Do you have files or boxes full of project ideas, templates, magazine clippings, sketches or patterns? I keep mine in my garage, craft room and even have some things in the hall closet. Recently, I thought to myself, “I know these jewels will come in handy one day if only I could remember what I had.” Since so much of what I do is digital and computer based, I knew there had to be a solution out there somewhere.



Fortunately for us rat packers, there is and it’s called “Rexan’s Craft Organizer: A Crafter’s Buddy”! When this software was presented to me, it sounded like a great idea that I just had to try. I searched through the website to find more information and also found a free download! As I played around with the software, here’s what I discovered.

The program is designed for crafters and allows you to organize all your craft files in one place that can be saved on your computer, a jump drive, put on a CD, or emailed. This way you can take all your files or select ones to crops or other craft groups or share them with friends via email. To save files, simply scan the image, view it to make sure it is correct, give it a description then save. After completing this process, if you’re brave and ready to clear out all those boxes of random paper, throw the paper away. Yes, you heard me right, throw it away.



Now, take a deep breath. Are you ready to learn more? Each file you save can be put into categories:

• Inventory: Keeps track of your craft items in detail so you know what you have just by opening the program. It’s easy to add more as you add more to your collection.
• Archive Scan: Lets you scan documents, save them and quickly edit or search for them later.
• Data Scan: Organizes documents and images and allows you to put them on a CD.
• Reports: Pull up any report to quickly gather information on any category.
• Viewer: Allows you to find and review items you have saved.
• Quick Scan: Lets you scan a document or image and save it to a disk, print it out or email it.

When I first tried the program it was a little confusing but with the quick start guide and instructions, I was scanning things in no time. It’s nice to be able to access my craft information right at my computer instead of digging through all those boxes and think of all the space you'll have for more craft stuff!

To find the products mentioned in this article and shown in these layouts, check with your local scrapbook retailer. Browse our Premier Retail Stores for coupons to a store near you.