Christen Phillips

  • What I Have Around Me When Sewing!

    It is no secret that if you have chosen sewing and/or quilting as a hobby… you are going to amass a rather large collection of gadgets and tools rather quickly. And no matter how many you have… there is always more that you COULD add to your collection! Today I’m going to give you a quick tour of the items I keep close by and what I have around me when sewing.

    If you prefer to watch the video to get the rundown, you can catch that and a few other side notes from me in the video below. 😘

    Follow me on YouTube to keep up with the latest modern quilting tips & tricks.

    In my sewing room, there is quite a bit that can be considered “occasional use” items. A few tools have their specific purpose and that is it. They have their moment to shine and the rest of the time they spend waiting around in a drawer.

    The tools that I use most often and find myself reaching for over and over again have a special place right next to my sewing area.

    So, let’s dive into the tools I have around me when sewing…

    This is where I sew = where the magic happens 😍

    I have a large table area that is roughly 30″ x 60″ (exact IKEA Linnmon table top is 59″ x 29.5″).

    My table is held up on one side by an IKEA Alex drawer set that hold a lot of my sewing machine tools. The other side has a small 4 cube shelf that holds… what I like to call my oddball crafts – jewelry making, beading etc. The things I don’t get into very often, but I still enjoy having it around and accessible.

    On my right hand side is where most of my cutting and ironing is done at a counter height table so I have access to that via my spinning chair if I run out of counter space or need a little more room to spread out.

    After Sewing room Renovation picture

    If you’d like to see a full tour of my sewing room and the setup, check out this post! Sewing Room Renovation! – Before & After Pics

    I also have details on the furniture and organizational products I use in these posts:


    The top of my work area…

    I do require a lot of space to spread out while working. (I don’t think that it’s a bad thing, is it? 🤷‍♀️🤣)

    This table area was designed with SPACE in mind so I keep what is on top of my table to a very minimum. (It doesn’t always look like this… sometimes if I am in the middle of a large project you wouldn’t even know that there is a desk under all of the mess!)

    Creativity can get pretty messy, can’t it?

    Usually the only things that remain on top of my sewing table (when it is clean) are these items:

    I know. It isn’t much… The only reason I can get away with these few tools is because I have the drawer set to my left that holds and organizes a few more of my tools!

    I tried to find the equivalents of my favorite storage items on Amazon for you.
    Most of them were purchased from either Amazon or Target.

    If you’re wanting to make the cute little fabric baskets that I keep my scraps and my little plastic clips in, you can view the FREE full tutorial post below. The Perfect (Easy!) Catch-the-MESS Fabric Bin

    This cute fabric bin can be made in an hour and can be used all over the house! No extreme sewing skills required... its so easy!

    I use these bins all over my sewing room because 1) they are useful 2) I get to display my favorite pretty fabrics where I can see them – and 3) I can usually make them using scraps of batting so it is a way to save money on organizing bins. Win. Win… and um… Win!

    Ok let’s look down into the drawers that I keep on my left-hand side!

    The top drawer holds my MOST used items – bobbins, extra thread spools, all of my sewing machine feet, my seam rippers etc.

    The second drawer holds the lesser-used items, but still, things that I want to keep close – Pincushions, thimbles, safety pins for basting, and a few other tools.

    Where do I keep my other tools?

    Just to clear up any confusion… no, this is NOT ALL OF MY SEWING SUPPLIES! It is however, the MOST USED tools of my sewing supplies.

    I do have other tool storage solutions around my sewing room.

    For example, this drawer that lives over by my Embroidery machine. It houses my thread collection that at one point used to hang on the wall.

    I have found that finding/making drawer space for my tools not only drastically reduced the clutter in my space but allowed for a more streamlined and open canvas for creativity to flow too.

    My embroidery machine/area mirrors my sewing area in my “T” shaped work area. So it is set up similar to my sewing machine area but with the IKEA ALEX drawers on my right instead of my left.

    The desktop is also similar with just a few essentials on top, but because I tend to need less workspace here than on my sewing machine where I do a lot of my quilting… I have a few extra knickknacks and treasures on display that I like to keep where I can see them.

    And that is pretty much it… I have a few other areas where I keep tools organized and stored but I like having only the essentials around me when sewing.

    I also organize my tools based on where I use them within the room. Example: Cutting tools are stored with the cutting table, embroidery needles are stored by the embroidery machine, seam rippers are stored… everywhere! haha, just kidding, but I do have several of them around.

    What about you? what do you keep on hand and within reach while sewing?

  • Sewing Room Renovation! – Before & After Pics

    Hey hey! So it feels like I’ve been hinting at this sewing room renovation going on behind the scenes for like all of 2020 with little progress to show for it. This year has been rough in a lot of ways – but I finally have the official Sewing room Reveal before and after pics to show you!

    Get ready because even I am quite shocked at the difference in the photos!

    Before and After Pictures Sewing Room Renovation

    If you want to see more of the planning stages of this Sewing room renovation, check out this post: Sewing Room Face Lift: Planning Stages

    It has been a really long project but it was definitely worth the sweat and the tears to get to this point. I hope that you get a little inspired and walk away with some ideas for your own space!

    If you prefer to watch rather than scroll…

    I have a couple YouTube videos where you can walk through it with me!

    And because everyone loves a good makeover that shows all the icky parts in between – and oh yeah, that shot of me kicking in the wall and being all cool (Chip Gaines style)… I made a second video to document the journey and show you what happened behind the scenes! Enjoy!

    Make sure you subscribe to my channel on YouTube so you can stay up to date with all the fun and wonderful tips, tricks, and tutorials that I share!

    I am happy to finally be able to share the whole process with you. I think it’s really important to see all the not so pretty parts just as much as the final “wow” moment everyone loves to see.

    Check out one of my most popular guides that takes you through a simple step by step process to create the space of your dreams! Just25 Days!

    How long did my sewing room renovation take?

    Ok, so like I said… this process has been going on for a while. I made it way more complicated by doing a full purge, acquiring new furniture, selling things, knocking out walls, and waiting on the mailman to bring me my favorite organizing tools instead of going out and shopping a lot… oh and in the middle of a pandemic…

    I officially started thinking about making this room renovation a reality around April/May-ish? And completed it about September-ish… while putting the finishing touches and little “sparkly” touches to it (calling it officially FINISHED) in October.

    Holy cow, right? It has been a heck of a year and a LONG time living in a state of disaster. In hindsight, I could have made this easier on myself in a lot of ways…

    Now, every renovation doesn’t have to take as long as mine did obviously!

    I had many reasons for it taking an extra long time:

    • I bought several new pieces of furniture that needed to be assembled. (Looking at you, IKEA…)
    • I cleaned out A TON of my belongings and parted ways with many craft supplies I was holding on to for “someday” – This included selling and gifting purges. 👏
    • We took out a wall and did some remodeling to absorb a closet into my space.
    • I took my time to make sure I was solving my storage solutions for the long term needs and not just the short term
    • Not everything I wanted was in stock and I had to put things on hold for a while.
    • aaaaand the theme of 2020 taken into account – unexpected is just a way of life.
    • We also had several other home projects that took priority including: re-doing an upstairs shower that leaked into our downstairs ceiling, working on our laundry room, replacing the windows in our house, and several other things I don’t even want to remember right now. It’s just been a long year lol

    Let’s take a look at the before pictures!

    This is where we started. A functional space, yes. but pretty? not so much.

    I realize that having a space like the extra bedroom that I have is a blessing. If you want to see what my sewing space looked like in our old house and why I LOVE this new space, check out these posts:

    Tour of My Sewing Room

    Sewing Room Face Lift: Planning Stages

    Fabric Storage: What Works For Me + A Video!

    Keeping A Clean Sewing Space: A How to

    Sewing Room Tour! (what it looked like after we moved!)

    So, while I really was enjoying my new space with a door I could close and keep separate from the rest of the house, I felt like I wasn’t doing the space any favors by just using it as a storage room.

    Can you really call it your zen zone if it is a disaster 80% of the time and gives you anxiety with all the piles laying around?

    This is what I walked into every single day. I love the things in it, but I didn’t love that it felt cluttered all.the.time.

    On one hand, it fills my heart with glee to see all my pretty crafty things around me. On the other hand, I felt like I was suffocating in constant clutter.

    This “creative zone” is a really good and comfortable spare bedroom size room. I felt like I was working within tight confines and trying to come up with storage solutions constantly. – If you have a good size collection of crafty things… you KNOW it adds up fast, right?

    I really have no excuse for my fabric collection before – It was beautiful and organized before and then one day, I just didn’t take the 2 seconds to fold things nicely, and slowly it dissolved into… whatever this leaning tower of fabric is.

    This space also serves as my office/video zone/editing room. So, while on one side I have my sewing space, this is what was on the other side. Functional? Yes. Absolutely. Pretty? – Nope. Not a bit.

    The last “before” picture that I am going to share is of the closet for the room. It was a very long, skinny and awkward design that made it nearly impossible to organize anything but perhaps seasonal clothing, if this were a bedroom… But for sewing supplies, it was a black hole of disaster. This was the largest project of the sewing room renovation

    Deciding on priorities:

    When re-organizing your space, it is important that you decide exactly what it is you want. I mean EXACTLY – specific achievable goals… not just a vague idea of a space that makes your heart flutter.

    My “Must Have” needs for this room…

    • Obviously, a crafty zone where I can spread out and be free to create!
    • Multiple zones: sewing, embroidery, cutting/ironing area
    • Storage.storage.STORAGE – At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I wanted a place for everything and I didn’t want it to be out on display all the time.
    • Clean and minimal feel with lots of open countertops
    • Business/blogging area where I can handle office work and video editing – separate from my sewing area.

    Things I would still like to add down the line… because no creative space is ever “finished”, right?

    • Can lights in the ceiling for more light all over the room – for now, my table lamps are working just fine.
    • Beautiful quilts stacked everywhere! I love using my quilting projects as a useful decor item – I’m working on this one 😉
    • Super cushy/girly seating that would be approved by Elle Woods. PINK and comfy, yet also supportive for optimum posture is ideal.

    (FYI – that’s a reference to the move Legally Blonde, if you’re wondering…😂)

    The in-between stages: Sewing Room Renovation Progress Pics

    While I was knee-deep in other projects going on around the house (more on the hic-up project in a minute) I played with rearranging my office space and sewing room to see what layout felt like it suited the room and my needs the most.

    For example, Did I want an island in the room? There are so many cute ones on pinterest! But I also really like having floor space… so I opted out of that scenario and ultimately decided on a T-Shaped work area.

    When it came to taking out the closet… it is beyond my skill set, so I enlisted the help of my 2 favorite guys. My dad and my husband were absolutely essential in this project and I couldn’t be more happy with how it came together!

    I remember at one point I was questioning what in the world I had gotten myself into because there just wasn’t any more floor space in my house and we were covered in cardboard boxes and bits and pieces of ikea hardware all over the place. This picture below was taken in my kitchen because I was that desperate at that point. 😜

    Note: The message on the back of the closet wall – On every single wall that I paint, I like to paint an inspirational secret message. It serves no purpose whatsoever as it gets painted over. I like to think that it adds a little extra magic to the room. 😍

    I’ve done it for as long as I can remember. My kids knew about the ones that I painted in their rooms and will occasionally bring it up in conversation… Originally, I was considering a navy blue paint color for that nook but changed my mind thinking it would make that corner of the room feel too dark and closed in with the beautiful dark granite counter-tops. (I found them for a steal of a price through my neighborhood website!)

    The pic below was my dreaming phase/sketch of how I wanted my desk area to look. See the shelves on the right? We kept those from the closet before. It is perfect storage for my camera, microphone and other office books! Accessible, yet out of the way so I have plenty of room to work.

    And here is the progress all painted and cabinets installed, plus the beautiful flooring!

    What the rest of the room looked like…

    The behind the scenes was like a sewing war zone. It was an explosion of boxes and a very odd collection of piles everywhere

    About that hic-up that I mentioned earlier. My Sewing Room renovation often got put on the back burner of home projects. We also ended up dealing with working on our laundry room, organizing various closets and other home sanity projects as well as new windows on our house. Oh yeah, and the pandemic too. It has been a weird year…

    Before and After Pictures Sewing Room Renovation

    The After Pictures

    For a full tour, make sure you check out the full video on Youtube.

    I am loving creating in this space now. It serves every single one of my goals and I can’t wait to walk in here every single day! 🙌😘

    After Sewing room Renovation picture
    After Sewing room Renovation picture
    After Sewing room Renovation picture - Fabric Storage
    After Sewing room Renovation picture - Fabric storage

    I made sure that I had display space for my most favorite décor items and books. Oh, how I love all of my art/craft books!

    After Sewing room Renovation picture - Decorative items

    What I did to save money while renovating

    I have several tips on saving money as a crafter. Everything from 8 Tips for Quilting on a Budget and Cheap Sewing Room Storage to Fabric Shopping – The Smart Way To Do It in 6 Steps.

    I did a lot of research online and IKEA seemed to have the best reviews for durability, versatility, and cost overall.

    My favroite Ikea Products for the sewing room

    I also constantly scrolled websites that has second-hand furniture in my area (be careful that you do this safely!)

    Utilizing websites with used furniture was a big help. I found a few gently used pieces for FREE and I was able to sell a few of my pieces of furniture to turn around and invest back into the space.

    If you have any questions, feel free to leave them below. I’m happy to answer them for you and go into detail on anything you wish to know more about.

    It is a little hard to sit down and write absolutely everything that happened over the past 5 months or so. It was a long process, but well worth the sweat, mess, dust & tears!

  • Top 10 Things To Add To Your Crafty Girl Wish List

    Perhaps you’ve been in the crafting/sewing industry for a while and you’re looking for some new gadgets to spruce up your creativity… or perhaps you’re just starting out in the sewing/crafting world and you’re in need of some “must-have” items… either way, you’re going to LOVE what I have to share with you today!

    I’ve gathered the top 10 things that should be on your crafty girl wish list! – I absolutely LOVE everything on this list – and even added a few remarks on what I’ve got my eyes on to add to my space in the not so distant future!

    If you’ve ever sat there like a deer in the headlights when someone asks what you want for your birthday or Christmas etc….. You know how it feels to try to process everything at once, right?

    How to say: I would like my own craft store & fabric store, pretty please. Everything in it – all to myself and an extra house to store it all

    (By the way, if you can figure out a way to make my dreams come true, I am all ears.)

    In an effort to give you the best of the best, I put together a list of the products and tools that I most often find myself giving rave reviews for.

    These products have been put to the test in my sewing room and by friends of mine as well… I hope this gives you some really great ideas to add to your wish list!

    Note: I also created a video, if you prefer to watch. 👍

    10 Things To Add To Your Crafty Girl Wish List!

    Top 10 things you should have your crafty girl wish list are absolute must haves for the quilter/sewist! Make sure you don't miss anything!


    1. LIGHTING!

    This is the light that I have loved and used for many years. It has LED lighting but the light is adjustable so you can choose the color and brightness that is most comfortable for you when you’re working.

    I don’t know about you, but if I’m doing a late-night sewing session… 110% bright florescent lighting is not my first choice! This light allows you to adjust to a warmer light color or a softer brightness so whatever you’re comfort level is… you can find the lighting to match it!

    On the subject of lighting… I am probably one of the last hold outs for buying extra sewing machine lighting. I really can’t tell you why I still haven’t made the jump… other than, there have been other things that seem to take more of a priority when the time comes. 🤷‍♀️ And this little project gets put on the backburner for another day over and over and over again…

    I’ve read many blogs and reviews and I think I have it narrowed down to this model that I will be adding to my Christmas list this year!

    This model has outstanding reviews and is really affordable. The length looks perfect for my machine as well!

    Look for a review post when I finally get this project checked off of my list!

    2. FRIXION PENS!

    First of all, I am a HUGE cheerleader for Frixion Pens… (if you haven’t already heard me talk about them) I love the way they write. I love the way they mark on fabric and I LOVE the way they completely erase with heat… They’re magic. They erase like the markings on your fabric were never even there to begin with.

    No more weird pencil marks or sketchy chalk markings that may or may not be gone when you get around to sewing… these pens leave crisp clean and super clear markings.

    I even wrote an entire blog post about these pens…

    Oh and I also made a video so you can see them in action:

    Please note: I have had some quilter’s who have given me a few warnings when it comes to these pens…

    If you live in an area where the temperature dips below freezing point… the frixion pen markings can have a tendency to resurface on your fabric. (obviously not desirable) Heat: erases your markings, cold brings them back.

    You can just iron your fabric again, but this is a pain and is worth knowing about going into.

    Personally, I live in Texas so… I have never encountered this issue personally. We have very warm weather and even our winters aren’t so bad, plus my quilts are stored inside a temperature controlled environment. — But take note of the information and choose your fabric marking utensils accordingly!

    3. IRONING ACCESSORIES!

    Ironing is a big part of our lives… I usually like to have a few options for ironing. This is my favorite large-size iron and absolutely worth the long term investment.

    This tiny ironing board is perfect to keep right next to your sewing machine for a quick seam press as you are sewing. – Especially as you are working with foundation paper piecing projects!

    It is so cute and so little! It easily can tuck into a drawer or cabinet when not in use without any fuss.

    This tiny iron is another absolute saving grace in my sewing studio because a I don’t often find myself ironing large pieces as much as I do little pieces or small seams.

    The weight of a larger iron (not to mention the heat and steam) can be tiring on your wrists after long periods of time.

    Tiny in size but powerful in uses and easily near the top of the list as most useful tool in your sewing room. Read more why THIS iron is my favorite...

    Just FYI on a few other ironing tips, check out this post:

    Do You have to press your seams? ...And other ironing rules answered in this detailed post about ironing! Who has the time? Do you really have to? Or is it just a suggestion?

    This useful mat turns any surface, table or spare workspace into a safe place to iron! Besides being really affordable and a good space saver, it also has a safe silicone area to rest your hot iron in-between uses without any worry. um… bonus!

    As far as a Crafty Girl Wish List, it doesn’t get more serious than asking for an iron or ironing accessories! lol 😂

    4. SUPER CUTE NOTIONS!

    I have met so many crafters who are absolute self-proclaimed “borderline hoarders” with their stash (and some of us can be a little delusional about the “borderline” part 🤣 lol)

    But the truth is that we love pretty things, don’t we?

    I love shopping the notions aisle at the craft show… so many little cute things that can be added to your space and bring you smiles every single time you walk in the room… oh boy!

    Check out these Decorative Sewing Pins!

    And these beautiful Embroidery Scissors!

    Basically, if you are looking for a gift for friend… you can’t go wrong with notions.

    5. QUILTING RULERS!

    No matter how many years you’ve been quilting… your most-used tools are going to need replacing at some point.

    If you’ve been quilting for only a short period of time, you’ll still be collecting your essential tool kit.

    If you're looking to up your quilting game with some new tools, you're in luck! Don't just go buy what you THINK is going to be useful... read this first so you KNOW from a seasoned quilter what is going to be the best bang for your buck!

    You can check out several deals on amazon for ruler starter packs and very specialized rulers as well. Click here to see the most popular and best-rated rulers.

    6. WOOL PRESSING MAT!

    Another one that I hope you’re not sick of me talking about yet haha… but absolutely worth looking into is a wool pressing mat.

    These are so worth the investment because they have taken over the sewing industry within the last few years and I’m starting to see them more and more. It is to the point where I am certainly not the only one talking about wool pressing mats anymore!

    They come in many different sizes to fit your needs. from smaller 12×12 that fit comfortable next to your sewing machine all the way to larger mats that are better for ironing larger pieces of fabric.

    My favorite one on Amazon is this one: https://amzn.to/34RRsUN

    7. LIGHTED TRACING TABLET!

    If you’ve been curious or found yourself dabbling in either English Paper Piecing or Foundation Paper Piecing, I’m not going to sugar coat this… this should already be in your sewing room.

    Even if you aren’t involved in paper piecing, but you like to alter your quilt patterns, try out different ideas, or even write your own patterns… this should already be in your sewing room!

    They are super easy to use, store completely flat in a drawer or cabinet and are world of help!

    This is the one I bought and I LOVE! I’ve had it for several years and it has held up like it is brand new with little effort.

    8. SEWING LOOP TURNER HOOK!

    This one tends to be a more obscure tool that may not get a TON of usage, but when you do use it… you’ll be so thankful that you do have it!

    This helps you when you are working on fabric straps or fabric “tubes”… this tool is your rescue to turn things right side out again!

    There are many different versions on Amazon.

    9. SUBSCRIPTION BOXES!

    There have been many wonderful inventions over the past several years… but the invention of the subscription box is near the top of my list… if anyone is curious.

    I absolutely love these things! I have done several reviews on my YouTube channel for quilter/crafty boxes, but I also love to give them as gifts.

    Do you know why I love to give them as gifts? Because it is so EASY!

    Take a website like Crate Joy, for example…. they have everything categorized, tons of options to choose from and so many different variables to find something absolutely spot-on PERFECT for the person you are shopping for!

    I also wrote a blog post with my Top 20 picks for Crafty Subscription boxes if you need a good creative boost or are curious about what is out there.

    10. TIME!

    If you’re low on funds after the way this year has gone or your family has a limit on out of pocket money spent… you can’t go wrong with some quality time.

    In lieu of expensive gifts, often times my sewing friends and I will opt for little trinkets (there is that troll-like sparkly hoarding tendency showing up again!) that make each other smile, hand made gifts, or just an entire day set up on the calendar where we can get together… even just an afternoon of quality time can make a world of a difference! We have blocked off days on the calendar for sewing in the past or made lunch dates followed by a stop at the local quilt shop to pick up a few treasures.

    The options for this are kind of endless – but I always walk away completely refreshed and my heart so full of love for the ladies that I am blessed to call my friends and sewing sisters in this world.

    Even a cup of coffee to catch-up with a friend or family member is enough of a reset to remind us what really matters during our busiest seasons in life and that is… connection! Being able to connect with your favorite people on this planet and enjoy their company is a priceless gift!

    …Plus, if you’re already well into the crafty hoarder category… it will fill your heart up without emptying your wallet or filling up your space anymore! Win-win, right?

    OK… so be honest with me… did I miss anything in this Crafty Girl Wish List? Is there anything in your crafty stash that you would be overjoyed to receive as a gift or anything in your collection that you couldn’t live without?

    I would love to hear about it in the comments down below! ❤😍


    Here are a few more things for you to check out!

  • My Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room

    During quarantine, I took up the task of working on updating my sewing/crafting room space.

    I have looked through just about every possible furniture and organization structure available at Ikea. (every single one as of 2020!)

    I am going to share my favorite Ikea products for the sewing room with you as well as which ones I ultimately chose to add in my space.

    I’m going to organize this list in a few different categories so you can quickly scroll to what will help you the most.

    • Work surfaces
    • Chair/Seating
    • Furniture/Large Storage
    • Small Storage
    • Accessories

    Note: Ikea nearly has it’s own language when it comes to product names… I feel it makes more sense if you just assume each product is like one of its children and while the name be unfamiliar to it, you can’t judge it based on the name alone. 🙂 If something is really unfamiliar to you, just do a quick search for the product name and you’ll catch on eventually!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    Work Surfaces

    This is super important. You can have all the storage containers in the world but if you have nowhere to work… well, what’s the point?!

    You want large flat surfaces that allow creative inspiration to strike.

    It is also really nice if you can spread out and have space for allllll your pretty things while you’re working!

    Linnmon Table Top

    The Linnmon line from Ikea is absolutely a crafter’s dream!

    First thing you need to know it is kind of like a grown-up Lego set, ok? You pick the pieces you want and create something that perfectly fits your budget and your needs.

    First, you pick your preferred size for the top – in many different colors to choose from depending on the size… As you can see, the prices are really quite affordable for a great workspace!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!
    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!
    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    Next, you go about choosing the supports for your desktop…

    Again, there are many choices… but if you’ve spent any amount of time on Pinterest, I bet you’ve seen the different variations of this classic Ikea product/workspace!

    When you’re planning your workspace I find it really useful to pay attention to the sizing of the products. Certain Ikea lines were designed to work well with some but, not with others.

    By clicking this link, you’ll see all the products that are included in the “table bar system”. i.e. They play nicely together. 🙂

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!
    Check out the entire Linnmon line here.

    Chairs & Seating

    When considering seating options… forget putting money where your mouth is… put it where your um… never mind… The point is that it is important to invest in really good seating because this is a space that you’ll be working from for long periods of time.

    This image shows proper sewing positioning and posture.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    You really don’t want to be sitting in a position that is going to leave you with aches and pains after a few good long sewing sessions.

    My absolute favorite sewing chair is this one right here.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    Doesn’t look like much, does it?

    It is the SKALBERG/SPORREN model from Ikea. It is height adjustable! So I can get it exactly the height that I want it.

    The one I own is white, but Ikea tends to roll out and test different markets with different colors so maybe you’ll be able to find it in a color that works for you!

    The most important part is that this chair is really reallllly comfortable to sit in.

    The shape just……. I’m going to say it… It holds your bottom perfectly, ok? There. I said it. It is really comfortable!

    If you don’t have the budget for a new chair…

    Let me introduce you to an inexpensive way to make your chair more comfortable and take the pressure off your spine…

    You can get this weird cushion from amazon here. It looks like a weird alien chair or something but if you’ve ever got up from your sewing machine and been a little stiff… you’ll care less about looks than the support this comfy cushion provides!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    Furniture/Large Storage

    Creative storage solutions are absolutely unavoidable if you’ve been a sewist for more than 10 minutes… you know how it is.

    We just have a lot of stuff and while we don’t use 100% of it 100% of the time… you can’t get rid of it because you will use it one day or need to access it at some point.

    Crafting is the gateway drug to full on hoarding.

    My favorite Ikea products for the sewing room is the billy bookself.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    These shelves come in different widths and heights making it really easy to maximize your wall space.

    Click here to see the entire Billy Bookshelf line.

    If the open shelving isn’t the look you’re going for… guess what?! you have more options!

    Ikea has created many options for you to choose from when it comes to doors that hide your storage solution.

    This is also great if you want easy access/grab and go to your items but don’t really want them out on display 24/7 or you like a really streamlined and clean look to your room.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    To see the full line options of doors, click here.

    More furniture/storage ideas:

    I have used the malm dresser in my sewing studio for many years. The contents have changed over the years as I rearrange my storage but I love the versatility!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    The Kallax line has long been a popular staple in craft organization!

    While the name and a few details have changed over the years… the function has not: Start with the basic structure… then customize it however you want!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    The cube-like storage system comes in a variety of sizes with plenty of “insterts” to choose from including, drawers, cabinets, and shelving.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    I’ve also recently grown so attached to the Havsta line – which… I think was designed to be a living-room furniture line? But… obviously it is able to move to wherever I put it. 😍🙌

    Here it is in my sewing room…

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!
    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    If re-organizing your craft space is overwhelming for you, check out this fantastic guide that I created to walk you through step by step. Nothing is overwhelming with you’re only working on one piece at a time! We go through everything together and really think it through so you Create the most wonderful space of your DREAMS!

    Small Storage

    Once you have the big items down, small storage is important to divide up your space and be able to separate your tools.

    I made a video for you where I shared some of the organizing techniques in my sewing room!

    I really love these Kuggis bins! They are classic Ikea storage.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    It is really helpful to label your boxes so you don’t forget about what is inside.

    Personally, I’m still working on this in my sewing room as I have my boxes but I’m still playing with placement. I feel like I need to “live” in the room a bit before I’ve decided that everything has found its happy home. 🤷‍♀️

    After that, I will be putting labels on all my pretty white boxes!

    Here are a few suggestions for quick and easy labels!

    If you have a desire for absolute perfection when it comes to organizing… I highly recommend you check out these books by The Home Edit.

    I have been *addicted* and basically binged their entire series on Netflix (like a lot of other Americans stuck at home during quarantine?) before spinning around in my house looking for fun new projects to play with.

    You can also check out some ideas on Amazon for small storage! Just double check your dimensions so you know it will fit with your Ikea products!

    More Ikea small storage options

    I really have used these all over my house… but they’re really useful in the sewing studio too!

    The Tenja series is a really economical way to get it done quickly and effectively categorize your craft room supplies.

    These storage boxes come in a variety of prints and patterns (they also change out and get discontinued from time to time…)

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    To see the full array of colors and options to choose from, click here.

    I really love Ikea’s peg board system! It is clean and works really well with their other products/decor.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    I mean, check out all the peg board options and ad-ons!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    If you prefer a more DIY option to purchasing a whole slew of pegboard products, check out this DIY pegboard tutorial I have!

    This DIY Pegboard Tutorial has step by step instructions and tips to make your own pegboard for your sewing and crafting tools! This is a super easy project! Anyone can make one!

    Accessories & Decor!

    Whew, organizing is hard work… It really is!… but what makes it really special is the final touches around your space. The icing on the cake, the cherry on top… just that little sprinkle of pizzazz of your favorite items that make you want to jump up and down and shout with excitement!

    via GIPHY

    These are my favorite accessories for that amazingly finished look to your sewing/crafting space!

    Fake plants

    I love the feeling of good green happy plants around me… It is a mental projection of blossoming life all around me and creative energy circling through the atmosphere.

    Unfortunately… the universe did not bless me with the ability to be able to keep happy healthy plants alive. 🤷‍♀️ I don’t know why. I’ve tried many times and tried my best… but you know what? My kids are happy and healthy and there is a bright side I can’t argue with lol

    So I will supplement my love of plants with fake ones! The ones from Ikea I have to admit are really good. I mean, yes… they’re plastic, but unless you’re looking close (why would you judge me?) you can’t even tell.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    You’ll also find wonderful and affordable decorating items like:

    Shelving/Display Options

    You can also grab some really handy wall shelves while you’re in store to show off all of your beautiful things!

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    I like using the lack shelving system in my sewing room. It gives the illusion of a floating shelf, but is really really simple to install and is available in several different sizes and lengths.

    I LOVE shopping at Ikea, but it can get overwhelming! These are my Favorite Ikea Products for the Sewing Room! + Pictures!

    Thank you for sticking it out with me to the very end of this post! I hope that you found it really inspiring and that maybe next time you’re at Ikea you can snag a few new products to make your sewing/crafting space a little more organized and your own personal haven!

    If you have any questions about the products above, let me know in the comments down below. Tell me what you LOVE to use in your sewing room!

    Feel free to get in touch and contact me!

  • 20 Subscription Boxes from CrateJoy that are Winners!

    If you haven’t read my review on CrateJoy, check out this post. I have very honest opinions that I like to share with you 🙂

    I’ve combed through the CrateJoy Website and picked out my favorite subscription boxes to share with you!

    I know that I have a craft-geared blog, but there is honestly so many good ones that I couldn’t just limit myself to only picking the crafty subscription boxes… so I’ll share a little of both. I hope that is ok with you!

    You can also save this pin down below so you can come back to this post later!

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    20. The Stash Builder Box

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    A Monthly Quilting Subscription Box With a Cause – Cotton Cuts is a monthly quilting box that takes 20% of proceeds to make quilts for kids in need. Your purchase helps make a difference for kids in need. Every month, get THREE 1-yard cuts from a new modern fabric collection, a spool of Aurifil thread, our signature pencil and a bonus box-exclusive quilt pattern that is unique each month!

    • 3 yards of Modern Quilters Cotton
    • Aurifil thread
    • Signature Pencil
    • Box-exclusive Quilt Pattern”

    19. Makerly Crafts

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Learn a new craft every month. Makerly is a monthly subscription for craft addicts! Each month you will receive a box crammed full of all the materials, tools, and instructions you need to try your hand at a brand new craft project. Past projects have included kits such as macrame, needle felting, crochet, Christmas bauble making and resin pressed flower jewellery.

    • 1 craft project per month!
    • You will receive instructions, pattern pieces, materials and any special equipment you might need to complete a new project
    • Past boxes have included jewellery making, paper toys, sewing projects and DIY fairy lights
    • Number of items will vary depending on the project”

    18. The Adults & Crafts Crate

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    After all, Crafting is Cheaper than Therapy! -Adults & Crafts is a thoughtfully curated craft subscription box for adults & teens to create fun and trendy projects! Every month is a different craft to allow you to learn a new craft technique like wood burning and engraving. Create beautiful products like wine carriers, epoxy resin coasters, & more! Perfect for a friend hangout or date night!

    • We send you all the tools, materials, accessories and instructions you need to complete the craft. No last minute trips to the craft store needed!
    • Create trendy projects like wine caddies, epoxy resin, candles, and more!
    • Perfect for a family night, for a friend hangout, or for date night.
    • Learn a new craft skill every month varying from clockmaking, to embossing, to woodworking. The possibilities are endless!
    • As seen on the Today Show, Buzzfeed, USAToday and more!”

    17. Jerky of The Month Club – Craft Jerky Co.

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    “High Quality Craft & Artisan Jerky From Around The U.S.A. Award-Winning Experience. Flexible Gift Ordering. Exclusive Selections. Personalized Gift Message. Best Variety. Hard-to-Find Craft Jerky. Designed For All Jerky Lovers, Join the Club or Gift a Membership. No Long Term Commitment, Cancel Anytime.

    • New Brands & Flavors Every Month
    • Add A Personal Touch With A Custom Gift Note
    • Awesome gift idea for jerky lovers!
    • Sign up to receive delicious, top quality, artisan jerky every month.
    • Fast USA Shipping”

    16. Henny+Roo

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    “Spoil your flock and yourself! Henny+Roo is the first and only subscription box for backyard chicken enthusiasts. Each month, you’ll receive hard-to-find first aid and health products, chicken treats, and coop items for your chickens, and useful chicken-themed gifts for you. Makes a great gift for your favorite chicken keeper, even if that’s you!

    • chicken supplies
    • chicken-themed gifts
    • chicken treats
    • poultry supplies
    • High-quality supplies for backyard chicken keeping.”

    15.The Catered Creative

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    “The Catered Creative is a monthly craft subscription kit for individuals who love to be creative in many forms. Each month, we choose new creative skills to include in a craft kit that contains everything needed to complete one trendy Pinterest-worthy craft project. All you need to do is join us for the live tutorial and enjoy creating.

    • Live Tutorial with step by step instructions in The Catered Creative Community
    • Supportive, Non-Judgmental, Inspiring Facebook Community of Like-minded Creatives
    • All materials and tools included in that month’s craft kit
    • New Creative Skills to learn each month
    • Perfect for all levels of Creative Skills”

    14. Thoughts of Joy

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Crafted Faith Crate – Be creative. Be encouraged. – A subscription box for girls and women who love to be creative and want to grow in their faith. Each box contains two handmade craft kits plus all the tools and supplies needed! We also include a short devotional, a waterproof faith-based sticker, and a set of matching Bible verse art prints – one for you to keep and one to gift to a friend!

    • Learn new skills and gain confidence in your creative abilities
    • Custom designed craft kits with high quality supplies and materials
    • Everything you need to create beautiful, inspirational crafts
    • Be encouraged to grow in your walk with Christ
    • Get inspired to dig deeper in God’s word”

    13. CSDS Vinyl

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Be inspired to create something beautiful! Our vinyl subscription boxes are perfect for any avid crafter, even if you or your friend are a beginner! Each vinyl sheet is carefully chosen to ensure that your finished design looks as fabulous as you imagined it to be. Mix and match any of the high quality patterns and colors to create your one of a kind finished project!

    • ADHESIVE VINYL ONLY : (3) 12×12 patterned adhesive sheets, (3) 12×12 specialty adhesive sheets, (4) 12×12 Oracal 651 adhesive sheets, (1) 12×12 Oracal 651 Transparent sheet, (1) 12×12 CSDS Vinyl Transfer Tape sheet sample This box has a regular retail value of $28.50 minimum.
    • HEAT TRANSFER VINYL ONLY: (3) 10×12 patterned HTV sheets with mask, (2) 7.5×12 Siser Easyweed HTV sheets, (2) 10×12 Siser Glitter HTV sheets, (1) 10×12 Siser Holographic HTV sheet, (1) 7.5×12 or 10×12 Siser or CSDS Vinyl Specialty HTV Mystery sheet This box has a regular retail value of $26.00 minimum.
    • ADHESIVE VINYL & HTV DUO: ADHESIVE – (2) 12×12 patterned adhesive sheets, (2) 12×12 specialty adhesive sheets, (2) 12×12 Oracal 651 adhesive sheets, (1) 12×12 CSDS Vinyl Transfer Tape sheet sample HTV – (2) 10×12 patterned HTV sheets with mask, (1) 7.5×12 Siser Easyweed HTV sheets, (1) 10×12 Siser Glitter HTV sheets, (1) 7.5×12 or 10×12 Siser or CSDS Vinyl Specialty HTV Mystery sheet This box has a regular retail value of $30.00 minimum.
    • Different patterns and colors chosen every month
    • High quality, name brand products such as Siser and Oracal”

    12. Smartass and Sass

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Themed shirts and boxes with hilarious products. Smartass & Sass is a gift and subscription service for snarky individuals and cynical a**holes. We hand-select products from artists and small businesses and work with manufacturers to produce brand-new items that are sure to make you giggle. Subscribers also help us decide on items and have access to a secret sale shop. Join our community today!

    • 3 subscription options: shirt, box, or shirt & box
    • 5-7 items per box
    • Items include: mugs, bags, notebooks, apparel, and more!
    • Shirts are soft-blend unisex and printed locally (size chart image above)
    • Ships internationally to Canada, Mexico, the UK, and Australia”

    11. Once Upon a Book Club

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    A unique, interactive reading experience! This is a reading experience like no other! Welcome to Once Upon a Book Club, the interactive and unique monthly book subscription! Each month, you’ll receive a newly released book and 3-5 wrapped gifts that are labeled with page numbers. As you read, you’ll be directed to open the gifts at the most important moments to bring the book to life!

    • Young Adult Box: For ages 14+, includes 1 YA fiction book, 3 to 5 wrapped gifts, a 5×7 quote print, discussion questions and read-a-long dates for live discussion, and gift opening with fellow readers
    • Adult Box: For ages 18+, includes 1 Adult fiction book, 3 to 5 wrapped gifts, a 5×7 quote print, discussion questions and read-a-long dates for live discussion, and gift opening with fellow readers
    • All individually wrapped gifts are labeled with page numbers, not to be opened until that particular page”

    10. Succulents Box – Monthly Subscription Box

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Organically Grown Succulents Box – Let’s Go Green – Succulents Box is the perfect product for succulents lovers to indulge their love monthly! Add greenery to your home and improve its air quality with our variety of succulents. All succulents are 2” in size with 4 different varieties sent each month. We also offer an air plant subscription box with a different air plant each month.

    • Great surprise gift idea for that special someone who wants to go green!
    • We offer flexible options of 1, 2, 3, or 4 succulents of 2-inch size each month
    • Quality Guarantee: We only ship the healthiest plants and provide detailed care instructions for each plant
    • Satisfaction Guarantee: We will refund or send a replacement if you are not happy with the plants
    • No accessories included. The pots in the pictures are just for demonstration purposes”

    9. The Hopebroidery Box

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    The Hopebroidery Box: For All your Stitchy Needs! – The Hopebroidery Box is a monthly subscription service for hand embroidery! Each month, I send subscribers everything they’ll need to complete that month’s project, including a stitch by stitch video tutorial. You can also choose the mini box, which includes just the pattern and tutorial link.

    • Choose between the big box ($45, includes at least $45 worth of hand embroidery materials delivered to you monthly) or the mini box ($12, includes the digital version of that month’s pattern + the video tutorial, but no physical items).
    • Boxes are sent out on or around the 4th of each month – boxes purchased this month go out next month (for example, if you sign up at any point in June, your first box will go out in early July)!
    • Share photos of your progress by tagging me (@hopebroidery) and using the hashtag #hopebroideryBOX!
    • Need extra help with your project? Not a problem – contact me directly via email, and I’m happy to help!”

    8. On The Go Mom Box

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    On The Go Mom Box “Treat yourself, You deserve it” – On The Go Mom Box was created to inspire, motivate, and encourage the everyday modern-day mom all around the world. Our monthly subscription boxes are catered to moms from all different walks of life that are simply trying to juggle it all while being the best mother possible. Within each box, you can expect to receive 4-6 items each month.

    • Health & Wellness
    • Beauty & Skin Care
    • Snacks for the Go
    • Home Storage & Organization
    • Tips & Tricks on being a Busy Mom On the Go”

    7. SnackSack

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    What’s included in SnackSack each month? At SnackSack, we’re kicking unhealthy snacks to the curb. Each monthly collection of smarter snacking is carefully curated from 10-15 amazing brands. We center every month around seasonal themes and flavors you have to try. Choose from 4 Snacking Plans: Classic, Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Workplace. Smarter snacking starts right now!

    • SnackSack is all about discovering new healthier snacks, delivered directly to your home or office!
    • You’ll find 11-15 unique brands every month, always centered around seasonal themes and flavors.
    • Every month is a brand new surprise of smarter snacking, sure to delight your tastebuds.
    • Pick from 4 unique Snacking Plans: Classic, Vegan, Gluten-Free, or Workplace.
    • USPS 2-3 Day Priority Mail is included with every month at no extra charge!”

    6. Tea, Simplicity Teas: Tea with intentions

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    “Join the tea of the month club. Life is too short to drink bad tea. Take the quiz to get a custom made subscription just for you! Your first box comes with a unique tea infuser. Great way to try & discover new teas. Multiple packages to choose from to fit your drinking needs! Makes a great gift! Join the 8,000+ people who love us!

    • #1 rated in customer satisfaction from tea lovers like you
    • Beautifully and thoughtfully created – makes the perfect gift!
    • All organic teas- comes with brewing and tasting instructions
    • Comes with reusable loose leaf tea infuser
    • Take our quiz to personalize your box! Unique blends- discover a new favorite!”

    5. Cattitude Box – Monthly Subscription Box for Cat Ladies

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    The purrfect subscription box for every cat lady – Hello Cat Meowmy! We’re the cat’s pyjamas of cat subscription boxes, treating you and your kitties to premium, unique gifts every month. Discover handmade toys and accessories from independent British makers and designers who create exclusive designs for our box only. We also care for cats in need, donating a portion of our profits to cat shelters.

    • Quirky cat-themed lifestyle/home accessories – our theme changes each month and our subscribers look forward to the experience. Check out all our past boxes in our box showcase. Our April box was inspired by Alice in wonderland and was sold out within 48 hours, our latest box was inspired by David Bowie (or should we say David Meowie!) which was our most popular box this year! We also have some ameowzing themes planned this year – such as Purrs from Paris, Pumpkin Spice & All Things Nice – we absolutely love putting these boxes together and we hope you’ll love them just as much!
    • Discover Independent British Brands & Artists that you might not have come across yet (but should totally check out!). We love good humor and pun – a lot of the items (that are commissioned just for the box) reflect it.
    • Our box is very much by the cat ladies and for the cat ladies. You won’t find anything in this box that we won’t give to our cats. All the cat food/toys that you’ll find in the box have got paws of approved from our 3 pampered puss.
    • You have options to swap cat food/treats for toys if your cat is fussy – we totally get this!
    • We can’t wait to welcome you to our cat lady family, you’ll fit right in!”

    4. Wild Woman Box

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Fuel Your Wild Side! – The Wild Woman Box is a monthly subscription curated with gear, inspiration, snacks and body products to support your busy and active lifestyle. Our mission is to make adventure and the outdoors inclusive and accessible for ALL women! So what are you waiting for?!

    • Natural Body Products
    • Hand Picked Inspirational Items
    • Wild Woman Exclusives
    • Outdoor Gear
    • Snacks to keep you fueled”

    3. Night In Boxes: Date Night In & Kids Night In

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Everything you need to enjoy a night at home. – Each Night In Box includes everything you need to enjoy a night at home, no planning required. Whether you select Date Night In Box or Kids Night In Box you’ll receive several activities, snacks, conversation starters, custom recipes, a Spotify playlist and more.

    • Each box contains several activities with all the items needed
    • Uniquely curated themes each month
    • No planning required
    • Optional faith add on”

    2. Spiffy Socks Subscription

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    “The most comfortable, hygienic, stylish, and sustainable pair of socks you’ll ever wear. Learn the advantages of wearing socks made of bamboo fiber and why it compares to no other.

    • Super Light and Comfortable – Twice as soft as cotton!
    • Natural Antibacterial Fighting Qualities – Wicks away moisture and combats odor naturally
    • Thermo-regulating Abilities – Warms comfortably on the cold days but stays cool when it’s hot
    • Shock and Wrinkle Protection – Spiffy Socks are naturally durable and never require any type of ironing
    • Free shipping within the United States!”

    1. Muse Illuminate

    These are my TOP 20 Favorite picks from the CrateJoy Website for subscription boxes! This list is packed with pure gold subscription boxes!

    Best Selling Self – Help Personal & Business Box – The result of Muse Illuminates monthly boxes is to help entrepreneurs and everyday people feel self empowered, more focused & prioritized, become productive, grow their business & skills and to be a better person. We are looking for ambitious individuals that want to take their personal growth to the next level. If that’s you then you’re in the rig

    • NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS- Receive a brand new New York Times bestseller book with an explicit intention to help you in your personal and professional life.
    • PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES – Each month you will receive personal development tools such as journals, workbooks, pens, customized worksheets created by our team all dedicated to a specific monthly theme.
    • EXCLUSIVE WORKBOOKS AND GOAL ORIENTED ACTIVITY SHEETS-Each month you will receive 3-5 exclusive worksheets curated to help you reach your goals faster by helping you stay on track and on task to reach your goals.
    • You will receive the ultimate personal development seminar experience delivered monthly to your door, our boxes are crafted with you in mind, loaded with lots of tools and resources to help you create the absolute best version of yourself.
    • LEARN GROW BECOME- Obtain the tools you need to get you one step closer to your goals. Learn from the best mentors, grow your mindset and become the creator of your life.”
    Whew! I hope that you enjoyed my collection of my favorite subscription boxes for gifts (or for yourself!) If you have any comments, you can leave them down below and I’d be happy to reply to your thoughts and hear your suggestions on your favorite boxes! 💕
  • CrateJoy Review Q&A – A gift for EVERYONE on your list!

    If you have ever been at an absolute loss as to what to get someone for a gift, join the club… CrateJoy is about to solve all your problems in the most fun and fascinating way!

    Thanks to the internet and having just about anything you could possibly want to be delivered to your house in as little as 2 days… and 2020 has made traipsing out for a day of shopping nearly impossible… It is time to get crafty with new ideas and ways to still celebrate the people that mean the most to you in your life!

    Today, we’re talking about subscription boxes and I want to answer the most common questions so you can decide if it is a right fit for yourself or someone you love…

    What are subscription boxes?

    If you haven’t heard of subscription boxes before, it is like a mystery box that gets delivered to your door every month.

    You can use it as a way to treat yourself, or buy them as a perfectly curated gift for someone else.

    The pricing for each month is the same but what is inside each box changes month-to-month. You’ll get a new surprise delivered each month!

    While the contents change, you usually pick a larger “theme” for your subscription service… For example, a ‘Awesome socks’ subscription box that comes with obviously the coolest pair of socks every month! (It started out as gag gifts, but now my husband and my dad both have so many pairs of cool socks… and you know what? they LOVE them!)

    If you're thinking of subscription boxes, check out my review of one of the most popular subscription box websites right now - CrateJoy

    What is CrateJoy?

    CrateJoy is a website that is like an internet hub of ALLLLLLLLL kinds of subscription boxes. It is a can’t-go-wrong platform of information that you can use to source out the best subscription box for your needs.

    Here is how it works:

    1. Click here to the Cratejoy website
    2. Choose a category for the subscription box that you might be interested in to narrow down your search. (You can choose anything from beauty to crafts, art, novelty, etc… even search just for men, women & kids boxes!)
    3. Look through the listings that come up until you find one that you think is a good fit.
    4. Check out the pricing information, look at further details, and check the reviews from past/current customers
    5. Make your decision and sign up for the subscription by paying your first month’s payment.
    6. That’s it! When it is time for the delivery date, you’ll receive your first box of goodies!
    7. Note that depending on when you sign up, you may have to wait a few weeks for your box as these boxes ship out in bulk at the same time each month.
    8. You’ll continue to get a new box of themed goodies every month until you end your subscription!

    It’s really easy, cool, and a lot of fun!

    kids subscription boxes

    What kinds of themes are there to pick from?

    Um, only absolutely everything under the sun!

    Men, women, children, teen, crafty, food related, hobby related, books, beauty, fitness, wellness, even pets!

    We have personally tried the monthly salsa club (my husband’s favorite gift from my mom ever) and I’ve given several boxes as gifts too.

    If you're thinking of subscription boxes, check out my review of one of the most popular subscription box websites right now - CrateJoy

    Let’s look at quilting/fabric themed boxes…

    Oh yes, there are so many on CrateJoy!… but let’s take a look at my top 3 favorites just to give you an idea of the fun that awaits you!

    Stash Builder Box

    If you're thinking of subscription boxes, check out my review of one of the most popular subscription box websites right now - CrateJoy

    A Monthly Quilting Subscription Box With a Cause -Cotton Cuts is a monthly quilting box that takes 20% of proceeds to make quilts for kids in need. Your purchase helps make a difference for kids in need. Every month, get THREE 1-yard cuts from a new modern fabric collection, a spool of Aurifil thread, our signature pencil and a bonus box-exclusive quilt pattern that is unique each month!”

    Where fun begins!

    If you're thinking of subscription boxes, check out my review of one of the most popular subscription box websites right now - CrateJoy

    “This subscription box is for fabric lovers. Fabrics are a work of art. Some are stunning and some are just useful. Fabrics come from professional designers who use colors, designs with fabric to make the most interesting and beautiful projects. You won’t be unhappy with our choice. 100 % Guaranteed. On occasion there are extra gift.

    • We are committed to bring you the best and keep customers loving their boxes.
    • Careful choosing, thinking and planning about what we send.
    • Our boxes will be of more value than what you pay. We love to add extras.
    • This will be a quilters haven. Are you ready?”

    Patchwork Parcel

    If you're thinking of subscription boxes, check out my review of one of the most popular subscription box websites right now - CrateJoy

    “Whether you’re a confident beginner or a seasoned quilter, Patchwork Parcel will satisfy your craving for gorgeous traditionally-inspired quilt fabrics. The Fabric Bundles contain 4 coordinating fabrics + free goodies. Subscriptions start at $24.95/month with a discount for 3-month plans and can be canceled at any time.

    • Top-quality quilt shop fabric
    • Fabric Bundles contain 4 fabrics in either a half-yard or full-yard cuts package plus a free notion or two.
    • Traditionally-inspired cotton fabrics from recent collections”
    OK just kidding… I have one more favorite that I really want to share with you because it is amazing. The quilts that I have seen come in this kit are absolutely… LEGIT!

    Legit-Kits

    If you're thinking of subscription boxes, check out my review of one of the most popular subscription box websites right now - CrateJoy

    “Your sewing machine + Legit Kits = ArtEach month you will receive printed materials, detailed foundation pattern sheets for 5-6 quilt blocks, and all the Robert Kaufmann Kona solid fabric to complete this quilt top over the course of a year (64 blocks total). Each large quilt top finishes at 60 inches wide by 80 inches long and is made of 70-100 different shades of solid fabric.

    • Fully printed paper piece pattern on foundation paper.
    • Every fabric you will need, clearly labeled.
    • Detailed assembly guide, cutting guide, and instruction sheets.”

    You can check out CrateJoy’s Top Selling Boxes here.

    What do I like about subscription boxes?

    I don’t do it very often, but… If I am getting one for myself, I love that the theme is something I am interested in but the contents are a specially curated mix of items that I know I’ll just love.

    If I am buying one for someone else, then I still love it because I pick something that is within their realm of interests and CrateJoy does the rest! It is easy and stress free! It so turns into a surprise for both of you!

    What if I don’t like surprises?

    If you can’t tell… I DO like surprises! – But if you would rather know what is in your box each month there are supscription companies that give you hints and will even show the contents of each box monthly so you can decide if you’re in or not.

    You can also shop for past subscription boxes that there may have been extra product created. – this is a little harder to find and may take some internet sleuthing to find, but it is possible!

    Do you have to sign up for a full year?

    This is a really popular question. Especially if you’re looking at getting someone a gift!

    Within CrateJoy, there is the option to “Give as a Gift” and THEN you can select exactly how much you want to commit to. You can do 1 month, 3 months even 6 months… each box may have different suggested time frames, but the idea behind it is you sign up for ONLY what you want.

    If you do choose to sign up for multiple months, you don’t have to pay for it all at once either. Usually, you will be charged the agreed amount each month before your product ships.

    What can I expect in my box?

    This definitely depends on the box theme that you choose! In every single box that I have received, there is the value that I paid for it… and then there is the actual retail value of the box (which is often much higher than the first number).

    Subscription box companies have the ability to buy in bulk and get a much deeper discount on items than buying just one at a time or in smaller quantities. A cool bonus for you and me, right?

    So you’ll get a box of items related to your theme that add up to a greater value than what you paid for the box!

    Below are a few videos of some quilting boxes that I have reviewed on my YouTube channel and you can watch the unboxing! Note: I’m such a nerd for surprises… and would never rehearse an unboxing video so what you see is what you get haha

    Creative Notions Subscription Box
    Quilty Box Subscription Box – Tula Pink Edition

    My honest opinion (and you know I will always be honest with you!) is that I really do love subscription boxes.

    CrateJoy has the motherload of subscription boxes to choose from! It just makes it easier to find the right one and know that you’ve made the right choice too.

    If you have any particularly favorite subscription box recommendations, let me know down in the comments down below. I would LOVE to hear about them!