Block position labels
 

I can't leave my blocks layed out between the times I get to sew. Does anyone have a method they use to mark the block row and column position? I've used paper but I'd like something reusable as this will be a ongoing problem. Thanks for any suggestions!

Good old paper plates. I label the bottom of the paper plates 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C, and so forth. If it's going to be longer than just overnight, I will put them in Ziplock bags. I like the paper plates because they are easy to stack & keep together right on/next to my sewing table. I mostly use it for doing applique as I don't do a lot of intricate piecing.

If you are looking for something to label the pieces within a block as well, they make pins for that.

once my blocks are made, I take a picture for reference, then pin them together in order, a bundle for each row. I keep the pin at the top so I always know which direction the block goes. I used a fine point sharpie to "number" some flat head pins. It is much cheaper than buying a set of numbered ones.

For labeling blocks rows and columns, I use the mini post it notes. To place block pieces together I use cardboards kept from scrapbooking paper packs.

Thanks all. I think a combination of your methods will help out. I appreciate you responding!

I made for myself about 7 or 8 strips of white fabric about 3/4 to 1 inch wide and 2 inches long. Then I used a Sharpie and marked on them (for instance) R1 B1 for the first row, and so on. I pin them on the top block when the blocks for that row are all stacked, beginning on the left side of quilt. When finished with them I just pin them in order. Oh, I also draw a little arrow on them, pointing right if I want all those block seams pressed to the right, and next row, the arrow points left. I just keep these to use over and over.

you can cut up an old calendar and use the numbers for keeping track of rows, they can be used over and over also

I use 1" round white stickers from the dollar store. I use black sharpie to label row A1, A2, etc for the first row. b1, b2. Etc for second, and so on. If I change my mind about block positions, the stickers are easy to peel off and switch. Much easier than pinning labels on, much more dependable than post-its that just have a narrow strip of adhesive, and the tabs are cheap! I take a picture after each arrangement I play around with.

I use sticky labels or piece of paper pinned to the block. Like the idea of using a sharpie permanent marker to put numbers on flat headed pins.

These suggestions are soooo good. I will probably try them out and see which works best. http://youtu.be/s1KUdqRu4vQ That is the quilt I'm trying to make. This will be the most complex block orientation I've ever done. And, I'm learning so much. Like how when sewing strip sets my 1/4" seams are just not as accurate as I thought they were! Lots of little things combined. So labeling was one thing I knew I could count on some help with. I think I'll go find my DH's permanent marker. :thumbup:

Calendar idea is awesome! Too bad I did not see it 2 days ago!

If you have a camera or phone that takes pictures, snap a picture and it'll be there to look at later.

I make my own out of scraps of fabric. Usually I cut a 3/4" square. Number them any way you want: 1,2,3... or 1A,1B,1C..... I make sure when I pin the number that it is in the correct upright position. I use a Sharpie permanent marker and give the ink some time to dry.