This list covers ten practical ways to organize your arts and crafts supplies, from small drawer units to full wall systems. Whether you’re a scrapbooker drowning in paper, a knitter with more yarn than closet space, or a parent managing a family craft corner, these ideas focus on real products and methods that keep materials visible, accessible, and tidy. You’ll find options for every budget and space, plus guidance on choosing what fits your habits.
1. Clear Stackable Drawer Carts
Units like the Seville Classics or IRIS stackable drawers let you see everything at a glance. They come in three to ten drawers, and you can label each one with washi tape or a label maker. These are ideal for small items like beads, buttons, and washi tape rolls because the clear fronts prevent the “out of sight, out of mind” problem.
2. Pegboard Wall Systems
A pegboard with hooks, baskets, and small shelves turns a blank wall into a flexible storage hub. Brands like IKEA’s SKÅDIS and Wall Control offer metal or wood options that hold scissors, rulers, and glue guns within arm’s reach. The beauty is that you can rearrange the layout whenever your project priorities shift, and it keeps tools off your work surface.
3. Rolling Utility Carts
The classic three-tier metal cart (think the ones from IKEA or Amazon Basics) is a workhorse for crafters. Use the top for your current project, the middle for frequently used tools, and the bottom for heavier supplies like cutting mats or a Cricut machine. Because it rolls, you can move it to the dining table, the living room, or a closet when you need the floor space.
4. Modular Storage Cubes
Cube units with fabric bins or plastic drawers work well for categorizing by project type. For example, one cube holds knitting needles and yarn, another holds paint bottles and brushes, and a third holds stamps and ink pads. The open bins make it easy to toss things in quickly, and the uniform look keeps a busy room feeling calm.
5. Wall-Mounted Magnetic Strips
Magnetic knife strips, like those from IKEA or simple hardware-store versions, are perfect for metal tools. Scissors, tweezers, hole punches, and even small pliers stick right on, freeing up drawer space. Install one above your desk or inside a cabinet door to keep sharp tools safe and visible.
6. Over-the-Door Shoe Organizers
Clear or mesh shoe pockets are a budget-friendly hack for small supplies. Each pocket can hold a different category: one for glue sticks, one for googly eyes, one for ribbon spools, and so on. Hang it on the back of a closet door or a craft room door to use vertical space that would otherwise be wasted.
7. Art Supply Caddies with Handles
Portable caddies, like the ones used for cleaning supplies, are great for kids or for crafters who move between rooms. They have multiple compartments and a sturdy handle, so you can carry markers, pencils, and scissors to the kitchen table and then stash everything back in a cabinet. Look for ones with a wide base to prevent tipping.
8. Labeled Binder Systems for Paper
For paper crafters, a binder with clear sheet protectors and dividers is a space-saving alternative to flat storage. Sort patterned paper by color or theme, and keep stickers and ephemera in the same binder. This method protects your paper from bends and dust, and you can flip through it like a book to find what you need.
9. Spool Racks and Dowel Rods
Ribbon and washi tape collections get messy when tossed in a bin. A wall-mounted spool rack or a simple wooden dowel threaded through the spools keeps them tangle-free and easy to see. You can buy a ready-made rack or DIY one with a few dowels and brackets—either way, it’s a satisfying way to display your stash.
10. Repurposed Furniture with Deep Drawers
An old dresser or a set of filing cabinets can be the best craft storage you’ll ever own. Deep drawers hold large items like cutting mats, stamping platforms, and yarn cones. Use drawer dividers or small baskets to keep smaller items from sliding around. This option is eco-friendly and often cheaper than buying new storage, and the furniture adds character to your space.
How to Choose
Start by sorting your supplies into categories: tools, paper, fabric, paint, and small embellishments. Then measure your available floor, wall, and closet space. Consider how often you use each item—daily-use tools should be in open, easy-to-reach spots, while seasonal or occasional items can go in less accessible storage. Think about your work style: if you like to see everything, choose clear bins and open shelving; if you prefer a clean look, use opaque bins with labels. Finally, buy storage that fits your largest items first, then fill in with smaller containers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I organize a small craft space? Use vertical space with pegboards and wall shelves, and choose a rolling cart that can be tucked away. Keep only your current project and most-used tools on the surface.
What’s the best way to store paint and brushes? Store paint bottles upright in a drawer or bin to prevent leaks and drying. For brushes, keep them bristle-up in a cup or jar, or lay them flat in a shallow tray to protect the shape.
How do I stop yarn from tangling? Wind yarn into balls or cakes, then store them in clear plastic bins or on a shelf with individual cubbies. Use a yarn bowl or a paper tube to feed the yarn through a small hole to keep it from rolling around.
Can I organize craft supplies in a closet? Absolutely. Use shelf risers, stackable bins, and over-the-door organizers to maximize the space. Install a pegboard on the inside of the closet door for tools.
What should I do with supplies I don’t use anymore? Donate them to a school, community center, or thrift store. You can also repurpose them for kids’ projects or sell them online in a lot.
Final Thoughts
Organizing your arts and crafts doesn’t have to be a huge project. Pick one or two ideas from this list that match your space and budget, and start with the area that frustrates you most. A little effort to make supplies visible and accessible will save you time and money—because you’ll actually use what you have. The goal is a system that works for your unique creative flow, not a Pinterest-perfect room.