My fabric collection and how I organized it

I’ve been collecting decorative fabrics for many years. I often find lovely textiles rolled up on tubes at tag sales and rummage shops. I like to use these fabrics for various upholstery projects, pillow and bed covers, and tablecloths and napkins. When I went to find a particular Fortuny fabric recently, I realized that my fabric collection was in disarray. We’ve organized so many things after moving my belongings from Turkey Hill to Bedford, and it was now time to focus on my 200-plus rolls of fabric.

This is what my fabric collection looked like –- a jumbled mess!

We brought out my large roll of acid-free archival craft paper and protected the tabletop with a heavy terry towel.

This is Laura Acuna, my housekeeper of many years. She knows exactly where to find everything in my home. Each roll of fabric was first covered with craft paper.

Kate then rolled the fabric in a sheet of clear cellophane. Notice that the end of the fabric was left exposed for easy identification.

The ends of the cellophane were secured with clear packing tape.

A sample of each fabric was stapled to a tag and then secured to the fabric bundle with string and tape.

As you can see, the finished product is certainly a whole lot neater. The fabrics are now nicely stacked on shelves and the cellophane makes it very easy to slide the rolls in and out. Another good and practical
organizing tip!

Comments

[karenlisa]

very good idea's thanks

[jimi]

Hello Martha - I just have to say that visiting your blog and finding new entries makes my day! I love how you organise everything. Also I adore your photos, as they are like looking at the world through your pair of eyes! I also have a Canon G9 which is just the best camera. It was a gift from my husband for Christmas and I was so thrilled to find you use the same one! Anyhow just wanted to say how much I appreciate the blog and learning about how you live and work. Best, Jimi

[Pam]

Gee...do you think they could come over to my house and organize my fabric? Glad to know that you collect fabric too :-)

[BeachMama]

I would love to see all your fabric you have collected. I have lots and lots of fabric and was recently wondering if the tubs I have it all stored in is practical. Perhaps I can combine a little of your suggestions to make my fabrics easier to find.

[Sally Keisling]

Hi Martha! I am going to Paris in May, and remembered the shows you did from there last year, which I so enjoyed! I forget which flea market you would recommend, or liked the best. Thank you!

[Lynne]

Hello Martha:

You were BORN knowing everything! You have helped me with so many projects, from organizational tips, fabulous gardening ideas, now this wonderful protection of fabrics....to interior decor annnd MORE! I have been a true fan from the very first issue of Martha Stewart LIVING magazine, years ago! Thank you for everything you do ~ it's all so helpful and lovely! I adore the Guest Cottage on your newest property, where you featured the great whimsical desire for PINK in all four rooms! What is the name of the PINK paint you chose for that rapturously beauteous GUEST HOUSE?? Mayhap Kate or Laura could respond. Thank you very much! I am painting one part of the interior of my home and would love to know as soon as possible. Thanks, again!
Lynne

[betty cvetkovich]

enjoyed the TV program in honor of your Mother and her recepies.I make my stuffed cabbage the same way BUT my Mother-in-law told me to put the unwrapped heads of cabbage in the freezer. The night before using,take the cabbage out and put it in a colander and let it sit overnite. Next day peel off the leaves, cut down the center spine and you continue to fill in the usual manner. Sure does take away the boining water and it is so much easier to handle when cold. No more burned fingers. Continue with the recepie as your Mother suggested.

[Lotta]

Do you keep a binder with all the swatches in it as well?

[Bhavs]

Such a neat way to keep fabric inventory!

[Norma y Martha]

Hola Marta esperamos que te encuentres bien como siempre. Somos un equipo de trabajo que realizamos con la ayuda de nuestra creatividad y nuestras manos, hermosos proyectos para un mejor vivir. Te felicitamos por todos los consejos y esperamos ponernos en contacto contigo.
Un abrazo desde Colombia
Norma Y Martha

[Jeremi Jackson]

Hi Martha,
Wonderful idea. Much nicer than a pile in a basket!
Jeremi

[Lori]

Dear Martha,
I love your magazines and shows. I've been a fan for more than 20 years. I'd love to be able to " see you in your home element" and what a typical day is as Martha Stewart. Do you ever allow "ordinary fans" come to your home? I also am an Interior Design student. My home office is 11X11 with no shelving or closet space. Right now all my crafts, materials and such are all in plastic containers. Can you suggest how I can really set up a nice comfortable office that I can have clients come over as well as neatly house all my stuff? I would greatly appreciate it. I'm on a very tight budget as well. Thanks so so much. Have a most wonderful day. Lori from Texas.

[Leah from North Carolina]

Hi Martha,
There's a quilter's saying--"The quilter who dies with the most fabric wins."
---------------
Like another writer I was wondering about the archival factor of the cellophane. I love your blog, thanks.

[Mary Jo Piazza]

I have collected fabrics and linens for many years. It is always interesting to see how someone else stores them. I use my vintage linens, pillowcases, sheets, tablecloths, and assorted others. I sew, and use many of my vintage fabrics to make one of a kind clothing.

[kathy y lenhardt]

Hello Martha, Thank you for the inspiration and courage to keep on going. I'm now ready to try my hand at a new venture. Have a great day! Thanks for everything you do for our society. Kathy y in Cincinnati

[Sheryl Murphy]

Greetings Martha..

I am interested in your sewing area or room.

I have a Designer SE and when you started with Viking I was hopeing you would show us more on the embroidery section of the machine.

The need for suggestions for storage of a quilting stash, stabilizers, and all the rest of sewing equipment would be appreciated. I currently have four machines including the serger, a sewing armoire, bookshelves and a 6 x 4 foot enclosed shelved cabinet and still don't have an organized room. Please help with your suggestions.

Thank you in advance

Sheryl

[Sabrina]

Dear Martha,
THANK YOU for being my source of inspiration ! If you every come to Brussels, it would be my pleasure to show you around. We have great antique shops and the bespoke "Sablon" antiques market, close to the Grand Place.
Sabrina Steelandt de Blocq
From Brussels, Belgium, Europe.
Contemp. Art Gallery assistant.

[Vanda]

I Martha,
I'm Portuguese and while I was doing some research I found out your blogs, since then I've been reading them and I find them fascinating!Congratulations!

[brocobelle]

Hi from the Cotswolds in England. I love your blog and your website, and being a hoarder of textile treasures this tip was brilliant. I love your craft and collecting tips. Thank you, brocobelle