Creating your own craft room
One of the fastest growing trends is to have a craft or hobby room in the home. Why has this trend caught on so quickly? Well, the crafting industry generated almost $30 billion last year alone – and that’s just in the United States! Another likely reason is that crafting is fun and can take the stress out of life, so why wouldn’t someone want a room dedicated to that purpose?
Anyone with a serious hobby or
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knack for crafting knows the importance of an organized space in which to work. Crocheting, scrapbooking, jewelry making, and other DIY projects all command a workspace with plenty of room to work, storage facilities for supplies, and good natural light. For many keen crafters, a room dedicated to their interests is a dream come true.
What goes into creating a craft room?
Though it really depends on an individual’s interests, almost any room in the home can become a good craft room; whether it is a spare bedroom, garden room, or a large closet. With a little time and preparation, one can design and organize a great craft room. It all boils down to some good storage availability and a little planning. For example, if one doesn’t have an entire room to dedicate to crafting, use the guest room – just make sure to use folding tables that can be hidden in the closet or under the bed when not required.
A good rule of thumb is to stay organized and logical about what goes where. Measure the room or space to ensure that any shelving, tables, or storage solutions will fit in a functional and aesthetically pleasing way. Good crafters know that they should have the most frequently used items close at hand; so clear stackable plastic boxes and containers are usually a great asset.
The lighting in the craft room is also essential. Natural light is always best, so a room or space with large windows is usually a perfect location. It is a good idea to position the worktable in front of the window to maximize the benefits of the natural light, but it is also a good idea to invest in a good desk lamp for crafting in the evenings. Too much sun can sometimes be a problem, so have fun with the window treatments. For some great ideas, visit the Shutter Store site.
Furnishing the craft room
It goes without saying that a craft room will need plenty of storage, shelving, and a place to work, such as a worktable, desk, or bench. The trick is to have all the furniture easily accessible and functional, however, it should also be comfortable. Ensure that there is a comfortable place to sit to consider the next big project. It is also a good idea to invest in a well-made work chair.
In addition to the lighting and work area itself, storage is probably the next most important aspect of the craft room. Crafting undoubtedly involves lots of small bits and pieces, so use clever storage by breathing new life into old things. Use a vintage merchant’s chest for small items or quaint apple crates turned on their sides for shelving units. Clear glass jam jars, old cookie tins, and print boxes are great for storing decorative trims and buttons.
The walls themselves are also great places for storage. Many crafters have come to know pegboard as their best friend. Simply affix the board (painted in a favorite color) to the wall, and one of the most versatile tools for organization is at the ready – use small hooks to hang small bins, buckets, and hooks for holding a variety of crafting supplies.
Aimee is an enthusiastic, well-educated freelance writer with a passion for making things. She is fascinated at how different patterns, textures and materials can completely change the look and feel of something, just by mixing them together. One day she would like to run her own Interior Design company or craft shop, but for now is happy experimenting with new designs in her own house.
