June 11
Organizing Solutions for Every Quilter: An Illustrated Guide to the Space of Your Dreams by Carolyn Woods. Disclaimer: OK. I was sold on this book the minute I saw the title. I am a sucker for any book that will help me get rid of clutter and organize my studio. The Skinny: Here youll find ideas for identifying what causes clutter, setting goals to deal with it, and organizing whats left. Oh, did I forget the best part? Here it is: How to maintain the organization. (Thats the part that gets me every time.) The book is filled with ideas: for what you need (good lighting, temperature, electrical system, and sound control are musts), storing your stash so you can use it, handling all the tools and trappings (books, magazines, UFOs) of quilting, and maintaining your space. Theres a section that deals with quilting-on-the-go (ideas for those who participate in workshops and retreats) and another that talks about storage and display. Bottom line: I got some great ideas (room design, better lighting, fabric storage, packing for retreats), inspiration (to clean up my space and donate what Im not using), and (my favorite) maintaining the space in an orderly way. * American Patchwork & Quilting * July 11
Organizing Solutions for Every Quilter - An Illustrated Guide to the Space of Your Dreams By Carolyn Woods A well-organized sewing room makes for more creativity and less stress. Carolyn Woods is a professional organizer from Gilbert Arizona. She has done exten- sive research by visiting many quilters studios including Alex Andersons and Diana McCluns. The book is packed with tons of great ideas and solutions for all your storage needs no matter what size space you have available. The secret to getting organized begins with the first chapter of this book. You are encouraged to read this before you jump ahead to other chapters or even rush out and start stocking up on plastic containers. This very important first step includes: Identifying the cause of the clutter, setting goals to deal with the clutter including taking time to study your space to determine how to best use what you have available. Then set-up a schedule of when to start the de-cluttering process. After sorting and organizing your stuff you will need to choose what you will be keeping and discarding. Finally Carolyn offers tips on how to maintain your organized sewing room by learning new habits that will help you tidy up as you work. All in all this is a well researched book with information that is sure to get your disorganized sewing room organized which in turn creates a better environment for your work. * Applique Society, The *
