I do a variety of stash organizing. Yes, I do keep some groupings together because they are enough for a project .... these I label so I won't forget, like I used to do.
Then I bread down the fabrics into categories: batiks. cats, Christmas, florals, and other themes.
I tend to fold my fabrics differently so I can tell at a glance how much is there. FQ's are folded differently than 1/2 yds, 1 yd, and 2 yds. If needed I can attach a label as to how much I have. Generally the folding is more than enough.
I bought IKEA Antonius system with the non-rusting wire baskets to store my stash. I have 2 sets, one on top of the other. They easily roll out of my closet if needed. Usually all I do is pull out a drawer and I can see what I have without any problem.
With my arthritis pulling out material off shelves would be most uncomfortable. The baskets help me preserve my hand function.
I have a separate Antonius system that fits under my embroidery machine table to put upcoming projects.
At least it looks organized.
ali