It doesn't take long to realize you will need some sort of organizer systems for embroidery thread if you are seriously into the hobby. Most people who do hand embroidery like to carry their projects with them, so proper storage is even more important for avoiding tangled threads.
Thread Organizer Systems
Some people like to cut lengths of the colors they will need and have them tied on a small organizer with lots of holes that is kept with the project. Serious stitchers need to organize a whole library of colors. DMC has some nice options with the Stichbow system or little cardboard skeins. These are essential cross stitch supplies for keeping thread color numbers labled.
These can then be sorted and stored a variety of ways. Look at your storage space, and choose the best option.
Organizer Containers
Needles need to be kept in containers. Sticking them in a corner of the project is a bad idea because they can fall out, poke through to something else (a finger!), and storing a needle in the fabric for extended periods will leave it permanently out of shape. I made that mistake. I once sat a cross stitch project aside, thinking, "I'll have more time to work on it tomorrow." By the time I came back to it, a couple of years had passed. Not only was the fabric distorted, but the needle also left a rusty stain!
My favorite container for carrying a single needle while on the go is a recycled pencil lead case. You can also make a nifty little needle case with a small scissor pouch. I have a
free pattern for the little organizer systems
available to download when you sign up for the Embroidery Sampler newsletter.
Supplies Organizer Systems
If you don't have the needle case with a scissor pouch, you will need some way to carry scissors safely. Beware that airline security will confiscate scissors. I believe they allow the tiny thread cutters such as this cute sunflower where the blade is not exposed; however, if you want to do hardanger, you need a pair of real scissors, small and sharp. Supplies can be stored and carried in a little bag, roll, or binder with art supply pockets. Choose the best match for the way you work.
Use the left and right arrows to scroll through the widget and look at all of the craft and sewing organizers, including storage totes, caddies, and binders.
My Ideas for Extra Pieces Not in Use
I have my long term embroidery storage of supplies in a closet organizer that drapes over the door. I think it was intended for shoes, but I have a variety of embroidery supplies stored there. I hang my spare embroidery hoops over the hooks at the top. Closets are good for needlework storage because the temperature is constant, moisture is low, and the bright colors aren't exposed to light.
I store patterns in my
completed project notebook.
I like to keep the ones I've used with a photo of the finished piece. Clear page protectors work nice. Future projects for "someday" are stored in the back section.
