Sunday, April 19, 2009

TIP TO SHARE: Storing Projects

Before putting your stitching project away, instead of rolling or folding, try hanging it on a skirt or pant hanger that has clips on it. If indentation marks from the clips are a worry then fold a fabric scrap (use a neutral color and make certain it is colorfast) over the project edge to pad and cushion the project’s edge against dents. I try to clip the project as close to the end of the fabric as possible to avoid this.
I’ve had as many as ten stitched projects on one hanger. If the project is over-sized, then loosely fold the east-west fabric edges toward the center making certain the fold doesn't crease when clipping. If I put an unfinished project away and know I’m not going to get to it for a while, I’ll put the chart, fibers, and any embellishments in a plastic bag and clip it to the hanger, also. That way everything is together. Don’t cringe – but I’ve even put clear plastic bags over stitched pieces stored like this and have never had a problem (knock on wood). The bottom of the bag is left open so there is no moisture trapped. I'm sure there are 'experts' who would say this is a 'no-no' but I haven’t had any projects become discolored or damaged in any way. An old cotton pillowcase or muslin bag can be used if you prefer fabric to plastic.

5 comments:

  1. What a great tip! I've always folded my projects to find dents in them later. I will try it out, thank you. :)

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  2. That is sure a good idea. Thanks for sharing.

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  3. Thanks for sharing your great idea :)

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  4. Thank you Candace! These are great ideas and I'm going to do use them:) I appreciate you sharing:)

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  5. Interesting idea :)
    I usually use A4 format zip bags for storing "work in progress" - keeps things organised when working on several projects.
    And I don't worry too much about creasing as everything has to be ironed before finishing anyway :)

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