By far the biggest question I get whenever I post about needlepoint is, “how do you organize your needlepoint threads?”. And truly, I feel like there isn’t one answer, because we’re all different. However, for me, a simple box and bag organization system works best.
Organizing your needlepoint thread doesn’t exactly seem like it’d be a daunting task. However, as a newbie stitcher (just about a year into the hobby), I’ve quickly realized how easy it is to become overwhelmed my needlepoint fibers. I try to use what’s in my thread stash, but often buy new for specific projects, too.
I also don’t have tons of additional room to keep dedicated storage areas for my needlepoint hobby. With that, organizing my needlepoint threads means consolidation and a way that takes up little space.
How I organize my needlepoint thread stash is what works best for me. If you have a way you organize your threads, feel free to share in the comments below. What works for one person, may not for the other… and vice versa!
Tips for Organizing Your Needlepoint Thread Stash
So when I initially started out on my needlepoint journey, I was storing my threads in quart and gallon sized Ziploc bags. I quickly realized that this method wasn’t cutting it. I ordered compartmentalized clear boxes for curbside pick-up and it’s been a game changer.
The first box I use is the ArtBin large compartment box (model #5004AB) for DMC Cotton Perle threads.
In essence, I have one box just for DMC Cotton Perle. The long length of the compartments works great for these threads. I organize them by shades for each slot.
I actually really enjoy stitching with DMC Cotton Perle, but my one complaint is the lack of variety in shades. But I digress.
For my thread skeins like Pepper Pot or Vineyard Silk, I use a 20 slot compartment box to store my thread stash. It feels like the most natural way to store these threads, especially after I use them. I roll them up and they fit perfectly into each slot.
For the projects in my stash that are kitted with threads, the most natural way for me to store them at this time is in bags. Those bags (with the canvas and threads) are then stored in two 12×12 handled storage bins. They stack nicely on one another, on top of the chest in my office. And the thread storage boxes stack on top of them. While it’s probably not the most efficient way to store my canvas stash, along with kitted canvases, it works for me right now.
However, late last year I added another method to my thread organization repertoire. I purchased little mini plastic baggies that have a pre-cut ring hole in them. They can then be stored on a metal ring, and kept together.
The jury is out for me on this organizational method. I like it in concept, but it gets bulky on the ring, fairly quickly. I suppose it’d work for me with specific thread brands or shades of threads. I like that it’s more compact for traveling, and easier to just throw in my project bag when on the go. But, I’m not sure the ring storage method will work for me long term.
Do you have a way you store and organize your needlepoint threads that we need to know about? Would love to hear from you in the comments below. I will admit that my organization method is ever-evolving for my needlepoint thread stash, and I’ll definitely let y’all know if I change things up or find a different method to the madness!
In the meantime, there are a few other needlepoint posts here on Adored by Alex that I’d love for you to checkout: Beginner’s Guide to Needlepoint; 10 needlepoint canvases for beginners; Christmas needlepoint canvases; and my favorite needlepoint designers.
