Building your Scrapbooking Space

The very first scrapbooking supplies I purchased fit into a shoebox. After time, they began to outgrow the one shoebox and fill several others-and then an entire closet! My office table was almost always covered with paper, scissors, and journaling pens. Soon after that, I put up a card table in my bedroom to help alleviate some of the clutter. I really enjoyed this new activity but I simply needed more room.
Shortly after we purchased our new home, I did what every scrapbooker would was built specifically so that it could contain everything I needed, and be my special little space where I could focus and work in peace.

I am aware that we all have different wants and conceptions of convenience, so I have tried to define the most workable yet generic space and describe it below just to give you an idea when assembling yours. You can choose the layout and design that works best for both your area and your pocket. Remember, just because you might not be able to create this space now, does not prevent you from planning your future workspace. Here's some suggestions on where to begin:

The workspace. Choosing a great workable surface with plenty of workspace is one of the key elements of a good workroom. Shelving is also a primary concern because you will need ample room and storage shelves to hold all of your supplies, finished albums and pages in progress. Shelving and work surfaces can come from any number of places. Look around at some hardwood stores and be creative. You can often find many great shelving and workspace alternatives to fit any sized room or budget.

My work area is 38 inches high, approximately the same as any other countertop, so you do not have to crouch over in an uncomfortable position to use your large tools. No matter what type of table or counter you choose, just make sure you have plenty of surface area to adequately work on your pages.

Some "accessories" will make a nice difference in your scrap site. Consider items such as the following:

Sufficient lighting. Natural light is always best if it's available if it is not an option, fluorescent lighting can offer you a great source of bright light under which to work.
A comfortable chair. You will spend a great deal of time sitting, so be sure to select a comfortable chair. Invest in this area, after all, the more comfortable you are, the more time you are likely to spend working.
Bulletin boards. I just love these things. For clutterbrains such as myself, they rule as far as organization and reminders go!

Another crucial aspect of your room and placement of supplies is accessibility and labeling. Because many of us use so many supplies, sometimes putting it all in a place that is easy to find and access is not such a simple task. If you can't see your supplies, you will not likely take advantage of using them very often. Clear containers are VERY helpful in this area..

ThThat should put you on the road to building your very own scrapping space. Remember, organization is key. What is the best reason to get organized? You will become a better scrapper because you will not waste time searching for supplies and you will not be as likely to make a mistake since you have adequate working space.

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