It reaches a point in your machine embroidery career that you realize, “Dang – I have a lot of threads.” In addition to all the different sewing threads you have already collected, you have a complete collection of different types of threads for machine embroidery. And, since machine embroidery thread is a prominent part of handicrafts, it helps in many different colors. But once you start assembling a bunch of yarn, it becomes necessary to store and sort the yarn for sewing and machine embroidery.
When it comes to the best solution for organize the thread, you have many options. And, of course, they all have advantages and disadvantages.
So, to get a broad picture of the solution of sorting and sorting all the different possible threads, I went to the profession. These people do a lot of sewing and machine embroidery, have collected a lot of threads, and have come up with some pretty creative solutions to keep it organized and clean.
Some people are excited about organizing their office supplies, their paint station, or just cleaning their sock drawers. For those of us who drain on spools, let’s talk about ways to organize the thread and some smart ways to hide your storage.
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1. Thread Storage Bins
Although I prefer to keep my thread out where I can see it, there are some benefits to keeping your thread covered. Dust and lint accumulated on the thread can wreak havoc on the tension discs of the embroidery machine. So, if you keep your thread out on a shelf or rack, you should definitely take the time to clean it before you put it on your machine so that no dust or lint can come out.
If you keep your thread covered, however, you can avoid the whole problem of lint and dust accumulation. You can actually use a product specifically for thread storage, and they are aptly named “thread storage bins”. So, if you have shelf space and you want to take the time to sort your yarn by color, they are a great option for storing your embroidered yarn. If you group your threads by color in each box, you will know exactly which storage bin to remove.
2. DIY Shelf For Thread Storage
One DIY solution I stumbled upon in my research was a re-purpose fence installed by a clever Sam Stress in his sewing room. He tied all his threads to all the planks of the fence. It seemed really cool and rustic and it served its purpose perfectly. And, the fact that he built a system to store his yarn from the remains around the house was worth nothing.
We say there is no old fence around your house. Other scrap pieces of wood will also work. If you have one, check your local menu. They have a scrap of wood where you can find what you need.
3. Wall-Mounted Rack
Like the thread stand, the rack mounted on the wall stores the thread in a compact and highly visible manner, where everything is at eye level. You can make a rack mounted on your wall and finish it with a beautiful frame that suits your decor. Also, you can store the bobbin for each spaghetti with the spaghetti, as long as the dowel or nail is long enough! Again, keep an eye out for direct sunlight – a shady spot is best.
4. Bobbin Keepers
Bobbins like to open and tangle. In addition, their small size makes them extra difficult to keep track of.
There are two basic ways to store bobbins: store them with matching thread spools or store all bobbins together. Choose an approach and stick to it – you’ll be thankful later.
You can store bobbins with spools in conjunction with smart products such as rubber bands, golf tees, or bobbin holders. If you choose to keep the bobbins separate from your spools, you can store them in small tones, in these specially made bobbin boxes, or even in regular ice cube trays.
5. In a drawer
For a combination of a small spool and a bobbin, the same drawer will work perfectly. The threads are easily accessible but protected from fading and dust. In your drawers, spread spools around the colors to catch a glimpse of them. As your collection grows, erect the spool to save space. A simple tin or tray bobbin works well for storage.
6. Floating Shelves
My Walmart thread racks are great but they don’t accommodate the large spools of yarn that I started buying. When I figured out how to use the thread stand I started investing in large spools of embroidered yarn Given, especially in the colors I use the most. So, to accommodate these large spools, I store them on a floating wall shelf above my existing thread rack.
7. Stackable, Portable Storage Containers
Another great solution for organize the thread that protects your thread from dust and lint is the Life Smart Clean, Plastic, Stackable Storage Tray. I think they are actually made for small toys, but they work great for the thread. Moreover, you can take your thread collection anywhere. Two 500-meter spools fit perfectly in each section, and you can set aside 1000-meter spools. You can stack as many sections according to your taste.
8. PEG Board
Pegboard is a great way to organize the thread because it allows you to free up space on your floor and easily see all your threads. You only add one more peg to each spool of thread you collect.
I actually use pegboard for other types of tools in my craft room and 3D print the pegs and accessories needed to store my tools. And maybe a little silly because these thread holder pegs are so cheap.
9. Nail Polish Holder
Do you know the nail polish holders you see hanging on the walls in the nail salon? Okay – what do you think? They also make great thread holders. Plus, you can buy them on Amazon for free. Then, you hang them anywhere: quick thread storage!
10. Modified cart with golf tees
Another creative idea for organize the thread is to edit a simple rolling cart with golf teas. You only buy one rolling cart (preferably with a clear drawer you can see the color of the thread inside). You then cut pieces of cardboard to fit the bottom and plant golf teas through cardboard at regular intervals. Finally, you glue the cardboard with golf tees to the bottom of each drawer. Now place a spool of thread on each one.
A word of warning: before you go too crazy about this project, make sure the drawers are deep enough to keep the thread stand.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to all these different ways that you can organize the thread. But, I hope I have some new ideas to organize the thread.
I hope you enjoyed these ideas of sewing and thread organization from my craft room! I would love other tips for organize the thread if you have any! It’s only a matter of time before my thread station expands again, I’m sure.
So are you ready to manage your thread? I hope I have given a little encouragement.
If you want to learn about that which thread is best for your project then click here.
Store the thread properly in a container that keeps the spool separate and free of tangles, such as clean cans or thread boxes. Small compartments or separating boxes or cans are also great for storing yarn.
The best way to set up and store embroidered floss is to use 4 × 6 photo boxes and DMC color cards. With this system, your floss stays organized, clean, and most of all saves you a lot of time! These boxes don’t take up a ton of room.
If you use a different company’s thread, the numbers will not indicate the same color. For example, in the DMC range, the black number is 310, while if you are using an anchor, you will get its number as 403. Every cross-stitch designer tends to use a particular brand.
Unlike milk, the yarn does not have an expiration date. But as the thread gets bigger, it starts to dry out and break. If you can prevent moisture and air from contacting your thread, it will last longer.
Since there are no guidelines to tell you how long a thread lasts, it may be helpful to note when you purchased the thread. My recommendation is to write purchase dates with Sharpey at the bottom of the spool. This will give you an idea of how the thread is old. Then, if you are experiencing bad results with the thread, you can attribute it to age.
Did you know that you can get thread clips to prevent your thread from opening? These little doodads are cheap and prevent you from opening the thread. Now this will really clear your thread collection.
