I can’t claim any particular embroidery thread organization genius or hack that will change your life. But there’s something immensely satisfying in taking something that is a mess and organizing it. I’m not a particularly organized or tidy person, but even I find that creating order out of chaos, however simple or small the project may be, is rewarding and comforting. This is especially true when there is disorder in other areas of my life. So I hope this post will give you a hint of inspiration and a little motivation to tackle one of your own organization projects.
Before & After Embroidery Thread Organization
Boy, what a mess! I have had this embroidery thread organizer for years, but somehow it just kept getting more and more messy as time went on. I threw leftover bits and new embroidery thread alike into the bin, and they became a tangled mess. Seeing everything all in its place, color-coordinated and tidy, not only makes it easier to see the supplies I already have but also inspires me to start a new project.
Supplies to Organize Your Embroidery Thread
I’ve had my embroidery thread organization materials for some years. I think I purchased them from either Joann’s or possibly Michael’s–I honestly can’t remember. I’ve rounded up a few options from Amazon that are similar and easy to procure, though your local craft store will likely have options as well. The links below are affiliate links which means that I may receive a commission if you purchase it using the link provided at no additional cost to you.
I like a stackable embroidery thread organizer, and though this one isn’t exactly like the one I have, it’s very similar. Compartments make it easy to keep things separated, and the handle makes it easy to carry. Sometimes I will take apart my organizer and only carry part of it
I chose this pack of embroidery thread bobbins because of the interesting bobbin winder accessory tool. I’ve not used it myself, so I don’t know if it is of any use, but it does look fun to try. I like bobbin cards like these since they usually have a spot to write the color number as well as handy little grooves for the end of the thread to tuck nicely into.
This embroidery set feels just a little bit like cheating to me since it comes fully loaded with embroidery floss and various accessories. But if having all the work done for you in one kit appeals to you, this seems like a fun solution.
While on the subject of embroidery, I thought I’d share a few of my favorite embroidery books. My skills are pretty rudimentary and amateur, but I can still appreciate beautiful embroidery patterns. This book is filled with interesting historical information and beautiful patterns. Even if I never make anything from the book, it is a pleasure to read, and the beautiful photographs are lovely to look at.
This was one of my first embroidery books that helped me learn the basics. There are pages and pages of free designs at the back of the book that are fun and whimsical. It has been in my library of crafting books for quite some time, but I still reach for it often.
Organizing Embroidery Thread
If your embroidery thread collection looked anything like mine, I’m sorry to say that there’s no magic hack that will make everything perfect with no effort. It takes time to evaluate what you have, untangle the knots, and wind the bobbins with your thread. Writing the color number on the card for reference makes matching colors easier later on. Organizing by color family and value is not only satisfying visually but makes it easier to see at a glance all of your color choices. Again, all of these things take time. But I found if I listened to a favorite audiobook (I’m currently re-listening to the Miss Buncle books by D.E. Stevenson), or let my mind wander peacefully, it was a very relaxing chore. And the satisfaction of the completed project was well worth the time.
I hope this has given you some inspiration and motivation for your next organizing project! I would love to hear any of your embroidery thread organization tips or supplies too!
2 Comments
Susan Miller
Love the post! My collection is a bit of a mess right now so it’s wonderful to hear a few tips to help sort things out 🙂
Selah
Ooo! That bobbin winder tool seems very useful! It’s always such a pain trying to wind bobbins by hand. Thanks for the great suggestions! I love to organize mine by color and style, very visually appealing!!