Storing projects-in-progress
 

A few years ago, my Kroger had dishpans in turquoise and fuschia on sale for $1 each. I got 7-8 of each. Each is big enough to hold an entire project with pattern, thread and even usually backing. They stack when almost full, too....so I have a couple of stacks of them. They're fun to look through when I need something to work on.

Zip lock bags for small pieces..a large zip bag that I got when I purchased some bedspreads. I save those bags and love them. I have some smaller ones that had shams in them, others from sheets, etc.

I keep my current project in an open fabric bin with the pattern in it so I don't lose it! If there are small pieces I stack them in a small box that fits in the bin. If I have a secret project that must stay out of view, I have a fabric picnic basket looking bucket that has a zip cover which works great too.

Ooo, I like this idea! I'm going to buy some of those today. I need something to keep my triangles and squares separate.

Originally Posted by susanwilley http://www.quiltingboard.com/images/...post-right.png

I found small see through plastic envelopes with velcro closures at Holly Lobby. They are great for storing my triangles, squares and other pieces. They're about 4 x 6, I think and are great for keeping the pieces seperate and I can see at a glance which one to grab. I also use the zippered see through bags that sheet sets and blankets come in to store the fabric that I'm using at the time. They are great for holding all the little envelopes in and keeping everything together. I haven't been able to find these envelopes anywhere except Holly Lobby and I've looked everywhere I go because Holly Lobby is not at all close to me. I tried to post pictures but haven't figured out how to yet. I keep getting a failed message.

One of my favorites to store pieces in while sewing, is the cardboard boxes from the supermarket. When they cut around the boxes while stocking shelves; they leave a tray that is 2" or 3" deep. These can be stacked with a complete project. They are free!
Then again, I store some in the original bag from the quilt shop. I have a few projects going...Ha. A Few means maybe ten or more!

I do this too, also label baggies with size as I cut them.

I use ziplock bags to keep the pieces together and everything goes into either a regular or double size ArtBin satchels, depending on the size of the project. I do have two projects in clear 12 gal totes (lots of pieces and pattern pieces). I tried the Iris ones, but the ArtBins are easier to carry around and secures since they have real latches plus a handle. I bought them at JoAnns with either 50% coupons or when they are on sale at 40% off.

I use plastic storage boxes from Wal*Mart, one for each project and the big ones I use to put my scraps in.

I recycle all of the zippered bags that sheets and drapes come in, they're great for projects. I also use the jumbo zip-lock bags for storing BOM 12" blocks; I can then hang them with a skirt hanger on the back of a door.

It depends on what stage I'm at and how many pieces or large the quilt (or project) will be. I usually start off with everything in ziploc bags - the zipper kind and all those smaller bags (from snack to gallon) go into a 2 1/2 gallon size with the pattern or sketch and any other information I may need. As I progress with sewing the pieces together, they move to a larger ziploc. I haven't done anything yet that won't fit into one of those 2 1/2 gallon ziplocs. When I'm finally finished, the quilt (or project, is usually destined to go to another home. I keep my various and sundry projects in one of those clear totes until I'm done.