Sewing Room cleaning and organizing tips

Making a resolution to clean your space is great but actually having a plan of attack is even more important. Below you will find our plan of action, a few tips and tricks to help you get started and maybe even maintain the area. Write a list of what you need to accomplish and set a date for each action item. Hold yourself accountable but be realistic. Don’t expect to work a miracle in just a few hours.

The cleaning plan of action includes:

1. Folding stash
2. Sorting scraps
3. Donating & purging
4. Paper Pattern storage
5. Tool Organization
6. Sewing machine maintenance
7. Kiting projects
8. Schedule time

Fold your fabric for starters.

To begin the process cut them into useable sizes and shapes. Then sort them by size and color. Store them in boxes, bins, zip top baggies or even jars. Keeping them covered and visible is very helpful.

Check your local quilt or sewing guild to see when they will be hosting a swap or a stash sale. Donate to local charities that sew items to give to those in need. You can join de-stash groups on Facebook. We have a list of charities that make for good maybe there is one in your area. Find out if a local boy scout or girl scout troop or 4H is in need of fabric and maybe even volunteer to teach a young person to sew on your own.

Again, baskets and bins are very helpful. You can place them in zip top bags and then in the bins. Make sure you label the bag and the bin. Knowing what you have is very helpful, so you don’t go to the store and purchase duplicates or download the same pattern over and over. Print your patterns when you download them from online and immediately label and place in storage for later use.

Clean and organize your tools. If you have not had your scissors sharpened, now is a good time. Place  tools in a caddy or on a spinning organizer to have them at your finger tips. Tools that you don’t use often, box up and label.

Kiting projects:

Schedule Time:

Once you schedule the time to clean and organize place time in you daily or weekly schedule to create. Treat it like you would an excursive class or a lesson for a child. Don’t be afraid to set aside some “me” time! We can all use it and you will be happier when you do things you enjoy. Don’t forget to include time to clean up and for regular maintenance of your tools and machines.

Our last tip is to make a list of supplies you are running out of or know you will need soon. There is nothing worse than running out of thread or batting or not having enough Polyfil to complete the project.