sharing some storage solutions

I think these storage boxes from Target work really well because they keep my stamps right in front of me when I'm working. But I wanted to start storing my clear sets in bags, especially now that so many of them have coordinating dies.

I found these zip top bags at Simon Says Stamp to store my 4x6 sets. Then I ordered 2 small sizes of  bags from KraftStash on Etsy for storing dies and smaller clear stamp sets. I typed up labels for each set, printing them on file folder labels, and I created a spreadsheet to keep an inventory of all my stamps and dies. (Note to self: never let my husband see this).  For storing my smaller sets, I bought 2 of these library card boxes at Stampington.com.

I put all my clear sets in the bags, labeled them, sorted them according to category and put them in the boxes. Last I made some cute dividers using a fun washi tape digi kit by Polka Dot Pixels.

Dividers were created in Microsoft Publisher and printed on heavy white cardstock.

 This is one of my stamp sets with coordinating dies. I used one of the smaller zip top bags to store the dies, then added them to the stamp bag. I love it, everything is right where I need it!

 I found the 3-tiered basket at Target, it's perfect for storing all those embellishments; a look at my streamlined work area. I decided to lose all the decorations and keep a clean look; spice rack that works perfectly for Distress stains, various sprays/mists and Studio paints. I found it on Amazon.com.

 I love how the library card boxes slide out for easy access to all my smaller stamp sets.

I love it when a plan comes together, to quote The A-team. Its all organized; now I just need time to play!

My next goal is to get this room painted! The French Vanilla colored walls will be swapped out for cool pale gray. The wainscoting and other woodwork will get a coat of crisp white.

thanks for visiting!

blessings,
nancy

I went looking for my mojo......

My creative space had gotten out of control and somewhere in the mess I lost my mojo. A major purge and clean up was needed but I had been putting it off until it looked like my mojo might be taking a permanent sabbatical. When I hadn't felt inspired to create anything for weeks I knew it was time to overhaul the studio.
I'm participating in the Online Card Class- Kick Start, organizing our products is one of the creative steps that Kristina and Jennifer are encouraging us to take.

In the process of cleaning and organizing, I decided to part with at least a third of my stamp stash. I will be grouping them and offering them for sale in the next few weeks. If you have been looking for hard to find classics you just may find them here. Stay tuned!

On to the mess.....

 I had taken over Al's desk anyway so I used it to help with the sorting process.

 Stamps to be sold...this is just a small portion

More stamps for sale

My living room needs some attention now.

Here's the closet wall transformation

 Little Tia is sleeping peacefully in the midst of the chaos.

It feels good to have this area cleaned up!

There's plenty of storage space for products that I will actually use now.

 Now I can find the new stuff and hopefully use them before they become obsolete.

 He's going to be there anyway, he might as well be part of the decor!

We have plans to build out the closet wall that includes tearing out the wall around the closet and having a full wall of storage with another counter height work area. We are also planning to add an L-shaped desk and storage where the computer desk and Al's desk are now. This is what I've asked for as a Christmas gift... fingers crossed that it will be THIS Christmas!

I do feel like my creativity will have a chance to return now that all the excess supplies and products aren't yelling at me to use them. One thing I did that took a lot time but I think will be well worth the effort: I cut down all my loose 12x12 papers to 6x6 and grouped them in ziplock bags according to color or theme. Maybe now I will use them! Since I work in 8x8 size for my scrapbook pages I left some of the solid papers 8x8.

So with this huge overhaul if you don't see some new project photos here soon I just may need to give up the crafting and hire myself out as a craft room organizer!

God's way is perfect.

All the Lord's promises prove true.

He is a shield for all who look to Him for protection.

Psalm 18:30

blessings,

nancy