I have had this problem so many times. I feel for you. One day my DH asked me why I was tearing the house apart, again. When I told him, he generously told me to use the top main drawer in his desk to keep the important things I need to be able to find in a moments notice. Since then, I know right where to find my magizine and any other small items for the quilts I have in progress. I just have to remember to put them away there. There is always a catch. :)