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A properly organized craft room will give you the most time to enjoy the actual crafting whether you are sewing, quilting, knitting, or beading. Nothing will slow you down more than getting frustrated trying to find the supplies you need when you need them the most. With so many different types of supplies to store this can be a constant struggle here are a few tips to keep things under control.
An optimal height for most standing workbenches will be between 36 and 40 inches. Scientific studies suggest tables should be 80% of your elbow height for the least amount of strain on back, neck and arm muscles. You can block a table up with extensions or cut legs down to achieve suitable height. A comfy swivel chair you can adjust to your body type is essential for seated work station. Store most used tools in open containers on your work desk so they will be immediately accessible. Mount an adjustable light to provide plenty of light wherever you will need it. For finite work such as beading you might consider one fitted with a magnifying glass.
Clear plastic containers are great for storing your assortment of buttons, beads, pom poms, and dried flowers. Install plenty of shelving or stackable storage bins to maximize use of wall space. Cloth materials can be neatly folded and placed in clear storage bins of similar color and pattern. Alternatively you can hang up cloth on clothes hangers in a closet. Multi slack hangers will allow you to hang similar types of fabric on the same hanger. The advantage over plastic storage bins is being able to pull out a whole set and hold it next to your project to see which one goes best. Quilters will want to put similar colored fat quarters in drawers. Storing fabrics in a closet on clothes hangers limits exposure to sunlight which causes discoloration. Cloth sealed up in bins cannot breath. When hanging fabrics it is less likely for moisture to form and colors to bleed.
Maintain a neat and tidy craft room and it will continue to be an enjoyable place to hone your crafting skills to expert levels for years to come. Stay ahead of the game and do a little tidying ever day this way you will never be faced with the overwhelming task of sorting out a monumental mess. Be gentle but firm with yourself, as you develop these habits and you will find your efficiency increasing along with the quality of your work.
