You do not need a dedicated craft room to start making things. All you need is a system that allows your supplies to be easy to reach, contained, and simple to put away.
This guide looks at storage options for beginner hobbyists, including boxes, trolleys, drawers, folders and ways to stop supplies from spreading across the whole house.
Start With One Craft Zone
Your area only needs to be very small if that is all the space you have. You could use:
- A shelf
- A drawer
- A corner or desk
- A basket next to the sofa
Use Containers That Are Easy to Move
Portable storage is often better storage. You could try:
- Plastic boxes with lids
- Stackable tubs
- Canvas storage bags
- Toolboxes
- Storage caddies
- Zip lock pouches
Sort Supplies by Hobby
Match your organiser to the craft that you have supplies for. For instance:
- A box for paper craft
- A pouch for pens and pencils
- A tub for glue, tape, and scissors
- A folder for paper and card
- A small tray for current projects
Take Advantage of Vertical Space
Small rooms especially can benefit from being able to store things vertically. That could involve:
- Wall shelves
- Over-door organisers
- Pegboards
- Stackable drawers
- Magazine files
- Slim bookcases
- Hanging pockets
Keep Paper and Card Flat
This is important to avoid creasing ruining your projects. You could use:
- Folders
- Magazine files
- Document wallets
- Flat storage boxes
- A4 trays
- Envelopes for scrap paper
Make a Current Project Box
Instead of having to reassemble scattered supplies every time, keep everything in one place for the project you are currently working on.
Choose Storage That You Can Put Away Quickly
Examples of this could be:
- A trolley that can be rolled into a corner
- A lidded box under a bed
- A bag that goes into the cupboard
- A basket that lives on a shelf
Avoid Buying Too Much, Too Early
You only need to start with one box, basket, or drawer. Try to use items that you already have at home when possible, before you try and buy more things.
Small Craft Storage Checklist
Before you buy anything, ask yourself:
- Can I move this easily?
- Can I check what’s inside?
- Can I put supplies away in a few minutes?