Home Art Studio Tips

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More Home art studio ideas

Do not let a small space stop you from creating art. I know it’s tough. I have I have been there. I have made art in some incredibly small spaces. However, there is always a way. Seriously, if people can live happy in Tiny Houses and RV’s then you can also make art happy in your small space.

The first thing you need to do is think positive about your situation. I know “think positive” gets a bit overused and can loose some it’s meaning. However, it is really important. This is a chance to be creative, to stretch your abilities to adapt, overcome and improvise! I was in the Marines and I had to say that phrase A LOT! But there is a special feeling overcoming something difficult that you can’t get anywhere else. It is rewarding. 

If you haven’t read my first article on the subject you should go and read Home Art Studio Ideas. This article add more tips to that list.

Storage Ideas

Storage is always that hardest part about working in a small space. I’m going to take some space saving and creative storage ideas.

Old Vintage Suitcase

Old suitcases are amazing. They are usually hard, and those are the ones you want to snatch up. I used to have an old train case, and I loved that with all my heart. 

The reasons old suitcases are great are because they are solid, You can store things like paint inside and stock objects on your suitcase or stack another suitcase. 

You can easily paint or decoupage on top of your suitcase to make it not only a good storage option, but a pretty one, as well. You can leave it open and set up on a table or desk, or you can tuck it away somewhere.

Suitcases can be found at garage sales, thirst stores, and antique stores. Remember, some stores you can haggle a bit. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. Some stores have special discount days, as well. 

Under bed storage

You may share your room and that means limited private space. You need to utilize every inch of spare space. 

Under bed storage can be a great way to keep all your art supplies safe, organized, and out of the way when not used. You should have plenty of room to store canvases, sketchbooks, and other larger items. 

You simply pull out your storage container, retrieve your items, and put them back when you’re done. This is the one I have used and have been pleased with. 

Spice Racks

Spice racks are a great way to store craft paints. Craft paints are about the same size and fits in most spice racks. 

Spice racks come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some can be hung in your wall, while others can spin on your desk.

Plastic Totes

Never underestimate the power of these plastic totes. They can be so useful. I keep one for different projects and keep all the items for each project in its own plastic tote. When I’m not using it I tuck it under a side table or in a corner. 

They are mostly waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about spills. On top of them ruining your art work. They come in so many sizes you should be able to fins one that suits your needs. You can even get several in different sizes. 

If you don’t like the look of them you can always get fun stickers to derogate them, paint them, or decoupage them. Turn them into their own works of art.

Portfolio Bags

These portfolio bags are great for store paper art works. They are large so you can fit any large pad of paper you have. They can be tucked behind a couch or under the bed for easy storage. 

Bathroom Caddy

These bathroom caddies can store a lot of items. You can keep you pencils, paints, and brushes in them and carry them with you wherever you go. They keep things organized and are pretty affordable.

I have used these many ties. I like the fact that it has an easy handle and can hold the weight of my products. 

Making art in a small space

This is the part where we talk about actually making your art. If you share your space you may feel a little self conscious at first. It is okay to ask for privacy or to explain you would rather not share your art while you are in the process of making it.

Drawing boards and tape

This drawing board is a great way to sketch. They come in various sizes, they are light and easy to move around. You can tape down paper and easily remove it.

You can also use them for watercolor or really any kind of paint that you use on a paper. I used to lay mine on the floor and work right on may bedroom floor. 

You can also use them while sitting on a couch or chair. If you want to work in a family or living room you can pick it up and pack it away with ease.

Portable Easel

These portable easels are lightweight enough that you can transport them without much trouble. You can set thump on a kitchen table, floor, or anywhere you need or want to. If you are someone who likes to work on a slanted surface then this option is for you. You can use this without the legs as well.

Since it folds down with ease you can tuck it under your bed or in your closet without it taking up much space. 

Table easel

These don’t have legs, however, they are a little cheaper than portable easels and work just as well. The storage compartment fits a lot of supplies you so  you get storage and art surface all in one.

You can bring it around town with you with ease. It’s sturdy and since it’s made of wood you can decorate it, too.

You can also pack it way with your art supplies with ease. Having a specific surface to create art on can be inspiring. You simply pull out your easel and create!

This is a great option for someone who doesn’t have a lot of space. You can set it up on your desk, table or floor. 

Having all your art supplies organized, in one place, and easily assessable makes creating art easier. It also makes it more inspiring. You have your own little art world and it’s easy to find. When you have to chase down your supplies it can such out valuable energy. 

Supplies good for a small space

You can create with any art supply in any space. There are some oil paints that need ventilation because of their fumes. Oils also need a long time to sit out and dry. So, if you use oils perhaps keep a self open on you closet for your art pieces to dry.

Water-soluble products are great for traveling or workin in a small space

Watercolor crayons, watercolor pencils, and watercolor markers can all be used in a multiple of ways

You can draw with them, and with a little water paint with them. You just need some paper and you’re all set. 

Watercolors themselves are also great. They dry fast and store easily. 

Acrylics can be messier, but, since they dry fast don’t be afraid to give them a try. 

Tips for condensing art supplies

I like to buy large bottles of gesso and matte medium, however, I don’t always want to use the giant bottle as it’s awkward to handle. So, I found other bottle that can be used to keep small qualities of these products. I then store away the bigger bottles.

• Bites I use are
• Dish soap bottle
• Sriracha bottle (I have a LOT of these)
• Ketchup bottles 

If you don’t want to wait until you have an empty bottle, or like your bottle to match you can also buy squeeze bottles. You can label them, decorate them and keep your gesso and mediums in them.

These bottle make using your products much easier and can be kept with your everyday art supplies much easier. I also love the squirt top. I can control the amount of product I use and reduce waste.

You can make art wherever you are

You don’t need much space or even may products to create art. You just need a surface and something to make on that surface. Start wherever you are and add to your supplies as you can. If you’re afraid of spilling get a towel or cheap rug to put under you. Don’t let small spaces or fear stop you from creating art. If you want to create then you were meant to create. 

I’d love to see your art. You can join my Facebook Group and share your art and ask questions. I hope to see you there!