how you sort / organize your patterns

Right now mine are just in a cardboard box. I am also trying to figure out a new system. A large part of my collection is vintage patterns. I read on some blog, I don't have the link right now, that a good way to store them is comic book boards and bags, they also have special boxes that fit them. I'm thinking that's what I''ll do for the vintage stuff. For my regular patterns I'm considering clear plastic bins that i can see in but will be the right size for patterns. There is also pattern storage boxes that you can get at JoAnns, but want to go for something a little more sturdy.

Hanging Folder route is great for those loose patterns.  My patterns still in their original package, I store in a box/drawer with tabs to separate section.  Makes for easy finding.

I use magazine boxes and label each box as to what group of patterns it contains. Example: Gilrs patterns, boys patterns, unisex patterns ect.

I use a vintage suitcase.  I used to use a plastic tote but as I use those for fabric I was forever searching for the right one.  With the suitcase I never need to search.

I just wanted to say that I revised the method that I was using...file cabinet.  I store regular patterns there.  But, now, I'm usinng the page protector binder method for the patterns that I use a lot.  It seems to be working really well.  All I have to do is grab it off of the bookshelf and go.  I've also been drafting my own patterns and this seems to house them really well, too.

This is what I do;
I have large Manila envelopes which each pattern is put in.
On each envelope in the corner I write the pattern number and designer as well as a little description so I can flip through the patterns and find the one I want straight away. (I was planning to print off a pic of each pattern cover from the net - but, time peoples!)
In each envelope I put the pattern cover, instructions, and pattern pieces.
I generally trace each size of the pattern piece rather than cut the pattern up in case I want a different size again (especially for kids clothes)
Each size is put in a labled clip lock bag and in the envelope.
All the envelopes are put in the bottom of my filing cabinet in general categories dresses, tops, kids clothes, accessory's etc.

It took a bit to get it set up, but is a great way to be able to quickly find each pattern and which size I want.

I put all my pattern envelopes/pictures of the printed off patterns in document protectors in 3 ring binders.  Then I place the pattern and instructions in gallon ziploc bags that I have written the pattern company and pattern number on the outside of the bag.  The plastic bags are filed by pattern company in alphabetical order then numerically.  Any changes that I make to the patterns/instructions are included in the ziploc bag.  HTH, Susan

What great ideas!  I have had my patterns in a big ol tupperware bin mixed in with all my fabric remnants.  It is a pain to dig through the whole bin each time I would like to find a pattern.  Thanks to you crafty folks I will now I have a great organized system!
Thanks for sharing !
Mauri

I have a lot of patterns- I find that I have an inflated sense of what I can actually accomplish- plus I get greedy when Joanne's has patterns on sale- I buy the limit- even if I'm not sure I'll make it-I store all my patterns in those boxes you can get from Joanne's- a little like banker's boxes, but sized for patterns- I just use several of them-one for kids stuff one for my stuff, one for accessories and one for misc. Patterns I've traced or downloaded I put in quart sized zip locks and store in the boxes as well- I've been sewing for a very long time and only recently realized that I could fold up my pattern pieces any old way and IRON them flat enough to fit back into the envelope!

All my tutorials I print off are sorted in 3 ring binders with plastic divders that I have labeled by category (quilts, sundresses, bags, etc.).  My purchased patterns are in a box (kind of like a photo storage box) that keeps them upright.  I don't have too many, so they are only sorted by "made" and "to make".  I really like reading people's ideas for keeping made patterns in envelopes.