Using Pants/Skirts Hangers in Your Studio

I think we have all seen these hangers, either using them in our closet or inexpensively offered at garage sales, discount stores or flea markets.  If you have more space to hang items on a shelf, back of a door or in a closet for instance, these make great organizers.  I have displayed them as they might be used in a sewing or quilting room, but they would also work for paper crafting, jewelry etc.

My first example is using the pants hanger with hooks to organize a project.  I have, for illustration purposes, clipped bags containing buttons, beads, ribbon, and floss as well as larger bags to hold the pattern and fabrics to be used in this project.

The hangers with bars, especially the hangers that easily slip into and out of a loop on the end and will pivot forward to add or remove the spools.  I could really see this being used ribbons or for beading threads and wires as well.  Lots of possibilities with this hanger!  You can actually leave the spools of thread on the bars as you use (crochet, tat...) the threads if you have a spot to hang it that is close enough to where you work on your project.

Below is an example of hanging together smaller scraps of fabrics in coordinating colors.  You can see at a glance what you are looking for or just be inspired.  It is also a good way to audition fabric combinations for a project.  I find I am inspired when I see the fabrics in this manner and actually thought to myself that the green and lavender would be a great combination.

As an artist I love having all possible supplies easily visible, don't you.

I hope these ideas will be of use to you, especially if you are out of drawer space or just tired of digging through drawers to find those smaller pieces.  I love your comments, so please share your thoughts!

Organizing Seed Beads

Those tiny seed beads can be a challenge, especially if you have a large selection in various quantities.  Fire Mountain Gems, one of my favorites, offers some suggestions here:  http://www.firemountaingems.com/encyclobeadia/beading_resources.asp?docid=9718&doccat=articles&WT.mc_id=FBZ140625-01

I have shared some of my solutions previously, but here is a refresher:

Shallow shelving with jars such as baby food, spice, glass vials, apothecary, etc.

The see-thru containers shown below which I purchased at Michael's and/or Hobby Lobby.  The lids screw on the individual round containers and they fit neatly inside a rectangular box with clear lid.

I love the look of apothecary jars and they come in so many sizes!

Here is a spice rack I reworked and repurposed.  This is where I keep my holeless beads.

The above photo shows some outdated tubes and rack from a blood clinic.  They were never used and apparently have a shelf life.  Below are cigar tubes from a friend who liked his cigars but threw the tubes out.

I've seen the round containers (below) in a variety of places.  They come in different sizes too and fit nicely on shallow shelving.

Below is another container sold at a craft store.  It has separate containers within that would work great for seed beads.  I actually have three of these that I use to store findings.  One for silver, one for gold and one for copper.

The tubes and jars below currently contain glitter but would work equally well for seed beads.

These little containers are from an office supply store but I am beginning to see them in other places now.  I like that the lids can be secured.  These come in a huge variety of sizes to fit your needs.  You can even find larger ones to keep the small ones contained.

I hope this gives you some ideas!  How do you currently store your seed beads and/or other small treasures?  Feel free to share here either with comment or links.  I would also be happy to share your photos if you wanted to send them to me.

Update on Updated Office/Sewing Room

The second dresser has entered the room.  The drawers are packed and the top is full, but I still have more to bring in!  One entire drawer has velvets destined for a velvet crazy quilt, so I will get started on that soon and free up that space.  This is actually given me the incentive to make more.  As they say, "use it or lose it" and I am rather attached to my fabrics and supplies.  As for the top of the dresser... I finally have a place to set my WIPs (works in progress).  They also say "out of sight, out of mind" and I think we all know about that one.

I don't know if you noticed, but I kept the old drawer pulls (for now).  I hate to discard something that works perfectly fine.  I boiled them in vinegar and water for about 15-20 minutes to give them a good cleaning and then polished them with a cloth.  They don't look so bad do they?



*Before I forget, here are some LINKS for your viewing pleasure.  Do you like seeing these?  I don't get much feedback on them and wonder whether they are actually of interest?

In case you haven’t yet had enough about color, here is some more insight about communication and the language of color.

http://missmustardseed.com/2012/06/the-language-of-color 

Curious Miss Clay has shared various storage tips on her blog, including an idea for packing supplies.

http://thecuriousmissclay.blogspot.com/2012/06/organizing-studio.html 

And here is a link for a pin cushion/caddy to keep by your side. It would be a wonderful aid in keeping things organized as you stitch. I actually found this link through http://magpiesmumblings.blogspot.com/2012/06/pincushions-and-rust.html but the direct link follows. (BTW, both sites are fun to visit). Be sure to check out her comments to see the variety that have been created by others using Penny’s pattern!

http://pennyshands.blogspot.co.uk/2010/08/hexie-caddy-tutorial.html 

One of the followers on this blog and a wonderfully talented stitcher commented recently and I visited her blogs…her many blogs. This one really caught my eye and I thought some of you may be interested. She has set up a blog for stitchers to buy, sell and/or exchange stitch supplies. I thought it was a great idea and wanted to share. Faye, I hope you don’t mind.

http://neverenoughstash1.blogspot.com/ 

Here are some great organizing tips from a doll maker

http://www.dollsbymaria.com/2012/06/19/how-to-organize-your-doll-studio-or-craft-space  

On a totally different note, here is a link for those creative souls out there. I just received the most recent Stampington Calls and Challenges for publication if you are interested.

http://www.stampington.com/submissions/callsChallenges.html?utm_source=Stampington+%26+Company&utm_campaign=224b7ab701-Postscript_2012_02_14&utm_medium=email#sew

Sewing Room/Office - Stage 3 of Organizing

My sewing room/office is not anywhere near what I have planned for yet, but it is at least clean, somewhat organized and, most importantly, functional. Like most of your studios it is a work in progress. I have a vision for it and will eventually get there.

The walls have a fresh (2) coat of paint in a warm, comforting color much like the coloring on my inspirational photo and yet coordinate beautifully with my curtains. I have hung a couple of favorite photos on the walls.

I am now able to use my sewing machine without blocking the closet. Since the above photo was taken, I have had to bring in my other bookcase...for now. The matching bookcase above and that eyesore of a paper shredder were moved to the left and the bookcase was placed along the same wall in the corner. The bottom two shelves of it will hold things I don't need easy access to and for now the top shelf will hold my drawers of thread and a couple other containers. I placed the lamp and my buttons on top of the bookcase.

The photo directly above here shows my closet before, definitely jammed and crammed. Also the third bookcase has been moved to where the sewing machine had been. It is now full. I love books!

This is my closet after sorting and organizing. It is by no means perfect, but I know where everything is (because it is where it is supposed to be!) and can get to what I need. No matter how well an area is set up and how well it works, it most likely will eventually become a disaster zone as my closet was. I simply did some 'Spring cleaning' and a little rearranging to fit my needs. The plastic bins on the floor are not the best arrangement for me, but I do have my larger yardages of upholstery materials, furs, fancy fabrics, batting and so forth separated using these bins. The smaller pieces of fabric are on the shelf. I placed the plastic drawers lower this time so I can see what is in them without removing them. At the top I have larger containers for ribbons, lace, yarns and embroidery floss.

This is a close-up of some upholstery fabrics I pulled as possible fabrics to use on a chair I will be recovering. I only have a few of the old wooden 'pants hangers', but they work great to hold fabric. Below are more before photos of my closet. This happens to almost everyone when we get busy or just don't take time periodically to clean up. Take time when you do clean up to figure out how you can avoid the same mess next time. As I previously mentioned, I couldn't see inside my plastic drawers and had a habit of setting things elsewhere 'for the time being'. Hah! That didn't work so well.

It got so I could hardly get the doors shut! Yikes! I don't suppose this has happened to anyone else?

I had mentioned my collection of threads previously. Well, I have found a temporary home for them in some drawers by my sewing machine. They are sorted by color. No, they aren't on my floor :-) I have an idea that I have not seen before. When I get time I will try to make the item I have in mind and will share it with you all at that time.

Some of you may recognize this. It's a popcorn ceiling and I have them throughout my home! I am not crazy about it and would someday like to make it all vanish. Have any of you dealt with it before? Please, please tell me the best way to abolish it.

I am also not so crazy about this ceiling fan, but the room gets really warm in the summer and it really helps cool things off. I have since replaced the missing globe which helps a lot. I have some ideas and inspiration I want to incorporate into the room - little by little - and will share those on a future post since this one is getting quite lengthy!


NOW FOR SOMETHING MORE FUN!!! I just recently received my new Rings & Things catalog in the mail. It is filled with goodies.

Below is a spread of organizational items you might enjoy. I suppose these are geared mostly toward beaders, but there are items that would work equally well for quilting supplies, scrapbooking supplies or other crafts with smaller parts, pieces and even tools that need a home. Their web site is http://www.rings-things.com/ if you want to take a closer look. The good part is that by mentioning their catalog here I get entered for a chance to win some goodies. Regardless, they have some great stuff!

LINKS:


Pop over to visit my friends at Dezinaworld and take a peek at some of the terrific storage ideas. While you are there you might want to take a peek on their Website to see all the goodies they offer, especially if you are into paper crafts and stamping!
http://dezinaworld.blogspot.com/2011/02/woww.html#comment-form


Over at Art Bead Scene, designer Lori Anderson shares artists studios on a regular basis. This week her own studios/spaces are featured offering great inspiration! Wait until you see her wonderful new lampworking studio...drool!
http://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/2011/02/ready-studio-saturday-with-lori.html
and through this link is another great link to some very nice storage items…
http://www.collectors-cabinets.com/

I love your comments and feedback! Hope you are having a wonderful weekend! My twin granddaughters have their 6th birthday coming up in a couple of weeks and I promised a new American Girl doll outfil for each. As soon as I finish those and get the room cleaned up I will try to take some pretty photos to share and also share my future plans for the space that may work for you as well. Don't forget I also have another studio for my beading, stained glass work and watercolor painting. Click on the screen door on my sidebar to visit it.

Organizing My Office/Sewing Room - Before

This project all began because my son gave me a wonderful lamp to use when I do my needlework. DH felt it didn't fit well with our Victorian living room furniture and decided I should work in our office. Well, the office was upstairs and happened to be a bit of a catch-all, if you know what I mean. I didn't enjoy being in that room nearly as much as our living room but had to agree my lamp looked a bit shall we say awkward in the living room.

I have a lot of books and, well, a lot of stuff! I really can't blame DH for the clutter since 99% of it is mine. He has given in to the fact that it is all part of who I am and never - hardly ever - complains. These photos were taken after I finally got rid of our ugly 4-drawer filing cabinet. I basically am 'nesting' now. I have a ways to go, but thought I would share some photos of the 'before' and what I am working with. Trust me, it will get worse before it gets better.

One major problem was the location of my sewing machine cabinet. I had a small area on the south wall that was just big enough for the cabinet...when it was closed. I had convinced myself I would use it and then close it up before starting another project (right! giggle, giggle).

Above is the closest I get to putting the sewing machine away. You can see in the photos that the bi-fold doors that hides my avalanche of supplies and equipment get blocked when I sew. Murphy's law was written for me I think. As soon as I get into my sewing I need something out of the closet!

And, don't forget all this lovely thread I came home with after visiting mom the last time. I didn't even have enough room in that closet to 'tuck' it. I had to figure out what to do with it.




The sewing room needs to be shared with the computer and furniture which I currently don't have the budget to replace. It will remain an office/sewing room. This photo is looking toward the west.

I had the table (above, on right) set up for projects, but it blocked my books. Again, as soon as the table was being used for a project of major importance (OK, I exaggerate a bit), I needed one of my books for reference and had to crawl under the table and reach for the book, if I could even find it.

This is the (northeast) corner which housed the four-drawer file cabinet which is now at my daughters. Now I have room to set up my iron...temporarily. Before this I had to stand on my head and hold my tongue out the side of my mouth in order to plug in and unplug the iron. (Did I mention I exaggerate?) None of this is so easy for someone over 30, let alone me at over twice that age!

I was excited to rework this room and make it not only a more functional office, but a cozy, convenient and comfortable sewing room. Did I also mention the office is only 10' by 10' and that my budget for the project is maybe $50.00? You will have to follow along if you are even slightly curious how this all comes out. I will share more photos and some of my solutions on following posts.

Now for some links...




LINKS: It seems most of the organizing links I have found this week are for sewing room re-dos. How ironic since I am in the midst of reorganizing my own office/sewing room!

April has reorganized her sewing room (with hubby’s help) and shares photos through the process on her post.
http://sewhappysewcrafty.blogspot.com/2011/02/organization-begins-and-ends-studio.html

Here is a link to Gussy’s sewing room makeover along with some wonderful tips.
http://www.gussysews.com/2011/01/organizing-the-studio-workspace-tips/

Karen has organized her sewing room and has shared some fun and clever storage ideas on Chris’ post as the guest blogger.
http://pickupsomecreativity.blogspot.com/2011/02/sewing-101-with-karen-organizing-your.html
Karen’s blog is at http://sewmanyways.blogspot.com/

Gloria has been doing some organizing in her scrap room and gives a bit of a tour on her blog post (see the link):
http://happyscrapinnstampin.blogspot.com/2011/02/studio-tour-organization-snow.html

Sophie shares a storage unit she purchased at Michaels and has photos posted showing how it looks full of her supplies.
http://sophiegallo.blogspot.com/2011/01/organizing-fool.html

If you pop in to see them please let them know I sent you. I hope you all had a great weekend and those of you with the snow cover, like myself, are staying warm and healthy...well, I hope you are all staying healthy.

Plan Your Steps for Organizing

Organizing can sometimes take longer than planned, especially when one thing has to be completed before you can move on...and something else has to take place before that...and, oh yes, I can't do that until I finish that. That kind of describes where I'm at right now as I visualize my new office turned sewing space.

I actually started removing things from the room before I gave it much thought. I was stitching in my favorite chair in our formal living room. It was quiet there and I had a nice window to look out every once in awhile. My son gave me a great floor lamp for Christmas that I placed by the chair. It has true color lighting and I couldn't believe how well it lit my work. My DH decided it didn't really fit the decor and suggested I set up the office to work in. I kind of had to agree and even liked that idea.

However, the office had become kind of the 'catch-all' room of the house. I started transferring things to be sorted through later into the spare bedroom right away so I could focus more on the potential of the room. Of course that was my first impulse. I should have waited a bit because I really need to first reupholster a comfy chair for the room and find something better to store fabrics in. I also need to paint the walls. To do that I need to remove all the books from the bookcases. (I should have removed the books first because the other things could have sat on top of the books rather than books on top of what I have removed). Where am I going to put the books while I paint and rearrange the space? Oh, I forgot to tell you I had a couple of projects I needed to complete before I could do all of that. Oops. I'm not even sure what color I want to paint yet. You get the idea.

It really does pay to plan somewhat before you start. It is a little different when you are transforming the entire room as opposed to just cleaning and getting more organized. Make a list of what all will need to be done to the room and then prioritize. I should have reupholstered my chair first, found new storage for my fabrics and figured out the arrangement of larger major pieces in the room. Next, I could have chosen a paint color after which I could have emptied the room (books first) and started painting right away. This would have preferably been followed by placement of key pieces in the room and then bringing back in the loot. As I've said, I have learned about organizing through experience and like to share what I have learned with you on this blog.

LINKS:

As I said in my last post, organizing is in the air and on the blogs. Following are even more links. There are lots of sites here to visit as you ponder what steps need to be taken to get your space to where you want it to be. Enjoy!

Follow Nicki as she creates her revamped studio space after the original space flooded. She is off to a great start. I wish there was an IKEA close to me. I love the wire baskets she is going to use for fabric!
http://cqnickilee.blogspot.com/2011/01/sewing-room-journey.html

Five tips for organizing your studio are given on this link…
http://www.handmadespark.com/blog/5-tips-for-organizing-your-craft-space-in-2011-guest-post-from-nikki-in-stitches/

Storing or organizing small pieces of fabric can sometimes be more difficult than larger pieces. Andrea has a system that works great for her and shares that with you on this link. This may be a system that would work for papers or trims as well.
http://andrea-thieck-miniatures.blogspot.com/2011/01/fabric-organizing-and-link-of-day.html

Andrea also shares a link to this site with lots of ideas and even more links (but don’t forget to come back and visit me again~lol)…
http://melstampz.blogspot.com/2010/01/missing-with-migraine-craft-room-before.html

Over at Art Bead Scene there are more featured studios on a weekly basis. The author is sharing a photo of her own studio on the following link and is planning to downsize…(how do you do that when beads reproduce? lol) She also added links to a couple of other beader’s studios here.
http://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/2011/01/studio-saturday-humblebeads-crazy_08.html

This is a blog I just love to follow. Jane always has some unique, wonderful and inspirational ideas to share. I’ve shared some of her posts before, but actually, her entire blog is full of great things.
http://mamiejanes.blogspot.com/

Maybe you have a piece of furniture you just aren’t thrilled with. Don’t be afraid to see what wonders simply painting it might do. Look at the amazing transformation to this card catalog (a wonderful piece of furniture in and of itself), just by painting it white! Follow this link to The Frosted Gardner.
http://frostedgardner.blogspot.com/2010/12/thirty-drawer-library-card-catalog.html

Brenda at Cozy Little House has shared some jars she made spiffy rather than storing her things in boring craft jars. I think they look great!
http://cozylittlehouse.blogspot.com/2011/01/spiffing-up-craft-jars.html

…and yet more inspiration. This one isn’t focused on the studio, but it is related to organizing and decluttering, and as I said, it is inspirational!
http://thespeckleddog.blogspot.com/2011/01/kick-clutter-2011-week-2-entryway.html

For some great information on organizing, Gussy Sews has posted a couple of things about workflow that might help those of you who would like to do some rearranging.
http://www.gussysews.com/2011/01/organizing-the-studio-workspace-tips/
http://www.gussysews.com/2011/01/organizing-work-flow/



Here is a posting by Creative Compass Magazine that might spark some ideas…it’s called Storage Ideas for Creative People and Spaces. There may be something here you can incorporate into your space. While you are there, check out some of the other postings on this site.
http://cre8tivecompass.com/mag/2011/01/08/storage-for-creative-people-and-places

As always, I would appreciate you letting them know I sent you. Have a great week! Connie

Set Attainable Goals!

I have been better at browsing other blogs that I follow than I have been at updating my own. I'm not quite sure where the past two months or so have gone, but I am back. Two things jumped out at me as I looked through the other blogs.

First of all there were many, many bloggers apologizing for getting busy and not updating their blogs as often as they had intended lately. I for one totally understand where they are coming from~lol. Need I say more on that subject?

Secondly, it seems a lot of crafters and artists are rolling in the New Year with the intention of organizing their studios. A massive cleanup job needed in their studios was a common thread. Some are even going beyond the studio and focusing on their entire home. This is my segway to the topic for today...

When setting out to organize your studio or just clean up after the crazy holiday rush, don't feel like it all has to be done in a day, or a week or even a month. Start by making a list, either mental or (preferably) written, of specific areas you need to work on. Then prioritize them. Set up deadlines for each project or area if you like or just begin and work at your own pace or as time allows. Everything I have learned either from experience, through seminars, books or articles about goals confirms that you have to have attainable reasonable goals or you will just abandon them altogether.

Another thing I have learned over the years is to set up baby steps and not just one large goal. For instance, rather than setting a date to have your entire studio totally buff and organized, break it down to a series of bite size smaller goals. Set up realistic dates for the various tasks it will take to accomplish that ultimate goal. For example, set aside a date and time to sort through your buttons, ribbons and/or other embellishments. Maybe your first goal is to sort through one or two drawers or shelves in your studio that have become cluttered. After you have gotten started and begun to meet some of those goals, focus on and enjoy what you have completed rather than thinking you have so much more to do and that your studio is still a disaster. Reward yourself for what you have done rather than what you haven't completed! Remember, if you set unreasonable or unattainable goals, you will probably not reach them and will soon feel frustrated and unmotivated.

I am beginning the process of turning my office into a studio and will be sharing some of that with you in later posts.

LINKS: I have posted a few related links below along with a couple of simply inspirational links.

If you visit any of them and leave a nice comment, feel free to let them know you found their link here.

This first one is totally related to the frustration we all feel at times when we try to accomplish more than fits our schedules. We do all have lives to live and sometimes that can deter your plans. She has a link on her sidebar to the 'challenge' she has taken on. I know I have felt her frustration.

http://kerrykatiecakes2.blogspot.com/2011/01/badly-need-support-with-this.html

Following is a link to a fellow crazy quilter that has posted her ‘before’ photos. You will have to stay tuned for her ‘after’ photos.
http://noiseynana.blogspot.com/2011/01/happy-new-year-yippie-new-year.html#comment-form


Anita who is a machine quilter shared some of her experience in cleaning junk drawers on the following link.
http://anitaestes.blogspot.com/2011/01/organizing-in-studio.html


Using the following link you will be taken to Lori Anderson’s blog where she shares her beading office. She has a beautiful room and I think you will be inspired. I personally am drooling over the wall color!
http://lorianderson.blogspot.com/2011/01/trip-through-beaders-office.html


Mary Ellen found a fun way to organize t-shirts. I’m thinking this same system could work for rolled up fabric or skeins of yarn too! What could you use it for?
http://maryzoom.blogspot.com/2011/01/studio-organizing-idea.html


Belinda has a way of controlling all the information she finds on the Web. She shares her great idea on the link below. I also find that you can copy and paste the information you want to save to a Word document and give it a name you will recognize and be able to find. The Word documents can be organized by category in a special place on your computer, into folders named by subject. With either of these methods be sure to adhere to Copyright issues.
http://creativehardt.com/index.php/business/keeping-control/


Are you feeling overwhelmed with the daunting task of redoing your studio and want to just walk away? Don’t give up until you check out this blog! Traci Baker over at ‘The Bakery’ blog shares how she took mini (15 minute) steps to redo her studio/office. I think you may find this encouraging. Here is the link:
http://livingthegoodlife5.blogspot.com/2010/11/15-minutes-days-35-46-officestudio.html

Super Size It for Uncompleted Projects Storage

I ran across these wonderful large Ziploc bags awhile back. They are sturdy, roomy, transparent and have a zipper lock to seal them tight...dust proof, water proof and spill proof! They also have a generous cut-out at the top for carrying them or hanging them.

I decided to use these for my 'works in progress' also known as UFO's. I have a habit of getting ahead of myself and pulling fabrics or other pieces for a project I want to make. They will also be fantastic for taking my project with me if I am going to work on something elsewhere.

These bags are perfect for keeping the parts and pieces together and out of the way. I also like that you can write notes on them if you want and you can readily see what is inside. I hang them together on the back of my door so when I am in the mood and have time to work on something I just check my stash to see what's ready to begin or in process. These bags are a generous 15" x 15" and will expand to roughly 6" in thickness.

A Link to Another Blog - Portable Space

I was feeling kind of bummed and inadequate today about everything. Do any of you ever get that way? I just kind of go through the motions having my own little pity party I guess. I can't explain it. I finished my wasp nest piece and will be able to post it soon. It was a fun project, but I struggled with it a bit because my eyesight isn't so great plus I have essential tremors (ET) in both hands and they kind of do what they want at the most inopportune times. I did a couple loads of laundry, mowed the lawn, vacuumed, cleaned a closet and some drawers, finished my last bezel for my August challenge, so it's not like I wasn't doing anything constructive.

I couldn't come up with anything fun to blog about so I decided to visit some of my favorite blogs and see what everyone else was up to. I stopped in at Gerry's Older Rose blog to see what was new and found she had posted all about her 'portable' studio. She did such a great job explaining it all and I decided to share. I know not all of you have studios and she had some great ideas you may be able to incorporate. Click on the link below to see what she has to say. Tell her Connie sent you.

http://olderrose.blogspot.com/2010/08/my-work-area-is-completely-moveable.html

Planning Stages For Your Studio and Helpful Links

This week I just wanted to share a couple of ideas with you on planning your studio, whether you are changing your studio around, moving into a new studio, considering buying something new for your studio or thinking about redecorating.

Inspiration Photos: A great way to think about how you want your studio to look is to go through magazines and the Internet and pull photos of rooms you really are drawn to. It may be the color scheme you really like, the overall theme, or just the ambiance, style or details. You don't have to find only photos of art/craft spaces. Whether it's an outdoor space, a kitchen, living room, bedroom or bath, if it is a room you really like for whatever reason, you can draw inspiration from it. Tear out or copy the photos. You can even collect images from catalogs or elsewhere of furniture, light fixtures, window treatments, vignettes or accessories you like.

After you have several photos, look them over collectively. Do you see a common denominator in the grouping? Have you found that all of your pictures are in blues and browns, are they pastels or bright colors, loaded with pattern or monochromatic with lots of textures? Are they all in a similar style? Is the look comfortable and cozy or bright and cheery? Think about what you felt inspired by in each of the photos and in the group as a whole. What attracted you to each photo? Perhaps they are in a style in which you have decorated the rest of your home or maybe it is something totally different from what you normally would choose.

This is a great exercise to help you pinpoint your preferences. It's not that you don't know what you like, but rather it's realizing why you like what you do. I constantly pull pages from magazines of rooms or furniture I just love. When I looked through them I realized I am really drawn to a certain style, color and pattern. When I looked at what I had gathered, an obvious look began to emerge. It gave me an idea of the kind of studio I could be happy in. Simple as that. I don't want you to choose something to copy, but rather something to inspire and to guide you through decisions you make for your own studio. After all, you want this to be YOUR studio and to reflect YOUR personality and taste - not a reflection of someone else. Have fun with this room. You are the one that has to live with it and the only one that really has to like it. Own it!

I kept a select few (favorites of the favorites) of the photos to place on my story board and later into a decorating notebook. I would refer to the image(s) often as I selected such things as paint colors, including accent colors, and fabrics for my studio. (I would love to share the image of my inspiration room with you, but I don't have permission to use the image and I didn't keep a record of where it came from...sorry.) As an example, the photo above may be someone's inspiration photo because of the style or color or even just the chair or dark wood. I can tell you the walls in my inspiration photo were a warm creamy color and the room had a French feel with a bit of glitz and glam, but not over the top. Even though I knew in my mind what I wanted, having a reference helped me stay on track and focussed. It also helped me choose certain elements to achieve the look I was after.

Use the photo as inspiration but make the studio show the uniqueness of who you are, just as your artwork is a reflection of you!

The Floor Plan: Another important step in planning I feel is preparing a floor plan of the space. Below is a very basic example of my floor plan drawn on the computer. Graph paper can also be used to draw out your floor plan. I use a 1" (one inch) scale for my drawing. In other words, one foot is drawn as one inch; so a 8' by 10' room would be drawn as a scaled down version 8" x 10".

Next, using the same scale, draw the basic shapes and proportions of your key furniture pieces and any large equipment that will take significant space such as a quilt machine or kiln - overhead view. Note the name of the piece and measurements on the drawing. It is also a good idea to make a note of what would be the 'front' of the item just as a reminder. After you have them drawn, cut them out. These templates will be used to help you determine the best placement of your furniture in the room rather than moving the furniture itself around.

This may seem very tedious to you and it may not make sense to go to the trouble but I find it well worth the time. First of all, you can make your rendering as simple or as complex as you wish. I have a more detailed version that I use, but for illustrative purposes I chose to share the simpler version. You will want to include the locations of windows and doorways on your drawing along with any permanent elements in the room. You will note I have blocked out an area in the corner where my furnace/air conditioning unit is located because I have to work around it when furnishing my room. I did not show that the door swings into the room, but you may want to do that as a reminder to allow for that space.

You can add such elements as outlets, permanent shelving, and lighting in your drawing as well. Whatever helps you in deciding placement or just to have as a reference.

This floor plan is not only helpful for arranging your studio in the first place, but is also a great reference to keep for future use. You can take it with you when you are picking out paint or flooring. Because it has measurements on it the clerk can use it to figure how much paint or flooring you will need. Take it when shopping for lighting so the experts will have a visual to help you select appropriate lighting for areas of the studio. If you are considering buying a different piece of furniture or having custom cabinets built, this will help you choose what will fit well into the room.

In addition to drawing a top view of the room and furniture, you may also choose to do side views of walls to have even better view point. It will help you take advantage of a nice view or keep you from closing in an area with furniture too tall or wide for an area. It is entirely up to you.

Be sure to let me know if any of this is unclear or if I can help you in any way. Just remember there are no right or wrong ideas. You only need to please yourself with this project.

FOLLOWING ARE SOME LINKS THAT MAY INTEREST YOU:

Alissa at Quiltish has posted an organizing tip for her best selling items on her site. Follow the link.
http://quiltish.blogspot.com/2010/08/organizing-tidbit.html


I just had to share this blog with you all. It is such a fun one. Another reason is that Traci is in the process of redoing her studio and walks you through her steps. Tell her Connie from CEOStudioSolutions says hi.
http://livingthegoodlife5.blogspot.com/


For scrapbookers who use mists, Samantha at More Papers Please found a clever way to create samples for reference to quickly identify which mist she wants to use.
http://morepaperplease.blogspot.com/2010/08/organizing-my-mists.html


For those of you that quilt, I am posting a link below to a site which talks about organizing a quilt room. These are ideas from a serious quilter!
Part 1: http://www.quiltingwithmargaret.com/?p=810
Part 2: http://www.quiltingwithmargaret.com/?p=812
Part 3: http://www.quiltingwithmargaret.com/?p=814


Following is a site many of you may already be aware of. If you don’t want to repurpose items to use for storage, this site carries many storage solution items for ribbons, papers and other items mostly geared toward those of you with a passion for scrapbooking. Even if you don’t scrapbook, check it out. You may find something that will help you control your supplies. You will also find other related blog links there.
http://simplyreneeinc.blogspot.com/


Remember...I love comments and I love hearing from all of you!!! Have a great week. Connie

Glass Shade Recycled and Repurposed plus more on Storage and Organizing

As you can see, I figured out what to do with my extra glass light dome/shade that I mentioned in my last post. I was so excited about this project and so please with how it turned out. As I was pondering how I could take advantage of such a pretty piece of glass, I spotted my glass door knob on my studio counter near the glass shade.

You know how an idea just hits you. Well, that is what happened. I simply took the two pieces to a nearby hardware store and explained my intentions to them. They were so helpful and quickly found a bolt and washers that would do the trick. The clerk actually drilled the opening in the doorknob so the bolt would fit into it perfectly. The cost for that and the supplies came to under $5.00. Below is the finished food dome on my glass cake stand. It really compliments my dishes. I will have to set a nice complete table and share it on my other blog.

Below, I am showing it over the dinner plate and on top of the charger which also works great.

Here is a photo of the inside. The bolt is separated from the glass with a flat washer to help protect the glass. You can see on the previous shots I have two washers on the outside under the knob to cover a ridge at the base of the door knob.


A close-up...

You are probably wondering what any of this has to do with studio storage. It actually doesn't, other than the fact this dome can be used over a stash of costume jewelry or other supplies to protect them from dust or as a display piece used by draping a necklace or other work over the knob. With a little thought I am sure you can come up with other ideas.

ON ANOTHER SUBJECT - planning for storage of your supplies and equipment. This can be daunting at times. Below I am sharing a pretty basic list you might find helpful as you plan for storage of your own supplies and materials used according to various mediums. I can't give an exact listing of supplies, equipment and materials you use because each of you are unique and have our own stash of supplies and tools you prefer. I am offering this basic list as a jumping off point for you to use when thinking about what you might have to store in your studio.

By using a list, your personal list, you can break things down to a more manageable process. For instance, you can think about how often you use a particular set of tools, or your glue, or your kiln for instance. The items you use most often you will want placed in the most convenient location at or near your work space. Those items you use only on occasion can be stored more out of the way. Maybe you use everything equally but at different stages of the process. Place those items near the location or work station where they will be used.

Use your list as you search for storage solutions. For example, how many paintbrushes do you have? This will determine how big the holder needs to be. What type of container would work best to store them? You know the bristles need to be protected and in the open to dry properly. Look around until you find the right sort of container to accomodate your brushes? Most people store them upright. Maybe you can cover clean vegetable cans in a fabric or paper that coordinates in your room. If you have a lot of brushes, maybe you can nail or hang the cans as a grouping on the wall, or set them on a shelf nearby or keep them close by on your work table. When you are finished sourcing an appropriate container for the brushes, you can then move on to the next item on the list. The list will help you focus on each type of supply, tool, and piece of equipment separately without becoming too overwhelming. Don't try to figure it all out at once, but one by one, breaking it down to bite size pieces. Before you know it you will have everything where you need it and in a proper container.


STAINED GLASS: patterns & books, mosaic cutter, strip cutter, oval template, paints, glass, large table, copper foiling, lead came, wire, roundels, flux, grinder, glass cutters, glass saw, oil, soft brush, kiln


STAMPING/SCRAPBOOKING: books, tools, stamps, stamp pads, punches, papers, scissors,
glues/adhesives, embossing powder, trinkets, inks, equipment, trinkets, ribbons, small embellishments, buttons, photos


SEWING: books & patterns, sewing machine, scissors, thread, fabric, seam ripper, iron & ironing board, table, buttons, snaps, hooks & eyes, trims, seam binding, interfacing


SCULPTING: books, sculpting tools, clay, canvas, glazes, kiln for ceramics


KNITTING: books & patterns, knitting needles, yarn, scissors


CROCHET: books & patterns, crochet hooks, scissors, yarn


EMBROIDERY: books & patterns, hoops, scissors, thread, fabrics, iron & ironing board


TATTING: books & patterns, shuttle or tatting needles, thread


WEAVING: books & patterns, scissors, crochet hook, needle, beads, loom, threads, graph paper


WATERCOLORS & MISC PAINTING: books, water tub/containers, paintbrushes, brushes, salt, solvents, etc, palette knives, tissues, sponge etc, frames, watercolor paper or canvases, tube and/or bottle paints


PAPERMAKING: books, frame/screen, blender, plant materials, pulp, tub, towels, blotters


BEADING: books, tools, wire, thread, needles, patterns, findings, beads of various types and sizes, weaving materials, cords, chains, seed beads, crystals, bugle, embellishments, spacers, kiln for fusing


WIRE WORK: anvil, tools, books, rivets etc., various metals, wires, rods, beads



MISCELLANEOUS, GENERAL OR MIXED MEDIUMS: scissors of some sort, glue or other adhesives, beads, threads or other embellishments, patterns, books, misc tools


I hope these lists work as a starting point for you. It is such a personal thing since each artist works differently. Just as your creations are unique, so is your technique and style. While one designer may incorporate buttons into scrapbooking, another may instead use beads in everything.

I would love to hear if the list makes sense to you or if there is anything you would like to add as far as ideas. Have you tried this and did it help? Have you tried something similar that you would share with us?



Is the dome something you feel you could use in your studio? Have you made anything using these glass shades? If you have created other ideas I would love to have you send me an email and photo that I can post. Same with storage ideas you would like to share. Send me a photo via email and I will be happy to post it and give you credit.



I have been neglecting my blog here for awhile. Hopefully you have all been vacationing or spending more time outside enjoying the summer and haven't noticed.