How to Organize a Scrapbook Armoire

If your scrapbook supplies have outgrown your handy Cropper Hopper and the dining room table, it is time to invest in a scrapbook armoire. Several specialty companies create scrapbook specific "scrap station" but a desk from the local office supply store can also be retro-fitted to create the perfect scrapbook armoire.

Things You'll Need

• Armoire
• Seat
• Protective Mat
• Lighting
• Tool Holder
• Vertical File Holders
• Floss Boxes
• Accordion File
• In Box
• Garbage Bin

Instructions

1. Take a seat. Since you want to scrapbook while sitting at your desk, it is best to organize from a seated position. You don't want to stand every time you reach for the scissors but you use your idea books less often, so they can be placed on the top shelf. Place your necessary items nearby.

2. Create your work space by laying down a cutting mat or protective mat. This is where you will assemble the bulk of your pages. Make sure the work space has adequate lighting and enough room to move.

3. Place your tools nearby. There are several containers that have been specifically created for scrapbook tools or a kitchen turn-about is another option. Place all your scissors, pens, adhesive, rulers, hammers, hole punches and other tools in this central location. Make sure they are easily accessible.

4. Sort your paper into vertical files. Paper can be stored overhead on a shelf but still easily accessible from a sitting position. If you are using an office desk, the space near the floor where the CPU is meant to go is ideal for paper files.

5. Arrange your smallest embellishments into floss boxes found in craft stores. These boxes are ideal for fibers, eyelets, brads, letters, beads or charms. Label the outside of the box and place it overhead or to the side of your work surface.

6. Organize your stickers, letters, chipboard and transparencies into accordion folders. Label clearly and designate a place for it on the desk.

7. Have a specific location for new photos to scrap as well as newly purchased supplies. This is your in box. Schedule a weekly filing time to put these new items away.

8. Set out a garbage bin or tape a bag to the desk's edge. Have a small box to keep scraps in for future use.

9. Start scrapbooking using your newly organized armoire. Keep it tidy by picking up after each scrap session or by the week.

Tips & Warnings

• Think out of the box for storage solutions. Film canisters, mint boxes, coffee tins and ice cube trays all make cheap and simple storage items.