On one of your busiest days, you accidentally knocked on a jar full of sewing pins, needles, threads, and buttons. You're just trying to reach something an arm away from your sewing machine, but now you have some cleaning to do on top of your sewing projects. As a result, your routine becomes interrupted and stressful.
It's not uncommon for people who sew to find themselves running out of room. After all, there are plenty of sewing accessories to use, and they'll only keep increasing as you add more sewing projects to your plate. We can't blame you for your passion, so you don't need to hold back. Instead, you have to redirect the way you manage space.
This post is all about saving space in your sewing room. Read on for some valuable tips on making the most of the little sewing space you have.
A messy sewing space happens so often that most people think it's already an inevitable part of the work. Of course, when you experience bad or busy days, it can't be helped. Here are some of the most common space problems you encounter when sewing:
If these sound familiar, you might have to rethink and change your space management habits ASAP. Otherwise, the mess will only keep piling up and make sewing exhausting and stressful for you.
A lack of space and excessive clutter can make you forget why you love to sew in the first place. Of course, we don't want that to happen, so we’ve collected the best tips you can try to combat your sewing space issues. Find fun and relaxation with these sewing management practices!
Here is a rule of thumb for sewing space management: if you don't finish a project, it'll never disappear on its own. Sooner or later, that UFO (Unfinished Object) will only take up valuable space in your work area and make it harder for you to start anything new.
We understand that it's exciting to think of starting your next work, with a plethora of sewing ideas coming up in your mind now and then. However, we encourage you to take your time to finish them one by one. That being said, you have to manage your time when there's a due date to follow.
Another way to help manage your sewing space is by keeping your essential tools and materials close by. It's stressful to take so much time looking for something you need ASAP. Threads, needles, pins, fabric scissors, seam ripper, measuring tape—have any of these and any other tool you think is necessary just within an arm's reach.
However, ensure that they're not too many and are organized in a storage box or jar to avoid clutter in your sewing table. Additionally, it's good to have a cleaning kit nearby. Place a bin under your sewing table to get rid of fabric or thread waste, and make a habit of cleaning as you go. Don't leave the mess of one project there as you begin another.
You'll be surprised at how much easier it is to find what you're looking for when everything has a specific place and label. For example, if you have an extensive fabric collection, try sorting them by color or type (e.g., woven vs. knit). You can classify them in whatever system works for you, so it’s easier for you to grab any sewing supply as needed.
Moreover, you can customize and make pretty labels! If labels with cute prints, for instance, make you feel motivated to work, push that agenda and sew to your heart's content.
Storage is your friend when it comes to organizing a sewing space. You can use every nook and cranny possible to store materials, tools, or fabrics. Maximize drawer storage using dividers, binder clips, pegboards, mesh pockets, and organizers specifically for small items like needles, thread buttons, or snaps.
For fabrics, you can roll or fold and place them neatly inside compact shelves or drawers, so they don't unroll. You may also line them up according to type or color so that you can easily spot what you're looking for. Having different types of storage helps you make the most out of small spaces—you might be surprised at how much you can store!
This is a great way to save space in your sewing room, especially if you only have little room for everything. You can easily tuck a folding table away when not in use and bring it out again when needed. For example, a folding sewing table comes with an adjustable height to help you set the most convenient sewing position.
Consequently, you won't have to worry about working on projects that require ample space. Moreover, a folding sewing table is multipurpose; want to use it as a crafting or computer table? No problem; you can make easy adjustments to serve whatever purpose you want.
Accidents can happen anytime, even if you're experienced in sewing. Therefore, you should be mindful of storing your sharp sewing tools, such as scissors and needles. It should be in a safe place where kids or pets can't reach (if you have any).
Nevertheless, it's still a safe and space-saving habit, with or without kids and pets. For example, you can mount these tools on a pegboard or a high cabinet shelf and avoid risking everyone's safety.
Your sewing room is likely to get messy sooner or later. The reason behind this problem is simple: you are a busy person, and you can't stop your passion for creating things! However, there's no need to feel bad about it. After all, it only means that you're doing what you love best.
What you need is to solve your space management problems. There are many ways to add more space to a sewing area, and it doesn't mean you always have to move out to a bigger place or pay for a renovation. It can be as simple as maximizing mini storage options, organizing all your sewing supplies.
Soon, you'll find that your sewing space has more to offer than you might think. With proper management, you can avoid the stress of scattered threads and needles and unfinished sewing projects. Happy sewing and proper storing!