I don’t know about you, but I like to stitch on projects outside or on the road. I usually have more than one project going on at a time for that very reason. Obviously, I can not have my sewing machine outside on the porch or in my car (…. at least not yet! LOL!), so I have a project in the works that requires the sewing machine and then I have one or more hand projects, either wool or needle-turn applique. Then I have my bases covered and my hands are not idle on a road trip. I just can not sit in a car and not be reading or stitching!

To take a project with me on the road, first I have to have a way to store all the pieces so I do not lose anything. I use small zip lock baggies, either snack, sandwich or quart size (depending upon the size of my project) to store my appliqué pieces. This also works for wool appliqué, hexies or other hand projects!

 

Then I use a larger “project bag”. You know those plastic bags with zippers that small sheet sets come in? They are perfect to pack a project into. enough room to fit your project and sewing supplies you will need such as rulers, thread and needle storage, etc.

These bags work great for plane trips too. Since it is not hard sided, the bag of supplies is easy to squeeze into a suitcase.

I store my threads, needles and scissors is small tins or plastic containers. Here is the tin for my needle-turn applique:

Here’s the inside:

Notice the magnet in the corner. I found this magnet “block” at my local hardware store. It fits right inside my tin and holds needles, a small scissors and some pins. A lot better than having them rolling around inside the tin! 

Next is the plastic container that holds my wool applique threads. I use this for travel sewing and for my summer days “porch stitching”! This is a Snapware container that has a few levels that all snap together and have a cover. I love this for travel!

Next, I needed a place to put sewing supplies within reach when I am sewing in the car. I got this idea from a student in one of my classes. Go to the bathroom section of a Target, Wal-Mart or similar store and look for these small suction cup storage items.  If you can not find one there, find it here. I think they are used in a shower to hold soap. I stick it on the car window and store my thread and scissors so they are easy to reach!

Isn’t it amazing what you can do with everyday items?

So, I’m packed and ready for my next car trip at any time. I better get going on some ideas so I have something to work on for my next car ride. Summer is coming and the kids are miles away, so I’m sure there will be road trips in my near future!

Happy Quilting & Stitching!
Deanne