When Pattern Storage Gets Out of Control
My pattern storage is a mess.
I have two completely full file cabinets, two closets, a whole corner of my basement, and even more spaces filled with patterns.
When people ask me about my stash, I always say I do not have that many. The reason I say this is because my patterns are stored in a way that makes it hard for me to use them properly, so I truly forget they exist.
I have to admit my pattern stash and the method in which I store them have gotten out of control. I vacillate between donating them or continue to hoard.
So until the hoard has left my soul, pattern organization it is.
Why Pattern Storage Matters
I'm clear on the fact that if you sew and use patterns, the organization of those patterns are insanely important if you want to stay focused and creative. Let's not even discuss the amount of time wasted trying to decipher notes left all over patterns used 3yrs ago. Patterns aren’t just instructions! They’re records of our progress and growth. I remember my makes/mistakes from 2012 that were horrendous. Every version of a make teaches you something, hopefully.
How fabric behaves
Where fit works (or doesn’t)
What details you love enough to repeat
For me, this isn’t about being neat.
It’s about protecting my progress. I've been aware of this since the beginning, but I've been putting it off for forever. Doing that, I've wasted so much time and effort. This post is more of an accountability partner for me.
My Must-Haves for Pattern Storage
It would have been so easy to maintain a system if I started this process in 2012 with 3 patterns, but here I am, 2026 1000 patterns later and finally putting this into action.
I charted out some of my must-haves....
-Store each pattern separately using these envelopes
-Label the basics (pattern name, company/designer, date etc)
-Track the versions- this is really important for someone like me who enjoys a good pattern hack.
-Add a visual reference
-Reinforcement labels (ensure the hole doesn't tear)
-Book Rings (hang them in the closet and on a rack)
And the pattern organization journey begins.
When patterns are organized, the feeling of starting from scratch goes away.
Now all I need is an intern to help me get through this.
Download and personalize the sewing pattern storage sheet here.
Next up, how I maintain a digital diary of all my patterns in Trello for free
