Sew Inspired by Bonnie's Tuesday's Tip: "Organizing Your Thread Collection!"

Tired of having a tangled mess of thread? Colors all mixed up and you can't find what you need? This week's topic is by special request from several of you struggling with how to manage those threads so you can find what you need, not make duplicate purchases of the same color, and keep your thread organized. A few different options are discussed. Pick one or combine different ideas for a system that works best for you!
Join our newsletter for freebies, tips and new releases:
sewinspiredbybo...

[@conniefalcon9773]

Hi Bonnie, sooooo glad to find your video. I am new to machine embroidery but have been sewing since I was 13 and I am 65. Love to sew. I am making a peg board to organize my sewing room.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Peg boards are great organization tools in the sewing room. =)

[@wigglypaw]

I keep all my threads away from light, but still organized. A large thread wall cabinet only one spool deep, and doors also one spool deep. Your organization is good, but color organization is my greatest need. Keytags! Amazing!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Sounds very nice!

[@sewingroom8625]

Thank you, I love threads

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

You're not alone! I love threads too. =)

[@janetmckinney2487]

HELLO BONNIE FIRST TIME .I LOVE ALL OF YOUR ORGANIZING.THAT'S WHAT AM TRYING TO DO MYSELF .

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Thank you for the kind words! It's an ever evolving process. Glad you've found the tips helpful. =)

[@wigglypaw]

omg Bonnie, I was rewatching your vids, and I just picked up how to not keep buying the same color over and over! Take a thread chart and put a dot. Thank you sooo much, I just can’t understand why I have a whole drawer of teal turquoise thread. lol!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

I did the very same thing when I first started. I found I had a ton of turquoise colors but not "ugly" green at all. Nothing that would work for nature colors. I oftentimes say, you'll quickly find out what colors you gravitate toward when picking out thread. LOL I got home and had nothing that would work for green leaves or trees let alone various shades of green. I've grown to love greens but on a spool of thread I'm not naturally drawn to them. It's also easy to repeat the same colors you like. So that's when I started making a plan and carrying the color chart in my purse so I could quickly see what I was missing in the color chart. It doesn't hurt to jot down numbers of those colors you're low on that you use a lot of either. =)

[@nysunflower9439]

Because teal turquoise thread is beautiful and awesome. I have several spools myself.

[@annmaines4964]

I really need this with all the gazillion spools I have.

[@hangkimsmith5146]

Xin Chao. I love your sewing room, all I have is dinner room in my apartment ,so it tiny , and the problem is I have a lot of fabrics and threads and sewing materials , ... Thanks for sharing your ideas. 😘💝

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

You're most welcome. In smaller areas, look for decorative ways to store your notions and such. Boxes covered with fabric, etc. It's a great opportunity to be creative! =)

[@wigglypaw]

Hi Xin. I go to good thrift shops and look for a dresser, tall or shorter to fit your house, and paint it to go with your decor. Boy howdy you can fit a lot in them, use dividers boxes from Dollar store or even covered containers. Also, you can get lovely hanging curio cabinets glass or bathroom cabinets with mirrors to decorate or paint. fill them with shelf boxes- threads would be good to keep out of light. I love this video!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Great ideas for Xin. =)

[@mariallknowing9273]

You could try a door shoe holder. That would use only space normally not used. Get one with clear pockets so you can separate by color families. Hope it helps. Hugs from TEXAS! 🤗

[@mariallknowing9273]

You could use a door shoe holder. That would only take up space normally not used. Get the kind with clear pickets so you can separate by color families. Hipe that helps. Hugs from TEXAS! 🤗🤗🤗

[@roanhielkema5714]

Ha, I build me such a thread cabinet years ago. Funny how so many people have the same idea!

[@margaretstephens6492]

Hi Bonnie And everyone From Australia

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Hi! Welcome!

[@wigglypaw]

Thread order: I use the folding wood stand that can hold about 25 spools. I use hair ties in millions of colors to secure my spools from unwinding, and when there is a repeat, I put a matching hair tie on the empty spool holder. I put my threads in order, but find I need to number under the holders with “1,2,3 .........” because I am dsylexic and ocd lol. hope this helps.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Very clever! =)

[@annmaines4964]

Clear plastic sheeting over the top will prevent the dust, too.

[@gailandrews3625]

I love how you have organized your thread 😱 I bought a cabinet with spool height drawers, which is nice, but you can’t see the colours at a glance. Lovely!!!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Thank you!

[@Tarah72357]

Hi just want to tell you that you are awesome thank you for this video

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Thank you for the kind words. Glad you liked it! You're most welcome. =)

[@mytree123]

THANK YOU !!!👍🙂🐝

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

So nice of you

[@jimmylindsay640]

Hey 👋

[@monicakostak9841]

Picking up vinyl labels tomorrow. :) I keep my thread stored in a plastic Rubbermaid/Sterilite storage drawers, by color, which works well. but many times i'm pulling open each drawer looking for the color i want. thx for the idea Also, I know metallic thread can be evil-I'm going to checkout the KingStar Metallic- :)

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Sometimes it's just a little tweaking to our set up that makes all the difference. I LOVE King Star Metallic thread. Very easy to work with.

[@eepsers1]

My old Bernina loves Floriani and Glide for FMQ. Isocord, not so much, even using a thread stand and mesh net.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

My Brother and Baby Lock both love Floriani. I'm not crazy about mesh nets as sometimes the thread gets hung up on them. I've had better luck using just a thread stand alone without a net. =)

[@eepsers1]

Some thread nets do catch your thread, but the ones from Babylock are extremely soft and much finer than others I have tried. They are helpful to me, but I know every machine and every sewist is different. The Babylock thread nets keep the thread from falling down and getting twisted under the spool.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Baby Lock thread nets were what I was using. lol However, a trick my dealer taught me was to roll the thread net back on itself so there was a roll at the top and no ends for the thread to catch on. Still, just easier for me to not use a thread net at all. I like to use serger sponges at the bottom of the thread stand to keep threads from pooling and getting hung up there. Those work great even for those problematic threads that are just tubes without a base. Whatever works for you keep doing it. As you said, we're all different and each machine is different. If it's not broke, don't fix it. =)

[@marta77inf]

Thank you for the tips. I do have the sample of threads. I have a Babylock Destiny. The Floriani metallic didn't work at all for me.

[@sandan2358]

Getting an embroidery machine soon, how do you know when reorder color? Do you order when the cone is half empty?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

A spool of thread lasts a long time and through many designs. I normally get pretty low (or sometimes completely out) before purchasing another cone of the same color.

[@mariannejones1993]

Girlfriend I’d never get anything done. I’m worn out just listening to how you organize everything. 😂😂😂😂

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

The beauty of organization is it saves you time in the long run. I find I can't work efficiently in a mess. =)

[@maryellenlanigan382]

Hello from Florida

[@urbanailusa]

cool idea

[@darlasusan]

here in nebraska

[@ramonacalquhoun4201]

where did you get the pegs for the peg board and what they are called

[@tonicarter3677]

Bonnie I love this idea with your threads, my daughter is trying to put together my threads. Where did you get your pegs from?? I bought some from amazon but they won't hold my threads, I got the "L" shape at 1.5 inches long and my threads keep falling off. If you could lend your suppliers name it would be wonderful... Thank-you Toni.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

I got my particular pegs a couple years ago off of Amazon in bulk. I don't see them listed any more. However, I've used a couple different pegs that do work. What I would suggest (and something I did), is purchasing a variety pack of pegs from your local Home Depot or Lowe's and see what works best for the spool size you're using. I think mine are approx. 2" long for the 1000 meter cones. (They're all packed away in boxes right now as we're reorganizing my room.) Once you find the peg that works for your particular sized cones, see if you can locate those in bulk on Amazon for better pricing.

[@mlt150]

Do you have a great storage idea for bobbins. I noticed they were not on the peg you store thread on. I have several round bobbin savers, but tend not to use the bobbins because I don't want to take the time to match it to the thread. Thanks you for the great tips, look forward to all your videos!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

What's on my wall is embroidery thread which normally I use prewounds with. My prewounds are stored in a little tiny zippered tote on the other wall on a hook. I buy them buy the gross, keep most in the box they came in but fill the tiny tote for easy access while working. However, for sewing thread, I have that stored in a Matchbox Car Garage and it's very easy to put the bobbin that goes with the thread in one of the little slots along with the thread. I've also seen notions around that clip the bobbin right onto the thread. Having said all the above, I also have a couple of round bobbin savers like you and normally just match up a color when sewing. We have lots of options. Clear as mud? =)

[@mlt150]

Thanks for the quick response, you're a jewel!! I do have the prewounds that are so convenient, I will have to check out the other bobbin notions mentioned. Thanks a bunch and have a happy sewing day!!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Here's one option. Pop the bobbin on top, put the little notion into the hole of the thread and both are saved together: www.walmart.com/ip/Bobbini-Bobbin-Holders/282313634?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=2218&adid=22222222227075983679&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=189927597832&wl4=pla-296371806935&wl5=9026801&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=113134680&wl11=online&wl12=282313634&wl13=&veh=sem

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Also some folks use cut off soda straws as extenders to their pegs to slip both thread and bobbin together onto the same peg. Some folks wrap a rubber band around the bobbin and thread to keep together.

[@charlotterichards386]

Sew Inspired by Bonnie d

[@designgirlof4750]

Bonnie, how did you decide the order of your Floriani thread? Did you line them up in the order of the thread chart? And, do you have a paper system to tell you where each color is located besides the tags that are labeled? Thanks. Beautiful serwing room.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

designgirlof4 Thank you! I purchased a thread chart (the real kind with actual thread) and put my thread in the same order.

[@collettegay1432]

What size is the key tags? I couldn’t see it

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

The round key tags are standard width of about 1” or so.

[@darlasusan]

is bobbin thread different than top thread? can top be used for bobbin too?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

For regular sewing they're the same thread. For embroidery you use a much finer (thinner) thread for the bobbin for a couple reasons. For embroidery having a thinner weight thread on the bottom adds less bulk and using one color on bottom (normally white) saves time. If doing free-standing lace designs, then, normally, the bobbin thread will match the top thread.

[@conniefalcon9773]

How can i get a thread chart like the one in your video?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Your dealer can special order them for you or might have them on hand to sell. Also, you can go on-line to any of the thread companies and by direct from them or ask where they have dealers that sell them.

[@claudettemonty4077]

Can you tell me what happens with the dust who falls on the sewing thread? When you sew each day, it’s O.K. but if I am 6 months without sewing, the dust will go on . So, how do you take off the dust?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

I would suggest periodically dusting with a microfiber type duster that picks up and captures dust off of thread if you don't sew as often as I do OR better yet, take some yardage of fabric or a sheet and lay over the top of the hanging threads until you sew again. You could even decorate the fabric cover with the theme of your sewing room. =)

[@arolmoore3473]

Hi Bonnie

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Hi!

[@wigglypaw]

I need color names, numbers are too confusing. I have trouble with greys. Actual threads charts are the best. Is it Floriani with 400 colors?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Yes--I use my thread chart's order (which is by number/color). So it's not 1, 2, 3 exactly as the numbers could be mixed here and there. I follow whatever my thread chart does and how they number them which happen to come out mainly in color arrangements. Floriani has a lot but so does Madeira, Robinson-Anton, Sulky, etc.

[@patmiller9357]

Hello I am with you now

[@wigglypaw]

I couldn’t find Emcom.

[@debbiecreagh8762]

Love your suggestions. Could you tell me which pegboard accessory you use? I want to purchase some of the metal pcs, but I'm afraid I'll get the wrong ones. I have my pegboard up!

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Thank you! The link for the hooks I used for thread on pegboard are at Amazon here: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006K8G3RU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@debbiecreagh8762]

I just ordered them! Thanks for the fast response,

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

You're most welcome! =)

[@janetmckinney2487]

WHAT'S THE BLACK MACHINE IN THE CORNER IS THAT FOR STONE'S.?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

It's actually green but looks black in the video. It's used for installing snaps. =)

[@pamelafowler4406]

Do you find your threads get dusty or rot from light?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

No I have not had that problem.

[@DianeRoney]

Could you send me the link for the hardware on amazon. Thank you

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Mine were a single rod type hook, but I think these would work too. You just want a rather flat hook and not too curly: www.amazon.com/Board-Hooks-Pegboard-Length-Wholesale/dp/B00IMNQOZC/ref=sr_1_fkmr3_1?keywords=2-3%22+pegboard+hooks+in+bulk&qid=1551566568&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr3

[@deborahbrookfield627]

Where did you get the peg board and pins?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

My husband got the pegboard from a home improvement store--either Lowe's or Home Depot. He cut it to size, framed it and painted it for me. The pegs I purchased in bulk off of Amazon. =)

[@janetehoffman]

WOW!

[@petmomful2260]

What I do not like is that all the designs I buy online use a different brand of thread than I do. So each time I do a design, I have to match my colors up to their color chart. It is a pain and takes extra time. I do not want to switch brands now, so I just have to live with this I guess.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

Yes it's impossible for designers to digitize in every brand of thread out there for all the various formats of machines as well. Commercial formats don't even recognize color at all. However, there's a thread app for iPhones called Emcom, you might look into it. It will convert one thread palette to another. I haven't gotten to play with it yet but have heard some good things. =)

[@petmomful2260]

Thank you.

[@claudettemonty4077]

I place my thread in a drawer but inside empty pills bottle with the top on and reverse them to see the colour! That way, no thread out!

[@londonbsing]

i stick to 15 colors and 5 metalics. thats it. people dont pay enough for anything special

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

If you're doing this for profit, I'd keep it simple too. Too many choices make it hard for the buyer to decide as well. However, if you're doing this for fun or have shading involved, you need a larger selection. =)

[@ewan2734]

31.00 oo mg you are so right it happen to me ones and I destroy mashie and need service it and thanks god I have insurance for it .

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

It's "sew" important to use the correct spool cap. Makes all the difference in the world!

[@sandraross9124]

HI

[@eugenialittle1707]

Hi

[@sebastiangentris2778]

what's the glitter flex for?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

GlitterFlex is a heat transfer vinyl that I sell on my website for machine embroidery. I created a KZbin video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3jLeK2vp8hjmbs

[@sebastiangentris2778]

what is a swifter?

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

A Swiffer is a hand held duster. You can see them here: www.amazon.com/Swiffer-Duster-Refills-Unscented-Dusters/dp/B0017JJRSE/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1514958290&sr=8-2&keywords=swiffers

[@randyking4526]

Hi susan from fl

[@memeyers1962]

Hi, need much help in organization.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

I think organization is an ever evolving process. =)

[@wigglypaw]

That stacking bobbin green/yellow thing is a misery mess.

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

What works for one doesn't work for all that's for sure. =)

[@Mortificadalaunica]

So they fill up with dust, it happened to me

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

I do sew a lot so maybe that's why I have not had that issue. I also recommend dusting with a feather duster occasionally if your area is dust prone. =)

[@darlasusan]

The

[@margaretboaler7659]

Could you please tell me what model your Brother machine is

[@SewInspiredbyBonnie]

I had the Dream Machine when I did this video and I currently have the Luminaire.