We are all birds of a feather with our work spaces I’m finding. So funny! This helped me get going. Good tips, too And those old family pictures haunting my drawers must be exiled to …. Somewhere else.
Thank you for such great insight and ideas! I laughed with you because this is so relatable - just moved into a new house a few months ago and decided to use the sunroom as an art space (open to living room and kitchen). Light is fantastic...neatness is almost impossible. I just decided it’s my house and if someone doesn’t approve, then don’t come here - hee hee.
loved working in the sun room near the kitchen so much! it was open and really nice. I lived alone then (with my kids) and it was JUST LIKE THAT, my house and my choice! xoxoxox Susan
I borrowed this great idea from her! Now I need to bring in another piece of furniture to hang it from. So much for downsizing:) Only kidding, I actually have an iron plant hanger on the wall I can use.
It was such a relief to see someone with a space as small and cluttered as mine. I also have the spare bed in mine. So if someone visits, I have to move all my supplies to one side of the room and I lose the use of my computer too. But it's my space and I love it. I do need to tackle reorganizing.
Omg Elizabeth your doggy still is there with you!! At the minute 7:48 crosses behind you never to be seen again!! Love your studio and dream to have one for myself one day
*So* *inspiring* as always and such an encouragement to know your space gets cluttered with stuff too! I also work in a small bedroom (and do mostly mixed media which means in addition to paints stamps and stencils I have fabric, inks, beads, wire, wood, all kinds of papers, and on & on . . .) -- it's such a relief to know I'm in very good company in my default way of working which is basically to wait until things are unbearable and then make the investment of time and energy in producing not 'order' but at least more patterned chaos :) The workspace, like most things in this world, is always a work in progress -- thank you very, very much for sharing yours.
I totally get it! And eventually I get so frustrated with my small space being such a mess that I have to clean it. But I have to admit it doesn’t take long to become a mess once again. It is a relief, you’re so right.
Don’t you love the therapeutic benefits of art and art studios and art therapy? I feel as though when I am cleaning up my studio or making art I am in such a beautiful mental space. Thanks for watching Mary
Thanks Elizabeth, I did my studio too, just finished yesterday. It is a small space. I put a lot of things I don't use out, as it is "valuable real estate for making". I like things together too. Paper with paper, paint with paint. My art trolley holds jars of pens, water soluble crayons, watercolour brushes, my novel project index cards, and journal materials. Underneath the wooden drinks trolley is finished projects, ready for dictation journals for my novel, and art sketchbooks in process. I bought some thin bamboo boxes a while back so finally the cart is organized. I like to store books vertically, bad energy if they are flat. I have a chest of drawers for collection of watercolours, and handmade ones. I have a space for ink, to display things. I find my art confronting if I put it up in a small room, so I chucked all my finished and works in progress in a cardboard folder box, that had paper sent in it. I like the process, and terrible with finished works. Not sure where to do wet or dirty work, printing, easel work, or my work for illustration. Garage perhaps? I have shelving down there, and it is set up as a recording studio, with hanging moving blankets as sound insulation, it is a large space but it is sectioned off in rooms for my partner's channel. I am in a rental so at the moment. I used a black moving blanket as the floor of my studio. It isn't ideal as it shifts, and too dark for the space, and I can't roll on the surface with my studio chair. Perhaps I can lay some floor boards over the mat style carpet. I have a computer desk,boom blue yeti, and my desk that my dad restored for me as a girl is near the window, looking out onto art deco and federation homes, many types of green trees, shrubs and lots of orange terracotta rooves. It is pretty and I have drawn it once in a sketchbook. I have been procrastinating, and ill too, so not much can be done when in bed for 5 days at a time, I have letters and parcels that I wanted to do last February 2021, September and January 2022. Some youtuber suggested to write the envelopes to overcome it. Perhaps will do that today, now that it is all clean. Where the heck did February go? Blame shorter month! I only moved here in March last year so, I think I am doing well.... I just found your channel, and I like your "real no fuss truthful style", a reality check for most artists. I can relate to dishes and empty cups. Good idea with the towel holder and card paint scraper. In kindred spirit, Eliza Dulwich Hill Sydney Australia Monday 28th of February, 2022, 11:04am bed office xx
Give yourself the gift of a larger bedroom. My life changed when I moved into the small bedroom and made the larger one into my studio. Priorities, right? If anyone objects, tell them you're taking over the living room - LOL!
This is so satisfying. I also have my studio in a small bedroom, so I know what it's like. Love the red cart! Loved it all, but what resonated with me was 'what's in this Blick bag that I absolutely had to have that I drove to the store to get, that's been sitting here ever since!" This is so relatable and was a joy to watch. Thanks!
I loved this because I have a love of , shall I just say, containers. I use old suitcases for storage and cute mugs or tins old cigar boxes, etc. So it's refreshing to see astudio that's not all white matching perfect cabinets that are empty on top
OH I am so glad! YES it's a mess in here but I LOVE it and I'm not about how my storage looks, I'm about how it WORKS because I am a working artist, efficient is key!
WOOHOO it's clean !! I feel ya on cleaning the creative space. I recently cleaned my art studio also and was so proud of myself that i made my husband admire it too. I kept walking passed the room because it brought my joy and peace because it's where all my magic happens. Sometimes a cluttered space allows you to see color combos you might not have thought of. Papers overlapping, cereal bowl next to fabric, eyeglasses next to a coffee cup, ya feeling' me ???
Yes I am feeling you! Even when it’s a mess it’s still a super creative space. But I also feel you when you say that once you clean it up you keep walking past it to look at it, admiring it, appreciating it! I do the same
How funny and real was this video? I giggled throughout, and laughed so hard when your furbaby left the room, like "I can't watch this!"... Just like you, I have 'my' tools separate from what is 'ours' because yes, you never know when you might need a screwdriver. Your videos are such a joy to watch, and this one was especially helpful since my craft space is one corner of the bedroom my husband and I share. I do miss having a dedicated craft room, but I find that I'm making less of a mess in this space or trying harder to keep it organized because the mess is no longer something I can drive 'out of sight out of mind' by just closing the door... Now I must go cut up a coat hanger for my paper towel roll!
Hi Sarina, I am so glad that you enjoyed the video, it was fun to make. My fur baby stays in here with me all day but she doesn't like a lot of activity or moving around, she only likes it when I paint or sit at the computer. LOL At least you have a corner that you dont have to clean up! I started out with a very small space too, a closet... No kidding. you'll have to check out my video coming this Friday it's a great creative project for a small space. OH YES that paper towel idea is the very BEST!
I need to attack my tiny art space today so I typed something into Google (does that count as more procrastination?!) and up popped your vid! I've watched many such vids in the past but yours here is BY FAR the most realistic/relatable of them ALL!! The bag-o-stuff you "had to run out and buy" but hadn't looked at yet, the random family photos, unopened Amazon pkgs.... And so many commenters here are saying something similar, so I just feel.... better! Also, because I really am about to tackle my space, I watched most of your vid at 1.5X speed, so there was that extra layer of both chaos and also inspiration!!! Thank you Elizabeth 😁😁
Oh my...... I sure did need to see this tonight. My small space is a disaster. So much so that I have no flat surface to work on. You have inspired me. Time for a thorough clean up of my space so I can use it again !!! And... yes... I know it will get messy again. But then I'll clean it again.... LOL
I love how honest you are! My space is such a mess currently, but when I clean it up completely, I don't want to use it because it will mess it up. Lol. So instead I let a part of it remain somewhat messy.
The self shaming for messing up again so quickly is something I am working on...I think. Multi-media lends itself to the "working clutter" I am a fiver artist so I am always auditioning my supplies as I work: . But recently I realized that if everything I have has a specific storage place, that when I do clean it goes much quicker and I don't have to make new decisions every time I clean which is so energy draining.
Great tips Elizabeth - thank you . The coathanger "paper towel holder" - GREAT IDEA ! I always really enjoy watching your demos , and I even ordered some of your stencils from Joggles ! Can't wait to experiment with those . Kind regards - Judi - Australia
Thanks so much for this inspiring video. I love to see how other artists deal with their space and supplies. As I have traveled along in my art explorations over the years in painting, jewelry making, Zentangle, Silk painting, and now fabric dyeing I also have art supplies that need to be either culled or reorganized because my art room is just a small bedroom. I thank you for sharing your cleaning and organizing process with us. I now plan to let go of materials I no longer use by selling, donating, or thrifting. I realize life is too short and too full of new opportunities to think I will ever go back to some of those crafts in depth - and even if I do return to something I trust I’ll have what I need! Thank you for your inspiration!
Thanks for sharing your space Elizabeth. I'm not a professional artist, I'm a mixed media hobbyist, but we have similar challenges and the same size studio space. Fortunately, I have a dedicated studio bathroom too. My biggest challenges are keeping flat space clear of stuff and storing like with like. I'm constantly rethinking how to make my space work better. I also work in my garage, my favorite place for gel printing sessions. I have 3 large tables out there plus wall space and my large portable magnetic whiteboard. Not insulated, but works for me Spring through Fall in Durango, CO. Thanks for all that you share on RUclips. Love your stencils (I own several) and your gel printing techniques.
Oh gosh yes! Surface area is such a premium. I have much room in the garage with a deep sink but it’s hot out there in the summer. I am so glad you are enjoying the videos. Sounds like you have a good setup overall! Cleaning makes a big difference. Then you have to keep it clean! Thanks so much for commenting Kyle
Oh my!! So comforting to know that my favourite artist is just as messy as me! :) I love it! I am so envious of your paint cart! I need to get one ASAP. I am currently living in a large hotel room. (I work here so I got to pick a good, large room with good lighting.) I've my late husband's large easel. It's a back to back because we used to paint together. It's HUGE and took 2 guys to move it in here for me. I've done 3 paintings for the lobby :) and I've gotten a rep as the "resident artiste" LOL I am grateful for the space, but it IS cramped. I manage nicely and keep it as clean as I can. I've a LOT of supplies...all in bins. Frustrating to not have it out in the open. But I am enormously grateful to have a space of my own. I need it for my mental health! My job can be very stressful. I really enjoyed seeing your work space. Thank you for sharing this with us! I love everything you do! Love and Bless, Darling Girl xo EDIT: that paper towel holder is FABULOUS! Def stealing that idea!:)
OH yes I am messy when I am busy, and I am always busy! I got the paint cart at Harbour Freight but if you do not have that near you you can get on Amazon. have you seen my Amazon Storefront? just look under the "Studio Must Have" list.www.amazon.com/shop/paper-paintings-collage-artwork I have a lot of supplies too and my garage is a good sized space but it's super HOT in the summer, for now it's nice. You are very fortunate to have a space of your own, no matter how small! it's so good to be able to leave your stuff strewn about and not having to clear the dinner table of it. You are very welcome and enjoy the paper towel holder Lindsey!
Thanks for sharing all of your organizational ideas. You are such a wonderful resource for all things art. Materials, organizing, creativity, and process for
That much space is a blessing! I have about 3x3 feet of work space, at home. Once a week I go work at a public use building. Needless to say, I’m jealous! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🎨
I’m going to put a paper towel hanger in my crafting cubby freeing up the surface a bit because I had a dish with paper towels. Up it goes and off the work surface. yay! thanks bunches!🦌❤️📚🎨🛠
Gotta say, it’s ALWAYS good to see and fun, other Artists working space and the messes they create and the organization that goes along with it when it happens. Boy! Your space is nothing compared to my very untidy and disorganized space. Thank you for sharing with us, I enjoyed watching ♥️
Elizabeth, you are just too cute and such a natural on camera ! I bet you could make the most boring mundane things in life sparkle with your special kind of color and pizzazz. Thanks for sharing your creative space with us today. It gave me a few good ideas on how to organize my own small space, plus it was fun watching you organize!!😁
Oh thank you so much Cindy, you’re very kind and I sincerely appreciate your compliments! It is my pleasure to share my powerful little space with you.
I absolutely loved this and you are so fun to listen too. I just went through this a few days ago with my small bedroom/ art studio. I made a huge mess and brought all into another bedroom while I painted the walls and brought the stuff back in minus most of my finished canvas’ which were overtaking the room and walls!! I have to subscribe to your channel for the inspiration and great fun you were for me today❤ love the paper towel invention I will use this idea
Interesting and inspiring. My space is even smaller…maybe 9x12…and way more messy and disorganized. No available floor space here…that would be awesome! Thanks for the ray of hope (although you do sound a lot more naturally organized than I!)
GREAT JOB! 💗👍💗 People often say to Me: “OMG How do You work in here?” To which I answer: “Very well, Thank You”. I am Organized CAOS! Ha-Ha! I am going to be moving (again) from Washington State to Texas (again) My son is Building Me a Container Tiny Home! I will have one ☝️ Container for My Art Studio!!! I can hardly wait! Believe Me I know what it’s like to work in a Tiny Space! I am so looking forward to having a Studio Space (again)
Thanks soooo much! I'm working on de-cluttering my studio/bedroom right now and it's the same size as yours. There's a single size bed but the rest is my studio. I'm specially thrilled about your paint cart on big wheels. That, I'm gona do too for sure! I'm thinking that I'd like to have floor to ceiling shelving all around the walls for all my supplies, and a special paint work area with everything on wheels to roll against the wall, out of the way when I'm not painting or drawing. I work in graphite, acrylics and oils. You've been a huge help just now, plus you've helped get me in the mood to do much of this today. Thanks again!
IM so glad to hear this! Wheels really makes my small space much more manageable, I have them on every easel and my paint cart and my taboret. not sure what I would do without them.!
@@ElizabethStHilaire I'm thinking seriously not about doing the same thing with several items. I found a simple wooden platform on wheels online at Lowes for only $30. I could easily build a custom art cart to put on it to keep at my side when painting and then push it to a corner when not in use. :) You've helped me a lot.
You are so cute Elizabeth. Right now I have a space that is exactly 2x2 - but we are renovating and instead of being in the dining room I will be in the living room with my very own dedicated space and I can't wait. Already I just want to take the whole room - lol - who needs company anyway ;) lololol Thank you for doing this - it was inspiring.
You had me at small studio! Yup! Mine is really supposed to be a living room, I guess. So helpful and inspiring to see your space and all of the stuff, and how you deal with it.
Great video!! I also have a small space & I do mixed media, it gets messy fast, I know how you all feel, I only have 1 usable wall because I use my dining area, & I have several pieces on wheels, its a great help in small space.
It feels so reassuring to know that even a great artist like you works in a small studio, thanks for sharing your thoughts and tips! I was wondering how and where do you store your paintings?
Hey Isabelle, YES I have a very small space and always have. I am working on a bigger one this year but only by about 30%. which could be HUGE! I store my paintings outside in the garage (which is insulated) and I am in N. Cal so no humidity. To be honest I do not have many paintings, I sell most of them. :)
@@ElizabethStHilaire- it is how it is arranged that counts, Our house is not tiny - but it is poorly arranged, several add-ons since 1923!I have two rooms upstairs but the low (7'2"), slanted ceilings upstairs mean that a lot of good space does not exist! I've spent all but 3 years on the West Coast and those 3 were in Florida. I remember flying in from the Florida Panhandle to LA and was amazed how dry it was! I have been in Oregon for decades now and think of it as dry. The other day I was having a procedure and, chatting with the nurse, found that she came from Eastern Europe. She said that her first few years here were miserable because it is so humid! I guess it is a matter of perspective.
@@ElizabethStHilaire SO true! LOL! I remember being curious, sticking out my tongue where I worked - several miles from the Gulf - but not that far from a bayou - and I could taste salt in the air. I also remember watching my skin dry out and getting flaky while flying from Florida to Los Angeles. It was strange! People here complain of the rain but they have not seen it rain east of the Rockies! LOL! They do get it all over with at once, though....
Thanks for this video! Obviously I'm not the only one whose studio is a mess. I'm a retired librarian -- I jokingly say I have a master's degree in organization. And while my personal library is in great order, my art supplies and what I keep in my studio is currently a complete jumble. I go in with every intention to neaten it up and then something catches my eye and I'm in the middle of an art project, making an even bigger mess. sheesh! Time to get serious about putting things away. ~Marilee
Marilee, don’t be fooled, it went right back to being a mess shortly there after. But intermittently I do clean up and organize so that I can find things and so that I can work more efficiently. When everything is a mess, I do have a little bit of stress because it’s such a small space. But when we are in the throes of creativity, organization goes out the window and we’re pulling things out of every drawer and every cupboard. So my philosophy is just to clean up between projects. :-) Congratulations on retirement, that must be awesome! More time to be creative.
I love the art room! I have a small craft closet and it gets cluttered a lot.. But it forces me to use those scraps or toss and keep it tidy. So if I do any crafting, I have to tidy up after every craftitis itch.
@ 7:46, little white dog walked behind, and disappeared. Is that a new dog, or the darling visiting back from dog heaven? Thanks for the wonderful videos teachings and supplies!
This is hilarious. Family photos, dishes, faucets. What a honost look. Got to say I'm envious of all that great Golden paint. Where were the hanging stencils? I love your stencils!
Very impressive. This video was highly entertaining, motavating and enlightening. Your working space is about the same as my art room. I'm impressed thst you can work in there but hearing about the garage made that more understandable. I now use my art room as an art supply room. I moved my work space to our unused dining room until I made so much art it became an art storage space. Now I have temporary art work space wherever I can and then I put everything back where it goes. But I did hear you say you have a place for art storage so I don't feel quite as bad about my art creeping into the rest of the house lol.
I have art storage in the garage too! It’s certainly hot out there in the summer and cold in the winter however. The big table I use is very helpful for gel printing and filming videos. Thank you for your compliments! I’m glad you have worked out a solution with the dining room, those are rarely used spaces for dining anyway!!
You should see my small space: literally a path from the door to my desk. Mixed media simply means that you have not one type of paint and paper but dozens of types of materials. I have taken over the dining room: we haven't eaten at the dining room table since 2000. I bought dozens of zippered plastic pouches and organized my materials so that at least when I spill coffee on them everything stays clean!
Haha just found you! New subscriber. Thanks for a lively inspiring cleanup video. Today I’ll be tackling my small studio so needed your tips and encouragement. Also I’m ordering some nonstick craft papers for my 2 desks. Whee! Thank you!
Yes! My seatbelt bag is Harvey’s, recycled! Thank you very much, it is inspiring to see how someone else clean and organize and I am sure that I can learn more ways to be better at it
I often have three things in progress at once. And the big easel shelf is always low, for large projects, while the two smaller are set up high for smaller pieces. I just moved into a bigger space as well!
It sure feels good to have a clean work space ... almost makes you want to leave it unused and clean. But what would be the point of that!?! 😂 I find crap stuffed into junk, piled on even more stuff. I think it's called creative clutter! Cathartic clean up!
I love organizing stuff. Keeping it organized is harder but I’m trying to remind myself to put things back where they belong. I have a small file cabinet that I keep old cards and letters, samples of my children’s art or writing, etc. I have other things like taxes in there but a couple of hanging files are dedicated to sentimental paper. I have the photos in photo boxes. I love your easels! The wheels are a great idea too! Did you install those cast-iron hangers?
The wheels are so totally helpful! I have been using them for a long time. I did not install the hangers, I have no where to put them but I am holding out hope! Keeping it organized is hard so once a week I try to tidy up rather than waiting a month!!! thanks Noël
Oh gosh. We all have a mess like that. It sure feels good to get organized though. Do you know of a discount place I can get Golden paints? I can't afford many at $28 a bottle!
We all have a mess like that indeed! I would look online at Blick for sales. They are professional quality, made in the US in Upstate NY by an employee owned company with EXCELLENT customer service, you can call them and ask a product specialist about anything... so yeah, they are expensive but well worth it.
OMG, you actually said, “eTcetera” instead of eCKcetera. There’s hope for the spoken language. Now, if people would stop saying things like: “See if you CAN’T do something about your messy studio” when they really mean “See if you CAN do something …” 💕❤️💕
Wow...nice space ...OK u can send me the unopened stuff from joggles I want that stuff but it's to expensive...tfs..oh or even if anything u don't want ill take it ..I'm trying to do videos but I don't have anything too do ...u know what I mean 😏
![Gunna - HIM ALL ALONG [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/w7Wf0h1Q8a4/mqdefault.jpg)
Perfect place to leave my new favorite quote: If there was a pill to cure procrastination I would take it … tomorrow!
Oh gosh me too!!!!!
We are all birds of a feather with our work spaces I’m finding. So funny!
This helped me get going. Good tips, too
And those old family pictures haunting my drawers must be exiled to ….
Somewhere else.
Yes! Omg so true.
Thanks, Elizabeth. You made me smile because, you know, SO me!
Awesome Rene!
Thank you for such great insight and ideas! I laughed with you because this is so relatable - just moved into a new house a few months ago and decided to use the sunroom as an art space (open to living room and kitchen). Light is fantastic...neatness is almost impossible. I just decided it’s my house and if someone doesn’t approve, then don’t come here - hee hee.
loved working in the sun room near the kitchen so much! it was open and really nice. I lived alone then (with my kids) and it was JUST LIKE THAT, my house and my choice! xoxoxox Susan
LOL I have actually watched this video twice! Such a hoot, especially the stapler from Room 107 "I can't get rid of it now!".
Right?? I can’t! LOL I’m so glad you enjoyed it.
Excellent idea with the coat hanger for the paper towel roll. No more chasing the roll across the floor because someone's knocked it off my table 😄
I love it! Yes!
I borrowed this great idea from her! Now I need to bring in another piece of furniture to hang it from. So much for downsizing:) Only kidding, I actually have an iron plant hanger on the wall I can use.
It was such a relief to see someone with a space as small and cluttered as mine. I also have the spare bed in mine. So if someone visits, I have to move all my supplies to one side of the room and I lose the use of my computer too. But it's my space and I love it. I do need to tackle reorganizing.
Reorganizing does really help
Omg Elizabeth your doggy still is there with you!! At the minute 7:48 crosses behind you never to be seen again!! Love your studio and dream to have one for myself one day
Bella is always with me! Thanks so much Sonia! Art is my full time job so it’s like my office! :)
*So* *inspiring* as always and such an encouragement to know your space gets cluttered with stuff too! I also work in a small bedroom (and do mostly mixed media which means in addition to paints stamps and stencils I have fabric, inks, beads, wire, wood, all kinds of papers, and on & on . . .) -- it's such a relief to know I'm in very good company in my default way of working which is basically to wait until things are unbearable and then make the investment of time and energy in producing not 'order' but at least more patterned chaos :) The workspace, like most things in this world, is always a work in progress -- thank you very, very much for sharing yours.
I totally get it! And eventually I get so frustrated with my small space being such a mess that I have to clean it. But I have to admit it doesn’t take long to become a mess once again. It is a relief, you’re so right.
"more patterned chaos".....PERFECT wording. That is exactly what I am going for!👍🏻
It was therapeutic to watch this! Organization is the goal, always, as elusive as it can be!
Don’t you love the therapeutic benefits of art and art studios and art therapy? I feel as though when I am cleaning up my studio or making art I am in such a beautiful mental space. Thanks for watching Mary
Wat hing you clean is addictive lol
Enjoyed watching you organize and am truly amazed at how much you accomplished. It would have taken me a week due to the rabbit holes 😂
Thanks for watching Sharon, gosh I’m just so busy and I have so much on my schedule but I can’t take forever to do anything! No rabbit holes :-)
Thanks Elizabeth, I did my studio too, just finished yesterday. It is a small space. I put a lot of things I don't use out, as it is "valuable real estate for making". I like things together too. Paper with paper, paint with paint.
My art trolley holds jars of pens, water soluble crayons, watercolour brushes, my novel project index cards, and journal materials.
Underneath the wooden drinks trolley is finished projects, ready for dictation journals for my novel, and art sketchbooks in process. I bought some thin bamboo boxes a while back so finally the cart is organized. I like to store books vertically, bad energy if they are flat.
I have a chest of drawers for collection of watercolours, and handmade ones.
I have a space for ink, to display things.
I find my art confronting if I put it up in a small room, so I chucked all my finished and works in progress in a cardboard folder box, that had paper sent in it. I like the process, and terrible with finished works.
Not sure where to do wet or dirty work, printing, easel work, or my work for illustration. Garage perhaps? I have shelving down there, and it is set up as a recording studio, with hanging moving blankets as sound insulation, it is a large space but it is sectioned off in rooms for my partner's channel.
I am in a rental so at the moment. I used a black moving blanket as the floor of my studio. It isn't ideal as it shifts, and too dark for the space, and I can't roll on the surface with my studio chair. Perhaps I can lay some floor boards over the mat style carpet.
I have a computer desk,boom blue yeti, and my desk that my dad restored for me as a girl is near the window, looking out onto art deco and federation homes, many types of green trees, shrubs and lots of orange terracotta rooves. It is pretty and I have drawn it once in a sketchbook.
I have been procrastinating, and ill too, so not much can be done when in bed for 5 days at a time, I have letters and parcels that I wanted to do last February 2021, September and January 2022. Some youtuber suggested to write the envelopes to overcome it. Perhaps will do that today, now that it is all clean.
Where the heck did February go? Blame shorter month!
I only moved here in March last year so, I think I am doing well....
I just found your channel, and I like your "real no fuss truthful style", a reality check for most artists. I can relate to dishes and empty cups. Good idea with the towel holder and card paint scraper.
In kindred spirit,
Eliza
Dulwich Hill Sydney Australia
Monday 28th of February, 2022, 11:04am
bed office xx
Organization is a personal thing but once you get it right it's like a well oiled machine! Your trolly sounds SUPER organized!
Give yourself the gift of a larger bedroom. My life changed when I moved into the small bedroom and made the larger one into my studio. Priorities, right? If anyone objects, tell them you're taking over the living room - LOL!
Ha ha ha I am working on that this year Sue, we are adding on.
@@ElizabethStHilaire You go, Girl!
This is so satisfying. I also have my studio in a small bedroom, so I know what it's like. Love the red cart! Loved it all, but what resonated with me was 'what's in this Blick bag that I absolutely had to have that I drove to the store to get, that's been sitting here ever since!" This is so relatable and was a joy to watch. Thanks!
I think we all do that with art supplies! LOL my pleasure Kathy
I loved this because I have a love of , shall I just say, containers. I use old suitcases for storage and cute mugs or tins old cigar boxes, etc. So it's refreshing to see astudio that's not all white matching perfect cabinets that are empty on top
OH I am so glad! YES it's a mess in here but I LOVE it and I'm not about how my storage looks, I'm about how it WORKS because I am a working artist, efficient is key!
WOOHOO it's clean !! I feel ya on cleaning the creative space.
I recently cleaned my art studio also and was so proud of myself that i made my husband admire it too.
I kept walking passed the room because it brought my joy and peace because it's where all my magic happens.
Sometimes a cluttered space allows you to see color combos you might not have thought of.
Papers overlapping, cereal bowl next to fabric, eyeglasses next to a coffee cup, ya feeling' me ???
Yes I am feeling you! Even when it’s a mess it’s still a super creative space. But I also feel you when you say that once you clean it up you keep walking past it to look at it, admiring it, appreciating it! I do the same
How funny and real was this video? I giggled throughout, and laughed so hard when your furbaby left the room, like "I can't watch this!"... Just like you, I have 'my' tools separate from what is 'ours' because yes, you never know when you might need a screwdriver. Your videos are such a joy to watch, and this one was especially helpful since my craft space is one corner of the bedroom my husband and I share. I do miss having a dedicated craft room, but I find that I'm making less of a mess in this space or trying harder to keep it organized because the mess is no longer something I can drive 'out of sight out of mind' by just closing the door... Now I must go cut up a coat hanger for my paper towel roll!
Hi Sarina, I am so glad that you enjoyed the video, it was fun to make. My fur baby stays in here with me all day but she doesn't like a lot of activity or moving around, she only likes it when I paint or sit at the computer. LOL At least you have a corner that you dont have to clean up! I started out with a very small space too, a closet... No kidding. you'll have to check out my video coming this Friday it's a great creative project for a small space. OH YES that paper towel idea is the very BEST!
I need to attack my tiny art space today so I typed something into Google (does that count as more procrastination?!) and up popped your vid! I've watched many such vids in the past but yours here is BY FAR the most realistic/relatable of them ALL!! The bag-o-stuff you "had to run out and buy" but hadn't looked at yet, the random family photos, unopened Amazon pkgs.... And so many commenters here are saying something similar, so I just feel.... better! Also, because I really am about to tackle my space, I watched most of your vid at 1.5X speed, so there was that extra layer of both chaos and also inspiration!!! Thank you Elizabeth 😁😁
Oh wow! You’re so welcome. 😉 thanks for watching
Looking forward..as it's always a challenge!!
it sure is!
Oohhhh! Valve handles! Love that stuff since I am drawn to steampunk mixed media.
So fun, I just like looking at them. LOL thanks Sandra
Oh my...... I sure did need to see this tonight. My small space is a disaster. So much so that I have no flat surface to work on. You have inspired me. Time for a thorough clean up of my space so I can use it again !!! And... yes... I know it will get messy again. But then I'll clean it again.... LOL
That’s what prompted me!!! No surface area. :)
I'm stealing your paper towel idea! I love the yellow walls!
WOO HOO thanks !Go for it
I love how honest you are! My space is such a mess currently, but when I clean it up completely, I don't want to use it because it will mess it up. Lol. So instead I let a part of it remain somewhat messy.
Don’t get me wrong this was probably a mess again three days later. But at least things were a little bit more organized
The self shaming for messing up again so quickly is something I am working on...I think. Multi-media lends itself to the "working clutter" I am a fiver artist so I am always auditioning my supplies as I work: . But recently I realized that if everything I have has a specific storage place, that when I do clean it goes much quicker and I don't have to make new decisions every time I clean which is so energy draining.
@@lindastein9423 yes! Each supply having a specific plz e is a huge time saver for sure. I totally get it. And messy means you are making things!!
Thank you 🙏💐 I think quite organised
Sure!! Thanks for being here
Elizabeth, loved the video. So glad I’m not the only one!!!
You're not alone!
Great tips Elizabeth - thank you . The coathanger "paper towel holder" - GREAT IDEA ! I always really enjoy watching your demos , and I even ordered some of your stencils from Joggles ! Can't wait to experiment with those . Kind regards - Judi - Australia
thanks so much for the support in ordering from Joggles! AND that paper towel holder is the BOMB! Glad you liked it.
I think a lot of us can identify! I just went through this myself a week or two ago. You have to wonder how we ever create anything in our messes!😄
Oh gosh it’s so very true Janina!
Thanks so much for this inspiring video. I love to see how other artists deal with their space and supplies. As I have traveled along in my art explorations over the years in painting, jewelry making, Zentangle, Silk painting, and now fabric dyeing I also have art supplies that need to be either culled or reorganized because my art room is just a small bedroom. I thank you for sharing your cleaning and organizing process with us. I now plan to let go of materials I no longer use by selling, donating, or thrifting. I realize life is too short and too full of new opportunities to think I will ever go back to some of those crafts in depth - and even if I do return to something I trust I’ll have what I need! Thank you for your inspiration!
You are so welcome Fran ! It’s true we do get bogged down by “stuff” for sure. Organizing really helps
Thanks for sharing your space Elizabeth. I'm not a professional artist, I'm a mixed media hobbyist, but we have similar challenges and the same size studio space. Fortunately, I have a dedicated studio bathroom too. My biggest challenges are keeping flat space clear of stuff and storing like with like. I'm constantly rethinking how to make my space work better. I also work in my garage, my favorite place for gel printing sessions. I have 3 large tables out there plus wall space and my large portable magnetic whiteboard. Not insulated, but works for me Spring through Fall in Durango, CO. Thanks for all that you share on RUclips. Love your stencils (I own several) and your gel printing techniques.
Oh gosh yes! Surface area is such a premium. I have much room in the garage with a deep sink but it’s hot out there in the summer. I am so glad you are enjoying the videos. Sounds like you have a good setup overall! Cleaning makes a big difference. Then you have to keep it clean! Thanks so much for commenting Kyle
Oh my!! So comforting to know that my favourite artist is just as messy as me! :) I love it! I am so envious of your paint cart! I need to get one ASAP. I am currently living in a large hotel room. (I work here so I got to pick a good, large room with good lighting.) I've my late husband's large easel. It's a back to back because we used to paint together. It's HUGE and took 2 guys to move it in here for me. I've done 3 paintings for the lobby :) and I've gotten a rep as the "resident artiste" LOL I am grateful for the space, but it IS cramped. I manage nicely and keep it as clean as I can. I've a LOT of supplies...all in bins. Frustrating to not have it out in the open. But I am enormously grateful to have a space of my own. I need it for my mental health! My job can be very stressful. I really enjoyed seeing your work space. Thank you for sharing this with us! I love everything you do! Love and Bless, Darling Girl xo EDIT: that paper towel holder is FABULOUS! Def stealing that idea!:)
OH yes I am messy when I am busy, and I am always busy! I got the paint cart at Harbour Freight but if you do not have that near you you can get on Amazon. have you seen my Amazon Storefront? just look under the "Studio Must Have" list.www.amazon.com/shop/paper-paintings-collage-artwork I have a lot of supplies too and my garage is a good sized space but it's super HOT in the summer, for now it's nice. You are very fortunate to have a space of your own, no matter how small! it's so good to be able to leave your stuff strewn about and not having to clear the dinner table of it. You are very welcome and enjoy the paper towel holder Lindsey!
Thanks for sharing all of your organizational ideas. You are such a wonderful resource for all things art. Materials, organizing, creativity, and process for
Continued from above. Your art. Thanks
My pleasure Diane thank you for taking the time to send such good vibes!
Is not small, is intersting!
You could say that!
That much space is a blessing! I have about 3x3 feet of work space, at home. Once a week I go work at a public use building. Needless to say, I’m jealous! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🎨
Awe well, it’s my full time job! So I do need a little more room.
3x3 you have me beat, I thought I had the smallest space, mine is 8x8, I reorganize it often & go thru stuff That I don't use.
@@nedanashu5025 that’s true, getting rid of things you don’t use helps!
I used my walk in closet for a studio at one time. It was not enough space but when you must create you find any nook you can.
@@Saffirance me too!!! It was too dark. :)
Thanks for this! It’s exactly what I needed to feel inspired enough to charge into my studio and make it a workable space again!
I am so glad Gretchen! I do love to inspire and encourage. I bet you get it to be cleaned up in no time!
I’m going to put a paper towel hanger in my crafting cubby freeing up the surface a bit because I had a dish with paper towels. Up it goes and off the work surface. yay! thanks bunches!🦌❤️📚🎨🛠
it's a GREAT tip!
Gotta say, it’s ALWAYS good to see and fun, other Artists working space and the messes they create and the organization that goes along with it when it happens. Boy! Your space is nothing compared to my very untidy and disorganized space.
Thank you for sharing with us, I enjoyed watching ♥️
Oh I’m so glad you enjoyed it Jeannette. We are all unorganized it seems!
Elizabeth, you are just too cute and such a natural on camera ! I bet you could make the most boring mundane things in life sparkle with your special kind of color and pizzazz. Thanks for sharing your creative space with us today. It gave me a few good ideas on how to organize my own small space, plus it was fun watching you organize!!😁
Oh thank you so much Cindy, you’re very kind and I sincerely appreciate your compliments! It is my pleasure to share my powerful little space with you.
Very inspiring!!! And relatable. My studio space is small but mighty!
Small but mighty! I love it
Love this video!!❤🙂👍 Nice and unusuall to see you in another "setting".... not with paper and paint, I mean!🙂
Yesss! Sometimes I clean
I absolutely loved this and you are so fun to listen too. I just went through this a few days ago with my small bedroom/ art studio. I made a huge mess and brought all into another bedroom while I painted the walls and brought the stuff back in minus most of my finished canvas’ which were overtaking the room and walls!! I have to subscribe to your channel for the inspiration and great fun you were for me today❤ love the paper towel invention I will use this idea
@@geri1864 oh my goodness thanks so much!
Thank you 🙏. Completely relate to your before. That was so helpful 💐💕
@@judyk.657 my pleasure! Thanks for watching Judy
I collected all the photo invites, birthday cards etc and put them on a book ring. Have them sorted by year.
I think I'm not that organized.
Interesting and inspiring. My space is even smaller…maybe 9x12…and way more messy and disorganized. No available floor space here…that would be awesome! Thanks for the ray of hope (although you do sound a lot more naturally organized than I!)
A ray of hope is always good! Since I work in here full time I do try to keep it clean as I can. I’m basically spend all day, most days, in this room
Great job! Your creativity will bloom
It sure will Diane!
GREAT JOB! 💗👍💗
People often say to Me:
“OMG How do You work in here?” To which I answer: “Very well, Thank You”. I am Organized CAOS! Ha-Ha!
I am going to be moving (again) from Washington State to Texas (again)
My son is Building Me a Container Tiny Home!
I will have one ☝️ Container for My Art Studio!!! I can hardly wait!
Believe Me I know what it’s like to work in a Tiny Space!
I am so looking forward to having a Studio Space (again)
YES< I was working in here pretty OK but did want to clean up... but organized chaos is a good way to describe it Barbara!
BRILLIANT!!!
Thanks so much. :-)
Toss the boxes
YES
Thanks soooo much! I'm working on de-cluttering my studio/bedroom right now and it's the same size as yours. There's a single size bed but the rest is my studio. I'm specially thrilled about your paint cart on big wheels. That, I'm gona do too for sure! I'm thinking that I'd like to have floor to ceiling shelving all around the walls for all my supplies, and a special paint work area with everything on wheels to roll against the wall, out of the way when I'm not painting or drawing. I work in graphite, acrylics and oils. You've been a huge help just now, plus you've helped get me in the mood to do much of this today. Thanks again!
IM so glad to hear this! Wheels really makes my small space much more manageable, I have them on every easel and my paint cart and my taboret. not sure what I would do without them.!
@@ElizabethStHilaire I'm thinking seriously not about doing the same thing with several items. I found a simple wooden platform on wheels online at Lowes for only $30. I could easily build a custom art cart to put on it to keep at my side when painting and then push it to a corner when not in use. :) You've helped me a lot.
Loved this share Elizabeth!
thanks so much!
You are so cute Elizabeth. Right now I have a space that is exactly 2x2 - but we are renovating and instead of being in the dining room I will be in the living room with my very own dedicated space and I can't wait. Already I just want to take the whole room - lol - who needs company anyway ;) lololol Thank you for doing this - it was inspiring.
Who needs company anyway?!!! I agree. Take over that living room! Thanks for being here :)
You had me at small studio! Yup! Mine is really supposed to be a living room, I guess. So helpful and inspiring to see your space and all of the stuff, and how you deal with it.
I’m glad it was inspiring!! My space is small but mighty for sure
Love watching it! 😍😍👍
Thank you Dapur
Really enjoyed this video and I oved the tip on the paper towel holder so I just made one too
Great! I’m glad you stole that idea, it’s a good one :-)
Great video!! I also have a small space & I do mixed media, it gets messy fast, I know how you all feel, I only have 1 usable wall because I use my dining area, & I have several pieces on wheels, its a great help in small space.
Yes! The wheels really help, I move everything around constantly
It feels so reassuring to know that even a great artist like you works in a small studio, thanks for sharing your thoughts and tips! I was wondering how and where do you store your paintings?
Hey Isabelle, YES I have a very small space and always have. I am working on a bigger one this year but only by about 30%. which could be HUGE! I store my paintings outside in the garage (which is insulated) and I am in N. Cal so no humidity. To be honest I do not have many paintings, I sell most of them. :)
@@ElizabethStHilaire it’s not a surprise 🤣. Thanks for everything you share 💓
@@ElizabethStHilaire- it is how it is arranged that counts, Our house is not tiny - but it is poorly arranged, several add-ons since 1923!I have two rooms upstairs but the low (7'2"), slanted ceilings upstairs mean that a lot of good space does not exist!
I've spent all but 3 years on the West Coast and those 3 were in Florida. I remember flying in from the Florida Panhandle to LA and was amazed how dry it was! I have been in Oregon for decades now and think of it as dry. The other day I was having a procedure and, chatting with the nurse, found that she came from Eastern Europe. She said that her first few years here were miserable because it is so humid! I guess it is a matter of perspective.
@@katpaints it really is ALL a matter of perspective! No humidity like FL … I’m on my way home from Orlando
@@ElizabethStHilaire SO true! LOL! I remember being curious, sticking out my tongue where I worked - several miles from the Gulf - but not that far from a bayou - and I could taste salt in the air. I also remember watching my skin dry out and getting flaky while flying from Florida to Los Angeles. It was strange! People here complain of the rain but they have not seen it rain east of the Rockies! LOL! They do get it all over with at once, though....
Fantastic, just what I needed for inspiration to get going and clean up my studio space
Inspiration is a beautiful thing Sally!
What great video! Thanks for sharing your life, family and organizational skills! You rock!
My pleasure! Thanks Judy
Thanks for this video! Obviously I'm not the only one whose studio is a mess. I'm a retired librarian -- I jokingly say I have a master's degree in organization. And while my personal library is in great order, my art supplies and what I keep in my studio is currently a complete jumble. I go in with every intention to neaten it up and then something catches my eye and I'm in the middle of an art project, making an even bigger mess. sheesh! Time to get serious about putting things away.
~Marilee
Marilee, don’t be fooled, it went right back to being a mess shortly there after. But intermittently I do clean up and organize so that I can find things and so that I can work more efficiently. When everything is a mess, I do have a little bit of stress because it’s such a small space. But when we are in the throes of creativity, organization goes out the window and we’re pulling things out of every drawer and every cupboard. So my philosophy is just to clean up between projects. :-) Congratulations on retirement, that must be awesome! More time to be creative.
Thank you for this!
My pleasure!
I love the art room! I have a small craft closet and it gets cluttered a lot.. But it forces me to use those scraps or toss and keep it tidy. So if I do any crafting, I have to tidy up after every craftitis itch.
That’s perfect!!
You did inspire me..thankyou
Awesome!!! :)
Keepin it real Elizabeth. I’m in the process of sorting stuff too. It feels so great when a jobs done (-: Marion 🙈 X
gosh it sure does Marion!
@ 7:46, little white dog walked behind, and disappeared. Is that a new dog, or the darling visiting back from dog heaven? Thanks for the wonderful videos teachings and supplies!
I had two dogs and lost one two years ago but this little one is still with me. My Bella, 14 years old. My pleasure Laurey!
Can't wait, I always enjoy your videos.
Thanks so much!
This is hilarious. Family photos, dishes, faucets. What a honost look. Got to say I'm envious of all that great Golden paint. Where were the hanging stencils? I love your stencils!
Oh thank you Nadine! I do find myself enjoying humor and making people smile. Here’s the stencil storage: ruclips.net/video/BRg9acF2NYs/видео.html
Very impressive. This video was highly entertaining, motavating and enlightening. Your working space is about the same as my art room. I'm impressed thst you can work in there but hearing about the garage made that more understandable. I now use my art room as an art supply room. I moved my work space to our unused dining room until I made so much art it became an art storage space. Now I have temporary art work space wherever I can and then I put everything back where it goes. But I did hear you say you have a place for art storage so I don't feel quite as bad about my art creeping into the rest of the house lol.
I have art storage in the garage too! It’s certainly hot out there in the summer and cold in the winter however. The big table I use is very helpful for gel printing and filming videos. Thank you for your compliments! I’m glad you have worked out a solution with the dining room, those are rarely used spaces for dining anyway!!
You should see my small space: literally a path from the door to my desk. Mixed media simply means that you have not one type of paint and paper but dozens of types of materials. I have taken over the dining room: we haven't eaten at the dining room table since 2000. I bought dozens of zippered plastic pouches and organized my materials so that at least when I spill coffee on them everything stays clean!
Clean is good! Do you have a kitchen table???
Haha just found you! New subscriber. Thanks for a lively inspiring cleanup video. Today I’ll be tackling my small studio so needed your tips and encouragement. Also I’m ordering some nonstick craft papers for my 2 desks. Whee! Thank you!
My pleasure! You’ll love the mat, it’s fantastic
haha, loved this!
Thanks!
Im not gonna clean up my space so might as well watch you clean up yours. LOL Only one can be miserable at a time. LOL
it was actually a great feeling to get it done!
Love love love this video! It's always inspiring to see how someone else cleans and organizes! Also love your seatbelt bag... Harveys?
Yes! My seatbelt bag is Harvey’s, recycled! Thank you very much, it is inspiring to see how someone else clean and organize and I am sure that I can learn more ways to be better at it
Wow😲🤩😍
thanks!
Ok, if I take nothing else from this video, I'm making a paper towel hanger! (And will start cleaning my studio)
There you go!!!!
Oh! The empty box dilema. I can’t part with a nice , well constructed empty box 😂
Right??
Girl!! 😂 why do you need 3 easels? I love your studio! Wish I had that kinda space
I often have three things in progress at once. And the big easel shelf is always low, for large projects, while the two smaller are set up high for smaller pieces. I just moved into a bigger space as well!
It sure feels good to have a clean work space ... almost makes you want to leave it unused and clean. But what would be the point of that!?! 😂 I find crap stuffed into junk, piled on even more stuff. I think it's called creative clutter! Cathartic clean up!
it does feel good and it's awesome to have surface area too! Creative Clutter is a great term LOL
I love organizing stuff. Keeping it organized is harder but I’m trying to remind myself to put things back where they belong.
I have a small file cabinet that I keep old cards and letters, samples of my children’s art or writing, etc. I have other things like taxes in there but a couple of hanging files are dedicated to sentimental paper. I have the photos in photo boxes.
I love your easels! The wheels are a great idea too!
Did you install those cast-iron hangers?
The wheels are so totally helpful! I have been using them for a long time. I did not install the hangers, I have no where to put them but I am holding out hope! Keeping it organized is hard so once a week I try to tidy up rather than waiting a month!!! thanks Noël
Oh gosh. We all have a mess like that. It sure feels good to get organized though.
Do you know of a discount place I can get Golden paints? I can't afford many at $28 a bottle!
We all have a mess like that indeed! I would look online at Blick for sales. They are professional quality, made in the US in Upstate NY by an employee owned company with EXCELLENT customer service, you can call them and ask a product specialist about anything... so yeah, they are expensive but well worth it.
Hi Elizabeth 😆
Hello Bernie!
OMG, you actually said, “eTcetera” instead of eCKcetera. There’s hope for the spoken language. Now, if people would stop saying things like: “See if you CAN’T do something about your messy studio” when they really mean “See if you CAN do something …” 💕❤️💕
Yeahhhhh I relate!!! 😀
Wow...nice space ...OK u can send me the unopened stuff from joggles I want that stuff but it's to expensive...tfs..oh or even if anything u don't want ill take it ..I'm trying to do videos but I don't have anything too do ...u know what I mean 😏
Awe. Joggles has great prices! Art supplies are just expensive
Ahhh! Yes! I love you!
Awe thank you!
New subscriber thanks to this video…so inspiring & I look forward to following your art work too.
Where did you get your awesome🩵glasses?
Thanks for subbing! I got them online :)