Hidden Threads

If you’re a quilter, you probably have more tools, fabric, scraps, and quilts lying around than you know what to do with. When it comes time to clean, the task of organizing your bounty can seem overwhelming, but there are some things that can help.

1. A twice-yearly overhaul is always an eye opener, and can help keep the job manageable. What you discover may surprise you.
2. Place like items together, and always be sure to put things back when you use them.
3. Consolidate your craft items in one location. This saves time and encourages organization.
4. To maximize the space in deep drawers, invest in double stack organizers that will make full use of the space.
5. Over the door organizers are great for thread and small items like scissors, rotary cutter, markers and seam rippers.
6. If you have extra cutting mats, try storing them on a two-clip pants hanger in a closet. The mats will stay flat, and they’ll be out of the way.
7. If you have lots of finished projects, consider taking some great photos of them and donating some of your babies to charity.
8. If you want to store your precious quilts wisely, make sacks for them out of pillowcases to keep them dust free and ready to go when you need them. Wrap them in acid free paper and put them in storage.
9. Hide your quilts in plain site by making them part of a display. Fold them on the second shelf of a table, or hang them in your entry. Use them as tablecloths or makeshift shower curtains (with plain liners).
10. Reorganize your fabric. The more you use your stash, the more disordered it becomes. The task of setting it to rights can be very entertaining and informative. You probably don’t even remember what you have. As you get reacquainted with your fabrics, you’ll be making room for more.

Want more ideas? Visit About.com’s quilting maven for more tips on getting organized. You know it’s long overdue.

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