Sewing Studio Organization

Sewing studio organization is the hardest thing for me.  Not the organizing, the keeping it that way!  I know I am not alone.  I wonder how many days it takes for people to get their studio picture perfect to post?  I’ve been working on mine about three days now. I smelled something so I’ve washed all my fabric!  I have been clearing out what cannot or will not be used. It’s a chore, but I’ll be in paradise when it’s complete.  I’m going to work hard at keeping my studio camera ready![envira-gallery id="2011"]
[envira-gallery slug="the-lab"]

Because when I was writing this my lab looked like this.[envira-gallery id="2013"]
[envira-gallery slug="cluttered-lab"]

I’ve stumbled upon some great tips:

1. Wall organization for new projects, works in progress and completed.
2. I found an entire series about studio appearance here.
3. One blog, said do not keep scraps.  When you are finished, throw them away. This is probably the best idea ever.  I have totes full of leftovers.  Recently I deep cleaned and cleared out a few large garbage bags full of these scraps. I’m sorry, it was a while back so I can’t link the blog.
4. Take inventory of all fabric and patterns.  WOW!  What a timesaver.
5. I saw a meme once that said I have so much fabric I need a librarian to keep it in order.  This is no joke!  It’s amazing how fast things accumulate!

These are the things I do personally:

1. I use huge totes, the plastic containers with lids, for 1/4yard and more scraps.  I place them in zip lock baggies inside the tote for better organization.
2. I do not like to have my fabric on display, I feel it gets dusty and needs to be washed.  All fabric is stored in cabinets, containers, and closets.
3. I have a container with drawers next to my sewing machine.  I use this space for fabric I’m most likely to use next.
4. My sewing tables have drawers as well.  I use those for emergency items!
   1. the pattern you are working on
   2. notions
   3. trim
   4. bobbins
   5. seam rippers
   6. lace (because I love it so much I want it close to me)
5. I have a wish list design wall for inspiration.
6. If I’m going to make something using a pattern, I cut out all the pieces at once and discard the blank parts.  This keeps patterns small enough not to have to fight to make the pattern fit back into the envelope when you are finished using it.

After a little more work, my lab is coming together nicely. Check my Photo Journal for more presentable photos.  ENJOY!