"Everyone should have a little space that is all their own. A quiet place to reflect on life, create, or simply take a deep cleansing breath at the end of a busy day. For me, it is a home within our home." This quote, taken from my web site's Studio Tour page, sums up why I believe it is so important to have a place in your home that is all yours.
Do you want a space of your own but don't have room for one? Don't fret. Just as I wrote about in my Studios Magazine article about turning a cabinet into a tidy 12-square-foot studio, you don't always have to devote an entire room to your creative endeavours. A corner of a bedroom, family room, or even a walk-in closet will do. Set up a simple work table or desk, place shelves filled with storage baskets on the wall, and you'll be well on your way to carving out a place that is just for you.
When it comes to shopping for studio storage, you'll never find me in the office storage aisle at Staples. What is the point of buying newly-made plastic or wire items when there are so many interesting old things out there that can be easily re-purposed? Instead, I can be found at the local thrift store or neighborhood tag sale searching for inexpensive planters to hold the mail, flower pots to corral markers, or picnic tins to store supplies. I surround myself with whimsical, wacky, wonderful things that inspire me and make me smile. These items are chock full of vintage charm and extra-good karma.
However, my favorite thing about my studio can't be found at a flea market. It is the painted floor. A few years ago, when it was time to pull up the wall-to-wall carpeting, I had a dilemma. The upper portion of the room, which used to be a small den, had hardwood floors. The newer portion of the room, which is one step down, had simple plywood under the carpet. I didn't want more carpeting or the added expense of installing hardwood. I realized that this was my chance to get the checkerboard floor I had always wanted.
I got out my yardstick and measured out 16-inch diagonal squares on the bare plywood. Then I had Carlos, my talented house painter, work his magic. I selected an aqua and a warm gray paint that are similar in tone. I didn't use colors with a lot of contrast because the space is small and I wanted the pattern to be subtle.
Most of all, my studio is my own personal think tank. I can work on projects and keep them set up for days without them getting in my family's way. To make the room even more inviting, I often have music playing, light a candle or two, and brew a cup of green tea to sip as I work.
As you've heard me say many a time, "my studio is the one place in our home that is mine, all mine. Spending time here makes me happy each and every day." I hope my series of studio posts have inspired you to find that happy, just-for-you place in your home.
Susan
I love your studio, so many sweet touches. I too buy vintage items for my craft room.It is fun to see how others use vintage items for storing supplies.
Posted by: Ruth | February 24, 2012 at 04:31 PM
I love it, I love it! I have a small storage building that I want to convert into "MY" Studio only! Thanks for the inspiration!
Posted by: Linda | February 24, 2012 at 02:52 PM
I'm so in love with your creative space and your vintage style. I love to repurpose vintage items for storage too-- much more fun!
Hugs,
Jill
Posted by: Jill | February 24, 2012 at 01:43 PM
What a sweet little space to call your very own!
I loved reading about it.
XO~C.
Posted by: Carolyne | February 24, 2012 at 02:33 AM
I've certainly enjoyed your studio posts. I agree that everyone needs a little space to call their own. We converted our guest room into my craft room. It's the perfect get-away.
Posted by: Musings from Kim K. | February 23, 2012 at 06:35 AM
Susan I love, love, love your workplace and I could be happy as a pig in sunshine in there. When my kids were young and lived at home all I had was a corner in the den. I made it my own with
my sewing machine, and a cabinet that held all my fabric. My girls shared a bedroom that we had added built in dressers and desk which has a long counter across.
I took the mirrors down and it makes a great sewing room/studio. I have 4 sewing machines along that counter.
I told my girls when the last one left, oh how I will miss you but
joy,joy I get my own space. YAY!!!
I keep lace, zippers and other braids in old vintage suitcases.
I have two old wooden ironing boards, one I use to iron on. Great post you did and your right everyone needs a little space to call their own.
Posted by: Elsie | February 22, 2012 at 12:40 PM
Nice blog post Susan. Your little area of the world is lovely and inspiring.
♥, Susan
Posted by: Black Eyed Susans Kitchen | February 22, 2012 at 10:58 AM