Behind-the-Scenes: The ManMade Office Gets a Makeover
Six months ago, I left my then-current career to pursue creative work full-time. In doing so, I realized I probably needed an actual space beyond my couch to stay organized, and keep track of various projects, etc. So, for the last few months, I gave the spare bedroom in my house a 100% overhaul to become a functional craft studio and office.
Like a tour? Of course! Welcome.
I have three main workspaces. The one above houses all the things that are permanently wired up: desktop computer, external hard drives, speakers, musical instruments, and other media gear. I created the custom mounted shelf on top from scratch; you can find the how-to instructions here.
This adjustable drafting desk was created with a basic IKEA table top, adjustable legs, and some ingenuity. I do most of my art and craft work here: drawing, paper and stencil cutting, and some sewing. I love having the transparent surface to do image transfers and tracing. If I'm taking on a big sewing project, I'll flatten this table to use as a cutting surface, and do the sewing on my computer desk. It's nice to have one chair in this space, and be able to turn around and access two work surfaces.
This is my main desk, where I set up my laptop to write, edit, process photos, pay bills, etc. I have several in-and-out trays to keep me organized, and use the IKEA ALEX system as a flat file for storing paper and artwork, and the smaller drawers to house office supplies.
To keep me inspired and keep track of lists and important papers, I made this faux bois wood grain magnetic board and tool organizer:
And to surround myself with sketches, ideas, and the amazing work of artists I admire, I whipped up four large hand printed inspiration boards for under $20.00:
I knew I wanted to keep my walls and furniture white, and have pops of color come in from the accessories and the books in the space. The neutrals are mainly gray, and the accents in yellow.
This is just a standard spool organizer from the craft store. I removed the legs, painted it yellow, and store it on hooks that allow me to remove it easily to wherever I'm sewing.
This rotating tool caddy came from the art supply store in black, but comes to life with the same paint as the spool organizer and the articulating desk lamp above.
I needed ample, but concealable storage for all my supplies and tools, so I lined the space between my desks with shelving, and invested in plenty of well-labeled boxes.
Whereas I used to work on most of my projects in the basement, nearly everything that doesn't involve paint, ink, or sawdust is now done in this space.
Thanks for visiting!
Chris
