A Simple and Convenient DIY Thread Spool Organizer
If you sew often, and not just for yourself, you likely have a magic box filled with dozens of thread spools. Keeping them tidy is impossible—the threads inevitably unwind and tangle. For myself, I found a simple yet very convenient solution: storing spools in a fabric organizer case. Threads arranged this way don't tangle, and the entire color palette is always in sight, making it easy to pick the right shade and see exactly what needs to be restocked. The spools are held securely, yet can be removed and replaced without any hassle. The mat can be rolled up and stored anywhere, or hung on a wall or cabinet next to your workspace.
For the base of the mat, use any sturdy fabric. In this case, a flannel swaddling cloth folded into four layers was used, but old jeans would work just as well. Quilt the fabric (folded into 2-4 layers) with large stitches across and finish the edges in any way you prefer. Lay 1.5 cm wide elastic along the lines and stitch it down.
The optimal distance between the horizontal lines and the lines stitching the elastic can be adjusted, but the following measurements are the most convenient:
- between elastic bands: 8 cm;
- from the edge of the organizer to the first elastic band: 6 cm;
- distance between vertical stitches ON THE MAT: 3.5 cm;
- distance ON THE ELASTIC: 4 cm;
- from the edge of the elastic to the first stitch for the cell: 4 cm.
The mat can be any size, from a compact pencil case style to a full-sized wall organizer. This mat measures 58x44 cm and features 5 rows of elastic, each with 16 slots for spools. For these dimensions, 3.6 meters of 1.5 cm wide elastic tape were used (5 x 72 cm).
To stitch the elastic evenly, we recommend marking the fabric and the elastic beforehand. It is best to attach the tape using a tight zigzag stitch so it retains its elasticity. Fold the edges of the elastic to the back of the case; they can then be used for hanging. The elastic will naturally stretch over time, so with frequent use, it should be replaced every few years.
An interesting idea! I just think the elastic will have to be replaced more often... I use a wooden desktop thread organizer myself, it's also a handy thing, but it takes up space on the table. I adapted it to a shelf.
It's something like this (photo from the internet), only my husband made it for me. I looked at the prices and was horrified - from 800 UAH!!! oO It turns out this case is not only convenient but also budget-friendly, to put it mildly...