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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: MaryW
Date: 05-15-2006, 11:02 AM (1 of 46)
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I need some good tips for organizing my patterns. I know there was a thread on this a while back but darned if I can find it. How do you keep your patterns organized, I have a lot. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: LadySloPokes
Date: 05-15-2006, 11:22 AM (2 of 46)
I probably don't have as many as most of the ladies here (maybe between 50-60) but I tend to keep the like kinds together. All my home decor patterns for window treatments, placemats, table runners, holiday decor and bedding are in one section sorted by type (all table stuff together, all bedding, etc) and each section is in numerical order. Yeah, I know-kind of dumb, but that helps me to NOT duplicate buying the same pattern more than one time. For garments-first by gender, then by type-shirts, skirts, sleepware, and in numberical order in each little subsection. My kids patterns, for my GS, are sorted by size first, then by type-summer clothes, winter clothes, sleepware-and again in number order. I don't know if that will be helpful or not, but I wanted to put in my 2 cents worth!  Edit: I forgot to mention that I keep my patterns in clear plastic storage containers, and I lay them sideways with the pattern number side up. Cookie 
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: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-15-2006, 11:27 AM (3 of 46)
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I am a little obsessive about organization . . . here is how I keep my patterns organized. I use three ring binders, and sheet protectors (wanted an inexpensive system). I organize my binders by coding them by the tyes of patterns, then each pattern, or pieces, goes into a sheet protector. I separate the pattern pieces, and put labels on the sheet protectors. I also have tabbed dividers inside the books to seperate the patterns. When opening my Binders, the divider tabs have the pattern number on them. The first sheet protector has the pattern envelope and all the pieces if it is a small pattern. If there are lots of pieces, like with garments, I have the pattern pieces seperated behind the first sheet protector holding the envelope (ex. All the pieces to make "A" in one, all the pieces to make "B" in one, etc.). I also put any comments or notes on the sheet protectors using lables. For example, I have Binders Coded A1, A2, A3 (Adult Clothing), C1, C2, C3 (Children's Clothing), HD1, HD2, HD3 (Home Decor), etc. I have one book that I use as an Index. I created a spreadsheet of all my patterns with references to the binder numbers and tabs. I spend no time finding my patterns this way. The index has everything I need in it, like the pattern no., sizes, # pieces, etc. I simply find the item on the index, find the binder number and pattern number, and there it is. The nice thing about a spreadsheet index is I can sort it by any column to find what I want. My spreadsheet is long, and when I want my girls clothing pattern, I sort my spreadsheet and find all matching items for "girls". Then I can sort it again within those matching items to find a dress, shorts, tops, etc. I use a small bookshelf to organize my binders. You can do this same thing with totes, with dividers, numbering or lettering your totes, and creating an index. The index is the part that helps me find what I need. I don't think the method of filing is the key. It's how you organize it, and code/number it, and create the index. Looking forward to hearing how others organize their patterns! I have a sample spreadsheet if anyone would like to see it! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257 
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From: DorothyL
Date: 05-15-2006, 12:08 PM (4 of 46)
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I am certainly not an "organization freak" and tend to just put all my patterns in drawers. I try to keep one drawer full of the ones I haven't used yet but that's about the extent of how organized I am. I figure when I am looking for a particular pattern and thumbing through a drawer full, I remind myself of what I have. BUT -- I have a couple tips that have helped me within each pattern envelope. When I refold the pieces I do it so the piece number shows and I don't have to unfold a piece to know what it is. And I put each item -- skirt -- pants -- top... in a separate plastic bag or a mailing envelope then back in the regular envelope so they are not all mixed up. This not only saves me a little time, it saves the patterns from being handled excessively since I don't copy mine either. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: MissTaraTara
Date: 05-15-2006, 12:30 PM (5 of 46)
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My sewing space is relatively small and I have a very short attention span when it comes to looking for things. Whenever I purchase new patterns, I scan the fronts and print them out (usually two per page). These pages are stored in a 3 ring binder and divided by pattern company. Then I have other divider tabs for crafts, dolls, and miscellany. I can sit on the sofa and browse through the binder just as a pattern catalogue in the fabric store. My patterns themselves are stored in 3 boxes. I have a huge shallow box with the patterns sorted numerically and by pattern company. I have a separate box for dolls, and one for crafts. I have only a few adult patterns and they are stored in a basket in plain view. When I need Kwik Sew blah blah blah, I just look in the box in the Kwik Sew section, go to the number and pull it out. Looking back I wish I had copied (I started this systems years ago using a personal copier) the backs of the envelopes as well so I'd have the yardage requirements. But, that's okay too, because it really is effortless to just look in the box and get the pattern out. Oh, and I use the pattern keepers that I purchased from Nancy's Notions to store patterns that have been cut out. I can then readily identify patterns I've already used. |
User: MissTaraTara
Member since: 01-24-2006 Total posts: 227 |
From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-15-2006, 12:33 PM (6 of 46)
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I think I will take my Index and add the printed pages of the pattern covers, that is a great idea. Thanks! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: stephi
Date: 05-15-2006, 02:59 PM (7 of 46)
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Mary, I put mine in plastic drawers, but.....I had been to an estate sale where the lady was a big time sewer and she had taken the video shelves and arranged them the same as you would the vidoes. She had labeled and stored them by type (men, woman, children, ect) then by sizes!!! Her whole upstairs was patterns, her machines where down stairs in the dining room and she had a washer in the den with tons of dressers full of material. The only two rooms without sewing where the living room (which had no tv) and the kitchen (which was stocked with tons of old kitchen machines, no microwave). It was worth the drive just to visit this "museum of sewing". Something you might could find cheap at wally world or your local thrift store??!!! STephi 
Stephi
"No body knows what it is that I do until I dont do it" "if you do what you have always done you will get what you have always gotten" |
User: stephi
Member since: 03-17-2006 Total posts: 361 
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From: SummersEchos
Date: 05-15-2006, 04:15 PM (8 of 46)
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I have 2 of the pattern drawers that you see in the fabric stores for my patterns. I like the size of the McCall pattern drawers. You can buy them froma fabric store if they are going out of business. Then I seperate them into groups. Works for me.
Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: Mom of Six
Date: 05-15-2006, 06:56 PM (9 of 46)
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I used to have 2 McCall's pattern cabinets. I perged a lot of patterns so now I have 1. My patterns are arranged by size in childrens wear & type ( mens, teen, womens, Pjs, swimwear, costumes, crafts, bridal etc.). I am overrunning it again so I might do another perge this summer or I might just have my 14YO take all of her patterns & start her own system. This sytsem works except for some of the larger patterns have to be folded or go in sideways. I do like the idea of scanning the covers to take to the store. I think I might get DD to work on that with me as a project this summer. Do you copy in B&W or color? Barb
Happiness is having time to sew!! |
User: Mom of Six
Member since: 11-03-2001 Total posts: 1115 
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From: Pudge99
Date: 05-16-2006, 05:49 PM (10 of 46)
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I have my patterns in a plastic filing cabinet. First sorted by brand and then by number. For browsing through patterns I have a three ring binder with printouts of the front and back of the pattern envelope in clear plastic sheet protectors. These are sorted by type, then gender, then size. I have all my Kwik Sew books in matching three ring binders, with pocket dividers between them. In these pockets I have manilla envelopes with the traced patterns in them. I have all my free patterns/instructions from the internet in binders also. They are not yet sorted. Every so often I clean out the printer tray and get out the three hole punch and just add the new ones to the back. When I am working on a pattern I keep the envelope and the instructions clipped on a clip board next to the sewing machine. The pattern pieces get ironed and hung on a hanger next to the fabric. Then after I have cut the piece out I fold up the pattern piece (number out) and clip it to the clip board. wehn I am all done cutting I stick them back in the original envelope and keep it on the clip board until the project is done. Well that is my pattern organization in a nutshell. Oh yeah I forgot to add that the print outs are great for grabbing for a run to the store. You don't have to worry about loosing your pattern or being accused of stealing it. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 05-16-2006, 06:07 PM (11 of 46)
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I, too, separate my patterns. The innards (the actual pattern and instruction sheet) get put into ziploc bags and filed numerically in horizontal file cubbies in my sewing closet. I label the bags with the first initials of the company Ie: (NL= New Look; S= Simplicity; BU=Burda) followed by the number. So Simplicity 4626 would be S4626. Then I take the pattern envelope which has the picture and on the back all of the sizing info and material suggestions and requirements and put it into a plastic sleeve in a binder. I have 2 binders. One for me; one for the kids. They are filed in groups such as shirts, skirts, dresses, pants, swimsuits, etc.... Then I can just thumb through and decide what to make. My kids use theirs as a sort of "wish book". Then I have a spreadsheet which lists all the patterns alphanumerically. This really came in handy when dh decided it would be better space wise to turn cubbies vertically (it didn't work--the ziploc bags were too slippery) and all my 125+ patterns fell to the floor and got all mixed up! UGH! My dh says I am very OCD  when it comes to the organization of my sewing room--citing my patterns as the very best example of this. (of course I also have my material separated by type and color)Hope this is helpful to someone? I know for me, organization is the key to getting projects started and completed and not getting sidetracked or discouraged. |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263 
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From: bridesmom
Date: 05-17-2006, 12:33 AM (12 of 46)
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I have two 4 drawer plastic cabinets on wheels that fit under my cutting table. One holds my patterns, baby, child, women, men/crafts, the other is for my interfacing, lining, ribbing and scraps.
Laura
Tickled pink with my Innovis 4000D |
User: bridesmom
Member since: 01-21-2004 Total posts: 2026 |
From: DorothyL
Date: 05-17-2006, 07:21 AM (13 of 46)
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Some of you people are really crazy, you know. Is the rest of your life that orderly? I fight a constant battle against order and organization in my life and if you ever had to look for anything in my sewing room (or anywhere in my house) you would see I am winning!! Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 05-17-2006, 07:39 AM (14 of 46)
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Some of you people are really crazy, you know. Dorothy http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/PrincessJenny/lmao.gif Yah, I know! Guilty as charged. Jen |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263
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From: Patty22
Date: 05-17-2006, 08:06 AM (15 of 46)
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This thread has my head spinning........all I can say is MY GOD! I hate to admit this, but I've been known to be lucky to get all the pieces back in the envelope - but that is from bad habits from when I was a teen! I am certainly not a slob, but I think on a rainy day I'm going to do some reorganizing and scanning. I think some of you are closet librarians or museum registrars or any other career having to do with linking paperwork to objects. For those of you who do have your patterns super-organized: Do you also do this with your fabric? Do you keep all the information on where you purchased, the amount, treatment method, purchase price, etc.? I usually can look at my fabric and tell you where I purchased it.........but I don't keep any of the other information. Patty
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User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: MaryW
Date: 05-17-2006, 08:31 AM (16 of 46)
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Boy, do I have the work cut out for me. I am going to try and get all my patterns in one spot this weekend. That is a start.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: DorothyL
Date: 05-17-2006, 08:32 AM (17 of 46)
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Patty I do -- I do!!!! Well, I jot down fiber content (100% cotton -- 50% rayon 50% linen...), width and length and pin it to the fabric before I shove it on the shelf. Then I know what I am dealing with. If it is prewashed I put that on the note too. I've been collecting the cardboard bolts to store it on -- they just throw them away at the stores and will gladly give them to you if you ask. But they aren't stored in any order just tossed on a shelf. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 05-17-2006, 08:36 AM (18 of 46)
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Yep, you folks are scaring me.... I have some cheapo pseudo-cardboard boxes from the dollar store that fit the envelopes perfectly, my system is... kids patterns (4 boxes worth semi organized by size), my patterns (2 boxes worth) and I get to shuffle through everytime I want something, but they are all in one place and covered up. I also have a stash of burda magazines and am "fearless"  in chopping up patterns and switching pieces around so I don't really have all that many patterns.
Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
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From: Pudge99
Date: 05-17-2006, 09:39 AM (19 of 46)
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My next big project is to get my fabric as organinzed as my patterns so the next time someone asks the question my answer will probably be yes. As to if my whole life is this organized like this I can say NO! All of my closets drawers and cabinets are but the rest of my house is a disaster. I have a friend that I kid around with saying that together we would be the perfect housewife. Her house is spotless but if you open a closet, look out, things will come tumbling down. Where as my house is messy all the time but you open a cabinet you will find things labeled and orgainized. I go so far as to alphabetize the books on my bookshelf first by Author and then by Title. I would be that crochety old librarian who snaps at you if you don't get the book right back where it belongs.
Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-17-2006, 02:26 PM (20 of 46)
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Yes, I admit it. I am a closet obsessive-compulsive, and my work does revolve around paper and organization. I am a government contract administrator (think lotssssss of paper) and I run a one woman show at the office against 13 male engineers and designers. My man at home is also a complete slob! I retreat to my organized space just for a break from the rest of the house. I love all of the ideas here and will get started on better organizing my Index and my fabric. As for scanning those envelope covers - you only need to scan old discontinued pattern envelopes - you can go online to any of the many pattern places and print the fronts and backs of the covers right from the web (I already started!). Thanks everyone! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: LadySloPokes
Date: 05-18-2006, 08:01 AM (21 of 46)
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And I thought I was over-doing it!!! My 2 plastic file boxes for my patterns are almost full, although I still have room in my kids box for more patterns for my GS. The only time I write down the pattern numbers is when I buy new ones at the store-I keep a project binder with me so I have all the pattern numbers, thread colors and numbers, and fabrics written in it so I won't accidently duplicate a purchase. My fabrics are in 2 larger plastic totes-one for any season and one for holiday fabrics. I don't have a lot of storage room in our apartment so I have to get busy and start sewing so I can buy more... Cookie
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: DorothyL
Date: 05-18-2006, 08:17 AM (22 of 46)
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My husband and I want to move to an apartment over the next few months and he's trying to figure out how we are going to deal with all my fabric. We will have to have an extra room for my sewing room. It just has to be -- or we will not have a bedroom. Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: LWOrig
Date: 05-18-2006, 10:36 AM (23 of 46)
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Mary, I have three main categories for all my patterns: Those I've Designed "LW", those items I've made from other designer's patterns "DI", and those holiday items I've made from other designers patterns "HD." All my patterns, pictures, and logs are set-up with a numbering scheme. For Example: LW001 would indicate that "LW" it's one of my patterns and 001 would be the first. I put this number on my pattern, on the picture album that I keep of everything I've made, on all my worksheets when I'm referring to this pattern, and on the product #'s on my websites. If I made a doll from someone else's pattern then I number that pattern DI0001, etc. or HD001. Everything is filed and kept in sequential order. So if Im looking at a picture of a doll I'd made and want to make it again I look for it's number and then go find it in that sequence in by box of patterns. I have made a lot of things during the 40 years or so I've been sewing so I've got a lot of boxes, pictures, and logs. The numbering scheme keeps me organized. Linda |
User: LWOrig
Member since: 04-15-2006 Total posts: 14 
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From: ChoctawCharli
Date: 05-19-2006, 05:47 PM (24 of 46)
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I currently have my patterns organized this way. The patterns and instruction sheets are removed from the pattern envelope and placed in an approx 8x10 tyvec envelope labeled with the pattern number and type. (ie: V1111 - Asian Tunic, KS2222 - Full Skirt). These envelopes are kept, in numerical order, in these wonderful Rubbermaid Pattern Keepers that I found at JoAnns. Then the pattern envelope is placed inside a sheet protector in a tabbed three ring binder, again, by type. Tops, Pants, Skirts, Skirts & Pants, Wardrobes, etc. That said .... I recently purchased Wild Ginger's Stitch and Stash. WOW! Although time consuming initialliy this is gonna be great! in the long run. You can scan your patterns into the program, scan your fabric and pull up your pattern and fabric together! (not affiliated) among all kind of other neat tricks! It already has Kwik Sew Patterns loaded in it's database. I will still keep the patterns in the Pattern Keepers as it is still the easiest way to find the one I want. By keeping them in numerical order I can go right to the one I want. By using a Company code V for Vogue, etc I can locate the right pattern even if a number is duplicated. Any system you choose will take time to complete, but will be worth it in the long run as long as it works FOR YOU! CharliAnn =^,,^= |
User: ChoctawCharli
Member since: 03-10-2005 Total posts: 22
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From: Marilyn in MD
Date: 05-19-2006, 07:19 PM (25 of 46)
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I keep all of my patterns in a standard office file cabinet. Each drawer holds two side-by-side rows of patterns. I cut manila folders in half, with a tab at the top, and use them them as section dividers. On the folder tabs I write the pattern category: WOMEN'S then Suits, Skirts, Tops - CHILDREN'S then Boys, Girls - HOME DEC Window Treatments, Kitchen, and so on. I also have oversized designer patterns which I file in the fronts of the drawers, in hanging box files - labeled by designer, e.g. Lois Erickson, Sandra Betzina, etc. This isn't a time-consuming system, but it keeps my patterns organized and easy to find. |
User: Marilyn in MD
Member since: 03-13-2006 Total posts: 14 |
From: Carol in ME
Date: 05-19-2006, 07:43 PM (26 of 46)
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I downsized my patterns a couple years ago. I was never going to be that size again: and If I were to be, I wouldn't want to be dresses in 70s style clothes. Occasionally, I need to re-create a style from a different era. The costume designer will provide a sketch, and I'll draft a pattern. I scan the envelope fronts, position six or eight per page, and print them out. I have separate pages for suits, dresses, pjs, etc. these pages are kept in a notebook that I can flip through at my leisure. The patterns are stored in numerical order in two drawers of a standard file cabinet. The drafted patterns that I think I'll use again, I pick a number that isn't in use. I tend to consolidate: all hat,cap, and hood patterns are in envelope 100. The ones I doubt I'll use again go to the pattern graveyard: the back of the bottom drawer of the file cabinet. I periodically go through and toss those. It's easier as time passes: haven't seen that customer in a while...made for a young actor in an unusual size who has left the state to pursue fame and fortune...frock coat, what are the chances anyone will need that? |
User: Carol in ME
Member since: 01-27-2003 Total posts: 105 |
From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-20-2006, 08:18 AM (27 of 46)
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All this discussion about patterns and fabrics had me thinking. I decided to add a new element to my binder organization. I found those sheet protectors for photographs, 4 to a page, and organized squares of my fabrics in each pocket. I placed all the fabric info behind the fabric squares and organized them by types of fabric. I also noted the pattern I've used that fabric for in the past. (of course, I also added all this info to my spreadsheet/index). It's working out great. All my fabrics at a glance, by type! My fabrics are all folded and stacked (fold up) in plastic containers, also coded and divided, by material type, then color. Thanks for all the great ideas everyone!!!! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: DorothyL
Date: 05-20-2006, 08:38 AM (28 of 46)
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Doesn't all that organization cut into sewing time? Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: LadySloPokes
Date: 05-20-2006, 11:07 AM (29 of 46)
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Doesn't all that organization cut into sewing time? Dorothy It does take time to get the initial system set up and working the way you want it to, but once it's done, I imagine it would be very easy to maintain and use it. I believe it would just be a matter of adding anything new or just purchased to it as soon as you get home. That way you have plenty of time to sew, relax, have some  , look for more fabric sales...or chase after a 17-month-old boy who loves being at Grandmas' house! Cookie
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: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-20-2006, 01:04 PM (30 of 46)
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After you start - it's easy. It's the full time job that keeps me out of my sewing room too long.
You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: kathntex
Date: 05-21-2006, 06:40 PM (31 of 46)
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Butterflyrf71, I'd be interested in seeing your spreadsheet. I thought I was organized, but you ladies have me beat by a mile! Thanks! |
User: kathntex
Member since: 11-30-2004 Total posts: 8 |
From: grandma x 8
Date: 05-22-2006, 02:09 PM (32 of 46)
| I had several boxes of patterns that were stored on a high shelf that I needed a ladder to get to. I removed the patterns from their envelopes and put each one in a manilla envolope. On upper Left hand corner of the envelope, I put the pattern name and number (ex. McCalls 6602). I filed these in a filing cabinet by Company and number. I then placed all the envelopes in plastic three ring binder sleeves and put them in binders grouping, skirts, pants, dresses, childrens, etc. Now when I need a pattern and can sit and look thro the binders and then go to the file cabinet and find the pattern in a jiffy. |
User: grandma x 8
Member since: 03-17-2006 Total posts: 1 |
From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-22-2006, 02:24 PM (33 of 46)
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Kathntex: I'll get you my spreadsheet just as soon as I can.
You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: MaryW
Date: 05-22-2006, 02:32 PM (34 of 46)
Hi grandmax8, welcome to Sew Whats New. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-22-2006, 06:05 PM (35 of 46)
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Kathntex - The link is below for the spreadsheet. I just took the first few of each Binder 1 to give you an idea. I didn't want to send you a ten page index and overwhelm you. I've also integrated some of the others ideas and added them to my index system - like the envelope covers and backs (sorted behind the index sheets) so I could leaf through the pictures. As I look through my index and see the patterns that match what I sorted for, I can leaf through the pages and see the item without going to the pattern binder itself. I also started keeping samples of my fabrics in the very back of my Index Binder. This way I can see the fabrics I used with each pattern (take the fabric ref and look in the back of my binder at the fabric). Please feel free to call on me if you would like pics of anything. Choosing codes that you feel familiar with is the key. Hope I didn't overwhelm you! http://www.filelodge.com/files/room13/318744/Pattern%20Index.xls You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: kathntex
Date: 05-23-2006, 08:47 AM (36 of 46)
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Thanks for a peek at your spreadsheet. Looks like I better get busy! I just have my patterns filed by type in a drawer. I cut the envelope and glue to the front of a 9 x 13 envelope to hold the pattern (that way I can actually get the pieces back in the envelope. They are then filed in a hanging file folder. As my collection grows, I can see that I need a better system. Thanks, everyone, for all your great organizational ideas! Has anyone come up with a way to keep track of all those patterns and hints that are in magazines? Do you clip out or leave in the magazine/book? I've completely lost a pattern - I know it's there somewhere, but can't seem to locate it. Kathy |
User: kathntex
Member since: 11-30-2004 Total posts: 8 |
From: MissTaraTara
Date: 05-23-2006, 02:54 PM (37 of 46)
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Has anyone come up with a way to keep track of all those patterns and hints that are in magazines? Do you clip out or leave in the magazine/book? I've completely lost a pattern - I know it's there somewhere, but can't seem to locate it. Kathy Speaking of magazines and article storage, I spent the last 2 weeks catching up on all of my magazines. I have finished a years worth each of Burda World of Fashion, Threads, and Vogue Patterns. I only have to catch up with my SewNews. I do clip articles that I want to save and recycle the magazines as I have not the space to store them. I file the clippings in hanging file folders by subject, some of them are: tips, notions (thread, needles, marking tools) zippers, pockets, waistbands, seams, hems, master classes (a Threads feature), embellishment techniques, etc. Projects are stored in the back file folders. I have one for the seasonal project books I pick up at Hancock. Then there is another for the freebie sheets I pick up here and there. I have another for wearable projects and one for "crafty" projects. I must add that I do consider what I save. If the information is readily available online or is covered in a book I already have, then I don't bother. It is very easy for me to find anything in a few moments. I had once thought about using binders and plastic sleeves but binders can take up alot of space as well. |
User: MissTaraTara
Member since: 01-24-2006 Total posts: 227 |
From: sable
Date: 05-23-2006, 07:37 PM (38 of 46)
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All my patterns are in a plastic drawer tower (5 drawers) just the right size for patterns. I have 2 of them and they're pretty much full. Labels on the front of each drawer as to the type of pattern. I also have the details of each pattern, including a sketch in some notebooks so I can take those out with me and get exactly the right amount/type of fabric. All my fabrics are all over the place though. I have some in a blanket box in our bedroom, some in another blanket box in the conservatory as well as some in drawers and a whole lot in plastic boxes. Last time I wanted something it took me 2 weeks to find it, was fabric for me and I'd put it in the boxes for my sons for some unknown reason
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User: sable
Member since: 01-10-2005 Total posts: 76
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From: Sewhappie
Date: 05-23-2006, 07:42 PM (39 of 46)
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I do the copy of the pattern, front and back put into a clear plastic sleeve and then into a notebook in numeric order. patterns are in numeric order in rubbermaid drawers. I list all the pattern info I need on a spread sheet, somewhat like the others setup. Mine shows, Pattern Co, Pattern#, size, style(s),gender which I can go to any one of the heading and put everything in order by that heading. I am going to add month & year they where bought so if someone would need a pattern and they can remember a year I will be able to see if I might have what they are looking for. |
User: Sewhappie
Member since: 10-27-2001 Total posts: 1427 |
From: lsoutherla
Date: 01-07-2007, 11:14 AM (40 of 46)
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Decided to re-organze by patterns (last done back in the 90's and only then by type in a verticle storage drawer system, which has crashed to the ground) and what better place to search than on this site. There were some very good ideas. I'm one to organize to the minutia and will incorporate a lot of what I read. I don't organize my fabric as well as some folks here do. Mostly home decor is seperate from garment wear. Of course, from the last stash challenge I see that my stash is nowhere near as large as some folks. But, I do keep index cards with all the pertinent info and a small cutting of fabric. I also list my cost. (I love knowing I spent $2/yd on a $20/yd fabric and my garment only cost me $4-5.) I also keep sewing magazines in whole form from the 70-80-90's and look at them now and again for ideas, but I do place into binders internet articles, and non-sewing articles/tips from other magazines, etc. and as the topic fills the binder, I sort it into subtopics, etc. I do this with sewing, gardening, woodwork, and general Heloise-type subjects. I sometimes wonder who is going to want all of this when I pass away. Anything anyone can add on this subject? Laura |
User: lsoutherla
Member since: 05-04-2006 Total posts: 72 |
From: JustSewCrafty
Date: 01-11-2007, 03:26 PM (41 of 46)
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You guys must have TONS of patterns.... I have like...20-30, maybe. I guess most of the stuff I make, I design from my head. Very cool systems though... May your bobbin always be full-
Stephanie www.chasingthreads.blogspot.com "Sewing is the new black" |
User: JustSewCrafty
Member since: 10-04-2006 Total posts: 168 |
From: BabsSewingRoom
Date: 01-12-2007, 11:15 AM (42 of 46)
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I love it that I've found other people that organize! You wouldn't believe my friends that look at my sewing room and roll their eyes - but then they'll ask how I find time to sew - well duh. I too have my patterns in the plastic drawers by category. I put them in ziplock bag rather than fight the envelope. I have huge open area above closet in my sewing room. The contractor wanted to close in that area and I couldn't make him understand my plan so finally said, just leave it open. I have the drawers stacked up there. I can see them but do have to get stepstool to actually get one down. I also copy the envelope, front and back, and keep in a old Franklin Planner binder that's just right size (classic), organized by type pattern. So I can easily see what's up there before I get the stepstool out. Then when I go shopping, which is 50 miles away, I toss binder in car and if/when I get into fabric store I've got info on yardage for any fabric I might run across. Or there have been times I've seen a garment that I liked and was close to pattern I've got. Then I'd go back to car while still fresh on my mind and make notes on the pattern for making the garment with the changes. |
User: BabsSewingRoom
Member since: 04-10-2004 Total posts: 80 |
From: MaryW
Date: 01-12-2007, 01:49 PM (43 of 46)
This is something I just HAVE to do. My patterns are all over the place. Why I am so disorganized with patterns is beyond me. My fabric and notions are not.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: Kew
Date: 01-12-2007, 01:55 PM (44 of 46)
| I have a 4 drawer see through plastic cabinet on wheels and that's where I store my patterns. I have them organized in sections one drawer for tops,jackets, one for skirts, dresses .etc. My other cabinet is the same but with smaller drawers for my notions and I have a third one for stabalizers, big hunks of ribbons etc. Then I have a nice shelf my hubby made me for all my binders and mags. I also have all my material folded on 2 big wooden shelving units. He also made me a new table for my serger and my embroidery machine with overhead lights, and he also made me a cutting table with the measuring tape attached. You can buy the tapes at fabricland and they stick on. How sweet. Now I don't have an excuse not to sew. It's -50 here with the windchill today so I should be sewing as I'm certainly not going outside. |
User: Kew
Member since: 10-19-2000 Total posts: 58 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 01-12-2007, 01:58 PM (45 of 46)
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Come on Mary, you can do it! I have faith in you . Oh how wonderful it felt when I finally got mine all organinzed. I do have a stack of patterns that I need to get into the system. Better get busy on them. Actually Mary you made me do it. A while back you were giving us a chore a day to get the sewing room cleaned up, and organize your patterns was one of them. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: Kew
Date: 01-12-2007, 02:01 PM (46 of 46)
I forgot to mention that my kids bought me a pink t.v. and a dvd plsyer so that I can watch my sewing shows right in the sewing room. I have lots of sewing on vhs tapes but now I will put them on dvd's as it takes up less rroom and have my stash right in the room with me. I love it. Last night my hubby even put on the Bee Gees dvd which I just love and boy did I sew. kew
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User: Kew
Member since: 10-19-2000 Total posts: 58 |
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