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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: toadusew
Date: 11-05-2005, 07:35 PM (1 of 32)
Ladies, I need help! I am moving across the country soon and I need some creative storage solutions for my sewing stuff--especially patterns. Hubby and I bought some stuff at the hardware store the other day--a couple of those things that you put nails, screws, etc, in and that helped quite a bit with the little stuff. Hubby bought me a tool box, which is great for the patterns, but if I put patterns in the tool box, then the top area won't fit--it will be great for scissors and pinking shears, etc, but not if I can't fit it back into the tool box. So, I'm back to plan B--but I don't know what that is!  I need something that will keep my patterns tidy while the house is being shown, but also accessible since I plan to sew (to help keep me sane! LOL) during this time. Any suggestions? I'm sure that you ladies can come up with tons of creative storage solution ideas for patterns and machine embroidery hoops--just sewing stuff in general. I have faith in you! 
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: esrun3
Date: 11-05-2005, 08:37 PM (2 of 32)
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How about a file cabinet if you have room and will be able to move it? You could get a cheap metal one, file your patterns in it and cover it with a tablecloth and put a lamp on it or whatever and use it as a side table too.
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: opalstudio
Date: 11-05-2005, 10:27 PM (3 of 32)
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I am currently using baskets with lids that I got from home outfitters, photograph boxes (the patterns go sideways), some really cute fold out boxes I got from IKEA...these are white and pink with stitches and buttons pattern on them and I got loads of them, both 6" square with lids and larger shoebox size with lids, and I am also using those plastic drawer organizer things from walmart. you guessed it...I have patterns everywhere! But they are all neatly stored and organized so I can find what I need. Good luck. If you look around you can find some cute ways to tuck them away. Jo-Anne
sewing is good for you! Studio Opal, Centre for the Sewing Arts |
User: opalstudio
Member since: 11-03-2005 Total posts: 17 
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From: beachgirl
Date: 11-05-2005, 11:06 PM (4 of 32)
| I see your in Dallas now so know there's a Wal-Mart around there. I found a nice size clear plastic container with a good snap on lid that is a file container.I do use mine as a file for sewing papers, BUT looking at it I know it would hold a super amount of patterns with 2 patterns side by side through out the container. Maybe lots more just stacked from the bottom up. Also a safe way to move them when the time comes. You might check it out or others they have. The empty containers for holding those small toy cars are 2 sided & super for small sewing stuff or machine feet. So are the ones for fishing plugs & etc. Thread containers are nice too . Some for reg. threads & some for serger threads plus the threads look pretty on a shelves. Great for moves. Hat boxes are nice & metal tins. I've moved embroidery hoops & supplies out of state in tote bags that I've added velcro to the top for a good closure. If you have a table with a long skirt on it you can hide a lot under the skirt before your move. To protect your scissors wrap then in some fabric your taking or between some fabric.I did my irons the same way. |
User: beachgirl
Member since: 08-31-2004 Total posts: 615 
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From: AndreaSews
Date: 11-05-2005, 11:54 PM (5 of 32)
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At Joann's they do sell a box that's sized for storing sewing patterns. Food for thought. My sewing table is my old college desk from IKEA. There is a file drawer on the side, and I use it for sewing and craft patterns. I use hanging file folders to sort by category. There's one for patterns for me, one for kiddie patterns, one for sewing craft/objects patterns, one for crochet... It's all just an arm's length away. If you're just storing them in a closet, you could use a small shipping box or a few shoe boxes, depending on how extensive your pattern library is. I like the idea of the plastic file box, b/c it is neat, keeps them safe, and esp. since there's a move coming up, it will keep them portable.
Andrea
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User: AndreaSews
Member since: 02-18-2005 Total posts: 1007 
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From: SummersEchos
Date: 11-06-2005, 12:24 AM (6 of 32)
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Well call me nuts but I have a and chesterdrawer that is filled with my patterns. It is 6 drawers high, what they call the male set in a bedroom, and I have each drawer sorted into my own groupings. Am I the only one who has this many patterns? I find it a nice way to be able to get to what I want in a moments notice. Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: allie-oops
Date: 11-06-2005, 12:32 AM (7 of 32)
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I use a file cabinet that I decoupaged with Mary Englebriet pictures. I use it for all my patterns - and need another one. I have another file cabinet filled with redwork patterns, and need another one. The file cabinets work wonderfully for me - I have them on wheels and can move them around. When I open a pattern, I put it in a big ziploc baggie so that I don't have to find the fold lines again, lol....and they fit perfectly in the file cabinet! Allie "onward through the fog"
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User: allie-oops
Member since: 10-25-2002 Total posts: 282 
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From: paroper
Date: 11-06-2005, 01:09 AM (8 of 32)
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I have a file cabinet that came from a closed out Joanns store. I was just lucky. However I have since outgrown that. On top I have 7 wide drawers that come in boxes from Wal Mart. They work pretty well. I can fit several patterns on their sides longways, and on the sides, I can get a few more. The file cabinets full of patterns are incredibly heavy to move.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: Sancin
Date: 11-06-2005, 01:22 AM (9 of 32)
I use a number of cardboard file boxes (like in office files) which I stack in a closet. I label each box with contents - eg. skirts/pants, tops, coats and lingery, etc. you can usually get two rows of patterns sideways in the box and the larger Vogue patterns I put at the back of the box. The boxes stack well and are light to move. I must admit, I need to thin them out soon. I do keep one plastic file box as BeachGirl describes that I label current. These are patterns that I have fabric for or are new and I am thinking on.  Patterns from magazines, etc I have in plastic sheets in a 3 ring binder on a book case with other binders containing tips, etc.
*~*~*~* Nancy*~*~*~* " I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once."
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User: Sancin
Member since: 02-13-2005 Total posts: 895 
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From: smith972
Date: 11-06-2005, 02:51 AM (10 of 32)
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Well call me nuts but I have a and chesterdrawer that is filled with my patterns. It is 6 drawers high, what they call the male set in a bedroom, and I have each drawer sorted into my own groupings. Am I the only one who has this many patterns? I find it a nice way to be able to get to what I want in a moments notice. I dont have that many but i also use a dresser in my sewing room to store my patterns and some sewing materials... |
User: smith972
Member since: 09-10-2004 Total posts: 241 
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From: toadusew
Date: 11-06-2005, 08:49 AM (11 of 32)
You ladies are great!  I knew I could count on you! These are some wonderful ideas! Thank you! I do have a small file cabinet that might do the trick, but I probably will also need some of the smaller boxes many of you suggested. I need to keep these portable and also within easy access during the time our house is on the market. Also, I like the idea of being able to keep an idea on my sewing treasures during the move.Esrun, I love the idea of using the file cabinet and then "disguising" it as a table! Very clever! Thanks again for all the ideas/suggestions. They're great!  Now for one other question--am I totally insane for wanting to sew during this hectic time?!  (I guess the next challenge will be how to sew and work on some Christmas gifts while trying to keep the sewing room showable. 
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: paroper
Date: 11-06-2005, 12:04 PM (12 of 32)
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No, it will probably help ease the stress during this time. Also, if you play it just right, it can help make your home look more inviting. Keep a small container handy for small scraps (when I was in school, we had painted or decorated cans. Since I got out on my own, the ready made frosting containers have been marketed and they are GREAT for snippits of fabric and thread, you can also use the lid and throw it away with dull needles and broken pins inside when you have a new container. I have one where I gathered a fabric that matches the decor in my room (top and bottom) and stuffed with a little fiberfill...it looks "fat" but decorative...works well. When you are not working on the project, display it so that it looks "crafty". Many people find personal touches quite inviting, the smell of home backed cookies, cider, the look of colorful or seasonal crafts or sewing should help too, as would the display of a quilt in the right place....enjoy your sewing and turn it into an advantage.
pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: beachgirl
Date: 11-06-2005, 12:22 PM (13 of 32)
| No, your not insane. Sewing is a huge stress releiver plus it will make things feel normal during the hectic time of showing your home & planning the move. I also have patterns in file drawers, my DH made the dividers like the ones you can send for but cost more than I cared to pay. He's so handy to make stuff for me & others. I also have a 12 drawer dresser that stores so many things. I could go on & on but won't. Oh, you could put a round top on your file cabinet & then the scarf over that also. A friend of mine got a large shipping ( round ) & uses it for storage with a scarf over it & lamp on top. Another friend uses a metal trash can. I also try to keep the sewing room looking neat. I keep a plastic container to put my ufo at the time in so it's all together & out of site. |
User: beachgirl
Member since: 08-31-2004 Total posts: 615
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From: SandyGirl
Date: 11-06-2005, 02:56 PM (14 of 32)
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I use these w/hanging file folders for my soft sided books, magazines, owner manuals, etc. Cheap, easy to store and move. There are also frosted plastic "file boxes" w/lids so that may serve you better for the move. I happened to have these crates around so I use them. Sandy |
User: SandyGirl
Member since: 09-16-2005 Total posts: 97 |
From: Shellymoon
Date: 11-06-2005, 10:55 PM (15 of 32)
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I use a variety of inexpensive plastic and wicker baskets to store my patterns. The ones in pretty baskets are stored on bookshelves in my sewing room. Those in more plain plastic baskets are stored on shelves in my closet with the fabric. I have mine sorted into the different baskets...eg, costumes, home dec, baby stuff, my daughter's patterns, shirts, pants, etc. I don't like keeping mine in drawers I pull several baskets out at a time when I'm planning a new project. I keep my sewing books and magazines in an unusual cabinet. It is actually an old television set with the guts removed. It's an RCA that had these beautiful deco wood doors that swung around to hide the TV screen. Somone took out the picture tube, and put wood on the back and inside. The doors close and hide the junk. It sounds bizzare but made a very pretty storage cabinet. One of the best garage sale finds I have. The storage stuff form IKEA sounds interesting. They just opened one of those near me. I'll have to run up and check it out! And no, you're not insane for wanting to sew when you're showing the house. Just keep an empty drawer where you can stash projects and a lint roller handy for picking up the threads. Trust me, a less than perfect sewing room isn't the worst thing people will see when they're out househunting. I can't believe the people who don't even bother to clean up before putting the for sale sign out front. Shelly Moon
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User: Shellymoon
Member since: 05-27-2001 Total posts: 240 |
From: esrun3
Date: 11-06-2005, 11:03 PM (16 of 32)
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Now for one other question--am I totally insane for wanting to sew during this hectic time?! (I guess the next challenge will be how to sew and work on some Christmas gifts while trying to keep the sewing room showable. No, you aren't insane. Sewing is my stress reliever, the worse part about it will be that you have clean up all the time and not be able to leave things out. Enjoy your sewing even in the hectic times-you undoubtedly need the break! Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: toadusew
Date: 11-07-2005, 09:42 AM (17 of 32)
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Thanks again, everybody! The storage solutions have given me some good ideas and good tips. Right now, everything needs to be portable, but when I get to my new home, I have some great, creative ideas to try, thanks to you! Sewing is always my stress reliever, too, so I do want to sew during this time. It is going to be a bit difficult to keep the sewing room clean and tidy while working on a project, but I'll do the best I can. Usually, I have about 3 or 4 projects going at once, but I may have to pare down and only work on one project at a time. LOL Some of you have mentioned IKEA and one of those stores just opened here, too, so I may have to check it out--at least to get some more ideas for storage in my future home. |
User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: mamahoogie
Date: 11-07-2005, 09:42 AM (18 of 32)
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I bought cardboard boxes from Fabricland that are made to hold patterns and they work very well. I organized them into babies, kids, crafts, adult casual and adult dress clothes. I'm sure the fabric stores in U.S. would have the same type of thing. Here's a tip for when you have to pack to move - wrap all your breakable figurienes, etc. in your fabric! Better protection then paper and you won't have to have seperate boxes for your fabric! Violet I've decided to live forever - so far, so good.
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User: mamahoogie
Member since: 12-25-2002 Total posts: 461 |
From: toadusew
Date: 11-07-2005, 09:46 AM (19 of 32)
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That's a great tip! Thanks!
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: bridesmom
Date: 11-08-2005, 03:20 AM (20 of 32)
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I just finished picking up some white plastic storage units at Walmart that have 5 shelves with drawers in them on wheels. They fit patterns perfectly and fit nicely underneath my cutting table. I also picked up some storage containers in the hardware section which have flip top interlocking tops that are supposed to be for tools or garage I guess, considering they were in the hardware, they were also 1/2 the price of almost the same ones in the shelving/storage stuff and I like them much better having the attached tops that were either black red or blue. They stack nicely as well. I like the clear plastic so I can kind of tell whats in the box.
Laura
Tickled pink with my Innovis 4000D |
User: bridesmom
Member since: 01-21-2004 Total posts: 2026 |
From: toadusew
Date: 11-08-2005, 09:17 AM (21 of 32)
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Bridesmom, I just got the exact same items you did in the past 2 days! Great minds must think alike, right? I also like the clear plastic so I can see at a glance what is inside. My project for today is to get the stuff in the sewing room floor into some of these storage areas. That will keep my sewing items handy, but also portable. Thanks again for all the tips. You ladies have been great!
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: LadySloPokes
Date: 11-10-2005, 09:16 AM (22 of 32)
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I use large plastic bins with locking lids to keep my fabric stash in. They're clear, so I can see what fabrics are in each one, plus they stay protected from dust and dirt that way. I also use a long plastic storage box with a locking lid that was made to hold CD's for my patterns. Again it's clear so I can see through it, they lay down in it sideways, and I have my patterns organized by type then in numerical order, such as home decor, mens fashions, womens, children, etc. As for sewing while dealing with your home being up for sale, YES you should keep sewing. Your life is up-side down enough already, don't give up on something that you love to do and helps you relax! During this time you need to keep your daily life as normal as possible for sanitys' sake! Good Luck with the house and your impending move....where are you moving to? Cookie
LadySlo...yes am I, but hey, I'm gettin' there! Are you sure it's supposed to look like this?! Proud owner of Singer Quantum Decor 7322 & Singer Quantum Futura CE 200.. "A balanced diet is having chocolate in both hands!" |
User: LadySloPokes
Member since: 08-15-2005 Total posts: 198 
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From: stitch2much
Date: 11-10-2005, 08:57 PM (23 of 32)
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I did not read thought the entire post but this is how I handle my patterns. When I get a new pattern I immediately scan and print the front and back. I print it so I use only one page. Then I file it in a binder full of dividers, by category, similar to the categories of the pattern books at the store. The pattern scan is smaller the paper so I can add notes to it too, like if it has been cut in a particular size or changes made. Then I put a check mark on the pattern envelope so I know it has been scanned. I then file my patterns in a recycled cardboard box, I get them from a local office, they get their paper in them. They are free and they have a lid!! They fit two long rows of patterns. I file the patterns in them by "number" mcall, butterick, simplicity all mixed together. I use dividers like at the fabric store 1000, 1500, 2000 etc. When I am looking for something to make I go to my binder decide on a pattern say pattern 6878, and then it is easy to find in 6000-7000 box. Works great for me!! If you are a patternaholic like me you just have to keep on top of the copying!! You could stack the boxes as end tables with a cloth over top to conceal them. |
User: stitch2much
Member since: 10-06-2005 Total posts: 22 |
From: bunzino
Date: 11-10-2005, 09:06 PM (24 of 32)
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It will take a bit more of your time, but the big key to selling quickly is to remove as much junk as possible!! Box it, put it under the bed, put boxes in the garage. People need to see the house, not the stuff! But as someone already suggested, a bit of hominess adds a touch. So, keep your sewing "unmessy" (yes, I know that's tough, but you've got 2 goals here) and display what your'e sewing on a dummy or hanger when folks come to look. nancy |
User: bunzino
Member since: 08-16-2002 Total posts: 119 |
From: toadusew
Date: 11-11-2005, 10:49 PM (25 of 32)
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I just now noticed that LadySloPokes asked me where I'm moving to and I haven't answered the question yet. Sorry--been a bit busy trying to remove the clutter/stuff as Bunzino has suggested. I'm moving to the D.C. metro area. We will probably live in northern Virginia; hubby will work in D.C. Bunzino, I just noticed that you live in that area--any tips for my move? (other than the great tip about removing the junk/clutter, that is )We are in the process of boxing up, putting up, stacking up, etc because we have tons of clutter/stuff! My sewing room has been cleaned out, but I don't have my machines and supplies back in there yet. They are in plastic bins and boxes so they are more or less "organized". Since it's clear, I can see through and will be able to have access to my supplies. I really do think I need to get in there and work on my current project because for the last couple of days, all I want to do is cry!  I'm not really unhappy about the move--haven't really liked my current geographical area, but I do love my house and I'm going to miss it--especially my sewing room! 
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: LadySloPokes
Date: 11-12-2005, 08:55 AM (26 of 32)
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I did a cross country move 5 years ago this coming week--from California to Buffalo NY. It's very difficult to leave your home state and try to make a new life in a new state. During the move, maybe you could have some small hand sewing project you can do to keep yourself relaxed and occupied. I've never had a sewing "room", so I'm not sure what to say to comfort you about that. However, just remember that when you get to your new home, everything will be fresh and clean, and all of your stuff will be safely packed and ready for use when you get there.
Cookie
LadySlo...yes am I, but hey, I'm gettin' there! Are you sure it's supposed to look like this?! Proud owner of Singer Quantum Decor 7322 & Singer Quantum Futura CE 200.. "A balanced diet is having chocolate in both hands!" |
User: LadySloPokes
Member since: 08-15-2005 Total posts: 198
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From: toadusew
Date: 11-12-2005, 09:35 AM (27 of 32)
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Thanks, LadySloPokes! Actually, Texas isn't my home state; I'm originally from Arkansas and moved to Texas a little over 10 years ago. That was a relatively small move compared to this one, but I had lived in Arkansas all my life so it was huge to me! This one is so different because it is across the country to an area I'm not familiar with at all. I am looking forward to seeing new scenery and meeting new folks, but housing is very expensive there, which is a bit disconcerting, but I'll adjust. I do have a small quilt that I'm working on--practicing hand quilting and I like your idea of a small hand sewing project during the move. You are right that it will help relax me. I am going to continue sewing my sewing machine projects during the time the house is on the market, but I'll try to keep it "neat" during that time. I need to work on some Christmas gifts for the grandkids and my mom and having that to focus on will help as well. Thanks again for the encouragement.
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 11-12-2005, 10:49 AM (28 of 32)
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LadySloPokes, I moved from Central California to upstate New York -- Syracuse area -- more than 20 years ago. I have one question for you -- how do you like the weather? I am still not used to the cold. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: Laurieb2851
Date: 11-17-2005, 02:14 AM (29 of 32)
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I have tons and tons of patterns and should really go through them. I used to buy decorative cardboard boxes for my patterns which worked okay, but after others in the house moved my boxes and boxes were crushed under other heavier stuff and I had to get something else. I opted for clear plastic containers and sort them according to what the patterns are, etc. We have temporary custody of our three year old granddaughter and until I got a few things around here for her to play with she spotted a grocery sack of patterns and started nosing into the bag and thought the patterns were mail and started playing mailman with them. She doesn't open them and take things out and the pictures on the patterns are real eye-catching for her. At least if I don't get most of these patterns sewn - they have served as entertainment for a little girl who needed something to do at the time. I never feel bad about the number of patterns I have simply because it's kind of like other people buying magazines to give themselves some inspiration to do different things. I probably have many I should clean out and get rid of to be sure and hopefully soon I'll get to that. I shouldn't say get rid of them because they make excellent "mail" for a little 3-year old girl. The little stinker noses into everything I own I swear. She has now moved on to investigating my fabric stash! |
User: Laurieb2851
Member since: 03-08-2005 Total posts: 16 |
From: toadusew
Date: 11-17-2005, 09:22 AM (30 of 32)
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Maybe you have a budding sewer on your hands! Quite a few people have looked at my house in the past few days. My sewing room is decluttered and more or less clean, but I've kept my project out on the cutting table. With bins of patterns and sewing tools, along with a sewing machine and serger out, I think most folks realize that it's a sewing/work room. The rest of the house looks great, but it's a lot of work trying to keep it that way! 
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 11-17-2005, 09:34 AM (31 of 32)
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If I was looking for a house a sewing room would be a selling point for me!! Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: toadusew
Date: 11-17-2005, 09:41 AM (32 of 32)
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Dorothy, I agree--if I were looking, a sewing room would be a great selling point for me, too.
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User: toadusew
Member since: 01-08-2005 Total posts: 369 |
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