10 Practical Tips for Organizing Your Art Supplies
Contents
1. Sort Your Supplies
2. Label Everything
3. Use Drawers and Shelves
4. Pick the Right Holder
5. Allocate a Dedicated Space
6. Choose Storage That Suits Your Style
7. Make Use of Vertical Space
8. Keep it Clean
9. Purge Regularly
10. Make it Accessible
Art supplies can often become a chaotic mess if left unattended. If you're wondering how to organize art supplies efficiently, you're in the right place! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to turn that colorful chaos into an orderly haven. Let's dive in!
1. Sort Your Supplies
The first step in organizing your art supplies is to sort them. This might seem like a daunting task, but trust me, it's easier than you think. Here's how to do it:
- Step 1: Gather all your art supplies and place them in one location. This could be your art studio, your desk, or even your living room floor. The idea here is to have a clear view of everything you have.
- Step 2: Start sorting your supplies into categories. You could sort them by type (pencils, paints, brushes), by color (all the reds together, all the blues together), or even by project (all the supplies for that landscape painting you're working on).
- Step 3: Once you've sorted your supplies, take a moment to admire your work. You've just taken the first step in learning how to organize art supplies like a pro!
Remember, the key to a successful organization is to keep it simple and practical. You want your supplies to be easily accessible and easy to find. So, choose a sorting method that works best for you and your unique creative process.
2. Label Everything
Now that your art supplies are sorted, it's time to label everything. Yes, everything! Not only does this make it easier to find what you're looking for, but it also helps you keep track of what you have and what you might need to restock.
So, how do you go about it?
- Step 1: Invest in some quality labels. Whether you prefer traditional sticky labels or a modern label maker, make sure it's something that will last and won't easily peel off or fade.
- Step 2: Start labeling! Be as specific as you can. For example, don't just label a box "paints", label it "acrylic paints" or "watercolor paints". The more specific you are, the easier it will be to find what you need when you need it.
- Step 3: Don't forget to label your containers based on their contents, too. This way, you'll know exactly where to find that particular shade of blue you love, or that special brush you use for detail work.
Remember, the goal here is not to create a museum of art supplies, but to create a functional, organized space that supports your creativity. And believe me, nothing kills creativity faster than not being able to find the right tool when you need it!
3. Use Drawers and Shelves
Just like a library has a system to organize books, you too could use a system for how to organize art supplies. Drawers and shelves are your best friends in this scenario.
Why, you ask? Well, drawers and shelves not only help you store your art supplies neatly, but they also make it easy for you to access them when needed. Plus, they can save you a lot of space!
Here's how to properly use drawers and shelves:
- Drawers: These are perfect for storing small items like brushes, pencils, markers, and scissors. You can even use drawer dividers or small boxes to make separate compartments for different types of supplies.
- Shelves: Shelves work great for larger items, like paint pots, canvas, and sketchbooks. You can arrange these items by size, color, or type—whichever suits you best. Just remember to place the items you use most often on the most accessible shelves.
So, are you ready to start shelving and drawer-ing your art supplies? Trust me, once you start, you'll wonder how you ever managed without them!
4. Pick the Right Holder
Storing your art supplies isn't just about finding a place to stash them. It's about finding the right place. That's where holders come into play. Picking the right holder is an important part of how to organize art supplies.
But what's the right holder, you ask? Well, it can be anything that holds your supplies securely and neatly. It could be a pen holder for your brushes, a jar for your pencils, or a box for your pastels.
- Pen Holders: They're not just for pens anymore! Pen holders are an excellent way to organize your brushes. You can even categorize them by size or type of brush.
- Jars: Glass jars are a fun and artistic way to store your pencils, markers, and even paint brushes. Plus, they allow you to see exactly what's inside.
- Boxes: Whether it's a shoebox or a fancy art box, boxes are great for storing items like pastels, charcoals, or even scrap paper. You can label them for an added layer of organization.
Remember, the right holder is subjective. It's all about what works for you and your art supplies. So, don't be afraid to get creative with it!
5. Allocate a Dedicated Space
How to organize art supplies doesn't stop at sorting and labeling. It's about creating a space that inspires you. A dedicated space for your art supplies can make all the difference in your creative workflow.
It doesn't have to be a whole room—although a personal art studio does sound dreamy, doesn't it? It could be a corner of your living room, a section of your bedroom, or even a spot in your kitchen. The key is to make it your own.
- Designate a spot: First things first, pick a spot in your home that you can dedicate to your art supplies. This will be your creative corner, a place where magic happens!
- Set boundaries: It's easy for art supplies to sprawl and take over a space. To avoid this, set clear boundaries. This could be a specific shelf, a desk, or even a marked area on the floor.
- Make it inviting: Lastly, make your space inviting. Decorate it with your favorite artwork, hang inspirational quotes, or add some plants. Make it a place you look forward to spending time in.
By allocating a dedicated space, you're not just organizing your art supplies. You're creating an environment that encourages creativity. So, go ahead, claim your space and watch your artistry soar!
6. Choose Storage That Suits Your Style
Ever wondered how to organize art supplies in a way that reflects your unique style? Well, the secret is to choose storage that suits your aesthetic. Remember, the goal is to create an inspiring and functional workspace, not a sterile storage facility.
Your art supply organization should be as creative as the masterpieces you create. Whether you're a fan of vintage charm, sleek minimalism, or colorful chaos, there's a storage solution out there that matches your vibe.
- Vintage Charm: Do you love all things old-school? Consider using antique jars or retro lunchboxes to store your art supplies. A vintage wooden toolbox could also be a perfect holder for your brushes and pencils.
- Sleek Minimalism: If less is more for you, opt for clean lines and simple color palettes. Think white storage boxes or clear acrylic organizers. A pegboard can also be a great minimalist option for hanging supplies.
- Colorful Chaos: If you're all about color, let your storage reflect that! Use brightly colored containers or decorate your storage boxes with colorful washi tape. A rainbow drawer cart can also add a pop of color and keep your supplies organized.
So go ahead, let your storage solutions reflect who you are. After all, an artist's workspace should be as unique as their art. And remember, it's not just about how to organize art supplies—it's about creating a space that inspires you to create.
7. Make Use of Vertical Space
Looking around your studio, you might think you've used up all the possible storage space. But wait—did you remember to look up? That's right, one of the smartest strategies for how to organize art supplies is making use of vertical space.
Vertical storage takes advantage of the often under-utilized space on your walls and can help free up valuable desk or floor space. Plus, it can make it easier to see and access your supplies.
Here are a few ways you can harness the power of vertical space:
- Pegboards: Pegboards are a great way to hang lighter supplies like scissors, brushes, and rulers. You can also add small baskets for items like markers and pens.
- Shelving: Install some shelves on your walls to store your paints, jars, and boxes. They'll be within reach but won't clutter your workspace.
- Over-the-door Organizers: You know those shoe organizers that hang over the door? They're not just for shoes. Use them to store items like paint tubes, brushes, and more.
- Wall-mounted Drying Racks: If you're always battling with drying paintings, a wall-mounted drying rack can be a game-changer. It keeps your artwork safe and out of the way while it dries.
Remember, the sky's the limit when it comes to vertical storage. So look up and start planning your next move in the quest of how to organize art supplies. You'll be surprised at how much space you can free up when you start thinking vertically!
8. Keep it Clean
One of the keys to keeping your art supplies organized is to keep them clean. Now, you might think, "Art is messy, isn't it?" Yes, it can be. But that doesn't mean your workspace has to be a disaster zone. Keeping your supplies clean and tidy will not only make them last longer, it will also make your creative process more enjoyable.
So, how can you maintain cleanliness in your art studio? Here are a few simple steps:
Wipe Down Your Supplies
After each use, take a moment to wipe down your brushes, pencils, and other tools. This will prevent paint or graphite from building up and making them harder to use. A simple wipe down can prolong the life of your tools and save you money in the long run.
Keep Your Workspace Tidy
Try to keep the area where you work as clean as possible. Put things back in their place after using them. This way, you won't waste time searching for supplies or risk damaging them by stepping on or knocking them over.
Clean Up Spills Immediately
When you're in the middle of creating, it's easy to ignore a little spill here and there. But those small spills can add up, damaging your workspace and your supplies. So, make it a habit to clean up spills as soon as they happen.
Remember, a clean studio is a happy studio. And a happy studio is the first step on the journey of how to organize art supplies. So, roll up your sleeves and get cleaning—you'll thank yourself later!
9. Purge Regularly
When it comes to art supplies, sometimes less is more. Yes, it's true! Having too many supplies can make it harder to find what you need, and it can overwhelm your workspace. That's why one of the most useful tips on how to organize art supplies is to purge regularly.
Now, don't worry! I'm not saying you should throw away all your precious supplies. But it's a good idea to go through them from time to time and get rid of the things you don't use or need anymore.
Out with the Old
If you have paints that have dried up, brushes that are too frayed to use, or paper that's been damaged, it might be time to say goodbye. It's hard, I know. But think about it this way: every item you get rid of is making room for something new and exciting!
Recycle and Donate
Many art supplies can be recycled or donated. If you have items you don't need but are still in good condition, consider donating them to a local school, community center, or nonprofit organization. Not only will you be cleaning up your space, but you'll also be helping others discover the joy of creating art.
Purging regularly is a great way to stay organized and keep your creative space inspiring. After all, the goal is to make art, not to hoard art supplies, right?
10. Make it Accessible
Remember when you were a kid, and your mom had tucked away your favorite candy somewhere high where you couldn't reach? Frustrating, right? Well, the same rule applies to your art supplies. If you want to encourage creativity, you need to make your art supplies accessible.
Easy to Reach
Store your most frequently used items in an easy-to-reach place. This might be on a shelf at eye level, or in a drawer that you always have open. The idea is to reduce the barrier between you and your creativity. If it's a struggle to get your supplies out, you might find yourself painting or sketching less often.
Visible and Attractive
Another part of accessibility is visibility. If you can see your art supplies, you're more likely to use them. Plus, a well-organized art space can be a beautiful addition to your room. Consider using open shelves, glass jars, or clear plastic containers to display your paints, pencils, brushes, and more. That way, your art supplies can inspire you just by being in sight!
So, there you have it! Remember, the key to organizing is not just about being neat—it's also about setting up a space that invites you to create. So, go ahead and arrange your art supplies in a way that makes them a pleasure to use. Now, who's ready to create some art?
If you've enjoyed our practical tips for organizing your art supplies and want to dive even deeper into understanding and making the most of your materials, be sure to check out Arianne Jeri's workshop, 'Get to Know Your Art Supplies'. This workshop offers invaluable insights on how to properly use, maintain, and organize your art supplies, ensuring you can create your best work with ease.