Organizing Your Art Supplies: Tips and Tricks for Storage and Stationary Organization

As a creator, organization is key to a productive and creative workflow. Whether you're a professional artist or just someone who enjoys creating in your free time, having a well-organized art space can make all the difference. 

For a bit of background, I like to film art journaling pages in my spare time, but also like to have easy access to my drawing, painting, and sketching supplies. I find when my tools are not easy to use AND easy to put away, I won’t use them. Getting organized was one way I was able to unlock more time with my creative side. 

In this blog post, I will share some of my favorite tips and tricks for organizing art supplies, including storage organization ideas and stationary organization strategies. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Categorize Your Supplies

Before you start organizing your art supplies, it's important to categorize them. This will help you keep track of what you have and make it easier to find what you need when you're working on a project. For example, you might categorize your supplies by type, such as paint, brushes, paper, and markers.

Hacks to Stationary Organization

A stationary organizer is an excellent way to keep your art supplies tidy and easily accessible. I personally use a rolling metal storage organizer that fits perfectly under my desk. This makes it incredibly easy to mobilize my art supplies, allowing me to create content from any room in the house. Look for organizers that have multiple compartments, so you can separate your supplies by type or color. This will make it easier to find what you need when you're working on a project.

Utilize Clear Containers

Clear containers are an excellent way to store small items like paintbrushes, pens, and pencils. On my second shelf, I have clear drawer bins for my paints. They are stackable and make it easy to place them on the desk or table while I work. On my bottom shelf, I have clear drawer organizers for my stationary supplies. Not only do they make it easy to see what's inside, but they also keep your supplies organized and easily accessible. Look for containers with lids to keep your supplies dust-free and to prevent them from rolling around.

Rolling Metal Cart

Clear Drawer Organizers with Drawers (second shelf)

Clear drawer organizers (bottom shelf)

Stationary and Sticker Organization Ideas

If you're someone who loves paper supplies, then you know how messy they can be. To limit the mess, I highly recommend using sticker books or books of art paper. They prevent additional clutter and prevent your cute products from getting lost or damaged. I keep my free stickers and stationary paper in cute jars, thrifted bins, and ceramic bowls. However, the books are by far the best way to limit stationary mess. I get my bigger books from Barnes & Noble and these cute mini washi sticker books from Amazon. I find the books I like using words like scrapbooking sticker and journal supplies when I look online.

Washi Scrapbooking Sticker Book

Choose Organizers That Bring You Joy

When it comes to organizing your art supplies, choose organizers that bring you joy. I personally like to choose vintage and retro-looking bins and boxes to organize myself. Not only do they look great, but they also make me happy when I'm working on my projects. Whether you prefer colorful containers, handcrafted wooden bins, or modern metal shelves, make sure you choose organizers that make you feel inspired and motivated.

Organizing your art supplies doesn't have to be a daunting task. If your supplies are not readily available and spark joy (thank you, Marie Kondo), you are less likely to use them. By following these simple tips and tricks for storage organization and stationary organization, you can create an art space that is tidy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Remember to categorize your supplies, use a stationary organizer, utilize clear containers, limit the mess with sticker books, and choose organizers that bring you joy. With these strategies in mind, you remove another barrier from getting creative.