Fabric Catalog Cards – PDF Printable

Description

Get your fabric stash organized with these catalog cards.  When I’m starting a new project, I try to use the materials I have on hand first, and that is way more likely if I can easily find and evaluate them.  Since I have quite a large stash of clothing and costume fabric, I created a way to look at them without digging through totes.  I prefer printing my cards out, and attaching a real fabric swatch, but you can do it digitally if you prefer. I’ve even included a spreadsheet file that matches the fabric cards, if you would prefer to be extra organized and have a searchable database. 

The card is set up to capture any information you might need or have. Don’t feel like you have to fill it all out.  At the top there is a place for the Item #.  You can create your own system, start with #100 or not number them at all.  On the top right is “Used up and De-Stashed” check boxes. I like to keep my old cards in case I have a question about a fabric or just want to go down memory lane. Just below that is “Storage Location”. You may wish to number your boxes or just note the general location, like secret lair. 

Below the fabric sample area is a description line.  Even though you have the fabric sample right there, I suggest you write down some basic notes in case the fabric falls off some day.  On that note, I like to use a glue stick or double-sided tape to hold me fabric samples on.  Warning, don’t use rubber cement, it discolors terribly over the years! (Ask me how I know that) 

Below the description is a section for fiber content and size, which is the most important part in my opinion. I need to know if I have 1 yard or 10 yards, because I certainly will not remember.   If you have several pieces, or they are oddly shaped, there is a place to note that too. 

The last section is about how you got the fabric / why you have it.   For example, where you bought it or who gave it to you.  When did you acquire it and for how much?  Next is your project plan. Did you have a plan for this fabric when you bought it? No? Join the crowd! But if you did, stick it here.  And the final line, is a record of what projects you have used this fabric in.  Super helpful when you have several similar fabrics, or you want to coordinate a new thing, with something you already made.

I hope you enjoy these fabric catalog cards as much as I do. It all started by just scribbling details of fabrics down on a card, but these make it so much easier, and help me not to forget any important information.