kay carlson

I have two Craftsman metal drawer units on wheels right next to my machine table. With a variety of drawer depths, I select the tools needed for a project and return them before leaving the area for the day. A small pair of scissors, seam ripper, and bag for threads/clippings is to the right of the machine on the table top.

Empty dry grated cheese containers are handy to store safety pins, hem clips, etc. inside the drawers. A multi-zippered jewelry kit with clear plastic pockets is "loaded" with everything I need for my sewing machine (bulb, bobbins, feet, screwdriver, needles, brush, etc.) when away from home. Magnetic metal dishes reside by my sewing machine and big board type ironing surface. A pretty aqua glass dish (round and shallow) rests on my cutting table. The dish is a catch-all for odds and ends during the day.

Projects in process are stored in clear plastic boxes to keep items for a project together: fabric, pattern, blocks, special notions. Projects in waiting are stacked vertically in clear plastic totes with handles -- inside an 18 gallon Rubbermaid tub.

A wonderful mentor shared her successful tip with me. She straightens up the sewing room before leaving for the day. The following day, everything is in order and she can start to play immediately in a pleasant area. Now, I do that, too. The fresh start each day gives me inspiration. :-)

I used to use a wicker basket to carry around everything under the sun and moon. I find it is much easier to use the drawer/return method to keep things in order and find them quickly. :-) I've enjoyed reading the ideas on this topic.