Craftfully Made

Before you begin crafting think through your space and determine where you will craft.  Don’t let a lack of space stop you from starting a project or two.  A card table, kitchen counter, or even the floor will work.  No matter how much space you have, it is important to get organized before you buy any tools or supplies.  Here are a few questions to think about as you get started:

•Where will I store supplies?  This is your first chance to get creative.  If you have one shelf in a linen closet claim the territory with decorative contact paper.  If you have a whole room to work with, divide the space into small work areas.  You can repurpose an old dresser or a desk allowing you to keep organized with multiple drawers.

•How you will stay organized?  Depending on the type of crafts you enjoy, there will always be left over supplies that can be used for your next project.  Don’t be wasteful, be organized.  You will also require some basic tools that will need to be stored.  Use plastic bags, Tupperware, baskets, plastic envelopes, or any other storage containers from around the house to keep supplies in their place.

•What type of crafts will you be doing?  The world of crafting is overwhelming.  There is scrapbooking, knitting, pottery, painting, baking, interior decorating, candles, or even jewelry.  Limit your range of crafts as you start out so you can build your inventory of tools and supplies.  Plan out your projects and build a supply list before you head to the craft list.  You will save time AND money.  Talk with friends to see what crafts they enjoy and exchange craft supplies instead of buying everything new.  It is a big disappointment to invest in a hobby that you are no good at.

Think about a builder’s workshop or a mechanic.  Their job is miserable if they are always looking for tools or they are missing parts.  Crafting is the same.  If you are always looking for glue sticks or ribbon you will get frustrated and give up.  Make a plan and get crafting.

Here is a look into my crafting world.

Key Components:

Closetmaid 9-Cube Organizer with fabric drawers to allow a variety of storage options, magazine files to keep ideas together, and a re-purposed dresser to house all my wrapping supplies.