How to Organize Your Craft Room

If you have a favorite hobby like quilting, doll making, sewing, scrapbooking or jewelry making, these tips on organizing processes are perfect for you!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Paper
• Pencil, marker
• Organizing containers
• Cardboard paper
• Measure tape

1. List all of your categories (each kind of item you craft). Group similar categories near each other (for dolls - eyes, wigs, lashes, are parts that should be near each other). Estimate the size of your grouped categories by the containers they are currently in.
2. Draw a rough map of your designated craft space or spaces (basement, garage, and kitchen space). If the amount of space you are currently using is not working for you or someone else in your household, design a space that will work for everyone in your home.
   
   Pretend the space you desire to craft in is completely empty. On your paper, designate an area for each of the groups or grouped categories.
   
   Make 8X10 signs on cardboard of each of the large group categories. The best kinds of craft spaces are set up like a craft boutique. Pretend you are setting up your craft categories to sell. How would you display them so that they look attractive enough to inspire the customer?
   
   Many creative people think they need to have an endless amount of choices available to them at all times. I believe too many possibilities creates clutter and disorganization and hinders the creative process.
   
   Be realistic and define your boundaries.
3. Pick one wall at a time and begin sorting what you currently have into category bins that are placed near the area you will be storing them. Sort each wall or area until all like items are together (this could take a week or two depending on your focus and time availability, so it would be great to call up a buddy for assistance).
4. Measure your final groups and the space you have designated for them. Purchase organizing containers at this point in the process. Put all the containers and items in their designated place.
   
   Definitely label all of your areas, and if you are open to it - label everything.
   
   Give yourself a "messy spot" for things coming and going. You make the rule about how many unfinished projects you will allow and the boundary for craft room touch-ups.
   
   As a professional organizer, I recommend no more than 3 unfinished projects at any one time. I recommend monthly touch-up sessions.