Your Craft Room Questions Answered: Issue 1: Not Enough Space
“I don’t have enough space!”
Do you struggle with maximizing the efficiency of your limited crafting space? We are here to help! To assist you in making the most of your small space, we have compiled a list of five factors to consider when mapping out your craft area.
Going Vertical
If your floor space is minimal, consider thinking upwards! Taller storage units provide fully functional organization while keeping their occupied floor space to a minimum. Going vertical can also allow you to create a more functional space catered to your crafting habits. Keep the items you use most often towards the middle of your tall shelves so that you don’t have to bend down or stand on your tippy toes to reach them each time.
Think about units like the IKEA® Kallax or our new Stamp Case Tower, which allows you to store your stamp cases or Stamp-n-Storage IKEA®-compatible products 7" depth or less.
Maximizing Desk Space
For many craft spaces, the desk is the piece of furniture that takes up the most space. Desks are primarily looked at as a workspace, but they are also incredibly useful for storage and organization, especially when you think above and below your desk!
When considering storage above or on top of your desk, consider storage solutions that are shallow so they don't limit your workspace. Stamp-n-Storage Ink Pad Holders, Marker Holders, Punch Holders, and Ribbon Shelves are great options. Plus, having storage right in front of your workspace keeps your desk clear from clutter. You can use a supply and then replace it back to its storage spot once used.
When planning storage below your desk, Stamp-n-Storage Desk Bases are perfect for both paper storage and drawer storage. Drawers are particularly helpful for storing smaller supplies like tools and embellishments. For maximum efficiency in your drawer organization, consider using crafty storage jars or a grid storage system.
Check out these Studio Showcases for more inspiration!
Making Room for Friends
When planning your craft space, it is important to consider the other people who will be impacted by it. Think about if you usually craft with friends or on your own. Also, if the room you are using is multifunctional, think about how to best integrate your craft supplies into the existing functionality of the room. Some crafters have found that creative solutions like Murphy beds can allow you to easily transform a room from crafting to hosting guests. Don't be afraid to get input from friends, family, or anyone else who will be using the space. Use your creativity and be realistic about the space you need. Take a peek at how Studio Showcase winner, Kristy, created a fully functional guest bedroom, office, and crafting studio all in one!
Considering Wall Space
Do you have a wide desk or another piece of furniture taking up space low to the ground? If so, it’s time to look at your wall space! Wall-mounted shelves and storage pieces are great for keeping your supplies easy to access, but not in the way of your existing furniture. Check out our variety of wall-mount optional pieces here!
In Your Closet
If your craft space is a repurposed guest room, bonus room, or any space with a built-in closet, consider utilizing that space for concealable craft storage. The tall and shallow dimensions of most closets allow for maximum organization with minimal space. And the best part? When you want to use the room for another function like hosting guests, simply close the doors and your space is like new! When using a closet for organizing your crafts, remember to keep your main supplies at an easy height to access and put away. Consider putting bulkier or lesser-used supplies in places that are a bit harder to reach. Avoid using hard to reach bins that keep your supplies buried. Instead, choose storage solutions that maximize the space, while still keeping supplies easy to access.
Thanks for reading the first issue of our new series: Your Craft Room Questions Answered: From Chaos to Organized with Stamp-n-Storage. Stay tuned for more answers to your biggest craft room conundrums, and get ready for Issue #2 where we dive into the secrets to a successful craft room purge!