Color coded bins = no more fabric scrap storage chaos.
See how I turned simple storage bins into an easy scrap system that makes finding fabric fast.
If you sew or quilt, you know fabric scraps pile up fast. Instead of stuffing them into bags, baskets or bookshelves (and never finding what you need again), try this simple system: fabric bins with color-coded tags. It’s easy to set up, budget-friendly, and makes your scraps instantly visible.
What You’ll Need
- Brightroom 13″ × 13″ × 6″ Fabric Bins with Lids (Target)
- Clear Plastic Name Tag Holders (Amazon)
- Fabric scraps in solid colors
- Twine or string
- Scissors, measuring tape
Step 1: Cut Fabric Swatches
Choose small pieces of fabric from your scrap pile. Cut squares (or any shape) that will slide easily into a holder. If you’re sharing a bin between colors (like red and pink), just layer more than one swatch in the same holder.
Step 2: Create Color Tags
Slip each swatch into a clear badge holder. These become your color coded tags. Attach the holder to the bin handle with twine or hooks.
Step 3: Sort by Color Family
Take your fabric out of your messy places. Here’s where I was keeping some of mine. While it doesn’t look terrible, it was still a time consuming pain to go through it just to find a few (or a bunch) of particular fabric pieces. This new sorting style is much easier. Ok, get started!
- Yellow tag = yellow scraps
- Orange tag = orange scraps
- Red/pink swatch = reds and pinks
- Multi print swatch = all over prints/multi colors
- And so on …
With this system, it takes just minutes to match scraps to the right bin.
Step 4: Stack & Store
These bins are stackable and dust-free. They aren’t super sturdy though, so you might want to be careful with them as they get heavier. Once your tags are in place, you’ll always know which scraps live where (FINALLY!) with almost no digging required. I still dig around within the color as I decide what shade or print I want, LOL!
Why This Scrap Storage Works
- Visible: You can see colors instantly without opening bins.
- Customizable: Change tags anytime as your stash shifts.
- Space-saving: The bins stack neatly, (though they aren’t super sturdy).
- Affordable: Storage doesn’t have to be fancy to work.
Fabric Scrap Storage Success
This system helps me keep any scrap fabric chaos under control. I like that it’s simple and flexible, and makes finding the right fabric so much faster. Since I’m usually pretty organized, I end my sewing, quilting, and serging sessions by filing away all of my leftover fabric. I love that I can grab what I need when I need it, and just as easily put it away. This keeps my space organized and makes it easier to get started on my next project.
You Might Also Like
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- Wine Rack Vinyl Storage – repurpose everyday items for smart sewing room storage.
- Beadboard Bookshelf Backs – an easy DIY that transforms plain storage shelves into something special.
