Whether you have a big space or a tiny table I think we can arrange tools, supplies and artwork to encourage creative creation.
I have moved my studio 3 times in the last 5 years, from a shared space to a huge factory loft, to a small apartment and back to the shared space.
Each space has advantages and disadvantages. I am happy to be back in a shared space – nice to have other people around.
They all needed:
- Accessible storage for supplies
- Computer and printer space
- Active design and display ares
- Storage for tools not in use
It is a big benefit to have a “slop” sink and floors that are not precious.
The things that I have found most useful for organizing:
- Plastic boxes that can be stacked and made into table with an old door on top
- Cardboard boxes that are labeled and that fit on my shelves
- Filing folders are great for small prints
- Plastic salad containers – stack and nest supplies
- Jars and cups for pens and brushes and stuff
- Suitcases with wheels for fabric, frames and more
- Tacks and binder clips for displaying prints in progress
- Bed boosters to make workbench a better height
- Lots of shelves
- Cube shelves for easy access to papers
- Big sheets of foam core to make a temporary table
- Ironing board – an adjustable table
- Clothes lines for prints and fabric
- Big standing bags for storage that is accessible – rags, threads
- Comfortable chair or couch for breaks
- Hooks, nails for rulers, tools and brushes
I would call my space controlled chaos. I go from comfortable working space to overwhelming mess and back to comfort. It helps to let go of tools and papers and prints that I don’t use or love.
I have come to realize that there will always be more and by letting go, I am making open space for something new.
Be inspired by other’s studios on my Pinterest board.
Enjoy!