I don't maintain a fabric stash for a variety of reasons. I do keep larger pieces of leftover fabric but that's it in terms of fabric. But I do have a roll of batting on hand, just in case. And of course just about all the notions one could need.

I think the best thing to have in a stash is neutrals or whites. Sometime you can find nice blenders in your favorite colors and they can be added onto blocks of your color choice.

The one thing most of us agree on but too often forget to mention is -- chocolate!!!
I soothes the soul, encourages clearer thinking, helps creativity, and keeps all things in perspective. An essential component of designing, cutting, piecing, and quilting. :D :thumbup:

Jan in VA

Maybe some band-aids.
Nail file/emery board and nail clippers.
Lotion
Kleenex/tissues

Yes, bandaids - forgot all about those!!! (dont ask!)

I would have to say to never run out of machine needles. Other than hand sewing, one really can't sew/quilt without a needle in their machine. I say this because it has almost happened to me. I got ready to change a bent needle out the other day only to find out that I only had one needle left. :shock: Well, I had a few Jeans needles & some Metallica needles but only one everyday/quilting needle. Next time I'm in town I will stock up on needles.

I have enough fabric that I never have to wonder if I have enough for small projects. LOL

I love all the responses. Thank you for responding ��

I keep several different sizes of pins and clips on hand, extra sewing machine needles, and threads in neutral colors. I tend to put projects to the side when I finish the top because I never have batting, so I always try to keep an extra pack of batting plus safety pins in the closet or under my bed. If I am snowed in, I don't want to be breathing in spray basting fumes because I can't open the windows.

I always keep a small basket of handwork in my car's console for when I get stranded at work too. Sometimes I will sit out in my car and wait for a storm to pass or rush hour traffic to get off the roads before I try to drive home. It is always nice to sit with a little fabric and sew than worry about the roads.

Ps...always keep a spare rotary cutter blade somewhere!

Some people like to make their own "kits" for days like that. If you wash, iron, and cut the pieces ahead of time, that'll get a big chunk of prep work out of the way and you'll be ready to roll. Keep the pieces (labeled), pattern (or note to the link) with it, plus thread in a ziploc bag, label it, and put it somewhere easy to access.

I also like to keep a hard eyeglasses case stocked with a bobbin of neutral thread, small scissors, thimble, needle stuck into a small piece of batting (to make it easy to find), and a few Wonder clips. I can keep that case in my purse or by the recliner and pull out handwork when the mood strikes.