Another try at studio organization
Haven’t I already written this post about seven times already? The quest for a collage/paper artist is always about finding a way to organize all the really, really necessary stuff. Well, here goes this attempt.
This attempt begins with flat files. I’m not sure that’s what these drawer units from Ikea really are, but they are just what I wanted. I have found deep drawers are not good for organizing stuff. I want to see what I have. Mat board and foam core are wrapped in plastic and stored securely behind the files. Before I had them behind the door and they would ambush me all the time. Not good. I stole the paper storage box with little shelves from our office. Dremel tool and Xyron machine are out so I don’t have to stop and dig them out of the closet.
The other key is to label what I have. I notice that sometimes I’m optimistic. I only have five stamp pads so far, since I almost always use Createx multipurpose paint instead, but I saved a whole drawer for them. Ditto watercolors. I haven’t done a lot with them, but I bought some quality paints finally and they are on my agenda.
Mini-clips hold lightweight posters and drawings that can be changed out at will. Magazines in notebooks. A basket for all the postcards I receive for shows, etc. A bench my Dad made to hold notebooks that I am looking at or magazines to be filed. Notice I am not showing you the closet. Another whole project.
This dresser was on its way to the thrift shop, but I swapped it out for the white Ikea dresser I had here before. Again, shallow drawers good. Thermo-fax supplies stored in the drawer right below it. Typewriter out and ready to go. I’m not crazy about the dark bookcase, but since I don’t have to look at it face on, I can live with it. The cheerful lamp is by Laura Osbun and I will have more about that tomorrow. Lutradur and paper rolls in the corner. I bought a roll of butcher paper at a restaurant supply house and use it to cover my tables.
The plan is to keep two tables for working and the back one for cutting and everyday supplies. I really wanted to be rid of all the plastic storage bins, but that is not going to happen.
I made the 60 ATCs for Collage Mania on about a foot square of table. That is what prompted this attempt to be more efficient with my space. I will let you know how it goes.
January 31st, 2008 at 9:42 am
I like the drawers from Ikea! What a good idea–I,too, like to be able to see my supplies. So often I put wonderful things I’ve collected for future projects in the closet, never to be seen again. I am also having an ongoing reorganization of my studio, and find my labeler to be very useful. (That is, when my husband hasn’t taken it to the garage to organize HIS wonderful things collected for future projects!)
I’m loving all the Collage Mania photos–there are SO MANY talented people out there!
January 31st, 2008 at 10:22 am
I really like what you have done, love the Ikea drawers, I have not seen them before. I need to organise myself in my workroom so could do with all tips being handed out
January 31st, 2008 at 11:27 am
I can hear the groans from here about being organized..I’m an organizer from way back and can’t work unless there is some sense of order..”they” say that might be why I have a difficult time with abstract design..whatever, how can “they” work with chaos all around them…love your studio pics..great job cleaning up. Recvd my ATC from you yesterday..thank you so much and I’m having a great time creating pieces for upcoming Fiberart for a Cause.
January 31st, 2008 at 1:29 pm
The Ikea files are a brilliant solution to the flat item storage problem. I have really small flat files from Dick Blick in my studio and love them for the same reason. Your studio is beautiful!
January 31st, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Looks like the room is just waiting for friends to come over and play.
January 31st, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Thanks for the comments, Stephanie.
Louise, glad you liked your ATC. Collage Mania is shaping up splendidly as the artists go all out to send their best work.
Who can live without a labeler, Susan? Jane, your studio must be mighty fine as I heard it is going to be featured in the new Quilting Arts special magazine about studios.
Terri, Playing is always good!
January 31st, 2008 at 7:33 pm
You’ve got some great ideas Virginia, but I think Terry and I are ready to come play and mess things up….your studio really looks too pristine in your pics!!
January 31st, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Wow.. Virginia what a great place to do art… I wish mine was this clean.. Very nice..
February 1st, 2008 at 3:11 am
Judy and Laura - Clean is scary, but I’m sure it won’t be for long. I will be sure to take some “in use” photos. It’s nice to have it nice now though! Thanks for writing, V.
February 1st, 2008 at 6:52 am
I love your studio. And to think this is where creativity all begins.The post about Laura is very touching and her gift to you is wonderful. Again, thank you for the opportunity to participate in ACS Collage Mania.