As a crocheter  there’s nothing quite as satisfying as watching your projects evolve into beautiful creations. But what happens when you need to set your work aside and tackle a new masterpiece? Proper storage of your works in progress (WIPs) is essential to keep them safe from tangling, pets, or even accidents. Here are some  strategies to store your WIPs so  you can easily track the yarn, hooks, and patterns you’ve been using..

Project Bags: Your Best Friends

Who doesn’t love a good bag? Especially one you can use to store your wips and take with you when you need to work on the go. Investing in a good project bag can prove to be a lifesaver. I like bags with lots of pockets and zipper compartments so I can organize my yarn and hooks  but still have everything I need at my fingertips. There are bags made specifically for crafting, featuring multiple compartments to neatly organize yarn, tools, and patterns. Some of these come in fun designs that reflect your personality, transforming your WIP storage into a fashion statement. These are two of my favorite go to bags for taking projects with me.

 Plastic Bags for Quick Storage

For those in need of an inexpensive option, plastic bags can be very effective. Zipper storage bags or resealable plastic bags work well for small to medium-sized projects. Just make sure  the bag is large enough so the yarn without squashing it. Also,  you can use a permanent marker or label maker to write down the project’s details on the bag, including the yarn color and weight, hook size, and any essential notes. This way, when you return to your project, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertip

Baskets and Totes

If you prefer a more decorative way to store your WIPs, baskets and fabric totes can be both functional and stylish. A large basket can hold several projects at once, keeping your yarn tidy and accessible. Choosing baskets with lids helps keep dust away and prevents your yarn from getting tangled. Consider labeling each basket with the project name or color code of yarn, making it easy to find what you’re looking for without rummaging.

 Rolling Carts for the Ultimate Organization

For  those crafty souls who have a considerable number of WIPs and supplies, a rolling cart can be the ideal solution. These carts often have multiple tiers and can be easily moved around the house, allowing you to carve out a creative space wherever you please. The best part of using rolling carts is the ability to customize them by adding baskets. All you need are baskets, zip ties, and some imagination. Use boxes or storage containers on each tier to group specific projects, and keep track of your yarn and hooks by dedicating a container for each project.

 Keeping Track of Your Supplies

No matter which storage option you choose, it’s important to keep track of the materials you are using. Consider using a small notebook or digital app to catalog each project. I prefer to use Ravelry to store both my yarn inventory and my patterns. As you store your WIP, jot down details like the type of yarn, its color, the hook size, and any changes you've made to the pattern. This practice not only helps you remember important details but also allows you to pick up exactly where you left off.

Storing your crochet  projects doesn’t have to be a confusing mess. With the right storage solutions, you can protect your WIPs and maintain a tidy environment. And by keeping track of your materials, you’ll find it easier to dive back into your projects with ease and enthusiasm.