My jewelry studio

I took a big step toward getting my studio organized last weekend by putting up shelving above my work area. With concrete block walls, this was no easy task, and I subsequently threw one (or three) temper-tantrums during the process. I used my circular saw for the first time (grrrr!) to cut the shelves to fit, and, thankfully, I still have all of my fingers and toes. I still have to install the top two shelves, but the change has already made a huge difference with the clutter. Prior to this my work surface was completely chaotic, and I had books and other supplies sitting on the floor. Now everything is more organized and within easy reach. I feel really stifled when the clutter starts to take over and have been mostly avoiding my studio for the past 6 months or so, but I’m SO excited about getting back to work now!

If you’re interested in setting up a similar workspace for jewelry-making or other crafts, I managed to set up mine fairly inexpensively, around $200 total for the table, shelving and rolling drawer unit which are all from Ikea. They have a great selection of work surfaces and table legs in various sizes, materials and price ranges to choose from. They also have a good selection of shelving. I went super cheap and industrial with the nickel wall brackets and unfinished pine shelves.

This pic features my lazy assistant, Louis (pronounced “Louie”). After napping while I work, he likes to inspect whatever I’ve been working on, whether it’s jewelry or my inventory tracking sheet as he’s doing here.