Tween Crafting: Tips for Organization
18 March 2009
Author: Karen Bulmahn
Although organization can be a challenging task for your children, having a special place for their stuff becomes more and more important as they get older. Once they enter into the “tween” years, order can sometimes turn into an obsession (we can only hope!). Kids that enjoy paper crafting and stamping, and those who have started “collecting” supplies may want to take note of the following tips for organization.
It is best to store supplies based on product type.
For paper, divide it into two stacks: cardstock and patterned paper. Hanging file folders, paper storage pouches or clear plastic drawers are a few suggestions for holding paper and keeping it from becoming damaged. Stacking it by color is also a fun task and will prove to be a great help to make work time more efficient.
Storage for tools, such as punches, paper trimmers and shape cutting systems, could include decorated cardboard boxes, clear plastic storage bins or fancy canvas totes, all of which can be stacked on shelves. Be sure to label each box or bin with a list of products that are stored inside.
A great way to store pens, pencils, markers and scissors is to place them in a small container such as a metal tin, a decorated cup, a mini bucket or a glass jar. This allows the items to be seen easily and makes them very accessible. It also can enhance the decor in the room if they are decorated in coordinating colors.
When storing and organizing stamps, a perfect solution is to use a Beanie Baby or Barbie “over-the-door” organizer. The pockets are clear, which make it easy to see the stamps, and are the perfect size to hold wooden stamps. Because they hang on a door, they don’t take up shelf space and help to keep a collection of stamps in one place. The pockets are also easy to label with the themes of the stamps. An alternative to this suggestion would be storing stamps in tins, such as a lunch box or paint can. Although these ideas require shelf space and opening them to view the stamps inside, they are fun to decorate and will help add interest to your paper crafting space. Plastic containers or drawer units are also an option for stamp storage. Consider creating a catalog with a stamped image of each stamp in the drawer or container to make locating the stamps quickly.
As the passion for paper crafting and stamping increases, so will the desire to collect more supplies. It’s inevitable! If you help your tween establish an organizational system in the early stages of their paper crafting or stamping hobby, it will be easier to keep supplies and tools in order. By following these simple tips for organization it will allow work time to be more efficient and enjoyable.