As the flowers burst into bloom and the birds return from their winter hiatus, it's a vibrant reminder that spring has sprung. Yet, as you step into your sewing room, it feels as though the winter months have left their mark, casting a shadow of neglect over your once-inspiring space. But fear not, my fellow creator—it's time to reclaim your sanctuary! With summer on the horizon, brimming with promises of new projects, fresh fabrics, and lively sewing gatherings, there's no better moment to restore order to your creative haven. After all, the last thing any of us want is for our friends to witness the chaos that has accumulated during the winter hibernation! Let's roll up our sleeves, breathe new life into our sewing spaces, and prepare to embrace the creative adventures that lie ahead with these 10 tips to spring cleaning your creative space.
1.
Decluttering
Start by going through all your supplies, fabrics, and equipment. Get rid of anything that is damaged, outdated, or no longer serves a purpose. Consider donating usable items to charity or recycling materials where possible.
I can't tell you how much of my stash is filled with fabric that I'll never use! When I first became obsessed with quilting, I had a passion for Japanese fabrics. I bought all sorts of Japanese fabrics with the intent to make beautiful quilts and projects. Much time has passed, and my tastes have changed. Those fabrics are still beautiful, but I doubt I'll ever make anything with them. They'd be much better in the hands of someone who actually wants them.
If you don't have any local places to take your fabric (such as a quilt guild "garage" sale day) Consider heading to Instagram to make a "De-stash" account. This is a way you can auction your fabrics out to people who are going to want them. Also check out Facebook for fabric de-stash groups!
2.
Organizing
Develop a system for organizing your materials that makes sense to you. This could involve sorting fabrics by color or type, arranging notions in labeled containers, and finding storage solutions for larger items like sewing machines and cutting tables.
For example, I have a large stash of Tula Pink Fabrics, so for that section of my fabrics, I'm organizing them by color.
One of my favorite ways to organize my fabric is to use Comic book Boards. It doesn't matter if it's a fat quarter, or a yard, these boards are perfect for wrapping my fabric and keeping everything neat and tidy.
You can find them here* if you'd like to use these acid free boards to keep your fabric neat and tidy
*affiliate links provide revenue to the creator
3.
Cleaning your Equipment
Take the time to clean your sewing machine, serger, and other tools thoroughly. This could involve dusting, oiling, and replacing any worn-out parts. Don't forget to clean your cutting mats, rulers, and other accessories as well.
My poor sewing machine is just begging to be taken to my local sewing machine shop for it's yearly maintenance. It totally hasn't been over 5 years since I've taken y machine in. . .
4.
Workspace Optimization
Evaluate your workspace layout and make any necessary adjustments to improve efficiency and comfort. Consider factors such as lighting, ergonomic seating, and accessibility to frequently used items.
5.
Inventory Check
Take stock of your supplies and make a list of anything you need to replenish. This could include notions, threads, needles, or specialty tools. Keeping track of your inventory will help you avoid running out of essential items during future projects. The last thing you want to do is to be knee deep in a project and be out of that one crucial material that you can't do without!
6.
Inspiration Station
Create a designated area in your sewing studio for inspiration and creativity. This could include a bulletin board for pinning up fabric swatches, sketches, and project ideas, or a cozy reading nook filled with sewing books and magazines.
7.
Maintenance Routine
Establish a regular maintenance routine to keep your sewing studio clean and organized year-round. This could involve setting aside time each week for tidying up, as well as scheduling periodic deep-cleaning sessions to tackle more extensive tasks.
For example, every Monday I spend the first two hours of my day doing computer work. Things like Newsletters, Instagram posts, and supply ordering all happen during this time. Then come Friday afternoon I take an hour to clean my studio space of all the scraps and tools I've left out over the course of the week.
This routine allows me the time to get my projects done, (and make a huge mess) as well as keeping my space clean and clear so I can have room both mentally and physically to be creative
8.
Personal Touches
Add personal touches to your sewing studio to make it feel like your own creative sanctuary. This could include hanging artwork or photos that inspire you, incorporating favorite colors or patterns into your decor, or displaying handmade projects as a source of motivation.
My personal favorite is having my recent Lego sets decorated throughout my space. It's a splash of nerdy fun that makes me smile.
9.
Digital Organization
Don't forget to organize your digital files as well. Sort through digital patterns, tutorials, and design files, and delete anything you no longer need. Consider setting up a system for backing up important files to ensure they are protected.
With the addition of cloud saves & storage, you can go from phone to tablet to pc with your newest pattern with little effort. Many Quilting Retreats will be happening over the summer months. Having your pattern on your phone or tablet will make it that much easier to pack for these sew-cations as well as one less thing to possibly forget at home.
10.
Celebrate Spring Cleaning Progress
Finally, take a moment to celebrate your accomplishments once your spring cleaning is complete. Treat yourself to something special—a new fabric, a sewing-related workshop, or simply some well-deserved relaxation time in your freshly cleaned and organized sewing studio.
I hope these ten tips help you get your creative space under control and ready for a new season of creative inspiration and adventures! What are some of your go to tips and tricks for Spring Cleaning? let me know in the comments below!
Till next time,
Happy Stitching
Sondrasa