How to Store Sewing Patterns - Digital PDF Sewing Pattern Storage

Don't know what to do with your printed sewing patterns? Here are 3 storage options. Blog post with more info and links here ↓
mellysews.com/how-to-store-se...
Featured product affiliate links:
6x9 envelopes amzn.to/2ClWZDy
Storage Box Option amzn.to/2SXj6XK

[@KimberlyNichols]

I love plastic-free solutions! Thank you!

[@Mellysews]

You are so welcome!

[@elysafrancisco7240]

I love the envelope storage idea! ❤

[@Mellysews]

My favorite as well!

[@SheerStitchery]

Me too!🌸

[@Barbibarbs]

Absolutely loved the envelope method! I'll start using it immediately. Personally, I used to storage them in big-sized clear Ziploc bags. I put the pattern in a bag and then I labelled it and kept it in a folder containing all my patterns. This method doesn't take that much space, and in case you don't have Ziploc bags you can use clear file pockets, although you can't seal them, but it's not an issue unless you live in a very humid place. The downside is that both methods use a lot of plastic. You can reuse everything, but a paper envelope works the same and you can compost it. What I do use plastic for is for the patterns themselves. I cover one side with clear tape and then I can pin it on fabric or a new sheet of paper to transfer it and make all the alterations I want without damaging the original pattern. The tape prevents any tears on the paper and also allows you to cut it and then reseal it without any hassle in case you need to correct something. Those are my two cents! Love your site!

[@Mellysews]

Sounds like you've got a good system for yourself!

[@SheerStitchery]

Love the envelope storage! I have used the quart size ziplock for my PDFs and hate how they dont quite stack right in my storage boxes! I am excited to redo all my patterns now! Yay! 🌸

[@Mellysews]

I hated plastic bags for the same reason!

[@aparnarajput5982]

superb idea envelope method, thank u so much

[@Mellysews]

Most welcome 😊

[@Anrious]

A really nice Idea ! Thanks 🤗

[@Mellysews]

Glad you like it!

[@oldtimerlee8820]

Like the envelope option the best. IMO, by far the best method for long term storage and easy access. Recently started printing pdf patterns. Using the hanger method now, but can't see it long term for anything. Too many cons and not enough pros, especially since I have limited space to hang them. The more tightly they're jammed together, the more like for several types of mishaps. Thanks for sharing.

[@Mellysews]

I found the same cons when I tried hanging storage.

[@budoneof15]

I use a binder with clear sleeves and dividers

[@Mellysews]

I have never tried that for patterns, but I do keep recipes that way.

[@budoneof15]

Melly Sews. Wow I’m going to do that.

[@patriciakamp8013]

Thank you, I love this envelope method, we just moved & have patterns in all sorts of box's. This will really work well in my new space:)

[@Mellysews]

Glad to help, congrats on your new space!

[@sewittoday1]

I just watched this again, and I decided to use the envelope method. I guess it must be because I cannot open the door 😂 to my small home studio to get in with the pile of patterns I have bought as pdf's.They keep falling off the hook on the wall. Thank you for the tips! Happy New Year.

[@Mellysews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@smallfootprint2961]

I like the envelopes. They're good for trashed older pattern envelopes too. Have to adjust for size.

[@Mellysews]

Yes, these do work well for disintegrating older pattern envelopes.

[@lesleygilbert1945]

Great ideas - thanks :)

[@Mellysews]

Thanks for watching!

[@Saladmama57]

Thanks Melissa for your video of great storage tips. You got me thinking. It sounds like you all are cutting out your original printed PDFs. I trace mine. Maybe I should unstick my (rolled up messy) PDFs and put them into 8X11 envelopes along with their traced patterns. Better than what I'm doing now! 😉

[@Mellysews]

I have always been a cutter, not a tracer :)

[@louiselill1528]

Thank you for the tips . I don't have alot of space so I store mine in cardboard boxes and lat them flat. .

[@Mellysews]

Sounds like you've got a system that works for you!

[@sarasarta]

Thanks 👌👍

[@wowzieee]

I use freezer bags and re size them with a freezer vacuum machine that I 've had for years. This gives me more room to fold the patterns into bigger blocks.

[@Mellysews]

That's another good solution!

[@camilledammasch3648]

Wonderful

[@Mellysews]

Thanks for watching!

[@anon4518]

Thanks

[@maryt2887]

Thank you for showing the problems with the first two methods. I am currently using the hangers, but as I add patterns, they do get messy. I will switch to the envelope method.

[@Mellysews]

Glad it was helpful!

[@galeholt3757]

I use 8x10 envelopes or file folders and file accordingly...easier to find boxes for or use afile drawer...craft patterns are filed in a notebook with plastic page...been doing this since before PDF patterns....

[@Mellysews]

That's a good point - I bet it is easier to find boxes for that size.

[@richvictorynow]

i didn't think you could iron "typing paper"? I do iron tissue paper. Can you comment on the settings and how you do that please? thanks I love this method!!

[@Mellysews]

I don’t typically, I just flattened one for the video instead of wasting paper to print a new one.

[@1CherryTree]

I have ironed paper (typing) before. Use a low setting on your iron and keep the iron moving. You can always adjust the iron setting hotter if necessary - small increments at a time.

[@kaylavillalobos1779]

I like binders and page protectors.

[@Mellysews]

I have never tried that for patterns, but I do keep recipes that way.

[@isalbidelarosa4970]

Hi Melly, new to sewing “again”. Can you suggest me about pdf pattern websites? I think with my limited time this is the way to go about getting patterns. Love your videos!!!

[@Mellysews]

I sell PDF patterns in my shop, blankslatepatterns.com

[@annaheh2925]

Like this method of storing printed patterns. some companies it is difficult to get a picture of pattern. can you give me a hint how to print picture so i would not have to hand draw pattern. i am very bad at drawing freehand. thanks

[@Mellysews]

I just print the first page of the pattern at 50% scale

[@delta_racer3173]

What type of paper do you print your patterns on?

[@Mellysews]

regular home printer paper