Makeover Extravaganza Part 2 - Storing Larger pieces of Fabric

Receiving new fabric is an exhilarating moment for anyone who sews, whether it's for quilting, embroidery, or making garments. The vibrant colors, enticing patterns, and the promise of endless creative possibilities bring pure joy. However, the excitement is often accompanied by the challenge of finding adequate storage solutions. That's where we come in. We understand the struggle of organizing fabric in a way that is both practical and visually appealing. With our creative ideas and affordable suggestions, we aim to help fellow sewing enthusiasts find innovative ways to store their beloved fabric collection, ensuring easy access and a tidy sewing space. Let us assist you in turning your fabric stash into a well-organized and inspiring oasis of creativity.

If you have a shared space or limited room to store fabric, here's a creative solution that maximizes space efficiency:

1. Fabric hanging display: Install a curtain rod or tension rod across an empty wall space or in a corner of the room. Hang curtain clips or clothespins along the rod, spaced a few inches apart. Fold your fabric neatly and clip it onto the rod, creating a visually appealing fabric display. This method allows you to store a significant amount of fabric in a compact vertical space.
2. Fabric file folders: Use hanging file folders or large binder clips to create a fabric filing system. Attach the file folders or binder clips to the inside of a closet door or on the back of a tall cabinet door. Fold your fabric and file it into the folders based on color, pattern, or type. This method keeps your fabric organized while utilizing the often underutilized door space.
3. Under-bed storage: Invest in low-profile, shallow plastic bins or fabric storage bags that can easily slide under your bed. Fold your fabric and place it in the bins or bags. Label each container to quickly identify the contents. This method allows you to store fabric out of sight while maximizing the use of otherwise unused space.
4. Ottoman or storage bench: Opt for an ottoman or a storage bench that doubles as a seating area. Look for one with a hinged or removable top for easy access to the storage compartment. Fold your fabric neatly and place it inside. The ottoman or storage bench can serve as both a seating option and a discreet storage solution.
5. Rolling carts: Use rolling carts with multiple drawers or shelves to store your fabric. These carts are compact and can easily be moved around when needed. Sort your fabric by color or type and place them in the drawers or on the shelves. The carts can be stored against a wall or tucked away in a corner when not in use.
6. Fabric wall pockets: Hang fabric wall pockets on the walls to store smaller cuts of fabric. These pockets can be made using fabric remnants or repurposed materials. Attach them to the wall using adhesive hooks or hang them on a tension rod. Fold or roll your fabric and place it in the pockets. This method saves space and adds a decorative touch to your sewing area.
7. Pegboard with accessories: Install a pegboard on a wall and use various accessories like hooks, baskets, and shelves to store your fabric. Hang smaller cuts of fabric on hooks or place them in baskets. Attach shelves to store folded fabric or other sewing supplies. The pegboard allows for flexible storage options and can be customized according to your space limitations. Below are a few photo ideas

Remember to declutter periodically and only keep the fabric you plan to use to avoid excessive accumulation. These creative storage ideas should help you make the most of your shared space or limited room while keeping your fabric organized and easily accessible.

In my sewing studio, I have an abundance of built-in cupboards. To optimize my storage space, I meticulously measured the dimensions of each shelf, including height, width, and depth. I then obtained 2mm thick Masonite boards, cut them approximately 2 inches smaller than the shelves. Using these boards as a base, I roll my larger fabric pieces neatly around them. To enhance organization, I've sorted my fabric by color, with cottons on one side and stretch fabrics on the other. By storing them inside the cupboards, my fabrics remain pristine, shielded from dust and direct light, thereby preserving their vibrant colors. For a more budget-friendly alternative, you can use cut-to-size cardboard. This stacking method enables me to retrieve specific fabrics without disturbing the entire shelf, eliminating the need for repacking. Moreover, I can easily assess all the colors and shades at a glance, simplifying the selection process for my upcoming projects.

Why do we need so much fabric? Well, let's embark on a whimsical journey to unravel the magic of a personal fabric store! Picture this: shelves overflowing with a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and patterns, each one a gateway to boundless creativity. Sounds like a dream come true, right?

Now, imagine you stumble upon a pattern that steals your heart. But, oh dear, it requires a trip to the fabric store, and suddenly things get overwhelming. How can you make the right choice without having all the images and information at your fingertips? And let's not forget the frustration when you realize the fabrics you bought don't quite match or you need an extra shade or two.

Well, fear not, my friend! Here's a suggestion: if your budget and space allow, dive into a world of cotton fabrics. Stock up on plain colors like a painter's palette, having them at your beck and call. White and cream are often the superheroes of the sewing realm, so consider getting a large bolt or a generous 10-15 meters. For other colors, keep a cozy stash of 2-3 meters for each shade. Reserve 3 meters for those colors you adore and frequently use, and 2 meters for the less popular ones.

Now, let's stretch our imagination to the land of stretch fabrics. White becomes your trusty sidekick here, so gather around 3 meters of each variety—Scuba, lycra, bon-bon, and t-shirt materials. Stretch satin might become your latest obsession, so be sure to dip your toes into its silky wonders for upcoming projects. Look for embossed textures or charming tone-on-tone prints to add that extra oomph.

But wait, there's more to this fabric saga! Combining stretch and cotton opens up a world of small delights like pillows and soft toys. For practical projects such as oven gloves, quilts, and runners, cotton takes center stage, and you can even mix fabrics for those dazzling table runners.

To prevent a fabric frenzy and avoid filling your cupboards with pretty but unused materials, here's a trick: create a list of projects you'd love to tackle. Let your imagination run wild, regardless of any machine limitations, for there's always a workaround. Once you've outlined your creative desires, choose the fabric types that suit each project. And remember, keep your personal favorite colors in stock. If you're making something for someone else, go ahead and splurge on fabric specifically for that project, so you don't end up with a closet full of materials that don't spark joy for you.

So, my fellow fabric aficionado, unleash your imagination, curate your dream fabric collection, and embark on a journey where creativity knows no bounds. May your sewing room be a haven of inspiration, color, and endless possibilities!

Oh, the wild world of fabric names! From bon-bon to lycra, super soft to poly-cotton, poplin to muslin, and let's not forget about cheesecloth. It's enough to make your head spin faster than a chameleon lost in a bag of skittles!

But fear not, fellow fabric enthusiast! In our next installment, we'll embark on an exciting journey to demystify these fabric wonders. We'll dive deep into each fabric type, unlocking the secrets to choosing the perfect one for your specific projects. No more confusion, just clarity and confidence as you navigate the fabric universe!

So get ready to expand your fabric knowledge, and together we'll unravel the mysteries that make your head spin like a color-crazed chameleon. Stay tuned for the fabric adventure of a lifetime!