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| "Modern Pinwheel Twist" quilt top measures about 60"X 60" |
So What am I giving away?
First person chosen will receive :
Enough fabric to complete the "Modern Pinwheel Twist" quilt top above!
1- "Oh My!" Moda Charm pack
1- Bella Black Moda Charm pack
0.75 yard of yellow fabric
1.5 yards of black fabric
1- 24"X 24" Red Square to cut out your square to fit
("Lil' Twister" tool not included)
Second person chosen will receive:
1 "Just Wing It" Moda Charm pack
1 "Crazy for Dots & Stripes" RJR Charm Pack
What you must do to be in the drawing?
I have plans to move in the spring, therefore I will have to set up my crafting area anew! This time though I will have to take a small child into mind (Our baby girl is due in January/February!) Make a comment below giving me a craft room organization tip or things to keep in mind when planning the organization of my crafting area. What has helped you the most? What has hindered you from completing projects? You are welcome to become a follower however it is not required to be considered, nor will it increase your chance of winning. I did not like the hoops some blogs required last year, so I certainly will not do that to you!
I am so sorry that I am not able to ship internationally this year (meaning I cannot drive currently because of my pregnancy, but I can walk to the US post office 1/2 a block a way.) so, this time the giveaway is only open to US residents who have a way for me to contact them (meaning you are not a no-reply blogger).
When will the winner be chosen?
The comment section will close on Friday, December 16, 2011 at 5p.m. PST. I will chose the first winner from the best comment/advice I receive! The second winner will be chosen by random.org (you may only win one prize). I will contact the winners no later than Sunday, December 18, 2011. I will announce the winners when I have received a response from the email indicating the person has won. If there is no way to contact a winner, another winner will be chosen. Thank you for entering my give-away!
I like open front cubby holes with graduated sizes (depending on needs). An expanding coat hook type wall hanging helps to stay organized too.
ReplyDeleteWell I don't actually havea craft room, my house is little so it is part of my bedroom but I have found that rolling fabric into bundles and using painters tape to wrap them is a good way for me to keep my fabric organized, I then stack them on end in a tote and I can see easily all the various colors and patterns right from the top, keeps them dust free too!
ReplyDeleteI'm your newest follower! You keep your feet up and take care, OK? :) I'd love to win! My best tip would be to use clear plastic bins or drawers...I find that out of sight really does mean out of mind! Or is that because I'm getting older? LOL
ReplyDeleteI raised one table in my sewing room for a cutting table, by using PVC cut to length to raise the legs. So much easier on the back when cutting :)
ReplyDeleteI bought a bobbin organizer. It's great to keep those little things in control.
ReplyDeletepatterns and quilting tools tend to get out of control in my sewing room some times. Storing them in gallon sized zip lock bags labeled with what it is and placed in a 3-ring binder can be a life saver. Especially if you make your own pattern from freezer paper or the like.
ReplyDeleteI have a toddler and the biggest thing for me setting up my craft area was to make sure things were where I could reach them, but where he couldn't reach anything dangerous-sharp stuff or choking hazards.
ReplyDeletecrunchyconservativemommy (at) gmail (dot) com
Keep things up high b/c before you know it, your baby will be crawling all around and getting into your stash! I spend most of my time 'sewing' by picking things up off the floor that my little guy gets into.
ReplyDeleteGet those ready-to-paint shelves with the pegs underneath and hang them over the windows. Use the pegs to attach curtains and you have shelves above your windows. Merry Christmas!
ReplyDeleteMy craft of choice is quilting (mainly) and the most important feature in my area involves table space! Sewing machine here, cutting surface there, place to draw/paint in another area. My kids are grown, however, so I have an entire bedroom to spread out it. Aside from that, quilters should have their cutting area raised to about kitchen counter height. Makes a HUGE difference over a standard table...
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun giveaway - love the lil twister tool! I use empty salad containers from the grocery store to hold WIPs and scraps. They're clear and stack easily. Best of luck in the new year with the new place and the new baby!!
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome giveaway, thanks so much for a chance! My craft room is in total chaos right now, so I could use some advice, too! I have used the comic book boards and wrapped my fabric up on them like little bolts, then placed them in a glass front cabinet. Pretty and protected!
ReplyDeleteI am held back from the disorganization of my fabric stash. It's currently in drawers. I'd love a cubby where i would all be visible and organized by type and color
ReplyDeleteI keep the pins up high. My daughter loves to get into them. And I love the Lil Twister!! So fun!!
ReplyDeleteI keep bottons in these cute screw top jars that had gellato in them from the grocery store. tehy are see through so i always know what i have
ReplyDeleteYay! Congratulations! I now have my crafting "area" in a blocked off part of the living room. My biggest hepful hint to you is to invest in serious gates. Babies and toddlers and older children (I have one of each) are ok with you having "mommy time" if they can see you (older ones don't have to see you). If you have the space, use an octagonal play yard in your craft room. If not, block it off as best you can (this is a year down the road when your little sprout starts getting mobile, of course). Congratulations!
ReplyDeletePut locks on everything! And when your kids learns to open those locks, change them. She won't be an infant forever so plan ahead.
ReplyDeleteWell, I don't honestly have a great set up. I know that I try to organize my different fabrics into different boxes...and if it's in a room with a bed, there is lots of storage under the bed...especially if you get the things that raise the bed up. =)
ReplyDeleteThanks for a chance to win that kit! Hope your move goes smoothly!
I have lots of clear plastic shoe boxes with lids. They are very handy to hold a project and sort supplies. Thanks for the giveaway! robyn(dot)geddes(at)gmail(dot)com
ReplyDeleteI love the IKEA storage, and then the boxes that fit into them - that way, everything is contained, but accessible! I also have regular shelves with tupperware bins (shoe boxes).
ReplyDeleteI don't have a child, but I do have a bunny!
needlegrrl at gmail
My favorite organization tip, is to label shelving and drawers. It makes it so much easier to find things.
ReplyDeleteIt's all about the sewing wall/board where you can lay out your blocks etc. without little hands getting into or crawling all over your quilt you had spread out on the floor...eh, not that I had that happen to me before. :)
ReplyDeleteI make everything has a place. Each category of things get their own labeled plastic bin/drawer. For fabric I use magazine holders. Each magazine holder holds a different color.
ReplyDeleteI have shelves up fairly high, with mason jars full of crafty goodness. Buttons in one, ribbon scraps in another, some tiny ones for safety pins, some with vintage threads. It's nice to look at as well as to keep things in order.
ReplyDeletecraftinomicon@gmail.com
You need space for things you are working on when you aren't working on them RIGHT NOW. But it can't be too tucked away or things will get lost there!
ReplyDeleteI've had my craft room set up a bunch of different ways in many different houses. My latest setup is by far the best - because I have a dedicated area to cut fabric. It's always set up, it's always there. I find my other stuff stays more organized when I'm not always pushing it out of the way to make way for my cutting mat ! I'll compromise on space for just about anything else to have a dedicated cutting area !
ReplyDeleteI just set up my first sewing room and hanging my thread rack on the wall was a good move since I have a toddler.
ReplyDeleteI keep sharp, tiny, or potentially dangerous things higher up and fabric or things I don't mind little ones getting into down low :)
ReplyDeleteDesi
weeshareblog@gmail.com
I am in the midst of setting up my craft room. Organizing my stash is top priority as I am constantly digging through what I have which wastes sewing time. Good luck to you and the baby. Thanks for the chance to win your giveaway.
ReplyDeleteThink UP. My favoritest thing in my sewing room is my peg board, which has all my scissors and pins and machine feet and all the other such dangerous things way up out of the reach of the small human.
ReplyDeleteI don't have a great setup as I have a corner of our bedroom but I've seen awesome storage with mini bolts or hanging fabric in "file" cabinets.
ReplyDeleteI have a baby due in feb too. I think that the thing that helps me is to have my fabric where it is folded up and visible, not in a drawer or a bin. If I can see it it is easier to know what I have and find what I want
ReplyDeleteMy craft area is horribly unorganized, so I don't really have many tips. My only suggestion would be a good place to put away WIPs the don't get lost ;D Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeleteMy craft room was built when my daughter was 1.5 (she is now 2). First and foremost - you want a separate room with a door you can lock. Little fingers get into everything. I have found that having a separate sewing table and cutting table has been most helpful! I keep all my cutting stuff on the cutting table because my daughter can't reach the top of it yet. I also have a cabinet with glass doors for my fabric - everything is immediately visible but also put away and nicely organized. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI recommend keeping tools where they are easy to get too. Some day I want to have a peg board put up on my sewing room wall. Then I could hang all my rulers, scissors and many other tools where I could see them.
ReplyDeleteMine is a bit obvious, but save your baby food jars. They are amazing for organizing little bits. And 3M hooks are amazing for hanging rulers and scissors and such!
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of using photo boxes with holes cut in the sides for ribbon.
ReplyDeleteShelves! I bout the stainless steel ones at Home Depot and they can hold anything and have casters to make them easy to move about.
ReplyDeleteHave fun!
Thanks for the give away....I LOVE LOVE Momo! :)
I actually have a craft area that is more of a storage/staging area and I have my sewing machine and WIP set up in my dining room. It allows me to craft and still participate in the flow of life as a mom. Good luck and thanks for the great prizes!
ReplyDeleteThe thing that keeps me organized the most is having lots and lots of plastic tubs with covers.
ReplyDeleteMany, many GOOD power strips. In my craft corner I have to do the hokey pokey with the few outlets I have and it makes me nuts.
ReplyDeleteI love my Ikea Kitchen butcher block table with 12(!) drawers. It is the right height to cut things out and the drawers organized everything I need to sew with.
ReplyDeleteHappy thoughts for the new baby and thank you for the great giveaway - oh - partial to the Just wing it and dots fabrics.
Please enter my giveaway:
http://runningwithrocket.blogspot.com/2011/12/sewmamasew-giveaway-day-december-13-16.html
Get a table/counter unit with storage in it. That way if you have limited room, you have a sewing table, a cutting table, and storage all occupying the same area.
ReplyDeleteno craft room. its all scattered. cant wait to own a home.
ReplyDeleteimisswaylon@Hotmail.com
my sewing area is in a nook off the family room. i love that i can work in there and still see what the kids are doing - that is usually their tv time. i also put pillows and quilts under my cutting table. our 4 year old calls it his fort, and hangs out in there while i work sometimes. there's a basket with empty spools and bits of scraps that he can cut up.
ReplyDeleteI love being able to reach my iron while seated at my machine. I have two plastic drawer units topped with a lagre ironing surface so that I can easily press open seams when sewing. The drawers underneath hold fusible interfacing scraps, ric rak, zippers and finished blocks for my quilts. Love this arrangement.
ReplyDeleteI use ziploc bags to keep scraps of coordinating fabric in. Congrats on the baby! carrie dot hare @gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI love having a cork board on one wall to pin up stuff - patterns, WIP lists and sewing projects! thanks!
ReplyDeleteThink UP and out of the way. Except do realize that your baby will not move for a while. And then they'll only move in gradual increments, which will give you time to get your things out of the way. One thing I really love is my peg board of thread that I have mounted to the wall next to my machine. That way the thread is up up and away from little hands, but yet I can still see it (and hold my fabric up to choose the right thread)
ReplyDeleteGreat giveaways. Thanks for the opportunity. Sorry if this post goes long. I love organizing craft rooms (don't look around the rest of my home, it baffles my husband.LOL) OK, I don't have specifics. OK, maybe a few...but mostly sit down at your sewing machine and see what YOU need at hand. Example, I like my cutting table near me and my ironing table (Clearanced small roliing, with locking wheels, kitchen island, they don't tip over)near me. So my set up has an "island" of desks to sew/quilt on with the ironing table to my left and the cutting table behind me. I can reach anything easily. My fabrics are in view (wall of adjustable shelves from IKEA)because they inspire me. My kids are (much) older now, but I would say that my top tips (other than the obvious like keeping sharp things up high) is to create a space that is flexible. Your needs will change with your availability of times and the stages your baby will go through.adjustable shelves, moveable furniture, etc. The three thing that were an amazing benefit when my kid were new/young were/are a cork board up high to pin what I didn't want colored on. A peg board (again, up high, all the sharp stuff went UP)and a closet.with a child lock, up high. WIPs that needed to stay together, irons, etc...Just my thoughts. I hope this is clear, if not feel free to email me :-) with any questions. OH, when they were 2 and 4, I had a basket (cheap plastic from Walmart, I think)It held small sharp scissors, seam ripper, pencil and whatever other small items I wanted near me for what I was working on, so I could just grab the basket, not go everywhere in the room to get my "stuff" LOL. Hey, I warned you this could go LONG...LOL...Again, tahnks for the giveaway and good luck with the baby!!
ReplyDeleteAs your child grows, they will start exploring and pulling things out. Suggestion: Invest in a storage unit that has drawers on the bottom and open shelves on the top. Then, use clear plastic containers with lids of the size that fits your unit. My mother's sewing area was in a deep closet with shelves, the machine cabinet in the middle, good lighting, and louvered bifold doors that closed to hid the mess. All her craft and sewing supplies were in clear boxes on sturdy deep shelves on each side of the closet, making use of that area on the fixed end of the doors. There was separate closet for clothes. This was in my bedroom, and it worked! Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteshelves, boxes or some sort of way to keep the different projects organized.
ReplyDeleteHaving things a little higher so when the little one gets bigger theycant pull a bin out of a cubby and disorganize everything!
ReplyDeleteMake sure you have enough room around your sewing machine for larger projects. My sewing area is in a corner and that corner can be an issue when I'm working on quilts.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway!
Two tips: 1. go to Lowes or Home Depot and buy some extra closets for storage (I have 3!). 2. Use a over the door shoe storage system to corral your notions in one handy dandy easy to see place.
ReplyDeleteI'm going to be moving in March. I don't have a sewing room now, it's a must for our next place. I want a design wall!
ReplyDeleteThe thing that has helped me most in my sewing room has been to sort all my scraps by color and store them in their own transparent plastic bins. As I say this, those boxes are overflowing, but the intent is there!
ReplyDeleteHeh - I live across the street from the post office, but can rarely manage to get myself there... I've had things waiting to be mailed for months! (Gifts, not orders, so no specific deadline, but still!) Pregnancy makes me tired...
ReplyDeleteI like a little box with compartments I got at the Container Store - I sorted all my thread into colors and it fits nicely in there, rather than all tossed in a shopping bag like it had been.
dangandblast@gmail.com
I like having my sewing stuff in a room with a door that shuts! And so far the little person can't open it . . .
ReplyDeletebeth(dot)sebastian(at)gmail(dot)com
Use lots of shelves and make lots of use of your wall space!
ReplyDeleteThanks :)
Tia
mtrand2 at gmail dot com
I started crafting because I became a mother. It's been a hard task but a few things have helped. Get a moby or a nice comfortable baby carrier. I suffer from pain disorder that is why I recommend the moby, it is by far the most comfy carrier!
ReplyDeleteDo what you love when you want while baby is still young! They may fuss and squirm but get your baby use to being in the craft room with you and they will want to craft with you for a long time:)
Best wishes for your pregnancy:)
I'd say keep as many things clear as you can. I get so confused when I can't see where things are.
ReplyDeletemichaelacking (at) gmail (d0t) com
I didn't start quilting until my kids were older. Now that I have grandkids I can't do anything when they are around. Sorry but I have no advice.
ReplyDeleteAll kinds of vertical storage. Also some storage on the walls. You can never have enough storage.
ReplyDeleteDoors! Lots of doors! Oh, and drawers. Basically, anything to hide what I have just crammed in there. lol
ReplyDeleteOne of the things I want to do is get an old map chest with all those many drawers -- I'd keep a different drawer for each WIP, and keep all the supplies for that project with it as well, so I could pick up whenever I wanted and be set to sew!
ReplyDeleteThe best thing I ever purchased for my stash was 3 stackable shoe cubes which I fit into a closet for my fat quarters. Each cube has 25 cubby slots - perfect for organizing FQs by color, etc. Great giveaway - thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteHELLO . . I USE A LOFT AREA FOR MY QUILTING/SEWING/CRAFT AREA,SO IT IS SORT OF A SELF-MADE SEWING ROOM WHICH I ADDED A LONG TABLE+DRESSER;BUT WHAT I,ALSO PLACED IN IT IS A RATHER LARGE WOODEN CD CABINET,WHICH I JUST LOVE>IT IS SO HANDY FOR SORTING CHARM PACKS BY COLOR,DESIGN, WHATEVER YOU CHOOSE!
ReplyDeleteMERRY CHRISTMAS+THANKS FOR SHARING!
I put up a bar from Ikea high on the wall and hung my scissors from it when I had little ones. It worked wonderfully and I was never afraid.
ReplyDeleteI don't really have a craft room, rather a little corner of my bedroom. One thing that has helped me in my little space is a plastic set of drawers on wheels. I can organize things by drawer. Since I am new to this, I don't have much, but I do have Charm Packs, FQ's and some yardage. The cart has 4 drawers, so the top one has my tools. Congrats on the new baby! Enjoy every minute with her.
ReplyDeleteHave a little basket of fabric that your child can play with while you sew it keeps them busy, while you are working. Thanks for the give a way
ReplyDeleteusing vertical space. I have shelves over all my tables on them are baskets with certain types of fabric. then I can use hangers off of them for non-completed projects (which is good i want them gone before I fill that space up to much). I have a basket under my table as well for easy scrap throwage!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great giveaway. Thanks for participating. I really like being able to put things away in closed storage so I have several options. The other thing is a place for my library and magazine storage. You will adjust for your little one. It is easy at first before they start moving around.
ReplyDeleteI like clear containers (plastic bins or jars) that allow me to see what is inside. Out of sight out of mind. Best wishes.
ReplyDeleteskowens (at) sbcglobal (dot) net
I love plastic totes in all sizes so that I can keep beasties and bugs out of things as much as possible.
ReplyDeletemajorasue(at)hotmail(dot)com
I like having open shelving with a few removable bins for organization and a cutting table that you can walk all the way (or nearly) around. This is especially helpful for cutting large pattern pieces. I am also going to be setting up a new sewing room soon, so I am excited to find some good storage solutions (IKEA here I come!).
ReplyDeleteWell, I don't have a crafting room - I just take over our liviing room! But one thing I do have that I love is open shelving for my fabric. What I wish I had was a large table where I could leave my cutting supplies out and where I could iron (right now I have to go upstairs to iron, which means that I don't iron nearly as much as I really should). Have fun planning your new room!
ReplyDeleteShelves to keep things visible and out of reach of little people. Small, multi-drawer storage units for thread and notions. They can go on a shelf with contents visible. Easy to pull out a single drawer. Cutting table at good work height. Pressing station. A low box or shelf of softies for the little one.
ReplyDeletegarnetnm@msn.com
Wow, the meningitis must have been tiring. Congratulations and happy thoughts on your pregnancy this time of year! My tip for the craft room is don't try to get it together all at once. Take a little time to see how you work. I at first put everything away and found I forgot about it. Now I've made use of those Snap-it boxes at Target (only when they're on sale or clearance) and they are tall, see thru and I can have them on top of a work table looking neat and organized. Have fun with it!
ReplyDeleteI like to be able to see my fabrics on the shelf. It keeps me motivated to finish projects so I can start new ones.
ReplyDeleteI think it's important to label all storage containers. You'll think you'll remember where you placed tools, rulers, threads, etc., but then you might find yourself wasting time searching for a particular item later. Don't clutter your workspace. I think it hinders creativity. Always keep cut pieces, yardage, and patterns relating to each project in a zippered project bag, preferable see-through.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the upcoming birth of your daughter! Good luck with your move. We moved when our daughter was four months old. It went smoothly because I was young and organized. Everything will work out well, I am sure.
I keep fabric organized by color in clear boxes with lids, and regularly clear my work table. Thanks for the giveaway! Merry Christmas!
ReplyDeleteOrganization is key (easy cleanup). Keeps things visible (see-through or open containers) or label really well.
ReplyDeleteIkea is the key. They have affordable storage systems with lots of different ways to organize. I suggest doors and child locks!
ReplyDeleteMaking or buying a clear vinyl multi-pocket organizer to keep things off the tables, and I am able look up and see what I need right away.
ReplyDeleteRocio H. thisbe31(at)yahoo(dot)com
Ha! I am the worst person to ask this question to. I live in a tiny apartment so my crafting stuff is stuffed into every crevice and hole I can find!
ReplyDeleteMost helpful to me is to have one particular designated place for each item, and then to be disciplined enough to put it back each time so I can find it when I need it.
ReplyDeleteI love plenty of storage, a large table, and lots of light. I think it should be kid friendly, so that you can craft while your new baby gets some tummy time.
ReplyDeleteI need someone to come and organize all my stash. Take care of yourself and thanks for the great contest.
ReplyDeleteLaura
laura.leahj@gmail dot com
http://thecrossstitchcorner.blogspot.com
A new little one! How exciting. Glad you are feeling better this round of giveaways. Yikes!
ReplyDeleteMy advice is to use a lot of see through bins so you know what is stored.
I need some organizational skills myself. My only advise is to label areas and be sure to return the items to the correct area. I don't know how many times I look for something and it is nowhere to be found.
ReplyDeleteWe have a bucket by the sewing machine. When we're sewing everything goes in there. The extra threads and bits and pieces of fabric. When the project is done it takes less than a minute to pick out any scraps that are big enough to use and those go in a zip lock baggie or bin. It helps keep the area clean and is good for organizing scraps-and to make me feel better that the place is straightened already if I have to leave the project.
ReplyDeleteIkea! I love their cube shelves that have totes to fit inside - I have also seen that style at Target - they hold so much, but look so clean and organized!
ReplyDeleteAll your containers must be clear or at least well-labeled. If things aren't easy to find, you won't use them! Thanks for the great giveaway. I LOVE that pinwheel quilt!
ReplyDeleteI would love to hear some organization advice myself, i have to keep my thing sup higher away from little hands.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful giveaway! Thanks for the chance. I would advise trying to keep the fabric stash down to a manageable amount. My fabric closet is bursting at the seams which makes it that much harder to locate certain prints because I have to move so many bins to get to the one I need. But of course easier said than done.
ReplyDeleteI love your August 2011-Baby Quilt/Wall hanging in Brights with black contrasts (39"X 39"). I'd love a tutorial on it - when you have time of course.
Oh, for me, Summer 2010 through Fall 2011 hindered my creativity due to moving. First I was living with my sis for a couple months in her spare bedroom. Then hubs and I had a really tiny, temproary rental while we searched for the right place. Then we moved in Aug. and I spent a couple months getting it almost completely set up (I also work fulltime) and now, I've got my sewing area set up and the creativity is flowing again. I hope you are able to set yours up more quickly than I was (I purposely left it for last, though, b/c I knew I would neglect the rest of the home if I didn't.)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the chance to win your giveaway!
I think it helps to group supplies for each type of craft together (scrapbooking, embroidery, etc), but keep 1 drawer/tote/cube of the supplies you use constantly (scissors, pins, etc.). Thanks for the chance to win! ellen@myerly.net
ReplyDeleteGo for the plastic drawers. I have the ribbon scraps I have in different sections in a see through plastic box with a lid. I have that locked in my closet for "child proofing" reasons. I really like drawers that are see through. That has helped organize stuff under our bed.
ReplyDeleteBrook E.
ryan_elmer@hotmail.com
Congratulations on your soon-to-be-arriving baby girl! I have a 2 year old boy, and he can make crafting...difficult. As far as childproofing, I use small clear plastic bins to store pins, needles, scissors, etc. But my best tip for overall sewing is fabric organization. Having them shut away in bins, you'll never see them. I used a bookcase and comic book boards to wrap each fabric. Now they are all displayed and so inspirational :) Thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteIf you don't use see-thru containers, be sure to label them well. I spend a lot of time looking through my containers to find things.
ReplyDeleteI'm a scrap saver/user and the best thing I've ever discovered is Bonnie's scrap system on Quiltville. Go check out her site, be amazed, and then spend the next month getting your scraps in order. It's so easy to use my fabric now and once it's in place it's easy to keep up. Thank you for the lovely giveaway. And best wishes for the end of your pregnancy. kcarlson1152[at]hotmail.com
ReplyDeleteWhat a great giveaway and I have the Lil' twister tool! You have gotten a lot of great comments with wonderful ideas! I would agree with having as much visible as possible. Things in buried boxes get forgotten.
ReplyDeleteKeep things simple! Get rid of things that you're never going to use (I'm a pack rat and I save things in case they can be used for crafts - I need to stop!)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteKeep a very small basket or something by your machine to catch all your threads that you snip, so they don't just fall on the floor for baby to find and eat - because she will definitely be crawling around your feet while you sew! Thanks forthe chance to win:) ryansarahn(at)gmail.com
ReplyDeleteMake a little space for her in your room. For now, you'll just plop her there. But as she grows and wants to do, you can put in some toys, then even simple crafty stuff when she's a little older yet. Here's maybe my biggest tip: don't discount what you can accomplish in 15 minutes (if your daughter is as active as the average kid and pulls you away). Add several small chunks together, and a project results.
ReplyDeleteI think it's important to have some way to separate your small items, and though I don't have it up yet myself, i have plans to use a shoe organizer on the back of my door for this.
ReplyDeleteI set up my crafting corner in the playroom, so that I could work on projects while my toddler plays!
ReplyDeletemindfulhome at gmail dot com
Use your vertical space! I mean wall shelves, anything you can to put things up high! christina112358 at gmail dot com
ReplyDeletei keep all the heavy clear plastic bags (with zippers or snaps) that blankets, shams, sheets etc are sold in and they make great see-thru storage for projects.
ReplyDeleteI don't have little ones anymore but when I did, I kept toys around for them to play with. I put my fabric on shelves with see through windows to see what I have. I also have slide out drawers made of wire like they use in closets to put fabric in. I keep different types of fabric together. Flannels, fleece, etc. Congratulations on your new little one.
ReplyDeleteramona_murray(at)comcast(dot)net
the most important thing i find is remembering to put things back when im done using them..if you take 5 mins a day doing that you save a lot of cleaning time every week..i find its easier to focus on my projects when i know where all my supplies are :) raineoc@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteMake sure you have a comfy chair and that its height is adjustable, thanks for the chance to win
ReplyDeleteI have never had a craft room, but I like different height counters to work at. Thanks for the chance to win :-) jjjcwebb (at) Hotmail d0t com
ReplyDeleteI have seen this and asked for some for Christmas, so I haven't actually tried this. Make mini bolts of fabric by wrapping fabric around comic book boards (Here are some at Amazon, notice the first review, http://www.amazon.com/Ultrapro-Silver-Size-Boards-Pack/dp/B001Q75XQW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1323972474&sr=8-2). Then store the mini bolts on in a bookcase. Fabric stays neat and organized, but you can see what you have.
ReplyDeleteFantastic Giveaway!
This is a great topic. I enjoyed reading through the previous suggestions. I use covered Ikea tubs. They have so many choices, many with locking lids. The other big concern I had was with pins. I am lucky enough to sew in a space with hardwood floors so the pins are easy to see and pick up. Good luck and have fun with your baby! Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeleteI wrap my fabric around same size pieces of cardboard and stash it on open shelves by color. Of course I don't have a little one that will be climbing on those shelves!
ReplyDeleteI see others giving this tip, but wrapping my fabric and making bolts was the best thing I did for myself, I could see what I had instead of digging through (and making a mess) of folded fabric.
ReplyDeleteFolding your fabric is a must-do to keep organized. Thanks for the chance!
ReplyDeleteI have a bookcase next to my desk where I store fabric and other things. I also use storage boxes! Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI have to sew in the dining room, so the thing that has helped me most is having a basket that is stocked with all of the little things I use most (scissors, seam ripper, pins, measuring tape). It's easy to just grab it and go.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway!
I am pretty good with organizing my patterns. Since I make a lot of my kids clothes (and you will want to as well - girls are such fun that way!) I always trace a copy of whatever pattern I will be making. Often I will trace two sizes at once, as I have two different sized girls. The tracings go into a gallon ziplock bag, with a white sticker label at the top with the name of the pattern and the size. Then the original patterns in a vintage suitcase where they stay. Safely. (Truth? Because nothing else in my area is organized.) So then I arrange the patterns in a bin by size, so I can find a pattern that fits the kid I want to make something for. I use the traced pattern and in my fit of creativity, often just throw the tracings into a little bin. Sometimes - I admit - pieces get lost. And sometimes - it's true - the bin gets piled to overflowing and I have to use some sacred sewing time to sort it all out back into the bags. But guess what? Even if something does get lost? I can make another. Never underestimate the value of a copy. That goes for sewing patterns and DVDs both (ah, kids.)
ReplyDeleteMy only other suggestion is to make sure you have good storage. The kind of storage that you can cover up quick-like, but also see everything at once in. Closet, armoire etc.
Congratulations and good luck, and now I have been writing this comment for so long I can't even remember what the prize is, but I'm sure it's good, right?!
I have everything in plastic drawers (Walmart or Target has them) and then I take pictures of all my fabric so I know which ones are in which drawer. Also, then I have the pictures on my computer for when I want to design! Congrats on the baby.
ReplyDeleteplan for a lot of storage and then double it because you will need more when you are all settled in! Thanks for a great giveaway!
ReplyDeleteI never seem to have enough surface space, I would recommend planning for it.
ReplyDeleteMy husband got a pegboard for me and it has come in very handy.
ReplyDeleteAnd my best moving tip, if you are packing yourself - buy a tape gun! Totally worth it.
Congrats on the baby!
I still new a crafting area so I don't know if I'll be of much use. But I guess, keeping in mind that you'll have a peewee around, I would say make sure everything has lids or is secure enough not to fall, be flipped, or pulled on. The last thing you want is a room full of scraps thrown across it. Good luck with all the upcoming joy.
ReplyDeletebinkiege(at)gmail(dot)com
I'm a most unorganized person by nature so I'm not sure I'll be much help, but I will say that my lack of organization is what keeps me from doing all I want to. I hope you find all of the help you need. I plan to come back and read the tips given to you when this is over.
ReplyDeleteMeasure your shelves (lots and lots of it) to fit the boxes you will use to store your fabric in. I can't sew facing a wall, I had to move my machine around. Now I can look out a window or watch TV and also look out into the room. I like it much better. Drawers or higher shelves, little hands can get into lots of mischief. Lots of light, lots of light. Thanks for the giveaway and good luck with all your changes.
ReplyDeleteI love your giveaway and your question is interesting, too. I work in the home decor/ home organization department of a big box hardware store, so I feel like I can offer you some good advice. First of all, think vertically when it comes to storage- you can store a lot more in the same space if you go all the way to the ceiling. Also, think outside the box- use silverware trays in your craft room to organize scissors, rotary cutters, seam rippers, etc. Or use pegboard and hang all of the above mentioned things up in plain sight. Do what Julia Child used to do and draw the outline of each item on the pegboard so you can see where it goes when you're done and ready to hang it back up. Use muffin pans and loaf pans as drawer organizers. Don't waste time organizing things you;'ll never use. Get rid of then. A little breathing room is very energizing. Thanks for the giveaway and I hope you can use some of my suggestions.
ReplyDeleteI made the investment of a nice folding sewing table with some storage and it is the best thing ever. That's my suggestion. Thank you for a sweet giveaway!
ReplyDeleteKeep everything out in the open or in see through totes, if you can't see it you won't use it. thanks for a nice giveaway
ReplyDeleteJust make sure you have something in there to occupy the kiddo. I built a sewing space into our house but since it is in the laundry room and away from everything that will keep her busy I always just end up sewing on the dining room table.
ReplyDeleteI love my Ikea table with plenty of room for sewing and crafting.
ReplyDeleteShelves with baskets are my favorite way to organize my sewing area. The baskets help keep everything in its place.
ReplyDeleteCOngrats on the new baby girl. My best advise is to set this up in a place where it can stay set up. A apare room for example. that way, when you get 10 free mins, you get right to sewing and don't have to take the time to organize and then - surprise - baby awakes!
ReplyDeleteFor little ones I like to keep all my sharp things in a basket on a shelf. Or I keep them out! Good luck with your little one!
ReplyDeleteFor me it's keeping things together and somewhere that makes sense. For little ones, keep sharps out of their way! froggygirldesigns at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteIt has made a huge difference for me to have my fabric out where I can see it, rather than in drawers. I have one of those tall cheap bookcases and I made mini bolts of fabric by wrapping anything larger than a half-yard around a piece of cardboard the height of the shelves. Just keep the fabric on the upper shelves so that when she reaches the stuck-finger toddler stage, she can't get at it! Congrats on your baby girl!
ReplyDeleteI like to make mini bolts of my fabric so I can tell at a glance what I have. I can also take a small amount off without having to open the entire thing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the great giveaway!
Katina
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