When you start to outgrow your crafting space, or when you want to dedicate a space to your art and let your creative juices flow, design the space with a little forethought and consider what you have to work with. One of the keys to a functional working space is to make the most of what you have and utilize every inch of space. Get ready to create a room that works for you by asking yourself the following questions, then craft a plan to answer them.
How Much Space Will You Need?
When choosing the area for your craft room, remember that walls can be transformed into space for storage and supplies. Consider hanging pegboard to organize tools or materials or glue a magnetic strip to keep objects like scissors or other metal tools in easy reach.
Turn your supplies into wall art: Create rows of contrasting yarns or threads, or line up pencils by shade and display them for visual appeal. Hang tension rods or dowels from wall brackets and add a wrapping station.
What Kind of Work Surface Is Best?
A central work island is an ideal room anchor as it doubles as a flat-topped work surface with storage beneath. If that isn’t practical, a sturdy work table functions just as well. Fill the room beneath your table with fabric bins or other portable storage. Glue a measuring tape to the length of the table for easy measuring and cutting. If you find your table isn’t quite the right fit, adjust the height with blocks or PVC pipe on the legs, or try a corner desk instead.
How Will You Store Your Materials?
Multipurpose storage cabinets have the benefit of height to maximize space for sorting tools and supplies. Organize tools and materials in “stations” so you can work efficiently and devote more time to crafting instead of searching.
To further organize your room, use chalkboard labels to easily update containers. Utilize baby food jars to store small items like pins or buttons and unused kitchen canisters for larger things like brushes and pens.
What About Comfort?
You’re going to spend some time in this room, so it might as well be comfortable and work well for your needs. Consider the lighting you may need to work by, and whether or not natural light is your friend when choosing your space. Ensure the room is well-ventilated and the right temperature for your own comfort as well as the preservation of materials like paints or clays.
Add an adjustable height stool or ergonomic chair so you’re not straining while you work. Place a hat or coat tree near the entrance for hanging smocks or fabrics.
Your crafting room is where your ideas come to life, and a few simple considerations mean you get the most out of whatever space you choose. A comfortable room with a sturdy work surface and plenty of organized storage give you the freedom to express yourself each time you enter.