Shop your stash!

I work with a number of clients who love to craft, and most every one of them has the same challenge: what to do with the every growing mountain of craft supplies? It’s difficult. Crafters are creative people with a vivid imagination of all the beautiful things they are going to make using the multitude of supplies they have accumulated. Manufacturers of said craft supplies are using this to their advantage – new colors, patterns, shapes, textures and tools are being launched constantly, triggering the “OOH! Great idea! Must have!” response in unsuspecting shoppers. Throw in a “Free shipping today only!” teaser and all bets are off. Unfortunately though, too many supplies can keep us from actually using them. Too many choices to make!

So, what to do? Some of my clients have had great success using the container method: Designate one container for, say, your rubber stamp collection. Once the container is full, that’s it. You either stop buying more stamps, or you need to remove some to fit the new ones in. The lid has to fit, and using a bigger container is not allowed. Look at your chock-full box of stamps next time a tempting offer hits your inbox, and you might just be able to resist!

It’s OK to get help.

If attempts to get decluttered and organized on your own don’t lead to the desired results, consider hiring qualified help. Professional Organizers help clients declutter, organize and take control of their space efficiently and effectively. The National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) provides a convenient practitioner search tool at their web site www.napo.net .