In terms of the basic sewing basket, Dritz offers a number of options, shapes, and sizes—in some really fun new designs and colors. Each includes a magnetic snap closure, pocket and pincushion, and lift-out tray for organizing small items.

If you’d prefer to make your own, the Eva Sewing Basket Pattern from Hemma Design allows you to create an adorable sewing and crafting caddy “with a twist” (the basket’s handle has a unique twist design). The finished project measures 10” x 13 ½” and includes a removable pincushion and six pockets for storing supplies.

Also from Hemma is the Martha Studio Bin Pattern for creating functional (and cute!) quilted bins to hold sewing and quilting supplies. Each bin features quilted handles, side pockets for smaller items and easy access, and a label pocket. The finished bin measures 9 ½” x 9 ½” x 8 ½.”

Aunties Two Patterns offers a variety of patterns for making fabric bins, baskets, and boxes, including their Cat’s Eye Baskets, Diagonally Woven Baskets, Tubular Baskets, Cupcake Basket, and Kraft Krates. But our favorite option from the company is their Fused and Folded Boxes, which use fabric and stiff interfacing to create small storage boxes and magazine files.

Among the new patterns from Stitchin' Sisters is Box It Up, a “snap happy” pattern that uses metal carpenter’s tape to create sturdy, durable fabric boxes. The pattern includes three sizes of boxes (a large rectangle, narrow rectangle, and a taller square version) that make a great catch-all for sewing and crafting items.

If you’re working with limited space, a great solution for keeping your quilting or crafting supplies organized is a door organizer, like the one you can make using The Door Stash Pattern from Noble Notions. This handy hanger—which can be sewn using only 12 fat quarters—includes 12 varying size pockets and two dividing bands, and utilizes over-the-door wreath hangers to make the most of the often-unused behind-the-door space.

Those looking for a more portable organization option will find it in the new Itty Bitty Beatle Bag from Abbey Lane Quilts, a smaller take on their popular Beatle Bag pattern. Both are personalized travel bags designed to hold small items of a sewing, crafting, or even personal nature. The patterns include four plastic inserts, and extra sets are also available for purchase.

In our search for all things sewing-space organization, we came across several products from Smart Needle that are nearly as cute as they are convenient. The Essentials Sewing Caddy, a scissor holder/bobbins holder/pincushion all-in-one in the shape and design of a ladybug, sticks to any sewing, embroidery, or quilting machine.

But before trying to tackle any real organizing, consider reading the new book, Sew Organized for the Busy Girl by Heidi Staples for C&T Publishing. This book offers practical tips and solutions for making the most of, not only your space, but also your time.

Staples, a mom of three, includes advice on fitting sewing into a busy lifestyle and organizing one’s sewing space and works-in-progress so they are easily accessible and “ready to roll” at any time. The book also includes 23 projects, shopping and storage ideas to manage the ever-growing stash, and productivity tips.