Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Small accomplishments

One of the benefits of getting older is that you finally begin to understand how your brain works.

I know not everyone is like this, but for me, I have to know I've accomplished something to be able to accomplish anything. Like dusting the house because I'm supposed to dust? Nah, but if I leave it go until the difference between clean and dusty is visible, then I'll know I've cleaned. Make a small dinner or go all out? If I'm going to have to clean the kitchen either way, then all out is the way to go. Make a mess so it's worth the effort of cleaning it up.

Same deal with sewing. I can putter along endlessly on projects and never actually notice how much I've gotten done, but this year, I decided to be organized. Most of this "organization" came about because I decided to do the Fabric Fast on Patternreview, and I wanted to keep a running total of how much I was using. But I also wanted to start keeping better track of my projects and I knew that I wouldn't keep up with a notebook, so I "borrowed" an 18 x 24 piece of foam board from my office - they use the stuff for trial exhibits and then just keep it forever - and made myself a chart. The chart had categories: start date, yardage, notions, notes/ issues, whether or not it's been photographed and reviewed, and date completed. I actually kept up with it, and cut tiny swatches of the fabric to stick on the chart.

A few nights ago, I filled it. Since January 1, I've somehow made 35 projects, and used up (or donated) 103 yards of fabric. There have only been 3 true wadders, and the projects I haven't been completely happy with (but which are still wearable) have been documented as to why I'm not happy and what I could do to fix them if I make the patterns again.

In the beginning, it was pressure to write each project into the chart as I started, but as I went along I started enjoying it, seeing how many things I'd already gotten finished and how much I was actually working on at any given time. Now that I'm done, my only project last night was to make a new chart to start filling in this weekend.

10 comments:

CraftRage said...

I envy your organizational abilities!

Sherril said...

I can see how that chart would give you a sense of accomplishment. Much too organized for me, but thanks for sharing it anyway.

AllisonC said...

Wow,how amazing to be able to see what you have accomplished! I'm doing it in a more - er - laidback way through my blog and pattern reviews.

stacysews said...

Wow, you are so organized! Now you've got me rethinking how I structure my sewing, etc. - it's nice to see it all laid out infront of you!

cidell said...

Oooooh, I want something like that!

Dana said...

OMG, a new chart!!! The one I use is small and mostly tracks everything before I sew. I've been bummed out because in the last two weeks I've made three skirts and only one of them was on the chart. There's just not as much satisfaction if you can't put that little X in the finished column! I'm definitely adding yours to my sewing area.

BTW, congratulations on your accomplishments!

Claire said...

What a great idea! I may "borrow" it. Good for you on completing 35 projects and sewing/donating 103 yards of fabric. Be proud of your accomplishments!

Cennetta said...

This is a fantastic idea. I think I'll adopt your method for tracking my accompliments.

Gwen said...

Wow, that's a good idea. I've just about reached the point where I can't keep everything in my head - too many projects in different stages of completion... If imitation is the sincerest form of flaterry, then brace yourself to be very, very flattered! ;)

Tamara said...

I LOVE this! What a great visual of all your projects. I think I am inspired. And, WOW! what a lot you have accomplished this year. Can't wait to see what you will do the rest of this year.