Get Your Sewing or Craft Room Organized!

I may be a mess in many ways, but I keep my sewing room organized like a PRO! If you're overwhelmed by your crafty mess, this video is for you. My best tips for sewing room organization. It's all about a few good systems and a few good habits :)
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Happy Sewing!
Love, Nikki

[@nitanice]

As a court reporter, I've mostly worked from home. Every day when I wrap up, I cover my machine and wipe my desk down which forces me to put everything all the way away. My sewing table is the same. When I come into my office/sewing room each morning, it's a clean, blank slate with no impediments to working. Great video.

[@darlafarrant3694]

Thanks for all your great tips Nikki! I am very interested in your pink binder! I have little papers-notes-ideas everywhere! I would love to see how you organize those things.

[@oldgranny410]

I roll my smaller pieces of fabric like remnants from the store. I even write how much there is on a strip of paper around it. I can then put it in a cubby, box or basket with the end showing. The cubbies are sorted by color. It makes it very easy to find what I want. Yes, sometimes I need to press it but that is a small thing compared with searching.

[@craftymamageier3465]

Totally agree that drawers are way better than shelves!

[@marygersetich8709]

Good ideas. I so agree that having a clean sewing area encourages creativity. And having a cluttered area stifles creativity, at least for me. I spent most of last year renovating my sewing room so that I now have less clutter and more space to work. Less storage, but I would rather be creating things than storing stuff.

[@nellieolguin-davis1519]

😅Oh my goodness well you hit this at the right time I am in the middle of moving my sewing room to my new shed outside but in between packing I have been beading 😢 this Church lady friend of my daughters a bracelet and I have been on the hunt for my E-6000 glue and I can not find not one tube I am so bad at working on projects and starting new ones and leaving the clutter that I am driving my self batty !!!!God Bless you I am truly trying to work on this problem you know what is worse everything is in it's place but I forget where where I put it !!! So I started marking everything!!! Thank you !!!

[@RoxanneRichardson]

Visual overwhelm only happens to me in an unfamiliar place because I don't know where to look. In my own space, I know where things are, so visual clutter doesn't bother me. I'm inside my head most of the time, so it's easy to filter out visual and auditory noise. I have to have things on the wall, on a shelf, or in a drawer (usually clear). Good tools, notions, and an efficient, functional space are important to me, not the aesthetics. While I tend to accumulate fabric and yarn, buying those things isn't my hobby, so I regularly cull my stashes.

[@dawncarter2759]

I am 60 years old and I have sewed for over 50 years. I was born with a left arm with no forearm. and the hand is not a normal hand. so I need a lot of table space when I sew cause I can't move the project I am working on like most two armed seamstress. When I cut out quilts, with ruler and rotary cutter, Use clamps from menards to hold down the ruler along the edge of my cutting surface. I cut from right to left, not top to bottom, if that makes sense. I found that old filing cabinets work wonderful for storing my fabric. I make hanging bags to put in the filing cabinets. anyways. Love your videos. I do need to go through my fabric and purge some.

[@sw6118]

Drawers for sewing tools should be shallow enough that you can see your tools-and not have tools stacked on top of tools such that you can’t see or find what you own. Label your drawers, pattern boxes, miscellaneous boxes holding sewing accessories. Keep like items together. If you have more than one machine, keep of the parts for each machine in its own area. Think about how you go search for your fabric and store it accordingly. I have separate areas for fabric, lining fabric, interfacing and stabilizer. Once I’ve started on a project-the pattern and all related fabric get stored in their own giant ziplock bag at the end of each sewing session. Learning to do that was the best advice that I ever received. More than once I’ve expected to be sewing again the next day only to have something happen and it was months before I could restart-but when I did restart, I knew exactly where everything related to that project was, nothing was lost and nothing needed cleaning from the dust. Always look for the cheapest solution first, pretty boxes, repurposed furniture etc. as you use those things you’ll be getting a much better idea of what really works best for you and why. Example: we’ve all fallen for those big foldout sewing cabinets-the extra table top, storage and fancy lift mechanism are wonderful, but the problem is the cabinet MUST be open to use the machine and when it’s open, it takes up a ton of space and you are very unlikely to pack it away entirely every time you use them, so yes, it takes up MOST of any room. A cabinet with retractable doors allowing it to keep the same foot print whether in use or put away might be a much better purchase; they are also much harder to find. You might even be better off with a sew steady table and no cabinet at all.

[@nicholas4453]

I really find your videos so helpful! Thank you

[@hollistandridge1117]

If I were Cass from Clutterbug I’d say you’re a ladybug. You like easy storage that’s hidden. I’m the same way. I’ve been trying to figure out how to have a cutting/planning/ironing table in my guest room that didn’t necessarily look like a utility piece when we have guest. Your suggestion of a dresser with a larger top is kind of revolutionary!

[@craftdipper]

Lol, I was thinking the same thing - ladybug organizing style! 😂 👍

[@craftdipper]

I loved ALL these tips, having already proven some of them to be effective. Going to re-listen and check which ones I totally need to implement. That tip about moving the storage to where the pile accumulates is an excellent one😂

[@katietomasello490]

Hi.. just found your channel.. again. Lol & glad I did. Great ideas. 50+ yr seamstress so I definitely know how things accumulate. I’m getting rid of a very lg computer cabinet (22 d x 40 w) & replacing it w/ 2 (15 x 23) cabinets also w/ doors. I have wall space for 2 (side by side) but need the extra 7 in . in my rm. & the addt storage for things on my sewing ctr & another small open shelf that would be better served for my clients for their accessories… shoes etc. Getting rid of fabric which are sometimes small pieces that are great especially for crafter & kids project & essential. I don’t have drawer space, but I only buy clear containers for my fabric. If you can’t see it, you don’t use it… if you can even find it. It’s great to touch base on things like this. New sewers or even us long timers welcome great ideas!! Thank you ❤

[@ljcmsw]

Drawers are good....now, if I could only prevent the overflow. I do have to work on this. My daughter commented that I'm "always cleaning the cave" whenever she asks what I'm up to. I think my style needs a little work. :). Your space is so tidy....I do have too much. Time to make things just to donate them. Thanks for these tips; I have shelves, but I try to keep things in covered boxes. My categories of things don't change, but I'm tired of using the labeler every time I organize. Your video made me think of making some fabric tags for my boxes of things. Happy sewing!

[@SusieMonk-jh8tj]

Totally agree with closed storage. I have a chest of drawers only two with fabric the rest is large spools for my over locker serger your side of the pond.🤣🤣 Bag making supplies in another. I share the space with a w machine dishwasher and dryer. It’s where the dishes get washed up too so my actual kitchen stays tidier. Crazy woman but it works for me! Love tidying at the end of a project and finding new ways to store stuff. Some friends popped in a few weeks ago and were wowing over my workspace. L shaped with 2 tables. One for sewing machine and one with cutting mats and trays wips.like a lot of us and another small table with my wool mat and iron for press as you go. I have to finish a project before I start the next. Thank you for all your ideas and the easy way you put the message over 👏👏👏👏My happy place.

[@glennasandhoff245]

Thank you got talking about the dust. When I started sewing I wanted to see everything but soon realized dust and light are issues. Nothing more frustrating than selecting a fabric only to realize the light has faded the folds.

[@momistaken]

When I moved into a smaller space, I lost my nice sewing room so I divided my living room into a sewing space and a living space. Guests say how nice my Studio is, so I’m happy! For my stash I bought 2 huge closets from ikea and donated what wouldn’t fit. I’m 74 and I believe closed cabinets from ikea are a huge fabric saver! Light basically ruin fabric! Cabinets with glass doors will not work as well! Years ago I put curtains over my fabric shelves with tension rods. I use one of those drawer units from Joannes with the metal frames and about 8 shallow drawers for all my small tools and gadgets sorted into labeled drawers. And always close your rotary cutters! ✌️

[@janceyshelledytaylor4830]

I love your videos! Thanks for being so down to earth. Have a great day!

[@ShaynaKrause]

Really great advice. Thank you ma'am.

[@abigailstaab5103]

Thank you for this video! I just moved into a larger sewing space and I was feeling lost about how to organize this new space. Thankfully I found your video and you gave some awesome tips that I can't wait to use!

[@tearose3763]

Definitely a clean space sewer here too! Love your videos, thank you

[@abbyfoote9478]

I really enjoy your videos! Thanks for the variety of projects, tips, and your clear teaching. Great work!

[@PinCutSew]

aw, thank you for this sweet comment! :)

[@debpangle9964]

Very helpful information! Thank you! 💛🌻💛

[@BobbieHarmon-lu1yo]

I love your presentation. Right to the point. So many talk about a lot of other stuff first. So glad you got 👉 to the tips or I,(at least) would have moved on. I Thank your husband for his service. My grandson is army as well. Thank you and God bless you and your family.

[@Craftythrifter]

My large cutting table with storage is thrifted kitchen cabinets and an old table top. Scraps go in pretty baskets as they’re cut. The one open bookcase I have has a wall hanging over it to cover the clutter. I like the dresser idea, will have to keep an eye out for a tall skinny one for that space. 👍🏻

[@maureenmorris4217]

Thank you! This will help me getting moved into my new Craft/Sewing room!

[@lizzystitch4842]

VERY good tips! Thanks!❤😊

[@elaineforan4751]

Another tip that may appeal to you is that operating manuals for pretty much anything can be available online. Keeping a copy on your phone or computer may be easier or is good to remember if you've lost the paper version.

[@starvalleymom]

Very helpful suggestions!

[@Kera.S.]

I love your ideas, TFS 💙 I have just claimed a big chest of drawers that my daughter no longer wants and am so excited to be getting. I was thinking of making some inserts out of foam boards for the really deep drawers. This way I will have double layers. Of course, only if necessary and need them. I tend to get excited and craft things I don't always need and waste my time, well I have fun. But I'm trying to do better with this. I appreciate this video especially about the sewing taking up the least amount of space. So true! And funny...

[@lynnedavis4271]

Great ideas. Thanks for sharing. I needed this. 😊

[@leepayk-bann3489]

I love a pack away sewing room. I am looking at ideas right now A great KZbin video. Thankyou.

[@annlicano3416]

Good info...just recently found you and am enjoying you tremendously. Keep up the good job and info.

[@joanbarker6581]

I love your ideas, I have a messy sewing room and it drives me crazy. Thx for GREAT tips!!!

[@PinCutSew]

I'm glad it was helpful! :)

[@mabelmacfarlane7433]

Great tips - thanks very much 👍👍👍

[@lailayen765]

Dang! I just threw out a lot of stuff from my sewing room and asked my husbond to make me shelves... Now I migt need to get at dresser instead of those shelves... Drawers sounds really smart... Thanks.

[@juliadockery6349]

I definitely needed this video! We were an Air Force family until my husband retired 2 1/2 years ago, but we didn't move much. I have accumulated a lot of fabric and am trying to get to it now that I'm finished homeschooling.

[@PinCutSew]

You can do it! I'm a homeschooler also, I have all teens now, and I can see that finish line, haha.

[@SincerelyMichelleLouise]

Hey gals, I’m a homeschooler mom too to my 12 & 14 year old, I also sew and wayyyyyyyyyyy too much sewing everything and haven’t sewn in so long because it’s too much looking at this mess!!!!!

[@umagraham9138]

Drop down ironing board! 🤩

[@teresarichmond7752]

My sewing/craft area needs to be clean and organized in order for me to function. I cannot function in clutter or in a space that I don’t enjoy looking at. I’ve moved my space back and forth between our home office and guest room trying to find a space that works as no matter where I move it, the room has to be double duty. I recently moved it back into our guest space. At this point it’s more sewing and less guest space but as long as there is a bed for my grandkids, I’m ok with it. I recently purchased a craft/ cutting table which is helpful. It’s not as large as I would like, but it’s the largest I have space for. I agree with closed storage, I can’t stand visual clutter either, it’s distracting and stressful.

[@craftdipper]

You addressed a subject that's actually quite far reaching for possessions in general - pass them on while they are still fashionable and not musty! We need to be realistic about what we can use - you are SO right about this! Better to have less and love it and use it than to have loads of unused mediocre fabrics that just make you feel stressed or guilty💞

[@debbiedonlon928]

Got so much out of this video. Thank you for posting

[@elaineforan4751]

I feel that your point about visual clutter is more that just not liking it for me. If I have too much fabric or too many unfinished projects on display, I start to feel overwhelmed. I feel guilt for wasting money on stuff that isn't used yet and it starts to feel like a chore to have projects piling up. Limiting my space is freeing and better for my mental health I think.

[@craftdipper]

I agree❤

[@lizzystitch4842]

My daughter just gave me an IKEA dresser she no longer wanted. It's GREAT for stroring my crafting things in. I want another one for my fabric!

[@PinCutSew]

Perfect!

[@minitorestrepo7233]

Nice video!

[@lucyanna8655]

thx so much this video was so helpful thx you are awesome

[@PinCutSew]

So glad you found it helpful 🤗

[@katietomasello490]

P.S. Please thank your husband for his service and for yours too. We are military family & know that it is the whole family’s job to support our soldiers. ❤

[@PinCutSew]

Thank you, Katie and thanks to you and your family also :)

[@cindylou3607]

I found that out over 10 years ago. My son is a vet. I thought the hardest part was while he was away but it got alot harder when he came home. Thank you all for your service!

[@sparklemint2458]

I prefer closed storage too!!! ❤

[@maryharvey724]

Good ideas. Putting things away but in logical, easy-to-reach arrangement makes upkeep quick easy. Thank you.. Any ideas on looking for pins on the floor or in the carpet?

[@PinCutSew]

That’s a tough one! For one, buy pins with easily visible heads. Two, if you know you’ve dropped one, find it right away, so it doesn’t have time to get lost. Otherwise, I have no tricks for finding them easily!

[@lindabeckman3053]

I like using brightly colored pins with big heads, but I also use a lot of those fabric clips these days. One tool I can’t live without is a DIY project I made: a strong magnet on a dowel. I don’t have to bend over to locate a stray pin in the carpet anymore; I just wave it over the carpet, and it finds stray pins quite easily.

[@karenneiman856]

A magnetic pin cushion will pick them up easily. I love mine and want another for a different kind of pin.

[@craftdipper]

Shine the torch of your mobile phone sideways across the floor where you dropped the needle or pin - it usually glints in the light. 😊

[@kellietrudel8222]

I agree with you about closed storage. I can’t stand visual clutter!

[@sherryfaires7931]

I wish I had seen this 20 years ago!

[@tearose3763]

Why don’t you cut the fabric you like up into usable quilting fabric or as binding.amazing things can be done with hand me down clothing.

[@darleneblakely7726]

I need to clean and organize every day when I am done. Even if that means taking all things out again in the morning. Ns

[@jessicalizarraga9160]

Love your videos! Great tips! Right now, my dinning table is my sewing room xD i don't have a room where to sew. I put in all my fabrics in a travel bag and threads and needles are in shoe boxes. Works well so far.

[@trinam2503]

I quilted at the kitchen table or coffee table for 18yrs before I got a sewing room. Sometimes we just gotta do whatever works so we can create 👍😀

[@Kera.S.]

I have a sewing room upstairs but I still bring everything down to sew, cut out, iron, everything. I prefer working downstairs and be around my husband in the afternoon/evenings. Luckily he doesn't mind the mess haha Basically, what I'm saying is, having a room for sewing isn't always the best answer either 😊 enjoy the space we have, right 😁

[@trinam2503]

@@Kera.S. Sew true! 😀

[@jessicalizarraga9160]

@@Kera.S. exactly!! Hehehe

[@craftdipper]

​@@Kera.S.Lol.... I too, like to be in the living area, even though I do have a little sewing room😂 Who says our dining table is only for eating at? 😂

[@madolynwhitt2802]

I have new Janome 6650 and am rather intimidated by it. Would love for you to do some tutorials on using the machine. I bought it for many of the same reasons you bought it. Thanks! MW

[@BlueBobbin]

Hey, I know it’s a bit daunting in the beginning but my advice is to just go for it. Read your manual and learn how to connect your machine Thread your machine Turn it on Get a strip of fabric and start practicing Promise you’ll have so much fun. All the best 🤍

[@amycarr2379]

❤

[@tearose3763]

There no way to sew a quilt top on a small table. I use an old kitchen table with free space on the right for some supplies.

[@PeggySue-RL]

I moved across the country n the packers just threw everything in boxes. What a mess not every box has labels. I need help

[@PinCutSew]

I've had that happen before too, it was a disaster! Now I put everything in ziploc bags or small plastic bins before the movers come and that helps so much.

[@teresaparry3172]

🥰🦋🌈🦋🥰

[@emmaworld9160]

I have 30 tubs of fabric. How do you manage that? I need to sell off a lot of my fabric. I cant find anything.

[@PinCutSew]

I think I would go through it and be ruthless, keeping only what you love. The rest, sell as a large lot to make it easy on yourself. OR, if the barrier is the selling part, donate it, because sometimes the stress involved in selling it isn't worth the money it makes!

[@cindylou3607]

I hear you. I have about 10 large tubs of Vintage bedsheets that have never been used. My dream is to make duvets, blankets & quilts

[@donnabush7938]

@@PinCutSewI have 17 tubs of fabric that I started seriously going through on New Year’s Day. I work part-time at Hobby Lobby, so that doesn’t help! 😂 I’ve decided to keep only what I know I will use, and I’m dividing the rest between a women’s shelter (they’re being taught how to sew), and the local high school drama department, where they’re always in need of fabric for costumes. It’s killing me to part with all that fabric, but, it’s going to good homes, to people that will appreciate it and use it, so I’m okay with that. 😁 The bonus in all this, is that once I get all those tubs emptied, I can use them to store my 13 vacuum bags of yarn! 😂

[@janetmcadamsbailey9038]

sorry, sound is too low. i cannot hear it

[@PinCutSew]

Sorry about that Janet! My more recent videos have much better sound as I’ve upgraded my equipment in the last few years :)

[@noreenhallett7366]

Please come and visit. I’ve just taken over my late partners hidey hole. Uuurrrgh

[@PinCutSew]

😂 Oh dear! Time to invite some young sewists over 😜.

[@karenr.sternberg1920]

Please improve your Volume, I can barely hear you, all the other sites I visit don't have volume problems.

[@charliewinningham8206]

Sp smart...a lil long winded😶

[@lwalsh8871]

I hate videos where there is talking for the first half

[@MargaretWright-bo8is]

Whoa, nasty!