This is not a solution but it sure helps lessen the mess. I keep a plastic bin next to where I'm sewing and cutting. I use it to put everything I'm using after I finish using it. Scissors, seam ripper, pattern, pincushion, marking pencil, ruler, rotary cutter, everything I use I put it in there. Then it's easy to sort through and put things away. I always know where the "I just had it!" item is.