First of all, if you are already registered you should have received an email recently telling you how to download the QuiltCon app. I encourage you to do it! In addition to loading your personal schedule into the app (including classes, lectures and events you are signed up for) you can mark other things you don't want to miss. You'll find a complete list of vendors so you can mark the ones you know you want to visit and easily find them in the vendor hall. Once the show gets closer, you'll find a map of the quilts to see and have the opportunity to vote for your favorites. You'll also find a list of attendees who have registered on the app. Make sure you add yourself to the list and mark yourself as a member of the McKinney Modern Quilt Guild.
Once you get to QuiltCon, give yourself time to explore and get the lay of the land. There's so much to see!
The Quilts! There are 300-400 modern quilts juried into the show selected from thousands of entries. Also, make sure to see the special exhibits. This year's special exhibits include quilts by keynote speaker, Victoria Findlay Wolfe, an exhibit of Amish quilts and the MQG Quilts of the month.
Make sure you check out all of the Charity quilts submitted by Modern Quilt Guilds worldwide and groups of individual members. When you find our submission, The Writing on the Wall, make sure to snap a picture of yourself in front of it.
The Vendor Hall. It's always fun to check out vendors from across the country. Often vendors hand out freebies, tote bags, pins, fabric samples, especially if you get there early! Sometimes you can find great deals, especially on the last day.
There is also a free demo stage in the vendor hall. Check out the demo stage schedule daily, some of the presentations are top notch (and if you can score a seat, it's a great place to rest your tired feet).
Also in the vendor hall are concessions. I must say, I have not found the concessions to be all that great in years past, but it's a terrific place to grab a quick snack or a soda. I recommend you toss some healthy snacks in your bag (I like to carry a backpack to keep my hands free). For delicious nearby meals, check out Kelleigh's recommendations in the previous post.
Are you active on Instagram? Include your Instagram handle on your nametag when you sign in (or write it on with a sharpie). You'll be amazed how many Instagram buddies will recognize you by your IG name! It's always fun to meet the people you follow in real life.
Workshops & Lectures. If you've already signed up, great! If not, spots often open up at the last minute. Usually, there is a bulletin board where people post classes they are willing to sell. For workshops, you need to bring your supplies. Sewing machines are provided, but you'll want to bring basic supplies. Each class also comes with a supply list, including needed fabrics etc. Lectures can be purchased individually or you can buy a day pass that includes all of the lectures given that day.
Have more questions? Want to learn more about Quiltcon? Check out the website for all kinds of great information.
See you in Austin!