Sewing Studio Organization _ UFOs

Do you want to love the look and feel of your studio? 

Does it feel like a constant mess? 

It could take weeks, months or even years but you can get organized!

Step One 
Unfinished Projects

Yes those UFOs! 
1. Sort 
You need to sort through them! Ensure each one is organized, perhaps in a project box like these: 
Make sure the pattern, fabric, any templates, blocks already made etc. are in there. This makes it easier when you do eventually pull that project and re-begin!

2. Decide
Big decisions need to be made, decide what you want to finish! Can you de-stash some fairly quickly by making smaller quilted projects such as: 
  • Pillowcases
  • Cushion covers
  • Mug mats
  • Table runners
  • Tote bags
  • Bed runners
  • Baby quilts
  • Sewing machine dust covers
  • Dog beds 
  • Book covers
  • Picnic utensils roll ups
  • Dog coats 
Click on my tutorials tab to see what might be of use for these projects. 
Do you want to gift some UFOs to fellow quilters or guilds?
Do you love the projects enough to spend time completing them?

3. Prioritize UFO Finishes
It could take years but you need to finish UFOs, they waste sewing storage space. Note this step can be done in tandem with other goals so you don't need to sew nothing but UFOs right now, but you do need to always have one UFO that's a priority finish. Choose one now, what is the project that's your next UFO finish goal? 
I have several UFO tracking sheets available for FREE download on my website!

4. Allocate Space for Storage of Projects
Determine how many WIPs and UFOs is an acceptable number for you in the long term. Then allocate storage space for them. You will always need space and methods to store current, future and old unfinished projects.
The best storage systems are easily stackable. I know baskets are cute but something with a lid that you can stack is invaluable! Functional shelving is also invaluable, I love my IKEA Bror metal shelving: 
But it could be as simple as a stack of project boxes on the floor, or using the top of an existing closet. 

5. In Plain Sight
Make sure your current UFO priority project is out and visible all the time so your mind can't forget about your UFO finishing goal. 

I've spent years making small projects to use up orphan blocks from old projects. 
I sort through UFOs annually. Each year older a UFO gets, it gets closer to never being finished, you like it less, feel the need to finish it less. Not every project needs to be finished but they do need to be de-stashed one way or another. 

I hope these tips help someone to get started on their organization journey!
Stay tuned for more organizational tips, I have created a SS Organization tab on this blog where you can find links to my blog posts about this topic. 

Recapping:

1. Sort 
2. Decide
3. Prioritize UFO Finishes
4. Allocate Space for Storage of Projects
5. In Plain Sight 


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