Thursday, January 19, 2012

UFOs and the "Stash" Resolutions for 2012

"I could open a shop with all the fabric I have at home..."
"I have sooo man kits that I haven't even opened yet...."
"I just can't buy any more fabric, I have so much..."

Sound familiar? As I shop owner, I hear comments like these all the time. 2012 is here and it is time to do something about all those unfinished projects!

Where do I start, you ask....at the top of the pile! Here are some helpful hints to get you started on your road to a UFO-free quilting existance:

1) Lock  yourself in your quilting room. Maybe it doesn't have a lock, that's okay, just get away from the kids, grandkids, husband...the distractions.
2) Take a deep breath. Yes, it may look like mountains of fabric, but remember you will conquer the pile!
3) Start to organize. Whether you prefer to organize by color, amount, or project, start a pile for each type.
-Remember to have a "what was I thinking" pile. Toss all fabric, kits, etc you can no longer see the beauty in into this pile. This pile will go to Goodwill, a church quilter's group, or to anyone who would jump at the chance for it.
4) Use bins or tubs to organize fabrics and a small see through bin or a box to put each full project in. It will keep the fabric together and keep them neat.
5) Make a list. What projects do you think you can get done this month, quarter, or year? Add only projects that are do-able and keep this list somewhere you can see it and keep it updated. There is nothing like crossing off one of those items!
6) Join a group. Talk to your guild or to your quilt shop to see if they have scrap or UFO groups. They will keep you interested in decreasing your to-dos while you get the latest gossip!

Do you have any ideas for reducing stash? What can we do at the shop to help you get rid of all your excess projects? (Short of tossing them, of course!)

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