Cindy: There are probably better written instructions here on the board but just to give you an idea of what we are talking about: Fold the width of the fabric in half and then in half again, this gives you a width of approx. 10 inches assuming your fabric is 40 inches wide. Then take your 6X24 inch ruler and fold the length around the ruler. When done slip it off of the ruler. You should have a very neatly folded book like piece of fabric. I have mine on shelves standing up. I think the greatest advantage is the visiability and the ability to pull it without messing everything up, not sure it really takes up that much less space.