My little creative space

I'm always interested to see where people create. Some have beautiful, purpose made studios and others make miracles on the kitchen table. I was a 'make do' person for many years, but now I have my own studio - as I like to call it! 

I thought I'd show you my small space,  in a DIY version of  'Where Bloggers Create'. It's just the spare room in our 'compact and bijou' flat - and it's not actually spare, because we don't have a regular lounge. Himself was here long before I joined him and had commandeered the lounge/biggest/ nicest room as his study/computer mecca/happy place, with lots of IT stuff everywhere. We're not particularly conventional, though, and as there's just the 2 of us, and intermittently Oskie the time share cat, (who'll sleep anywhere) -

Can't a cat get some rest around here?

we manage!

When I moved in, himself insisted I have the spare room for my own, as it was just being used to store junk useful things.  Once cleared and decorated it became the place I now spend most of my time.
Our 1950's flat is not very big but does have a cupboard built into each room - very useful! This is where I store all my supplies. Threads, fabrics, paints and mediums, clays, art supplies, notions, yarn, roving, craft products, tools and equipment, beads, stuffing, papers and sketchbooks etc..... it all goes in this small space!  I'm always looking for useful storage ideas and ways to keep things tidy and accessible. I  have to re-organise regularly. Last time I couldn't find the hot glue gun after I moved it to a 'much better place.....'!

The door can't open any wider as there's a table next to it, and I need the step stool to reach the top,  but it does the job!

I treated myself to a Horn sewing cabinet for my last big birthday. It's fantastic for small spaces, as it folds down to a neat little unit,  but when open, gives me a great sewing space and storage.  My Bernina is usually stored inside, but I'm using my beloved old Singer at the moment as I'm making a new character. There's an embroidery frame stand and a basket of yarn just out of shot too, I notice.....

 On the opposite side of the room is an old 1950's kitchen table with flaps which is used for art, painting, clay work,  felt making etc. Everything has to be moved in and out as needed. I have to set up to work in say, paper clay, for a morning,  then clear everything up and get out my light box to transfer designs in the afternoon.  I  usually have 2 or 3 different techniques going at a time and hop between table, sewing station and PC. It's good exercise! The table cover is fabric I fell in love with and bought on our first visit to Singapore. I am thrilled with my new digital radio -  a gift from himself. I'm a music addict and listen to BBC 6 Music every day! 
My brushes are all kept in favourite old pottery. The pink vase is pre-1940's and was my mum's. The basket holds all my 'everyday items' like masking tape and glues.

Finally, in the other corner is my PC and desk, with my collection of tiny treasured possessions. (The unattractive wire is due to me downloading some photos and then forgetting to remove it for this one. You see, this is real life!)

The little sign on my desk lamp ( IKEA cheapie painted to look like metal - about 20 years ago now) is much loved as it was made for me by our lovely niece Sally when she was young. My on-line name is Sparklyjools!

There's a bookcase full of text books and that's about it - if the ironing board is up in the room as well, then you pretty much need to send for a search and rescue team to get you out! It's all mine though and I'm so grateful to have it. There is talk of new shelves coming soon........

So, where do you create? Do you have any useful tips or ideas for storage? I'd love to know. x