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An easy way to increase the time you have in your Silhouette Cameo or Cricut small business is to improve the efficiency in your workspace. Recently, I noticed while working on projects, I kept having to get up from my project to retrieve a supply, my camera, etc. So, I set out to fix the lack of efficiency in my workspace. Today, I am challenging you to do the same!
How to Improve the Efficiency in Your Craft Workspace
- Draw a map of your workspace.
- When working on your next projects, draw a line every time you get up to get a supply or reach for something.
- Evaluate the lines and see which ones you can eliminate either by moving supplies you use frequently or rearranging furniture.
Let’s take a look at my efficiency map.
To make it easier to explain, I’ve numbered each section.
- These arrows denote trips to a closet where I store some craft supplies (mostly vinyl).
- A short chest of drawers where I store blank products. My heat press also sits on top of it. I have a tiny craft space and have to walk around the chest to use the heat press.
- The arrows above my desk refer to hanging buckets I have mounted on the wall for small supplies like markers and blades.
- In addition to my desk, I have a second workspace in my craft area. I rarely used the workbench top. Instead, I only use the storage below it.
- This shelf houses all of my machines.
What I learned from my efficiency map:
- I really need to move all the craft supplies into my craft room.
- It’s a pain to walk around the drawers to use the heat press.
- I don’t really need the second workspace in my craft space because it is only being used a storage.
What I did next and my improved workflow:
I moved the workbench out of my space, turned the drawers, and added an additional shelf. You do not have to make a second map, but I did to show you how my efficiency improved with a few simple changes. Look at my improved workflow:
Need inspiration for a teeny tiny craft space? As professional organizers pointed out in this post, go vertical. Here’s a peek at my craft space:
Now, it’s your turn to look at the efficiency in your workspace.
Save this post to Pinterest before you start drawing your map:
Since 2015, Christine Schinagl has been helping crafters start and run craft businesses through her blog, Cutting for Business. As a Silhouette and Cricut crafter herself, she has a unique take on what works and what doesn’t work in the craft business world. She also enjoys teaching other crafters how to create digital SVG designs, available through the Design with Me series.
Kim
Monday 6th of January 2020
Great ideas! Where are the rods and containers from?
Christine, Cutting for Business
Wednesday 15th of January 2020
They are from IKEA and they are a part of the Fintorp line.
Barb
Tuesday 1st of August 2017
Is your heat press cabinet from IKEA also? I'm getting a heat press and want a dedicated stand for it, but don't want it to be too low or too high.
Christine
Wednesday 2nd of August 2017
Hi Barb! It is not, it is a lateral file cabinet from Staples. It is very sturdy, however; I've had it for many, many years. I doubt they still carry the same one.
Sabrina C.
Wednesday 12th of July 2017
Your craft space is SO nice and neat!!!! Where did you get the black bookcase?
Christine
Monday 17th of July 2017
I'm upgrading my craft space right now, but it came from IKEA. :)
Debbie Reaves
Saturday 11th of February 2017
What a great post and information, I have a great space, but am always thinking I have to get up too much. I may have too much "stuff". Is that possible? Lol I can't wait to make my map and see where to go from there. Thanks for the information.
Christine
Sunday 12th of February 2017
I bet it will be eye opening! Good luck!
Julie Shorb
Sunday 8th of January 2017
Wow! I have some work to do! Thank you for the information and the pictures! This will definitely help me.
Christine
Sunday 8th of January 2017
No problem!