For many people, labeling craft supplies is an essential part of keeping them organized and easily accessible. But for those who are blind or have low vision, keeping supplies organized and clearly labeled is essential to crafting independently. Fortunately, WayAround NFC tags can be used to label and organize a wide variety of craft supplies, including knitting and crochet supplies, stamps and paper, fabric, and paints.
To use WayAround to label craft supplies, blind crafters simply need to purchase a set of WayTag NFC tags, which come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The tags can be affixed to jars, bins, or other containers that hold craft supplies. In some cases, the WayTags can be attached directly to a supply. Using the WayAround app, crafters can then add text descriptions to each tag, describing the item or contents of a container.
For example, a blind crafter might have a container of thread that they use for various projects. With WayAround, they can label the container with an NFC tag and record a description that says, “Embroidery thread, organized by color.” They can add a detailed catalogue of the types and colors of thread stored in that container. Then, the next time they need thread, they can simply hold their smartphone near the tag and listen to the message to confirm that they have the right container.
WayAround is particularly useful for crafters who have multiple supplies that feel similar, such as different types of yarn or paints. By labeling each supply with a WayAround tag, blind crafters can easily distinguish between them and avoid confusion. Keep reading for tips to label and organize craft supplies.
Knitting and Crochet Supplies
Organizing your knitting supplies can help you keep track of your tools and materials, save time, and reduce stress when starting a new project. Before you start organizing, gather all your knitting supplies, including yarn, needles, stitch markers, tape measures, and scissors. Then, sort your knitting supplies into categories, such as needles, yarn, and accessories. This will help you keep track of what you have and what you need.
To help you find the right yarn quickly, organize your yarn by weight and color. You can use clear plastic bins or bags to store skeins and attach WayAround tags to them. Some handworkers prefer to use WayClips tied to the loose end of the yarn. The tags can include information about the manufacturer, color, dye lot, fiber content, and weight of the yarn.
Use a small, compact organizer to store needles and hooks, with WayAround tags attached to each section. The tags can include information about the size and type of each needle or hook, making it easy to find the right one for a project.
Consider using a knitting bag to keep your current project organized. A bag with multiple pockets can help you keep track of your tools, pattern, and yarn. Attach a WayTag button to the bag and add a link to the pattern, stitch tutorials, or other resources you may want to refer back to. You can also add notes to remind yourself where you left off, making it faster and easier to get started again on a project after taking a break.
Stamps for Scrapbooking and Making Cards
Organizing rubber stamps is important to keep them in good condition and make them easily accessible when you need them. There are a variety of storage containers available for rubber stamps, such as plastic drawers or clear plastic boxes with dividers. Choose a container that suits your storage needs and fits the size of your stamps. First, group your stamps by category, such as floral, holiday, or sentiment. Then label each container with a WayTag sticker including information about the type of stamps (e.g., rubber or clear) and the theme. You can also create a catalogue listing all of the stamps in that drawer or container.
Many stamps are large enough that you can add a WayTag sticker to the top or side of each stamp. Place the WayTag to help you orient the stamp. For example, you can place the WayTag closer to the top or in the top left corner. Add information to the WayTag to describe the stamp, where you purchased it, and any other information that will help you craft independently.
For paper supplies like scrapbooking paper, cardstock, and patterned paper, use clear plastic bins or drawers. WayAround tags can be attached to each bin or drawer, with information about the type of paper, the pattern, and any other important details to help maintain your system to organize craft supplies.
Fabric and Sewing Supplies
Fabric can be stored on bolts or in clear plastic bins or bags, with WayAround tags attached to each one. The tags can include information about the type of fabric (e.g., cotton, silk, or polyester), the color, pattern, manufacturer, and more.
Organizing thread for sewing and embroidery can be a challenge, especially if you have a large collection. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can keep your thread organized and easy to access. Start by sorting your thread by color to make it easy to find the right color for your project. Wind your thread onto plastic bobbins or cardboard floss cards. This will help keep your thread tangle-free and make it easy to store in your container. If the spool is large enough, use a WayTag sticker on the top to label the color. For smaller bobbins or floss cards, tie a WayTag button to the loose end of the thread.
Use a storage container that’s designed for embroidery thread. These containers often have small compartments that are the perfect size for storing floss. You can also use a plastic drawer or a small cabinet with drawers. Label each drawer or container with a WayTag sticker to keep track of your thread inventory so you know when you’re running low on a particular color.
Paints
Group your paint by type, such as acrylic, oil, or watercolor and store your paints in clear plastic boxes or storage cabinets with shelves. Choose the one that best suits your needs and the size of your paint collection. Label the shelf or a container with a WayAround tag to describe the category of paint. You can also include a catalogue of the paints inside.
It’s also a good idea to label each paint with the type of paint (e.g., acrylic or watercolor), the color, a link to where it was purchased, and other information. Paint does have a shelf life, so it’s important to check for expiration dates before using old paint. Add the expiration date to the WayTag to make this information easily accessible. If the paint has expired, it’s best to dispose of it properly.
To keep your paint in good condition, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing paint in areas that are exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, such as a garage or basement.
Keep a Craft Supply Inventory
If you have a large collection of craft supplies, keeping a catalog to inventory your supplies can be helpful. You can use a WayAround tag for each category craft supplies (e.g. yarn or paint) to create a digital inventory of your supplies. The inventory list can help you easily locate where a particular item is stored. Then, you’ll have to scan through fewer tags to locate the precise item you’re looking for.
Combining good organizational systems with a thorough, detailed inventory will help you quickly and easily identify their supplies without needing to rely on sighted assistance. By using WayTag NFC tags to label and organize craft supplies, blind crafters can enjoy the same level of independence and convenience as sighted crafters, making crafting a fun and rewarding experience for everyone.
For yarn, because often ends are not easy to get to, I use the Way Around 2 hole buttons with a lightbulb stitch marker to attach to the yarn.