Yes, you can store some of your craft supplies in your garden shed, but only if it stays reasonably dry, clean and protected from extreme temperatures.
Many craft materials are easily damaged by things like damp, condensation, heat, cold or pests, so an ordinary uninsulated shed isn’t suitable for everything.
Which Craft Supplies Can Be Stored in a Shed?
Durable tools and equipment are usually the safest items to store in a shed. These may include things like:
- Cutting mats
- Plastic storage boxes
- Metal tools
- Easels
- Empty plant pots
- Moulds and templates
- Large pieces of untreated wood
- Craft tables or stands
Store metal tools in sealed containers where possible, as moisture can cause rust. Wooden items should also be kept away from damp floors and walls.
Which Supplies Should Stay Indoors?
Avoid storing materials that are sensitive to moisture or temperature changes. These include:
- Paper and cardstock
- Fabric and yarn
- Paint
- Glue and adhesives
- Polymer clay
- Air-dry clay
- Embroidery thread
- Books and patterns
- Electronic cutting machines
- Batteries
Paper, fabric and yarn can absorb moisture, develop mildew or attract insects. Paint and glue may separate, freeze or become unusable when exposed to very hot or cold temperatures.
Electrical craft equipment should normally be kept inside unless the shed is insulated, secure and suitable for storing electronics.
How Do You Protect Craft Supplies in a Shed?
Use airtight plastic boxes rather than cardboard boxes, which can absorb moisture and become damaged. Keep containers on shelves instead of directly on the floor, particularly if rainwater or condensation could enter the shed.
Clearly label each box so that you don’t need to open several containers to find one item. Silica gel packets may help control small amounts of moisture inside sealed boxes, although they will not solve a generally damp shed.
Check the shed regularly for:
- Condensation
- Leaks
- Mould
- Rust
- Insects
- Rodent damage
Don’t rely on a shed for valuable or irreplaceable materials unless it has proper insulation, ventilation and climate control.
Is a Shed a Good Craft Storage Space?
A shed can be useful for storing bulky equipment, robust tools and sealed containers, but it’s rarely the very best place for delicate supplies. Keep temperature-sensitive, absorbent and valuable craft materials indoors.
The safest way to go about it is to use the shed for durable items that take up space, and keep paper, fabric, adhesives, paint and electrical equipment somewhere dry and temperature controlled.