5 Simple Ways to Stay Organized as a Crocheter (Plus a Free Project Log!)
Trish HoskinShare
If you’ve ever found yourself digging through project bags, wondering where did I put that hook? or trying to remember which yarn you used for a half-finished amigurumi limb… welcome. You’re in the right place.
Usually, crochet is creative, calming, and expressive. But staying organized as a maker can be surprisingly hard. Between the WIPs, pattern ideas scribbled onto scraps of paper, yarn hauls, custom orders, deadlines, and the constant flood of inspiration, it’s easy for things to slip through the cracks. And when they do? We lose time, we lose momentum, and sometimes we even lose that spark of excitement we had when the idea first hit. It has certainly happened to me too many times!
The good news: a little bit of organization goes a long way.
Today I’m sharing five simple strategies that can make a noticeable difference in your creative workflow, plus a free downloadable Project Log you can start using right away.
Why Crochet Organization Matters
Being organized isn’t about being rigid or perfectionistic. It’s about:
- Saving time you’d otherwise spend searching for materials
- Keeping track of project details so you can revisit or replicate your work
- Reducing overwhelm when you have multiple WIPs
- Protecting your creative energy
- Supporting your business (if you sell patterns or finished items)
When your space and your process feel clear, creativity flows much more freely.
Why Staying Organized Can Be Hard
Crocheters - especially those who design, sell, or constantly experiment - often juggle a lot:
- You might have multiple projects on the go.
- Yarn stashes tend to multiply like tribbles.
- Inspiration hits fast, and you’re onto the next idea.
- Tools get tucked into random project bags.
- Life happens, deadlines shift, and WIPs get pushed aside.
- ADHD and neurodiversity can add even more challenges to consistency and structure.
None of this means you’re “disorganized.” It just means crochet is a hands-on, multi-step craft… and creative brains are busy places.
5 Simple Tricks to Stay Organized as a Crocheter
Here are five strategies that don’t require a massive overhaul or a Pinterest-perfect craft room... just small habits that support your creativity.
1. Use a Project Log (Free Download!)
This is by far the easiest, highest-impact tool you can start using today.
A project log helps you track:
- Yarn brand, colour, and dye lot
- Hook size
- Pattern sources or notes
- Start and finish dates
- Adjustments you made
- Where the pattern is stored
- Progress notes for when you put a project down and come back later
This might seem like TMI though, so I created a super-simple free Project Log you can download and print. It’s clean, easy to use, and designed by a crocheter (me!) who understands what makers actually need.
In my upcoming vlog, I’ll walk you through how to use it effectively.
2. Keep a “Current Projects” Basket
Instead of scattering WIPs around the house (we’ve all done it), pick a single bin or basket or baskets for projects you’re actively working on this week.
It reduces clutter and makes it easier to grab what you need when you sit down to crochet. No more hunting.
3. Use Zip Bags or Pouches for Notions
Hooks, stitch markers, safety eyes, scissors, tapestry needles… these things love to disappear.
Use:
- Zip pouches
- Small makeup bags
- Pencil cases
- Craft organizers
Label them if you need to. Your tools should have a home, even if your yarn refuses to stay contained.
4. Take Photos of Your Yarn Stash
You don’t need a color-coded inventory spreadsheet (unless you like that kind of thing). A simple photo album in your phone labeled “Yarn Stash” works wonders.
This helps when:
- You’re at the store wondering if you have that shade at home
- You’re planning a new project
- You’re trying to match dye lots or check quantities
Visual organization beats mental organization every time.
5. Choose a Weekly “Reset” Day
It takes 5–10 minutes, tops.
Once a week:
- Gather your stray yarn balls and put away
- Put hooks back where they belong
- Add updates to your Project Log
- Put away WIPs you’re not working on
- Pull out the one(s) you are working on
This tiny habit prevents overwhelm and helps you start each week with clarity instead of chaos.
Your Creativity Deserves a Clear Space to Grow
Being organized doesn’t make you less spontaneous or less creative, it actually gives you more room to be both. With a few simple habits and a system that works for your brain, your crocheting (and your business, if you have one) becomes smoother, faster, and far less stressful.
Don’t forget to download your free Project Log and keep an eye out for the accompanying vlog where I’ll walk you through how to use it.
If you try the log or use any of these tips, I’d love to hear about it!