When was the last time you saw something that made you stop in your tracks, push everything aside and begin the mental gymnastics to find the time and fabric to make that item?
That was my response when I saw Ali Phillips of Arabesque Scissors, Smart Sofa Station.
The image above was one of many from her Etsy shop that sparked my interest.
Sewing On Purpose
What better purpose than to combine my two favorite spots – the beach and my sewing room. As the top image above is a perfect illustration of a quilter’s purpose. To be in a happy place (the beach) doing what you love (sewing / quilting) – what could be better?
However, when a sewing project comes along with the purpose to solve a problem you didn’t even know you had AND is also a work of art, creation becomes more intentional and purpose-driven.
Below is my first attempt creating my version of the Smart Sofa Station. It’s opened flat on a tabletop to give you a better view of the purpose of each section.
If you are one to watch a program or just enjoy being outside on a porch swing while doing hand work, THIS sofa (or chair) you will quickly discover how this station makes hand work relaxing and enjoyable.
It’s the true definition of efficient organization.
I’ve discussed organization techniques in the past and while any attempt is get, and stay organized is never really done in vain, I feel the most recent projects by Arabesque Scissors are the most aligned with the way I sew.
Smart Sewing Station V1
I’ve used mine a couple of times and will continue to say, the design is made for the way I sew. I’m able to quickly and easily locate each item as I need it. The magnetic needle minders (genius idea) keeps me from losing my needles and I no longer have to find them the hard and painful way!
All my messes are contained in one area and when I’m finished, I just fold it up (see the image below) and return it my sewing room!
Below are newer images showing how this looks placed over the arm of a sofa – or in this case, an oversized chair.
The sewing notions we often use are small, sometimes sharp and easily misplaced. The mess we make that eventually has to be cleaned up – the scattered threads and bits of fabric, makes you wish you had never moved from your sewing space.
Aside from the benefits of simply having a Smart Sofa Station in your possession, the process of making one is surprisingly satisfying.
Yes! It’s true! As you read through the pattern you will see there are many steps (and pages) but every word is designed to ensure you have a successful and stress-free sewing experience. The finished product is confirmation that the extra effort is what sets this organization tool apart from the others may have seen on the market.
If reading this inspires you to make your own Smart Sofa Station I would love for you to share your creation in the comments below!
More About Efficient Organization
If you are like me, the area around your sewing machine could use a little organization as well.
Being able to complete the smart sofa station has given me the confidence to contemplate creating my own Sewing Space Station. This another beautiful and thoughtful pattern designed by Ali of Arabesque Scissors. If this pattern is as well designed as her other patterns, The only trouble I anticipate is deciding what fabrics to use.
An example from her Etsy Shop is shown below.
Need More Organization?
Of course, you do, we all do!
Next on my “To-Do” list are the Add-on’s for the Smart Sofa Station : Pin cushion and Catch all cup (patterns again, available on her Etsy shop) and the Large Cargo Bay – available as a member of her “Sewflow” sewing and quilting community.
I’ve recently learned that the Large Cargo Bay, with or without the Smart Sofa Station, can serve as snack organization as well!
As soon as I finish mine, I’ll post the results – it should be sweet!
