Stash Report - Week 39 of 2014

Wednesday will start the last quarter of 2014.  That means I will soon have to wrap up my accomplishments for the year at work.  Since my thoughts are already headed in that direction, I've been doing some thinking about my quilting accomplishments for the year and what I might want to change.  Starting with the stash report as that's what's on my mind this morning.  

I've been tracking my stash additions and subtractions for 4 years.  

It's a pretty simple graphic, what was bought, what was used, and the difference.  My job requires me to analyze a lot of data and make draw conclusions from it.  This one is pretty easy. 

I don't think that's going to change any time soon.  Obviously 2015 needs to look more like 2011 than 2014.  On the other hand, a lot of my purchases this year have been of tone on tone blacks and whites to use as backgrounds.  I've also filled in some of the colors I don't have much of.  Finally, most of my purchases this year have been made when fabric has been on sale.  Retirement is looming and it's hard to think that I'll regret having made these purchases when I'm living on retirement savings.  

Still, a bit of moderation next year is definitely called for. I could also do a better job of using up fabric.  That's really what I want to focus on in the future.  That probably means the 15 Minute Challenge is coming back next year, but probably not in the same format.  The challenge helped me get into the sewing room on a more regular basis and I definitely need some motivation in that area for 2015.  

So here's my plan for the rest of 2014.  Focus on fabric out, so that's all I'm going to report on my weekly stash reports.  The large incoming has become a big distraction for me, so though I'll continue to track it, I'm not going to focus on it.  Second, I'm going to work to find 15 minutes most days to get in some stitching time.  From experience that will help with using more fabric.  So starting on October 1st, I'm going to work on that goal. I'll report back on the 16th of October as to how it's going. 

Is anyone interested trying this experiment with me?  It would be a great way to get and stay focused on any holiday stitching you need to do now rather than having to find time closer to Christmas to finish all those gifts.  Let me know if you want to give it a try by leaving a comment.  If there is enough interest, I'll host a linky party so we can encourage each other. 

Oh yeah, the stash report.  

Used the last 3 weeks:  1.23 yards
Used in September:  1.23 yards
Used year to date:  20.49 yards

Let's see if I can make it to 40 yards out by the end of the year. For more stash stories, check out Patchwork Times.