I just typed a reply which disappeared from my screen when I clicked, so hope this doesn't show up twice. My new favorite thing is a Frixion marking pen. You really can write all over your fabric, then touch it with an iron and the marks disappear. The cost around $3. Second favorite, which someone else has already mentioned, small magnetic bowl from Harbor Freight, $2.98, for holding pins, needles, small scissors etc. while working on a project.