How to Organize Your Craft Room
Before Pictures of My Workroom
Storage Ideas in My Craft Room
Needless to say I spend a lot of time in my workroom. I am constantly straightening up, cleaning and trying to organize my stuff. However, I never really took the room totally apart and organized it from the inside out. I got myself in the proper mood feeling self righteous and lacking in emotions. I knew it was time to throw things away, and that alone creates feelings of unrest. Coming up with storage ideas in my workroom is a major challenge.
The room is very small and creating even less space is a queen size bed which we keep in the room for occasional guests. Moving the bed in the corner helped the space situation, so at least I can walk around the room. The bed is my reading, thinking and sketching place, and it normally has stuff spilling over the edges. I am really working on keeping this clutter down to a minimum. Trust me the bed rarely looks like the photo.
The nature of all art supplies--especially oil paints--are basically messy on their own and keeping them organized is a daily chore. I try to have the colors I use lined up so I am not searching before painting. I got that clue from an artist friend of mine.
You will note that the computer sits on the side of the table. I did move the computer to this spot to have more room for paints and a small easel; and I also get a view outside. No matter what the size of your room you can organize it to stay neat and tidy.
Organizing My Workroom with Little Storage Space
I emptied out the closet with all the art books, papers, extra supplies and just stuff. I dumped out the stuff from the small cabinet and put everything on the floor from the small cabinet and table. I could hardly navigate around the room with all stuff. However, I was pumped up to organize everything, especially if I ever wanted to enter the room again. I feel strongly that when everything is in a special place, it is an inspiration to craft, write, paint and have a peaceful place to be during the day. My basic problem here is that I love to have everything I use on a regular basis next to me.
I attacked the closet cabinets and put a large plastic bag next to me with hopes of filling several of these bags. I found things in the closet I haven't seen or even thought about for a long time. If it is out of sight it is often out of mind. I am now excited to try some pastels that I haven't worked with in a long time. I better leave them well displayed or I will forget about them again.
I found many books that I could put on the shelves in the living room, give away or throw out.
I took the time to go through papers to make sure there was nothing important and threw out what was not.
I now have a shelf for art magazines, one for art books, art supplies, canvases and other miscellaneous stuff. I dusted and washed the shelves and put everything back in its new place. I felt so happy with my well organized shelves and to find all kinds of unexpected treasures.
I am really happy to have the canvases, small frames and large books that I used to trip over now safely and happily put away.
The table where the paints and computer reside needs daily tending. I feel obligated to straighten the table everyday, well almost everyday.
After Pictures of My Workroom
Finding a Place for Everything
I use the small cabinet in the photo for current art supplies such as extra brushes and paints. I also have rags, tissues, pencils and marking pens inside when I need them.
I have three baskets that hold specific supplies. I have large cans and mugs for marking pens. brushes and pencils that I use frequently. It is such a treat to know where everything is. I try to keep my favorite brushes close by for just that reason. Sitting here writing, I just noticed how disorganized the cups, and containers for brushes and pens look, so you will have to excuse me while I do some work on them. I also notice that the baskets are in a disorganized state. I will be back soon. I also set up a two new files-one with ideas for paintings and a file with writing topics for hubs and other articles.
I am back from cleaning, and things look a little better, but I am still going to do more work on the baskets. As a painter or writer we need to have the tools of our trade close such as enough paper in the printer, notes we might use and a cup of never ending coffee.
The Right Mood
Make sure you are in the right mood for this project. It is a huge job especially if you are like me and tend to collect. Offer yourself a reward after doing a good cleaning job. Take a walk, relax with a cup of coffee, read a book. I mostly just kept admiring my handiwork.
The Finale
The big question is whether or not the room will stay organized. As I am one who often does not return things to their original home I do worry. I decided I would go through things once a week and make sure everything is where it should be. It also helps me to inventory my supplies. I am not a neat freak, but I think I have come up with some pretty good storage ideas for my little workroom.
My Husband's Side of the Closet
What Does Your Workroom Look Like?
Is your workroom well organized and clean?
The Serious Problems Caused by Clutter
- Clutter - the hidden costs
Clutter saps your time, energy and money, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. Learn about the hidden costs of clutter and how to fight them.
Cleaning and Crafts
- Lose Weight While Cleaning House
Clean your house and get in shape.You can actually have fun cleaning your house and get in a lot of exercise. - Spring Cleaning: Drawers and Closets
It is that time of year when thoughts go to cleaning. Time for spring cleaning and get your house in order. And then you will have time for fun things to do. - How You Can Clean and Organize Your Craft Room
Craft rooms are wonder places to lose yourself for hours doing what you love. It helps to keep it organized which will inspire your creativity. - Clean Your House in Record Time
House cleaning can be a mindless activity. It can also be a time you work things out that have been bothering you. House cleaning can be fast and still thorough. - Crafts With Kids on Rainy Days
Make alphabet cards with your kids.This is one of many fun crafts with kids. And you can pick the craft up at a later date and add new pictures.
Comments
Want to get your garage organized but do not have an arm and leg to spend on getting it done.
I am most happy working at my computer when everything is in place organization makes you feel free to work, thanks for the ideas
- AUTHOR
Thank you. Well as I am sitting in my room it looks like it may need a little help. Thanks for votes and visit.
I can see you were quite successful in organizing and decluttering your work space. It looks quite workable now. Great job.
Up and useful.
- AUTHOR
That could be a cold day in H... However I keep the side shut and wait until he is constantly looking for something. Thanks for dropping in and hope you have your room soon...I love it...
- AUTHOR
it is a task to keep the room reasonably neat. I just went over it this morning and it still cries straighten me up. However I have everything fairly organized. Thanks for stopping and votes.
I don't currently have a workroom, but when I do again, I will refer back to your Hub. I especially like the tips for psyching yourself up for cleaning and organizing and rewarding yourself for a job well done. You do have to be in the right frame of mind for this type of project! It is amazing what can be done to de-clutter a room with minimal storage options. You did a fantastic job! Now it's time to get hubby on board, right? ;)
Ha Carol, I just fixed up a workroom for myself. It's great to have a place where you can leave projects out. I told myself that I'd keep it neat and organized but who am I fooling? The whole reason I need one is because I need a place to hide my messes! great project, though, so voted up!
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Virgo..of course...I wish I was more of a neatnik,...I start out well and then forget to put things away. Thanks for compliments and dropping in.
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teaches12345 ...Thanks for dropping in..The biggest challenge is keeping the room organized.
Carol - Outstanding job on your project and you did a fine job. I am a die-hard neat freak, which drives my family crazy. Since you are informed on the signs, I am a Virgo - 15th day. I suppose this explains some of my anal need for extreme organization.
Again, wonderful job.
I have to have an organized space to write well. I keep my office very tidy and it helps me to think while writing. Great post on organinzing space.
Organization is a task that always needs to be done on a home. A small bit of effort goes a long way.
Well I'm only just getting it started. I used to sell he odd bit of vintage and handmade jewellery but the market is totally flooded at the moment so I wasn't making anything really. So I have decided to start a new paper craft supplies and paper home decore items store instead. Got myself a Cricut Machine which will be how I make most stuff. I'm hoping as card making and scrapbooking are popular I have found a decent market to tap into. It's just gonna take me a few weeks to make up some supplies, photograph everything and stock the online store. But maybe I'll hub it afterwards. And the office which is coming along slowely! Happy new year!
- AUTHOR
why not write a hub about your etsy store? I would love to hear how it works...and do hub your room. Thanks for dropping in ..always nice to have a visit from you. Happy New Year.
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nifwlseirff: My cats are older but occasionally find stuff to go through in my room. They are such fun to watch when they are tiny. Thanks for stopping by.
I am in the process of doing this with our spare/craft/office room! I am starting a little Etsy business as well as taking on more private copywriting work and my hubpages/online writing so really want to sort the room so it is tidy for proper work to begin in the in February! January has been allocated to organise, plan and stock my etsy store as well as covering lots of overtime in my day job and a weeks holiday, staying with my aunt in scotland! Yours is looking good now, but I know how hard it is to keep a creative space tidy, I like everything within reach, which of course is impossible! Maybe I will hub my office when it is finally done!
I've had to keep my surfaces clear with the arrival of two incredibly curious young cats, just before Christmas. They happily play with pens, knock over piles, and chew papers (and cables!) It has made my workroom much more enjoyable, for me at least! Although it's definitely a habit change, to put hobby and work supplies away after use!
- AUTHOR
not very big and has a queen size bed..So the space is limited..but I love this room and spend a lot of time here...in between life.
I definitely wish you luck.....how big is the room?
- AUTHOR
Thank you for dropping in with your kind words. You have a wonderful New Year and I think lots of good things for you.
Very informative hub. I learn many things here. I should follow your tips. Thanks for writing and share with us. Voted up and Take care!
Prasetio
- AUTHOR
thanks for the votes...and dropping by..Now just following my advice...I am in my room now and it has a new addition...a sewing machine...I am really crowded but it still is pretty neat...Wish me luck.
I especially like your suggestion of a weekly re-organization. I tend to put things back in their place, MOST of the time....using your suggestion will give us all a jump on the situation.
Voted up and useful.
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Thank you so much Eddy! I am looking forward to a new year..and new things. Thanks for votes and shares..So appreciated my friend. Back to you for a wonderful new year.
- AUTHOR
It is an ongoing challenge always. I hate putting things away...It is as if I might not use them again..so I like them out in front. Silly but true. Thanks for dropping in and hugs back to you
- AUTHOR
aviannovice: Sometimes taking a few extra minutes and picking up after we work...HAHA..That will never happen. Thanks for dropping in.
A Wonderful and useful share carol. I vote up and share all around . I hope you had a great Xmas and are looking forward to the new year.
Eddy.
Hi Carol... an ongoing challenge for me... just as easy to let it pile up and then one day say that is it and do it. I have learned though my workspace where I write must be free of clutter and organized... hate the mess...Great hub and lots of good ideas...
Hugs from Canada
Good work, Carol. It can be hard to keep things organized if one is in a hurry. I sure know that, myself.
- AUTHOR
We often have to dust off old crowns...Life is ever changing..thanks for the angels I always enjoy their visit. Thanks for stopping in and commenting...
It is so funny that I came across this tonite. I was just in my spare room which is totally unorganized right now. Space in my tiny home is at a premium so it does not take long for clutter to reproduce. It is also a play room for my grandboy so it is full of toys. O, my. I must get busy rearranging and moving things around.
I used to be known as the organization queen when I taught school I must dust off my crown and reinvent myself.
Thanks for sharing this...I WILL get busy now, Carol...
Sending you Angels...:) ps
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I know it never stays neat but we can keep trying.
- AUTHOR
Bill: Yes a clean room is important..not necessarily a clean desk..so they say. Thanks for votes and shares...And you have a wonderful and happy new year...here is to 2013 new success on HubPages.
Nice transformation. Really well-done. I enjoy organizing my home office once in a while, too. It usually gets messy again pretty soon, though! LOL
Carol. We definitely have a few rooms that could use a couple of these tips. I like to keep things in a nice tidy fashion and when "stuff" gets out of control I get a little unsettled. Maybe this weekend we'll tackle a room. What a great way to start off the new year.
Many thanks. Voting up, sharing, etc. Have a great New Year.
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I do know what you mean and we want to keep our passions of art or whatever our serious hobbies are. Thanks for voting up.
Excellent hub! We live in a small apartment so I had to make space for my art supplies, books and computer. It pays to be organized or I would never get to tackle my hobbies. Voted up.
- AUTHOR
Gotcha there..So do I!!!!
I love organizing my stuff. Even better I really enjoy throwing things away!
- AUTHOR
Isn't it a wonderful feeling to give and find your space less cluttered. It is much easier to monitor writing stuff than art stuff. Thanks for dropping in and I always enjoy the visit.
- AUTHOR
I am just like you. I am so organized and get into a cleaning frenzy..and never put anything back..as I have said a dozen times. However, I am doing so much better with neatness around me..Trust me it is not perfect. Thanks for sharing your similar dilemma..And for dropping in with generous votes and support!!!!
I have been in the organization mode for at least a month. I found so much stuff that i really didn't need, so i bagged it all up and gave it to The helping hands project in my town. I am sure my over-stacked items helped someone. I find it impossible to write in a messy place, so i not only helped me but someone else too. Thank's for sharing ideas..
Carol....I NEED you to come to my house! Please? LOL. What a huge positive difference it makes in more ways than one...when we finally have had enough of the "MESS."
I'm one of those who is up & down with this. I will put an entire day into cleaning, organizing, stacking and ridding myself of junk......and I'm so pleased with the end result.......until it begins to happen again. The only way it can remain perfect is if we lock the door and don't use the room or anything in it!! LOL!
Great hub.......This is one of those times I need help!! Thanks for giving me the push...UP+++
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I didn't really think about that..but yes it surely is. Workrooms have a way of being in continual chaos especially if you have lots of stuff you do there.
With the new year coming up this is a great project for most anyone.
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You know I find when it is totally disorganized I cannot function very well. I hate to keep looking for things. And then I get frustrated and do nothing..Thanks for stopping in and support.
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thanks so much. I know that I will be doing this over haul again at some point. I never keep anything organized for long. Thanks for visiting and comments.
- AUTHOR
YOu just need to know where everything is and have your mental filing system. Thanks for stopping in.
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Thanks peg..I know I go thru the spells also...I know in my heart if I had a huge room with tons of shelves I would be the same way.
- AUTHOR
Thanks billybuc: Painting supplies are tough though..There is often a mess. I am working on keeping the room somewhat organized. Thanks for stopping in and you know how much I appreciate your support.
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lovedoctor...I know how I hate clutter and mess and yet sometimes it just works out that way. Thanks for stopping in and comments.
You have inspired me to attack my studio, Carol7777! I am notoriously disorganized, and I spend way too much time looking for the things I want to use in my work. I would really benefit from a good stint of organizing and cleaning. You have hit the right time of year for this hub, too. This will be a great New Year's resolution - finally get that art room cleaned up and streamlined! Thanks for the inspiration!
I write and do my eBay thing amidst a lot of clutter. And, yes, it definitely shows up in my writing--my cluttered mind, that is. : ) Still, it is refreshing to read a hub that honestly demonstrates that this might just be a common occurrence. Thank you for presenting, in what appears to be a real time happening, a very organized and clutter-free article that will definitely help me and others. Well done, Carol!
My workspace is one big pile of stuff. I have way too many projects going on at the same time. Thanks for the ideas. I'm always hopeful that one day I will be organized.
Carol7777, These are great ideas for creating the right environment for creativity. I go through spells of being a neat-nik and later, when it slowly gets out of order and I organize again, it makes things so much better, being ready for when that spark of energy finds me and I sit down to work. Good read!
I simply cannot write if my room is a mess...I'm a bit anal that way, but I do believe that a cluttered room makes for a cluttered mind. Great suggestions....well in line with the Living Simple principles.
I'm always fixing my desk and re-arranging things around. My queen-sized bed takes up a lot of space. Personally, I can't stand clutter or mess. It takes up too much physical and mental space. I found this hub useful. thanks for sharing.
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