Sunday, September 18, 2011

Organizing Craft Supplies


As I've said before, I've been bit by the crafting bug. But now I can't stop! I got started on a project tonight but before I started I thought I should get my fabric into some sort of organized manner. So that is what I did. And the fabric above is just a small representation of my stash. it doesn't even show all my home dec fabric, fleece, corduroy, satins, silks, and broadcloths. Remember that I worked at JoAnn Fabrics off and on for 10 years, you can just imagine how much I've accumulated over the years with my discount. To think that when I went through a divorce 6 years ago I had about 5 times as much but I donated most of it because I had no room for it when I had to move into an apartment. Now 6 years later I'm happily married, down to working only 30 hours a week, have lots more room, and am ready to craft!
I have a pretty big walk-in closet in the guest room where I store many of my craft supplies. I also store all my beading and jewelry making supplies under the bed in that room in a super big, under the bed storage bin. I keep everything in Ziploc bags (various sizes) so I can see everything at a glance. It works for me. I like to make the most of my space. Unfortunately I don't have a room to call my own for crafting. Does anyone have any great storage ideas? I do find that plastic bags, big Rubbermaid storage bins, and the smaller, clear clothing and shoe bins are very helpful. I'm looking for all the advice I can get!

Below you will see a picture of the project I am starting now. Do you see a pet theme happening here?

15 comments:

  1. Your organized fabric looks great. And I am intrigued by your new project. Organizing tips, hmmmm.... I like to re-use tins such as altoids (for small sewing items like pins, etc), or those large popcorn tins for items such as paints, elastic, and so on.

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  2. Being organized before beginning projects sure is great! Less time 'looking for something' and more time creating!! :) Can't wait to see your finished project, looks like it's going to be fun!

    For storage, I also use zip lock bags and plastic storage bins (big and small). I store my clay in plastic bins.

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  3. I try to organize my sewing supplies but everytime there are still things I can't find. I guess I just don't use them enough.

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  4. I need to do some organizing myself! But I don't think I can show my "before" pictures...LOL :)
    I'm a fan of plastic baggies too. They're great for storage and bringing small projects in my purse.

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  5. I need to organize too...Thanks for the motivation.

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  6. I love organizing my craft space and then start working on a new project!
    I can't wait to see what you're working on!

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  7. I'm impressed with that "after" photo!

    My organizational tip: Think about what the supply item is and how you use it before deciding how to store it. So my small sterling silver jewelry supplies get stored in small see through containers. Since it's much harder to lose yarn, it gets stored in a large basket; providing decoration and inspiration.

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  8. I definitely need to organize my craft space as well. Yours looks great!

    http://a-arte-do-artesanato.blogspot.com/

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  9. Is it going to be a dog bed? I also save left over cookie tins and use them for storing small projects that are in progress. I don't have a studio or craft room either; that is my dream!

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  10. Where do you find the time! Looks great!

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  11. I see I'm not the only one who was busy cleaning up and organizing the craft area. I use a lot of the clear plastic containers to store stuff. I also like to use baskets.
    I think if I worked at a Joanne I would go broke...lol

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  12. I use the rubbermaid type drawer stacks, plastic containers, and all of the cabinets in my craftroom. aaaand bead boxes. Looks like you have yours under control :)

    What are you making??? Doggy pillow? Doggy blanket? Am I close???

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  13. I need to organize and love the before/after pics! So far I just have scrapbook paper and jewelry making items all in two storage bins. They are not organized or easy to access (so they are not being used at this time.. sad!). I did just reorganize our kitchen cupboards though! ;)

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  14. Craft supplies helps a lot for designer makers, craftspeople and hobbyists. They have the initiative to discover how things work and be creative. These attributes are very beneficial because creative activities, like doing kids crafts, are healthy and relaxing outlets. Thanks a lot.

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