Book Suggestion for Craft Studio Organization

While planning out my studio rehab, I have found these two books to be invaluable. They contain many beautiful photos and suggestions for many different kinds of studios. From sewing, paper, jewelry and photography, you will get a million great ideas for organizing your own space. From tiny nooks to spacious barns, you won't be disappointed.

This links to Amazon where you can purchase the books in new or used editions, with their ever popular free shipping for orders over $25.

Where Women Create by Jo Packham

Organizing your Craft Space by Jo Packham

If you were to purchase only 1 go with Where Women Create it walks you through the craft spaces of famous and not-so-famous artists. Organizing Your Craft Space gives you practical suggestions on craft storage and isn't quite as inspiring, but they work really well together.

Studio Love - the reality check

This post is the first in the Great CarrieTown Studio Cleanup Series of 2012:
 
I spend a lot of my free time browsing photos of slick, well organized craft spaces. I have even devoted an entire Pinterest board to this obsession. I dream of being able to waltz into my well-lit immaculate space, sit down, listen to classical music and finally create that masterpiece the world has been waiting for.


The reality is a little more cluttered. I am very lucky to have a craft space. I converted half of my two car garage into a sunny space where I can create my artwork and jewelry and any other messy project I may want to attempt. This year I added a DVR, and it is usually stocked with classic commercial free films and favorite TV shows. I even have a dedicated speaker station so I can plug in my iPad and listen to podcasts.

It is a very creative space, but lately I have been re-evaluating storage. I tend to forget about things unless I can see them in front of my face, which means that everything is visible. Want proof, just check out these pics:

This is the jewelry station--the clutter means that I only have an area 6 x 12" to work in

The paper desk featuring Werthers Originals, the official old lady candy of CarrieTown

Paper desk from the back - there is some storage, but more paper comes out than goes in

The cutting and packaging counter - the cabinets below are filled with plates waiting to be broken into mosaics projects

The organization of CarrieTown is an ongoing project, but I thought I would start with the absolute messiest photos so the after pics would look more impressive.

As I continue, please feel free to add any constructive comments or suggestions of organization tips and tricks.