Very complete list

I use the tiny embroidery scissors for a ton of jobs including seam ripping so I have 3 pairs in areas where I cut, sew, or rip. I'm careful to always put them back in their spot so they don't get lost.

I bought a large kitchen tray, like you would keep your silverware or cutlery in. I keep it right beside my sewing machine and cutting board. When I use something, I have learned to put it back in the tray. It helps so much, but requires self-discipline to avoid the searching frustration.
As far as multiples, I keep a duplicate set of all the basics I use constantly in a travel kit to take to workshops and retreats. It was so frustrating to get there and realize I'd left something important at home.

Reading glasses!

I just thought of something, my husband, because he always finds everything I lose that I can't see even when it's right in front of my face. If he was multiple he could be at work and here to help me! He also helps with seam ripping. He feels sorry for me sometimes because I do so much of it! ;) He has helped cut tons of triangles and is also my sous chef and knitting assistant. Hey, if I could have multiples maybe I could rent him out! The cute thing is he is a big ol' auto mechanic with calloused thick skin and no fingernails, but he still tries to help with the delicate stuff.

I agree with Jan, multiples never seem to be a waste in my house.

Oh My YES!! I have dupes and trips of things I can't bear to part with.
Pat

Funny this question just came up 'cause I'm looking for my 24" long 6'" wide ruler. Any know where it might be?

I cleared off my ironing table and cutting table to prepare a quilt for quilting and somehow the ruler disappeared.
It will turn up somewhere!

The best organizer I have for pencils, pens, note pad, protractors, 1/4" rulers and seam rippers, etc. is a plastic make up holder. It has individual slots for lip sticks and eye liner, shadow and such. It holds all my pencil like tools and small note tablets, my chalk pounce machine screw drivers and that sort of stuff. after 12 - 13 years it still holds up.

The other great keeper of small things is a divided silverware holder. Scissors, cutters, sharpener, masking tape, calculator, all keep nicely in one spot.

I don't like to put stuff in drawers. I can never find anything in the one that is in my studio.
peace

When the mail lady came today, she looked up at me and then down at the mail in her hand and nonchalantly said "Do you have enough glasses on your head?" I felt the top of my head and there were two pair plus the ones on my nose. How dumb did I feel. I started laughing and so did she! So, I guess I would have to say I don't need multiple glasses. I just need to know where to look for them.

not because I have to, but from habit (my little sister is blind) I always put things up n away when I was done, to keep her from getting hurt when she was a baby. all these years latter I' still putting things back where the belong.