Quilting Projects Organization Ideas
Whether you’re working on one quilt or juggling a stack of WIPs (works in progress), staying organized can reduce stress, save time, and even spark new creative ideas. Here are some of my favorite tips to help keep your quilting projects on track:
Use Project Bins or Zip Bags for Storing Quilting Projects
Designate a separate bin, box, or large zippered pouch for each project. I use archival photo boxes because sometimes it could be years before I get back to it. Be sure to include:
- Pattern or printed instructions
- Fabric Pieces – if you have started cutting things, label your units
- Notes to yourself – if you have to set aside a project, jot yourself a little note about where you are in as well as any other pertinent information. Believe me, you may not remember when you get back to that project
- Supplies – If this project is using specific threads or embellishments, include them. This way, when you return to it, everything is right where you need it.
I learned the hard way. The projects that I set aside and I didn’t include the pattern and I didn’t leave any note about what my plans were. For myself, I learned to take a bit more time to organize my WIPs.
Create a Project Tracker
There are so many options for this step. I still prefer to have a list. Sometimes I create it on a computer, print it out and then write all over it. I know some quilters keep a journal and others use a spreadsheet. Even though I am an excel nerd, I still like to print the list out. Here are ideas to include in your list:
- Quilting Project Name
- Start Date and Status (where you are in the process – cutting, piecing, quilting, binding)
- Fabrics Used
- Deadlines – for example: gifts, holidays, shows
- Notes – changes you made to the pattern or want to make to the pattern.
Do you need to include all of this on your list? Nope, if I have all the info I need in the project box/bag, I usually only list the project name. But, do what helps to keep you motivated.
Set Mini Goals
This is a huge help for me. Sometimes I am more productive when I can just focus on little steps. Here are some ideas that I use when breaking a quilting project into mini goals.
- Cut fabric this week. For me the cutting isn’t the hard part. This tends to be my favorite part.
- Finish a block today. Once I get started, I almost always complete more.
- Bind a quilt.
- Machine quilt a row.
This is the spot I am at with a quilt I have on my machine. I need to do some unsewing and I have been putting it off. So, I tell myself just to do five minutes at a time. Of course, I quilted the whole row without stopping, even though something didn’t sound quite right. I need to pay attention to my machine!
Remember, smaller goals make the project feel more manageable, and you’re less likely to set it aside and forget it.
Block a Weekly Session for Quilting Projects
Schedule time—even 30 minutes—into your week just for quilting. Treat it like an appointment. Even short, consistent time slots will help you finish more projects and reduce overwhelm. There are weeks that I am thrilled to even just do five minutes! It is amazing just what you can get done in a couple of minutes.
Label Everything
If you’ve cut your fabric and put the project aside, label your pieces clearly (with painter’s tape, sticky notes, or a fabric-safe pen). Include block numbers or row info so you’re not left guessing where everything goes later. You can place them in zip-bags and label the bag. You can also use a sticky note in the bag. I cannot stress the importance of this from experience. There is nothing more frustrating than coming across a project that you want to finish because you loved the fabrics. I forgot to add the pattern and had no notes to refer to.
Keep a UFO Bin for Quilting Projects (but Limit It!)
Unfinished objects happen—but keep them contained. Use one bin or shelf and review it monthly or quarterly. Ask yourself:
- Do I still love this?
- Is it worth finishing or repurposing?
- Can I donate or gift the pieces?
- Do I have all the parts to the project?
This keeps guilt out of quilting and makes space for what you’re truly excited about. About three years ago I got serious about finishing up my quilting projects. I asked myself those questions and it helped tremendously! It was amazing to see how many projects I didn’t love!
Use a Design Wall
A design wall would be very helpful – I don’t have one! The floor is what I use. But, even if it’s temporary (flannel backed tablecloth pinned to a wall), having a space to lay out your blocks helps with:
- Visualizing the quilt you are working on.
- Not losing track of your layout
- Finding errors – sometimes we need to step back to see the full picture
- Staying inspired
If you don’t have a design wall, or even a space to put a temporary one, lay out the blocks on the floor and step back a grab a picture of it with your phone. This will help you to see if you need to make changes. It will often highlight my mistakes, when I can easily change them!
Tidy Up Between Quilting Projects
Take 15 minutes after finishing a project to:
- Put away leftover fabric
- Reorganize your space
- Clean and oil your sewing machine
- Clean up the sewing threads and scraps
And while I agree a fresh start helps boost motivation for your next quilt! I am not always successful with this step. I will try to clean the sewing/crafting area once a month. This does get me excited about finishing more projects.
Bonus: Share Your Progress!
Posting updates on social media or in a quilting group can help you stay accountable—and gives others a chance to cheer you on or offer helpful advice.
Staying organized doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to work for you. Try out a few of these tips and see which ones make your quilting time more joyful and productive. Share your tips if you don’t see one listed, I am always looking for more ways to manage my projects.
If you are looking to add to your projects, checkout the Quilt Block Library or the Scrap Quilt Patterns Page.
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Until next time.
