Organize the Clutter Tips
Read these 12 Organize the Clutter Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Sewing tips and hundreds of other topics.
Clear Boxes
Clear stackable boxes are great for storing sewing supplies. Clear shoe boxes are great for notions. Larger boxes are great for projects; keeping fabric, pattern, and notions stored together. Covered boxes are great because you can stack them up to save space and they keep the dust out.
Sewing Machine Needle Storage
The best way to keep all those little needle boxes organized is to store them in a standard plastic business card holder, from any office supply store. It will hold about fifteen boxes of needles, standing three across by five deep. Keep your needles sitting right next to your machine.
Scissor Storage
Scissors need to be accessible, but in a safe place. A purchased scissor block (similar to a kitchen knife block) from a sewing specialty store works well. Other storage solutions are drawer or hanging on a hook. Mark your scissors “for fabric only”.
Storing Sewing Tools
Small baskets are great for storing sewing tools and gadgets. I like wire or mess baskets better than wicker because they are easier to clean. The tiered wire fruit baskets that hang from the ceiling are great for storing your supplies without taking up table space.
Storing Thread
Thread gets brittle and breaks when it gets old. Storing thread in airtight containers, such as Ziploc bags, will keep it from drying out as quickly. Thread exposed to sunlight and heat will break down more quickly.
Thread Organization
Thread can be stored in drawers, containers, or on purchased thread racks. If you use racks, make a dust cover out of fabric or plastic. If using drawers or containers, organize them by color for easy comparison and place spools so that color is obvious without having to pick up every spool.
Book Cases
Make simple curtains to cover the front of wooden book cases. Use the long thin spring curtain rods attached to the inside of the top edge of the book case for hanging the curtains. You now have enclosed cupboards for storage.
Under the Table
Make a curtain that will reach from the edge of your cutting table to the floor. Attach it to the table with adhesive loop and hook tape on the table edge and sew on tape on the top of the curtain. Attach the curtain around the table. You now have another storage area to keep things out of sight.
Keep it Clean
You will sew more productively when things are organized and clean. Stay on top of it! Clean up your sewing area before starting a new project. Vacuum and wipe off work surfaces to pick up lint, thread clippings and fibers from the last project.
Organizing Buttons
Plastic floss boxes work great for storing buttons and closures. There are several rows of small compartments for separating and storing buttons, snaps, etc.
Storing Patterns
Patterns can be stored in a filing cabinet or boxes. Cardboard file boxes work great for patterns. If your pattern collection is large, sort the patterns by style (dresses, separates, children, etc.) or by size. Be sure to clearly label the outside of the boxes.
