It is obvious we all have somewhat similar methods that WORK FOR US. Everyone sews differently and prefers organization methods that are useful for them. You have to decide from all the methods above. Personally I don't save anything less than a 2 1/2" square. That would make me nuts, even though I do lots of applique and smaller pieces are useful in some applications. I can't deal with that, so in the trash they go. Yardage is on comic boards sorted by color. Folding over a 6" ruler is cheaper and just as effective, but I like the vertical (book) look on a shelf and it is easier to replace unused fabric. FQ are folded into squares that fit into ribbon boxes by color. See previous thread:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...s-t271101.html Smaller than a FQ, unless it is a batik, all batik scraps are in one tote, I cut into 2 1/2" strips, 2 1/2" sqs. or 5" squares as there are many, many patterns for pre-cuts. This is my method. Pick and choose what works for you and your style. Good luck. P.S. You are not alone. Even though I am pretty organized, I have three totes full of scraps from the past year waiting for me to cut and re-sort after the holidays. It is a never ending job and if you don't keep at it you will end up in the same boat as you are in now. For me, that is the hardest part as I am always anxious to start the next project!