super fun - I went to my first retreat for cardmakers and scrapbookers. It was always on my bucket list, but the timing didn't work out. Hosted by Stamping with Rose, I spent three wonderful days with just my mom, my ideas and my supplies. I didn't actually know what to expect, so I threw a bunch of things and my old Big Shot into a suitcase and knew that something would come out of it. The real advantage of a retreat is the distraction free zone it provides. You can get up early or stay up late. You can chat with friends or fire up Netflix. You can spread out across your table or build a little fortress of stamp cases and ink pads. It's totally up to you!

6' tables meant lots of elbow room!

One of the gals told me that most people find their first retreat overwhelming and it's true! The second time is more organized. What should you bring to your first retreat? Here's what I recommend:

• baby wipes and Stampin' Scrub
• paper trimmer and ruler
• ruler
• scrap paper for sketching
• adhesive - the more the better!
• dollar store baskets for keeping organized
• plastic cases for storing finished cards
• a water bottle and snacks

A retreat is also a good way to polish off any kits or Paper Pumpkins kicking around the craft room. Many attendees were busy with Christmas cards. So many ideas came out of the retreat and I made about three dozen cards. I'm really hoping that the timing for the spring retreat works out in my favour next year :-)

Just a few ideas I came up with!

One of many make and takes