I use a hanging toiletries bag. It has 2 zippered vinyl pockets and 2 solid zippered pockets. I keep duplicates of most of my notions in it all the time ready to go along with a spool of neutral thread (yes, I have gone to a retreat and forgotten to take any thread at all!) I can extend the handle on my sewing machine tote and hang the toiletry bag from the top of the handle where it ends just barely above the floor next to my sewing station so everything is handy. Or, if there is room on the table, I just unroll the bag next to my workspace.