Originally Posted by
joe'smom
It's my nature to be a 'cleaner-outer,' while my husband is a packrat. I have continually culled my patterns, fabric, kits (made up from stash and purchased) and finished unquilted tops over the years. There is no virtue in this; it is just really easy for me to get rid of stuff; in fact, it makes me happy. It helps that I have an accommodating friend involved in several groups who is happy to take my stuff and distribute it. It also helps that our house is small, so there is very limited storage space, and that I have to avoid bending, so putting things in bins is not a temptation. My latest 'rule' to help myself limit purchases is to put bundles off-limits. I realized that it was the group of fabrics together that appealed, but when looked at individually, there was no desire to acquire them. Good luck to all of you aspiring to clear out your supplies!
Although I am not by nature a "leaner-outer" I have learned to take pleasure and be happy when I lighten my load and bless others with what I don't use or want.
I started about 7 or 8 years ago and dumped all of the fabric that I did not like on the give away table or donated to Goodwill That helped with that over powering feeling of chaos.
I spent time looking through the books that I have and....Never used, too complicated, redundant and away they went. (I donated to my library that has a book sale every two months. The quilting books disappear quickly as do knitting, crocheting books.)
I then pulled in the reins on purchasing any fabric. I shopped my own stash first. I only purchase what I need to finish a quilt. Still doing that since just before Covid, perhaps?
About once a year I will purchase all that is needed for one special quilt. For me, that calms down the desire to purchase eye candy that has no place in my stash or that is without a plan.
Acknowledge you taste, your style and that is what you will use because it makes you happy or content or pleased. Consider getting rid of what is not "YOU". Of course, when making for others we honor their "vibe". New quilts/patterns to try? Sure I love to try something new but I make it with a plan to give it away.
For me, the purposeful de-stash process took time. Start where you are and where you are comfortable. When I moved into my condo, I had 7 of the big Rubbermaid bins, and a double wide closet full of just fabric. I am now down to one bin that holds all my white/cream and the double wide closest is much less over stocked. I am at peace for the moment.