Let’s be honest – we all have those WIPs (Works in Progress) that have been sitting around for months (okay, maybe years). Sometimes they’re waiting for the perfect button, sometimes we’ve lost interest, and sometimes we’ve just plain forgotten what we were planning to make!
And then there’s all the projects that you want to make! Inspiration is everywhere — Instagram, local quilt shops, quilt shows, the pattern on the floor of the local coffee shop. . . all serve as ideas for future makes.
So how do we keep track of all the things we are making and want to make (so many ideas, so little time)? My favorite way is by keeping lists. This allows us to be intentional about the projects that we start and the supplies that we need to purchase for future projects.
Why a “Want to Make” List Works
A dedicated “Want to Make” list helps keep track of the projects that we want to make and, more importantly, helps us decide which ones truly deserve our time and energy.
If a project remains on the list for a very long time, but other projects keep taking priority over it, it tells us important information about ourselves.
Perhaps we wanted to make that project when our time commitments were different. Or maybe our skill level wasn’t as developed as it is today, and now we prefer more challenging makes. Or maybe that pattern is just everywhere now, and doesn’t feel as fresh and exciting.
Allowing ourselves permission to cross projects off the list helps us to avoid project overwhelm and guilt over unmade or unfinished work! It also teaches us about our likes and dislikes in a more concrete manner
How to Organize and Sort Existing WIPs
The Physical Setup
My setup is pretty simple:
– A clear corner of my sewing room
– A bulletin board or piece of paper tacked to the wall for current project plans
– A basic notebook for project notes
– Clear bins for active WIPs (labeled and dated)
– A folder system for patterns
Project Cards
Lately, I try not to have too many projects going at one time, but some of my clients would have 100 or more projects in progress at once. If you tend to have a lot of projects going at once, I highly recommend keeping project cards in with each of your stored WIPs. On the cards you can reference:
– Fabric swatches
– Pattern information
– Any adjustments you’re planning
– Notes about what’s holding you back if you’re stuck
The Emotional Setup
Here’s something I’ve learned: letting go of old projects isn’t failure – it’s growth. Those UFOs (UnFinished Objects) from when I first started sewing? They represent how far I’ve come. Some projects just aren’t meant to be finished, and that’s okay.
The Monthly Check-In
This is crucial – at the start of each month, I recommend:
– Review all WIPs
– Decide what’s still exciting
– Let go of projects that no longer spark joy
– Celebrate what you’ve completed!
Making Peace with Letting Go
Remember, those unfinished projects aren’t failures – they’re part of your creative journey. Maybe they taught you a new technique, or helped you realize what styles you actually enjoy making. That’s valuable information!
Moving Forward
Your project organization system should work for YOU. Start small, adjust as needed, and most importantly – be kind to yourself in the process. We’re all growing and learning as makers.
I’d love to hear how you track your projects! Do you have a system that works for you?