New Year New Organization

So last year while trying to prepare my projects for the Big Fresno Fair competition, I realized that my scrapbook room was a disaster.  I spent more time looking for things then actually designing my pages.  I'm sure most of you can relate.  In speaking with some of my scrapbooking friends, I'm lucky to have a scrapbook room but it's only being used as a storage room if I avoid going in there because of the mess...it causes me stress and frustration to work in there.  It seems like as we grow in our hobby we grow in the amount of stuff we have.  As you can see from the photos below, I have tried some organization in the past that worked for me but obviously doesn't now.  I think I have come to the realization that organization is never done but in constant change as I adjust to fit my style, flow of work and growth as a scrapbooker.  If you find that your organizational system is not working for you anymore, it's time to change it or if you lack organization, now is the time to create a system that works for you. Join me in the next month or so as I redevelop my organization.

First let me show you my before pictures...can't believe I'm gonna show my mess. Last year, I repainted my room this camel color.  I love the color scheme- tan, black and white.  I also got some decorative items that have multiple uses like the wall hangings, they are both bulletin boards and a peg board.  I would suggest if you have time and the expense, change the color of your room and get excited about your room again. 

The first step for me was taking everything out of the room.  This will allowed me time to do a good cleaning, and take inventory of my space and what I have to work with.  As you take things out try to keep like items together and start making categories (ribbon, scraps, stamps, etc.).  Wow that was a lot of work.  Tomorrow I will start bringing in one category at a time.  Don't make the mistake of thinking this will only take you a couple of days or rush through it. Take your time, go at your own pace and don't forget to get rid of the things you are no longer using.  You should start two piles purge and donate/sale. See you tomorrow for some more organization.  I plan on working on my paper punches and stamps.