Charm square storage
 

I use a lot of charm squares in my appliqué work and just ordered 200 more. My problem is how to store them so I can easily see them, and choose which ones to use. Any ideas folks on how I can do this?

Look at a product called an Artbin Semi Super Satchel. Translucent plastic, @15”x8”x6”. Right now about 12 USD on sale.

That is one idea, true. But I would be concerned the charms would "fall" and become folded.

I store mine in totes that are wide enough to have 4 stacks of charms. Then I store them in stacks by color. Or if they are still wrapped together (package), I store those on their own stack. I'm not sure if that is making sense, but the clear tote at least allows me to narrow down which one I'm picking, knowing that tote #1 has blue, pink, purple, and green for example.

I'll be watching this, as I think many of us have issues with how to do this well.

I made some of those quilted fabric boxes. I made them so they are 5'5" wide and about 8" long. The charms stand up in them. You could make them in different color to organize by color. http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/bags-p...q120214&page=9

I'm starting to accumulate more charms as I cut down larger pieces. Currently they're in a ziplock bag, but I think ultimately I'll use an Art Bin. To keep them from falling, I'll wrap a stack the way I wrap my strips and strings--loosely with a selvedge tied around with a bow.

You can determine if you'd prefer to organize them into stacks by color or theme, and how large a stack works for you. I'll probably go with 1" inch stacks sorted into neutrals, lights and darks, and keep I Spy squares their own stack.

I picked up a clear wreath storage tote from the thrift store. The lid locks on and has a handle. I think it's about 12x12. Holds 4 stacks of charms, there are a lot in there because of the monthly charm swap. Last month topped it off, so it's time to use some up!
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Faintly, mine are adding up quickly because of the swap, too. Such fun! Storage is a great problem to have, isn't it?!?

I stack mine by color and value. That makes it easy and quick to find what I want.

Rob

I like the Artbin products best. Rather than the Semi, I'd go with the Super Satchel. You'd be able to have 4 stacks of charms per bin. They come in depths of 2, 3.5 or 6 inches.

I've had the ones like Faintly Artistic and liked them, but the tabs that lock them together or snap the top on, depending on the style, have broken over the years. I had a set that was 2 deep and one that was 3 deep.

I stack my scrappy squares and strips in the plastic bins that come stacked on wheels. Just be careful opening and closing the bin drawers, and they stay put as long as they're not stacked uber high.