If you’re an avid crafter, you know how quickly your stash of supplies can grow. From bins of fabric to jars of beads and tools galore, it’s easy for things to feel chaotic. But great crafts start with a great setup—and that begins with easy-to-manage storage solutions. Whether you’re working from a home studio, keeping things in a rented storage unit, or tucking your supplies neatly into a corner, you can keep everything organized and easy to find with the right strategies!

Categorize Your Supplies

Once you’ve decluttered, group your remaining items into specific categories. This could include separating paints, brushes, papers, knitting needles, fabric pieces, embellishments, or tools. Keeping like items together ensures everything has a designated place and makes it easier to grab what you need when creativity strikes.

Suggested Categories:

• Painting supplies
• Sewing & fabric
• Scrapbooking materials
• Knitting or crochet tools
• Beads & jewelry-making items
• Tools (scissors, hot glue gun, etc.)

Choose the Right Storage Systems

1. At Home

If you work primarily from home, use storage options that complement your space and allow easy access.

• Clear storage bins are perfect for separating smaller categories. Opt for stackable ones to save space.
• Rolling carts keep frequently-used supplies handy and portable.
• Pegboards or wall-mounted shelves are great for hanging tools or displaying supplies.
• Drawer organizers help with keeping small items like beads, buttons, or pens sorted.

When space is limited, think vertically. Maximize wall or over-the-door storage to make every inch count.

2. Rented Storage Unit

Sometimes, home just doesn’t have the capacity to neatly contain all your craft gear. That’s where a rented storage unit can be a game-changer. It allows you to safely store your extra supplies while keeping your living space uncluttered.

Here’s how to make the most of a storage unit for your craft supplies:

• Label Everything – Use labeled bins to avoid playing a guessing game later. Include a detailed description of what’s inside each container.
• Invest in Shelving – Keep items off the floor for better accessibility and to avoid damage. Metal or adjustable shelves work well in storage units.
• Climate Control – Choose a climate-controlled unit to protect temperature-sensitive materials like paint, fabric, or adhesives from heat, cold, or humidity changes.
• Create a Supply Map – Keep a simple map of your storage layout (digital or on paper) so you can easily locate whatever you need.
• Rotate Stock – Periodically check your supplies to ensure nothing has expired or needs replacing.

Labeling Is Key

Labeling is a step you simply can’t skip. Whether you use clear bins or colored boxes, ensure every container gets a label. Handwritten labels work, but for a polished look, consider using a label maker. You can also use color codes to quickly identify categories (e.g., blue labels for painting supplies, green for fabric, etc.).

Inventory Your Supplies

One of the best ways to stay organized is to create an inventory of your supplies, especially if you’re storing items in a larger collection like a rented unit. A simple spreadsheet or app can help track what you have, when it was last used, and where it’s located.

Suggested Inventory Details:

• Item type (e.g., acrylic paint, quilting fabric)
• Quantity
• Storage location (e.g., home studio, storage unit, drawer 2)
• Purchase/expiration date (if applicable)

Make Crafting Hassle-Free

Keeping your craft supplies organized isn’t just about neatness—it’s about making your creative process easier and more enjoyable. With the right home storage or a well-utilized rented storage unit, you can reclaim control over the chaos and make every crafting session a dream.