Storage/Retrieval of Thread in Kits
I am a terribly OCD person! When I took up counted cross stitch, I became quite frustrated with keeping track of the thread provided in kits. I devised a method that has made my OCD just disappear and would like to share! I use skinny CD plastic cases (clear), put a strip of magnetic tape on inside top lid, put in a needle for each case. I then copy the printed code sheet and cut out the color number/symbol code and tape on the top of each case. Then I put each color into its own case along with a threaded needle. I use a large box that is then divided down the middle with one of those expandable drawer dividers. The CD cases are then numerically placed, with dividers, on one side, and all my other supplies are on the other side. Now, when I am working on a piece, all I need to do is to pick my case with the correct thread, use it, then replace the needle back into the case with any remaining thread and go on to the next color. Results: Less wasted thread, less wasted time threading needles, less frustration with tangled thread, and a neat box to just pick up and take with when I am travelling. ENJOY! When I finish a project, I file these cases away, picking out the ones I need for my new project and replace them into the box to start over! A little bit of spent money and time to organize, but a great time saver while working on the project and a whole lot less frustration!
Posted by: CAROL P on 11/15/14
I've stitched for the past 15 years and the easiest way I discovered to keep my threads straight is as follows: I use sandwich bags. With a permanent marker, and in the right top corner of the bag, I draw the symble of the thread along with number. In the left hand corner I use a paper punch to make a hole. I file all the bags numerically, divide them into 3 groups and place on metal shower rings. I have a wooden stack table next to my chair. I screwed 3 cup hooks on the edge of the table, and hang the 3 groups. I usually thread each bag so it's ready to use. I've found this works wonderfully. Jean Blunden
by: Jean on 11/15/14
But these sound like a lot of work to me.

I "Kit Up" all my projects, but I make my own floss cards. Use my paper cutter to cut file folders in strips, from the fold down so they're double thickness. Punch holes up & down. I can write floss # & symbol, & have 3 sides left, giving the strip 4 uses. Everything is visible. DMC & Anchor, I pull what I think I'll need, put the bobbins back, so they can be found. Excess gets tossed when the project is finished. Hand-dyes I put the excess back in the stash because of the cost.

Everyone develops their own system. Or not. I've heard of stitchers who buy new floss for every project & toss the skeins in a basket.
by: jlhewes on 11/15/14
I do very few kits compared to the rest of my projects. When I am done with my kits I save the patterns sometimes, but everything else usually gets tossed. I rarely use any floss that is left over. My DMC floss stash is stored on plastic bobbins in plastic boxes which are in drawers of a roll around. I have all the DMC floss colors and 90% of my projects are done using them.
by: syagel on 11/16/14
Carol, your CD cases sound very efficient. I'll keep that idea in mind for my future cross stitching. - Jean
by: Jean on 11/16/14
Carol P, what an efficient way to store your floss. Doesn't it take up an awful lot of space. If I understood correctly you place each color in a different CD case? Please be careful of storing needles, they tend to rust.
I am very liberal with my floss, I don't like to use it if it's been handled too much. It seems to take the sheen away. I use the bobbins and the storage boxes. I have very little time and can't be as organized as I'd like to be. I understand about OCD, I have my own issues but they manifest themselves more in keeping my kitchen clean and keeping up with the laundry. I also cannot go to sleep in a messy bedroom. The burdens we impose on ourselves.
jl, I have been known to order floss for each project and throw them skeins into a basket but only when a few were involved. Depends on the circumstances. Sometimes I live on the edge. LOL
We might get snow tonight!!!!
by: Texas Stitcher on 11/16/14
I have at least 100 different colors and I find the easiest storage is a separate window envelope for each.
I put the number in the right hand corner and then file in a box in numerical order. When I do a picture I take out the envelopes I need. Has worked well for me for many years .
by: carolh123 on 11/23/14