I have a little light that is battery operated and I put it in a plastic storage tote (clear) and lay the fabric and pattern on it and can see just fine. There are so many "toys" that I'd like to have and can't replicate by a home rememedy like this one that I spend the money on those and save space at the same time. I can use the light and tote for other things so I get more than one use from them.