Organization is the Key to Amazing Projects
We all know that as scrappers, we are hoarders… show me a sheet of paper that has a groovy stripe pattern on and I pounce like a cat on a mouse… IT’S ALL MINE! It doesn’t matter that I’ve got a stack of 12 x 12 paper about 8 inches tall that I have yet to use. I won’t even try to estimate how many of those hundreds of sheets of paper are striped… but a girl’s gotta have choices, right?
The key to turning your amazing supplies into amazing projects is organization. If you aren’t organized, it sometimes becomes impossible to even get to work on your albums because you have to dig out every time you want get started. Here are seven easy things you can do to take your treasure trove from an overwhelming mess to an inspired space.
1. Organize all of your stickers, paper, paper accessories and quotes into seasonal categories. Use 12 x 12 lidded colorful plastic boxes (available at all hobby stores) to store all supplies that happen for events in that month: WINTER (Dec, Jan, Feb), SPRING (Mar, Apr, May), SUMMER (June, July, Aug), FALL (Sept, Oct, Nov.) You can even add 12 x 12 folder pockets (available through Creative Memories) for each specific event and/or month in each season.
2. Group all you like tools in one container. Using baskets, tubs or whatever inspires you, group all your punches together, scissors, etc. so that any time you need a tool, you know where to find it.
3. Use clear jars or containers to store and display like items. Feathers, buttons, brads or clips are almost like art when displayed in clear jars (or even old prescription bottles.) There are great wall systems out there that even come with ribbon dowels to make your access easy while crafting.
4. Keep kits together! Store in folders or large envelopes and keep them in a filing system so you can access everything you need from the kit.
5. If you have a crafting area, keep a bulletin board or magnet board over it. You can display great page ideas you’ve ripped out from magazines here. You can also attach your idea pages to an envelope with all of the supplies you need to make the page/project and then file them away in your Kit files.
6. If you scrapbook, make an album plan that lists all of the projects you want to complete. Then, sort your photos in these same categories. My favorite sorting system is the Creative Memories Large Sort Box. It’s portability, labeling system and PVC-free plastic makes it a great solution to keep your photos safe.
7. Separate paper from cardstock and store both separately, by color family. If you do this with even the single-tonal patterned paper, you’ll find what you’re looking for much quicker. Have a category for each: multi-color, floral, stripes and misc. pattern for those papers that are multi-colored
Remember supplies are great, but if you don’t store them in a way that is usable, they become a hindrance to getting your projects done. Happy organizing!
