Did I goof?
 

My DH made me several "wine crate" type storage mini shelves to store my smaller cuts of fabric in. My plan was to hang them on the wall. They are made out of cedar. I just read the Quilting Board Article on storing quilts...
The article says not to store quilts next to raw wood for long periods of time. So I guess my question is - did I goof? and any ideas on how I can treat these crates so that I can still use them?

Could you line with contact paper?

What about a few coats of varnish?

You could coat them with polyurethane. This would seal the wood. Polyurethane is available in small cans at the hardware store, and you can use one of the foam brushes to apply it. Not expensive either.

Is it long periods of time ie years? If that I is yes no trouble you'll. use them quicker than that.

Put a piece of muslin under each stack of fabric and don't worry about it, just enjoy how nice it looks. I have 2 1/2" squares stored in an old Coke bottle crate, it's the perfect size to hold the 2 1/2" squares.

I agree just put something underneath and it should be just fine.

Our mothers and grandmothers stored quilts and out of season clothes in cedar chests. I don't think they were harmed by the cedar wood although I guess they were taken out seasonally. I would think the scent of cedar would be nice when going into your sewing room. I would do as suggested and line the bottom with inexpensive muslin and check after a while to see if you notice a change in the muslin pieces.

If you want to coat the wood with a clear finish, just do the areas where the fabric would touch. You want the cedar wood to be able to "breathe", so the smell will keep the bugs away. I think I would just make a simple fabric liner for the inside of the crates and tack to the wood to hold in place.

Thank You everyone for the great ideas. If I knew how to post a photo of my crates, I would. lol