How I Organise my Patterns: Sewing Room Makeover Part 2

[@joesmay]

I did this about a year ago and it works brilliantly. Every time I made a particular pattern I would write on the back of the Manila envelope the view sewn and date. I then could look up in my sewing journal under date and see if I had to make any adjustments to the garment. Have fun doing it! PS love your vlogs.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Thats a really good idea! I might start adding the dates of when I made up the pattern. Love that!

[@megkaehler6793]

That's so smart omg

[@patriciadollin6421]

I'm 75 and been sewing and collecting patterns since I was 9 yrs old.So one day I decided to fix my patterns.I bought lg 3 ring binders with plastic sleeves.I then took copies of front of patterns ,these go into a book of their own.Then I numbered each book, look at the main book and put themback where they belong.All patterns are then in each book with their original sleeves.

[@pinkcashmere1908]

Yes girl! You did that! I'm a newbie so I'm still figuring it out. Love everything you did/doing!

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

You can do it!

[@fallenangelforever]

I feel that with the dresses. I always am attracted to dress patterns but I rarely wear dresses. XD

[@Luvla31]

I did this method of filing several years ago and stored the patterns in an under bed drawer, it works well. Indie patterns are new to my collection and I'll be storing them in a long cupboard I have in my wardrobe. I like what @joesmary does so I'm gonna up grade my pattern information.

[@TheAAdele05]

Awesome! It looks so nice! I'm just starting sewing again so this really helps me as I grow my patterns. Thank you for sharing.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Good luck, I really wish I had this system when I started out.

[@nitanice]

Wow! Well done!

[@monisamontoya288]

I use the Ikea Samla (39 x 28 x 28cm or 15 x 11x 11 inches or 6 gal) to store the Simplicity, Butterick and McCalls size patterns. Side by side I get 60 per box and since the box is clear I can immediately see what company. The boxes stack on top of each other and is like having a see through file cabinet. I photo copy front and back of patterns , put in clear note sheets, and in looseleaf binders I take to the store because I hate buying duplicates.

[@thesewingbratt966]

Hi 👋! So I found a office size 2-drawer filing cabinet at the thrift store in perfect condition with a key (normally this cabinet was $200 online but I paid $10.00 !! 😉👌) I didn't separate the sleeves but just created color tabs by categories (like the pattern companies) and put my patterns behind it. Very simple very easy. I didn't spend ANY time like you just kept it simple!! This was the easiest way to solve my madness!! No storage bins used !! 😁 Enjoyed the video!! **Tricie🌞**

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Nice find!! I think I will look for a big cabinet once I move into a bigger space. I would prefer that to the storage boxes. But we are making do with what we got! I’ll be scanning the thrift stores as soon as I’m moved in!

[@thesewingbratt966]

@@TheCrafterpreneur ❤

[@juliepenney2683]

Great idea 🥰

[@abundantlyinspired]

I saw Mimi G do this a while back and thought hmmm🤔Good idea. But never took action but now seeing your video I’m pumped to get this done!!!!! Thank you❤️❤️And I am so admiring your fabric storage shelving in the background!!!🥰

[@deidrabenson361]

Great idea! Your sewing room is coming along very nicely! I love how you did all of your beautiful fabrics, and with your patterns, with that type of organization, you will be sewing up a bunch of stuff! Thank you so much for sharing!😍😎

[@susanstaley6408]

Wow! I’ve been filing my patterns this way for a few years.....it’s fantastic!😊

[@sewandembmom12]

Love the shelves with the fabric!

[@RobertaSharpe]

Loved Your video. Saw MimiG do this also. Ready to make the dive into the pattern boxes. Thanks for sharing. Love Your fabric stash!!!!!!

[@karenwhitman3470]

Thank you, I like your system. Most of my patterns are PDF, I will take some inspiration from your system

[@emilyhunt8853]

For the pattern binder I'd rather take a photo copy of the pattern envelope to put into the binder, and then the actual pattern can stay and be stored in its sleeve.

[@juliej6638]

Love your organisation! What do you do with the folders with composite patterns, eg those that include a dress, a top, a skirt and some trousers? Do you put copies of the pattern envelopes in each folder?

[@myralorraine]

This is a wonderful idea!!! I never saw that on Mimi G’s channel and I’m so happy you shared it!! This is something I really need to get done this year for sure! Thank you so much for sharing!!

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

You should do it! I thought I would take forever but it was done surprisingly quickly! Even if you take it slow you can get it done in a weekend!

[@patriciadollin6421]

I do the same thing for years,but I make copies of the patterns and the patterns go in with the original

[@megkaehler6793]

Loved this video! I've got all my patterns about no organization what so ever and I'm definitely going to transition to this as a method! I'm thinking I may buy those boxes that you hang the folders in? And make like sewn folders that hold the patterns...a little hard to explain here with out a visual but it's definitely inspired me!

[@deborahambrose8720]

Did this when I first saw Mimig’s. Such a great idea. Can i ask where you purchased your fabric bolts please?

[@dianecrews6130]

Absolutely awesome what a wonderful organized room to sew in. Thanks for sharing

[@vessyioannou259]

I am a new subscriber from Sydney Australia. I love your videos. You inspire me to have a sewing room. I have a very small space and lots of stuff. I think I have to get rid of my Computer and my books in order to have a tiny sewing space!

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

You don't have to get rid of your stuff, Maybe find some convertible furniture that can hold both things? Although I don't know how available those things are ATM.

[@Jasmine-in-my-mind]

I use the same system, except that I don't divide the manila envelopes by brand. I just file them straight through, numerically. It's rare to have duplicate numbers, but even if I do, the brand name is written on each envelope to differentiate it. Named patterns (without numbers) get filed alphabetically at the beginning of the file. Over the years, I've gone back & forth trying out different filing methods, online apps, etc. but I always come back to this system.

[@patriciadollin6421]

Quilting machine sew been sewing awhile.

[@jaiofart]

I used this method for storing my patterns and it works well for me. I store my pdfs in large Manila envelopes. Glad to see you back . Loved the ski suit !

[@Droemar]

I do plushes, and I have the same problem. This was so helpful!

[@christinemartin9449]

Sorry that I am so late watching this vlog, don't know how I missed it! I did the Mimi G method last summer and it really works for me. I don't split my envelopes by company, I just have them in numerical order irrespective of company. I haven't totally sorted my Indie patterns though. I have put them in an A4 plastic envelopes then they are in a plastic box in no particular order, i can manage them at the moment but my collection is getting bigger! I do a photo copy of the pattern and put this in a separate lever arch file. I keep these files in the living room so can peruse whilst watch t.v. or sewing vlog! Thank you for doing these videos.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

I still gotta sort my indie PDF patterns.. I think I may do the same. and printout the instructions and front page so I know what I have.

[@amitarajgirebawankule1535]

Loved the way you organise and explain everything In india I don't think we get patterns like this We need to draft as per the measurement So I do it on a paper and store

[@kathie9823]

That is how I stored mine but I am moving on. Wish me luck!

[@jackyf3505]

I often trace multiple sizes of the same pattern so this system would be good just to put them in another manilla envelope and store numerically with the original. 🙂

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Yep, I agree. I sometimes have more than one size and just stored them next to each other with the size on the front as well.

[@kpenn12]

You could add a scrap of fabric in with the pattern envelope to remind you what you made the garment in last. Also if it was a ‘haven’t made it in years Pattern ‘ you know it is time to cull.

[@sandraengstrand2784]

Great job!!

[@Getandra]

Thank you for sharing this with us. I've already seen the fabric organisation and it's really awesome!

[@foxxybrown291]

I think this is a popular way to store patterns because it works. And I’m definitely going to try it. I would like to know how people get their cut up patterns neatly back into the envelope without it looking puffy lol xx

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

When I’m finished using them, I fold each piece and iron them flat. Then it’s easy to fit back in the envelope. AND you can find individual pieces easier too!

[@foxxybrown291]

The Crafterpreneur I’ll give it a go. Thanks xx

[@jackyf3505]

@@TheCrafterpreneur I must stop using my frixxion pen writing pattern piece info on my traced pieces! 🤨

[@debrasedgwick4697]

@@TheCrafterpreneur I learned the hard way, USE A DRY IRON, (what a mess, lol)

[@kristarogers6997]

I would love to see any ideas you might come up with for PDF patterns❣️ I have so many and they either get too torn, wrinkled, missing parts (I might have the main part but pockets, waistband and small print offs get lost ) and there’s got to be some sort of system to keep it all together and usable I just haven’t figured it out yet lol 😂 Printer ink currently is a huge expense for my sewing 🧵

[@vickylin5126]

This is amazing too! Good job!

[@piakennedy987]

I don't have as many of the preprinted patterns anymore - most are Burdastyle magazines. So for the pre-printed, I keep the envelope loose in a magazine box, roughly grouped by main garment category. The patterns & instructions goes into clear folders (like you use for the envelopes), so that I can just use the instruction sheet for labelling - no need to get out the marker, plus the illus useful for quick ID. These go into more magazine boxes sorted by numbers - I don't have enough to be bothered with sorting by pattern company 1st. Haven't figured out a good system yet for Burda since each mag covers so many garment types. PDFs & self-drafts could theoretically be stored the same way as pre-printed, but haven't gotten that far yet.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

I don't think I am done yet, Ill be moving house in a few months so Ill probably find a final solution there. Burda is a interesting one I have also yet to figure out. I have a stack of magazines from when I used to collect them.

[@piakennedy987]

@@TheCrafterpreneur Good luck with the move! Looking forward to seeing your new sewing cave! 😊

[@Rachel-Louise]

Oooooh I love your dressmakers dummy on wheels. Can I ask where you bought it from? Also do you have a link to the lever arch files? As it is linking to the manilla envelopes.

[@robertahall1550]

Great job!

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Thank you!

[@Luvla31]

Sorry I meant @joesmay, a great idea.

[@lauraleecreations3217]

‘I could not use that system’- me at the beginning..... I have over 500 patterns😬🤫🤭🤔😆❤️👍

[@debe8890]

I have watched your 1st makeover video and in the middle of this video. Quite nice! Great system. (I had previously watched Mimi G's video) I thinking that maybe a 2-4 drawer file cabinet in the closet might work for your pattern storage. You would have to measure but I think they would fit 2 wide in a drawer. That would save you from having to pull out tubs every time. .

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Yes, I've been looking for something like that. But I am also moving house (hopefully) at the end of the summer so didn't want to buy anything else until i'm in the new space.

[@inedipoify]

Hi dear, this still takes a lot of space. I just have my paterns in plastic boxes from the shop action. The boxes are high enough to put the patterns in plastic maps after use. But maybe it is because I have half of what you own 🤭

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

You are right it Does take up a bit of space. But I found this is working so much better for me than when I had everything together. I had patterns on every surface and it was chaos!

[@inedipoify]

@@TheCrafterpreneur yes understand. Thank you for sharing this. It sure took time to set it up and film etc. I am excited for your future sewing room 😉 yeah Wishing a you a very good weekend

[@NYCisland]

Funny how you ended up with huge # of dress patterns but you don't wear (or make) dresses. How does that happen? :) Love Mimi G. I like this organization process but it leaves out the step that many of us do and that's copying the tissue pattern to stronger paper with any modifications we need. Also, I can never refold the tissue patterns back into the same size they started out so I store in much larger envelopes - 11x13.

[@lepotagercoudert]

Hello, I would like to know how you store your pdf pattern? Do you store them digitally? Thanks Love your channel

[@MadebyaBEAutifulqueenBea]

Good question. 🙂

[@lilibetp]

I have my patterns in numerical order, too, but I have to be able to see the envelope to know what's in them.

[@Diniecita]

I feel like if I put all the patterns in a different place they would get lost. I also don't understand the chronological system. What if you have a vintage pattern and a modern pattern with the same number? I actually have quite a few of those. Also, what are you going to do with the patterns that are a whole wardrobe? Ones with pants, top, skirt, dress and jacket? What category does something like that go in?

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

This solution doesn't work for everyone, and ill admit I still need to fine tune some elements. The wardrobe patterns have their own folder called 'Wardrobe' they all go in there. For vintage patterns I would probably give them their own folder also and separate them from the rest of the patterns in storage. If some of them have the same numbers as modern one then separating them would make sure you don't get them confused.

[@patriciadollin6421]

I have thousands of patterns, 7 machines,,2 embroidery 3 i mean and 2 overlocks and a

[@krulletje6018]

How would you do with digital patterns you printer?

[@foxxybrown291]

Been looking forward to this 🥳 xx

[@flower-uw1hm]

I store my 10 plus boxes of patterns by category - not by brand. ie skirts, dresses etc. I also do not seperate the pattern from its envelope once it is in storage. Because I may lose the pattern and or its envelope - which will drive my nuts and use up alot more time finding its partner. It will be like the lost socks story.

[@AuroraDarling24]

@crafterpreneur: what material and size did you use to roll your fabric onto? Thank you.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

I used A3 Foam boards that were cut in half. You can see the process in my fabric organisation video.

[@AuroraDarling24]

@@TheCrafterpreneur After use, have you found the foam to be sturdy? Or if you could do it over, would you have used a different material to wrap your fabric?

[@angieb43]

I love your organization but were is the link for the binders I didn't see could you let me know.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Oh yeh... I’ll add those now 😊

[@debbie8400]

I think you meant “Butterick.”

[@donniep.1513]

I often times cut out the pattern of the view that I’m making. Is everyone not doing that? I see people saying that they make copies of the patten they’re using. I’m guessing this is to keep the original copy intact?

[@Taraclellandjones]

I am having a hard time find patterns for plus sizes. Any suggestions?

[@cquiyahssewincloset]

I'm having a problem ording the wallet folders, what should I do..

[@rachellynncreates2703]

What category do you put patterns that have say a dress and pants and a shirt in them? Do you put a copy in multiple folders? I never know where to put them.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

I haven folder called wardrobe.. this is where I put the patterns that have multiple types of garments in them. Because they are wardrobe builders. If it's a pattern that 5 kinds of dresses, that would go in the dress folder.

[@rachellynncreates2703]

@@TheCrafterpreneur thank you! I'll try that!

[@misha9179]

How does this function to put the pattern back in after using it? I struggle putting a pattern back in the package/envelope after using it.

[@RosClarkeCraft]

The manila envelopes are bigger than the pattern envelopes, so it's much easier.

[@meman6964]

She irons paper pattern flat with dry iron, turn steam off

[@patriciadollin6421]

All those patterns would be in the binders behind you instead of in the boxes, with the main book holding front and back copies of the pattern. To take with you to the store to buy more fabric and not your pattern.

[@Jillybean620]

Do people not dispose of patterns they no longer make or not actually like? Seems like keeping everything forever could be overwhelming and maybe unnecessary???

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Speaking for myself, I tend to keep the ones I like and know I’ll use. Anything else I’ll either sell, swap or donate. But because trends change I find that some patterns I might have not used in the past a very relevant later on. So I’ll keep them.

[@meman6964]

Fashion repeats itself. Pattern prices are outlandish now. Easy to make a minor change on vintage pattern to update, save $$$. Thrift store is great source of basics

[@WilliamsDemaris]

Love it, but it butterick not butterwick

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Ha ha yes, thank you 🙏

[@rosemaryhannah3467]

I don't understand the benefit of taking the pattern and instructions out of the envelope and storing them separately. Why not just put the complete pattern in its envelope into lever arch files?

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

I actually tried this way first and it gets very bulky, very quickly. Even quicker when you have used a pattern. So I find this works better for me. 😊

[@rosemaryhannah3467]

@@TheCrafterpreneur oh ok. I've got mine in a paper carrier bag at the moment. It's just the right size to stand them up. I should say I haven't got anywhere near the number you have - probably because I don't wear dresses or skirts and haven't done for about 30 years. Also I've 'culled' my patterns every time I've moved house. I think your idea of using an IKEA shelving system is a great idea. Having bought it, do you think it's robust enough to carry the heavy weight of lots of fabrics, boxes and haberdashery? Also, the pull down table you use for your sewing machine - is it robust enough to hold a heavy sewing machine? Mine is a Bernina and it weighs 14.7kg.

[@TheCrafterpreneur]

Well I have a large amount of fabric and not only does the shelves hold them up but then also the storage boxes on top and other stuff I’ve stored there. The pull down table does require that you fix it to the wall. Since I’ve done that it carries my sewing machine, server and coverstitch machine as well as my sewing books (we know they are heavy) and a whole bunch of notions and baskets of large thread spools. So yes, it’s can hold a lot of weight, as long as you use it right. ☺️

[@rosemaryhannah3467]

@@TheCrafterpreneur thanks for the advice.

[@RosClarkeCraft]

@@rosemaryhannah3467 IVAR is very robust. It's designed for garden sheds and workshops, so the shelves can carry a lot of weight.

[@RosClarkeCraft]

This made me laugh so much because you always say 'Butterwick' instead of 'Butterick' and on your divider you even wrote 'Butterwick'!!

[@donniep.1513]

Goal of 2020: stop taking short cuts when following these patterns lol

[@jackiecaton1087]

Being Picky: since you r organizing check spelling of Butterick. 😷

[@sophiewallace8662]

Sorry couldn't watch video she chattered on soooooooo long...

[@franzzypants]

I have the same Muir Woods hoodie!!