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closet cleaning question
blessedtosew Intermediate AL USA Member since 4/16/08 Posts: 860	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 9/10/12 1:39 PM I have been sewing for 13 years, but seriously sewing for myself for about the past 5 years. It seems that I am getting faster and faster (I guess that comes with practice), but with faster and faster sewing comes more garments. I put out about one garment per week. My closet has reached critical mass. I have had to take over an unused bathroom and I have things hanging in my sewing room --Hoarders, anyone? This past weekend I identified 4 garments (that I made) that I could give away, and I did so. I did not wear them at all this past summer season, always choosing something else over them. I have identified 4 more garments that I made I can give away, and I am donating them. I am so afraid, though, that down the road I will wish I hadn't done so. However, I MUST get rid of some stuff, because I don't plan on stopping sewing and I have no desire to sew for anyone else --selfish sewer that I am How do any of you decide what to donate and what to keep? I know that I need to give more away. -- Edited on 9/10/12 1:43 PM --
loti   Advanced FL USA Member since 5/27/04 Posts: 3519	Login to reply to this post In reply to blessedtosew << Like this post Date: 9/10/12 1:48 PM I've done the same thing, those things that do not get worn get donated. You might look to see if the things that get worn regularly are showing signs of wear. Slowly I've gotten rid of some of the worn items, and am getting ready to do it again. I started a thread for closet cleaning somewhere....Declutter thread ------ "A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” Coco Chanel Stash Sewn in 2011 148.5 Yds Stash Sewn in 2012.... counting... http://adonising.blogspot.com
minggiddylooloo   Intermediate VA USA Member since 5/17/05 Posts: 1793	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 9/10/12 1:52 PM Try not to think about the possibility of regretting what you threw (or will throw) out and instead revel in the fact that you can always make more! Maybe invite a good friend over to have a second opinion on what goes and what stays. ------ I'm finally a blogger! sewming.blogspot.com
sewsally   Intermediate WA USA Member since 8/18/02 Posts: 1200	Login to reply to this post 1 member likes this. Date: 9/10/12 1:58 PM Take photographs of what you make so at least you will have that for memories if you give the garment away.
a7yrstitch   Intermediate TX USA Member since 4/1/08 Posts: 4390	Login to reply to this post In reply to blessedtosew << 1 member likes this. Date: 9/10/12 2:32 PM It is easier for me to give/donate when I know the items will be used or appreciated and when I know that there will not be a middleman pocketing a profit when it is our intention to give. You may not know that some of the collection storefronts pay a very small percentage, 5% seems to be around normal, to the nonprofit group to carry the name. Your creations are so current and appealing. You might feel fantastic about working with a group that reclothes women for interviews and new jobs. Or finding an organization that works with struggling young moms who might appreciate a nice dress for dating, church or an office job. You may also find an outreach program at a church in a neighboring community. Or, you may get a kick out of refashioning some of the fabric into beautiful children's clothing. After Allison we were stunned to hear that for most folks help consisted of having a mop, bucket, sponge and some bleach delivered to their door. Oh, I think that little bit might have made me hysterical. I cannot imagine the joy you could share if someone in similar circumstances received something of yours, fresh and ready to wear to work. Allison put the exclamation point on our desire to get our heart and donations directly to the folks in need. I know that you will find an outlet to share your creations. It will more than triple the fun you have fashioning your garments. -- Edited on 9/10/12 5:12 PM -- ------ I have no idea what Apple thought I was saying so be a Peach and credit anything bizarre to auto correct.
marymary86 Intermediate GA USA Member since 7/20/08 Posts: 2198	Login to reply to this post 1 member likes this. Date: 9/10/12 2:35 PM I read somewhere to reverse your hangers (so that the hook is facing outward toward you instead of facing the closet wall). Then every time you wear a garment, place the hanger back in its normal position. Over time, you'll have a good visual on what you are actually wearing (and not wearing). ------ Mary http://checkmatesystem.com
unfinishedprojects   Advanced AB CANADA Member since 8/26/07 Posts: 522	Login to reply to this post In reply to sewsally << Like this post Date: 9/10/12 7:31 PM Quote: sewsally Take photographs of what you make so at least you will have that for memories if you give the garment away. ...and put those photos in a pattern review along with any changes/alterations you made. If you ever regret getting rid of the garment, you can always sew another one.
PattiAnnJ   Advanced OH USA Member since 12/3/06 Posts: 4986	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 9/10/12 8:09 PM Inventory and then put those you "think" you may regret giving away in space saver bags and slide them under the bed.......don't tell me.......no room under there either!
purplebouquet Advanced AR USA Member since 11/16/05 Posts: 1004	Login to reply to this post 2 members like this. Date: 9/11/12 11:20 AM Stitch one, ditch one. Claudia
tourist   Intermediate BC CANADA Member since 7/23/07 Posts: 5417	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 9/11/12 5:44 PM For me it is the "don't donate just yet" system. Things I am considering donating go into a box or bag that usually collects things for several months. Before I actually take them in, I go through what is in the box and if I have regrets, I can remove the item. This very rarely happens because I can tell if the item has been out of sight and out of mind for 4 - 6 months and i haven't gone looking for it to wear, it is time for it to go. ------ http://bgballroom.wordpress.com to follow the progress on my next ballgown.

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