Feb 21 2010
Creative Space Redo
After discovering all the things I didn’t like about my creative space, it was time to figure out if I could do anything about those things. While I was house sitting, I had a chance to read through this book. It was helpful. 
The before and after pictures were inspiring. (Yes I know, not much of a review. My recommendation? Check the book out of the library to see if it is worth the purchase price to you.) Working in other quilter’s work spaces while I’m house sitting has given me some idea of things that will work for me and what things I want to avoid.
There are space and money limitations for my redo. My room is about 11 ft x 10 ft. and there is a non-existent budget. I want to use what is already in the room if I can, but I had forgotten how much I loved my old “L” shaped desk and realize that it would be good to have that sort of set up with my sewing area. I will need to bring in something to create the “L” shape though. One of the reasons I want to use what is in the room is that I have personal possessions that have been packed away since 1999 and more items that haven’t seen the light of day since 2004. (And I wonder why my life feels strangely like it’s in limbo?) I don’t want more of my life stuffed into boxes in a closet or worse yet, put out in the garage.
These are some of the other things I want to do:
- Move the mini ironing board.
- Set up some direct lighting on my sewing and cutting areas.
- Create more work space on my desk.
- Create more work space on my sewing table.
- Be able to see the design wall from the desk and sewing table.
- Get to the design wall easily while sewing.
- Move my fabric into the room.
- Organize my tools to be within easy reach of where they are most used.
- Fix up my design wall.
- Add some more color to the room (it’s awfully GREEN right now).
- Organize the closet and come up with some good storage solutions.
Let’s see what I can get done on my list in the next month. Hahaha. Another list of things to do!
Thank you all for your wonderful and encouraging comments on my last post. I have made some decisions about what to do and how I’ll accomplish my goals. I’m going to try to get everything done in three phases. Since I don’t have any money right now, Phase One will start with rearranging what is already in the room.
I’ll be watching…I’m in the same boat! My craft room is shared with the computer desk and bookshelves, and is about 10′ x 16′. It will be very interesting to see what you accomplish, and inspirational, I’m sure… Good luck!
Sounds like you’ve got a good plan, Erin. Re-arranging can really make a difference. And get all that stuff you haven’t looked at in years outta there!! If you haven’t used it in that long you never will. I’m betting you don’t even remember what’s in half those boxes LOL! I know – We just did a major sweep last year and got rid of boxes that had been moved to 3 different houses but never opened once!!
Can’t wait for the unveiling.
With no budget, I am waiting to see what you come up with. Sounds like you have a lot you want to accomplish.
I started a redo of my creative space last year. Haven’t finished yet with organizing all the little stuff, but am near it. Another possible place to check out ideas is this blog
http://chezlarsson.com/myblog/
Scroll thru her blog ‘cuz she organizes sewing rooms plus other areas.
Erin, sorry it took me so long to get around to this but gosh it was worth the way. I really like the thought you’ve put into this and the ideas you’ve listed out. Very smart, very very smart! You’ve got me thinking, too. I’m thinking of lighting right now… Sure need that. Although I’m a kitchen quilter so I’m not sure what sort of lights I’ll go for. Hmmm… :)
Oh and I think you’re really right about the benefits of house sitting and working with and around the set up of other folks. You’re a lucky gal now that I think about it! Darn lucky! Warmly and with tons of hugs, *karendianne.
I had to use what I had to redo my studio space a couple of years ago. I had about $600 tax return. Most was used for flooring. I have two folding tables 6ft at the bottom of the U shape, the 5 ft as the right side, for the cutting table, and the ironing board on the left. I repainted shelving and reused whenever I could. I got a nice rug at a garage sale for $20! See pictures at my blog.
Hi Erin — I just found your blog and sent you a FB request. I wonder if we are related!!
I LOVE Lois Hallock’s book! It’s my very favorite for studio organization — and the best book on the subject there is. Good luck with your re-do. You’re reminding me that I have the very same project to tackle. Too bad they don’t happen like they do on Trading Spaces. We tried that once with my son’s room. It took us a whole week to get everything done. We didn’t have any “stunt” people hanging around to finish each project. ; )
Hi Erin!
When I decided to fix up my space, I too was on a limited budget ( AKA zero dollars) so I drew out my space on paper. Then I cut out shapes which resembled my furniture and moved them around the paper until I found what I liked. It helped a lot without moving anything and didn’t cost a dime. After I moved everything around, I was thrilled with the results.
Good luck!
Bradie