Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Small Space Sewing Room Makeover


I have been gawking and swooning for years at all the big, beautiful craft spaces I see highlighted on blogs and in magazines. "One day...," I would think to myself.  But then I got real. I live in a suburb of Seattle where most people live in small homes (or condos) that cost twice as much as homes twice as big in other parts of the country. So I don't have a 12x12 spare room I can dedicate just to my creative zeal. I do, however, have a 3x6 corner--and by golly--I decided it was high time I made the most of it! 

Here is my unabashed "Before" picture.  My "sewing table" was a catchall and a mess. I was storing my stuff in plastic containers that were too small and unorganized. 
Since this room triples as our family office and workout area,  I really needed to use the space to its fullest capacity, which meant shelving. So, I took this picture, took measurements, and headed to Ikea. 

I found the EKBY BJARNUM 11" shelving system and fell in love. It is a clean, modern look, but it is also adjustable to any length and super strong. Pretty AND practical. 
And the beauty is, if you don't have an Ikea closeby, you can order these online at Amazon or Ikea.com.

Next, I needed containers for organization. Once again, Ikea came through. 
These strong rails and storage cups are ideal for a sewist's or crafter's supplies.  These are perfect for things like rotary cutters and measuring tape that need a place, but are used too often to be put in a box. The Bygel Rail and the Bygel Containers are both available online as well! 


I found these cute and affordable Kvarnvik boxes at Ikea for organizing all my schtuff. Ikea and Amazon have so many options that are similar to these, you can really make your space just the way you want it without breaking the bank. These are available at Ikea.com, but I didn't find these particular boxes at Amazon. However, I found some very similar here
I love the pretty lining and the addition of the metal-framed labels on these boxes. 

This hat box is perfect for my tall thread spools.  And look at that cute gingham lining...**Swoon**


My final additions to my sewing nook were aesthetic. I wanted to add some pops of color and texture to the space.  I hung one of my DIY Modern Yarn Wall Hangings on the wall by the window. 

I also framed my Seattle Skyline Watercolor (prints available HERE) on a fun wrapping-paper background in a simple poster frame

I used this tutorial from Simply Gloria to make my fabric tassel garland. 


For my "MAKE" sign and the decorative wooden arrow, I went to the ever-reliable Hobby Lobby. Everything was 50% off, and I used 3M Command picture hanging strips to hang them, so no extra holes in the walls!


I couldn't be more pleased with my new happy place. I have done a double take multiple times when I walk by and glance in what used to be an eyesore hodgepodge of crafting clutter, but instead see organization and beauty.  I don't have an entire room, but I LOVE the small space I do have!