Needlecrafts Cross Stitch Cross-Stitch Basics

5 Tools to Organize Your Cross-Stitch Supplies

Cross stitch decor

A Needle Runs Through It

It's a bit of a challenge to keep all of your projects organized, and that includes cross-stitch projects. In fact, the supplies for your cross-stitch projects might be more complicated to organize than other crafts because of all of the floss and fabric that cross-stitching involves. However, staying organized—especially if you're working on a big cross-stitch project—will keep the project stress-free and allow you to enjoy the process of creation.

  • 01 of 05

    Organizing Floss

    Deer floss holder

     Sugar Cookie

    Whether you like to keep your floss in the original package or wind it on a bobbin, there are a wide variety of options for keeping it organized. 

    • Keeping the floss as-is: If you want to keep the floss as-is, a Stitch Bow Floss holder is the way to go—simply place the floss on the top and bottom of the bow. Once you have it on the bow, you can place it in a binder. 
    • For skeins that are used but have remaining scraps: Bobbins are great ways to keep your floss in order. Use the simple plastic bobbins on a key chain or get a bit fancier by using themed wooden bobbins. Be sure to purchase a bobbin winder, as it will make the winding go much faster. 
    • Floss for a particular project: If you just want to organize the floss for a particular project, use a simple floss organizer. You cannot add a bulk floss on them, but they do allow for smaller portions for projects. 
  • 02 of 05

    Organizing Patterns

    Embroidery project planner

     Kimberly Ouimet

    Organizing your cross-stitch patterns can take a bit of time, but it will help you in the long run—especially if you buy a bunch of patterns at once and plan on using them throughout the whole year.

    One of the easiest ways to organize patterns is to use page protectors and binder notebooks. Go a step further by labeling the binders by themes. Creating binder themes will make finding a pattern easier. If binders aren't your thing, you can organize your patterns with file folders and a filing cabinet.

  • 03 of 05

    Organizing Fabric

    Fabric organizer

     Design Mom

    The biggest challenge of organizing your fabric for cross-stitch projects is folding it properly and making sure it continues to stay neat. One way to make sure your linens are kept nice and clean is to fold them on foam board and stack them like you would a book. They will fit perfectly in a bookcase with the foam board. If you are worried about creases in your fabric, roll the cloth and stack in a bin. This will keep the fabric from creasing and still keep your craft room clean.

  • 04 of 05

    Organizing Needles

    Needle keeper

    A Needle Runs Through It

    Your needles are one of the most important items to keep organized. If you have pets or children, losing a needle can be a scary thing. Many cross-stitchers know that the arm of your couch is not a good place to keep your needles!

    Needleminders keep track of your needles, not only when you are working on a project, but also when you are finished. They have become so popular that the various themes can be considered collector's items.

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  • 05 of 05

    Cross-Stitch Travel Bag

    Craft travel bag

    Toteworthy Designs

    One great thing about cross-stitching is that you can take your projects anywhere and stitch in a coffee shop, on the bus or in a park. The only issue, however, is carrying around your supplies. You need a tote that can handle your hoops, your floss and any other accessories you like to have on hand. Any tote will work, but there are special ones that are specific to cross-stitch and other needlework that can make organization much easier.