If you've had a chance to look at the "Creative Spaces" column in our June issue, you already know that my craft room is my inspiring oasis. It's the one part of our home that's all mine and I make the most of that ownership--pink as far as the eye can see.

Whether you have an entire room or a small corner of your home, I think you'll find these do-it-yourself organization ideas easy, affordable and practical. Let's get started!

PATTERNED PAPER

Organizing patterned paper can be a tricky business. Do you do it by pattern? By color? By manufacturer? By type? By theme? Well, I can't answer this one for you, but I can tell you to do it the way that works for you. Just because your neighbor may organize hers by color doesn't mean that the system will necessarily work for you. Also, don't hesitate to combine methods, which is something I do.

Filing System

I use the following methods to file my paper:

* By color

* By patterns (if the paper is mutli-color)

* Stripes

* Polka Dots

* Floral/Botanicals 

* By holiday (Christmas, Halloween, etc.)

* By theme (pets, birthday, etc.)

* By type (ledge paper, shaped paper, lace paper, vellum, etc.)

TIP: If the paper is double-sided, I sort it by the side I would most likely use. For example, if the back is a pink pattern and the front is gold fish (hey, it could happen), I would file it in my "Pink" folder vs. my "Pet" folder.

TIP: If my paper fits in more than one category, I file in order of organizational preference staring with color, as shown in my list above. For example, if I have a pink floral print that's monochromatic, it would go on the pink file before it would go in the floral file. But, if it's pink flowers on a white background with green leaves, it would call the floral folder home.

To keep my paper easily accessible and affordable, I use 12 x 12 hanging file folders and fabric storage bins. Each color (or theme, or pattern) is organized in its own folder. I like this method, because I can easily pull out and flip through any folder to find that perfect sheet.

Cost Breakdown: $3 (pink bin) + $26 (twelve 12 x 12 hanging folders @ $13/pack of six) = $29

Appeared in:

June 2009