As the original founder of FeelGood Fibers, I’ve written countless articles and helped many quilters to organize their sewing rooms. While some creative mess can be good for inspiration, there’s a big difference between a workspace that’s artistically messy and one that’s just plain messy.
Why Stash Management Matters
Fabric stash organization often plays a big part in a creative space, which matters for a few reasons. First of all, fabric is an investment. So it should be treated like one inside of your creative space. Second, the reality is that storage space isn’t infinite (though wouldn’t that be nice?), so keeping your stash in order helps you keep track of your space. Plus, there’s something emotionally draining about looking at piles of unused fabric and feeling that mix of guilt and overwhelm. Who needs guilt when you’re supposed to be enjoying the time you spend on the hobby you love?
Starting Small
Here’s an important tip when beginning to organize your stash: start small. You don’t have to pull every piece of fabric that you own out at once. You can work in tiny batches over time, getting reacquainted with what you own and letting go of what you no longer love. As you pare down, you’ll make space for more focused sorting and organizing.
– Sort by current projects first
– Keep what you love, let go of what you don’t
– Be honest about what you’ll actually use
– Keep like items together
The Basics of Storage
While every space is different, some fundamental principles help:
– Store fabric where you can see it
– Protect from dust and sunlight
– Keep frequently used pieces accessible
– Label, label, label!
Quick Tips for Better Organization
– Use consistent folding methods
– Store similar fabrics together
– Keep an inventory of basics
– Review your stash seasonally
Making Peace with Your Stash
Remember, your stash should inspire you, not overwhelm you. If certain fabrics no longer bring you joy or match your current style, it’s okay to let them go.
Moving Forward
Start small, be patient with yourself, and remember – the goal isn’t to have the perfect stash, it’s to have a stash that works for you and your creative practice.
What’s your biggest challenge with fabric stash organization? I’d love to hear from you!