Studio Makeover

After working in my half studio half guest bedroom for 5 years I decided I really needed to change the layout to become more effecient in my workspace.  I also wanted to create a place that presented a professional appearance for local clients.

BEFORE - A small antique desk acted as my work surface and I sat on an antique wooded chair with no wheels.  Oh the back aches I would get!!  A full size bed took up half of the room.  I had boxes of all my supplies stacked under the bed and in the closet.  I spent more time finding the supplies I needed to create my pieces than actually working on my jewelry.

AFTER - The first thing I purchsed was a great ergonomic chair for my desk.  No more back aches! Then of course I needed to find a larger work surface.  About the time I was ready to purchase my desk, I happened to be out walking and came across a garage sale and there it was!! The most perfect desk that was under about 7 layers of dirt and grime.  It needed lots of TLC but for $15 I couldn't pass it up! I refinished the surface and painted the legs to match the other pieces in the studio.  Once that was done I concentrated on eliminating the bed.  I found a great comvertible sofa and gave the bed to my neice.  The last thing I did was purchase storage containers for all my beading supplies and finished products.   Some of the cabinets were from the automotive department at a discount store and work perfect for storing my beads!  I love the fact that I did all the work myself including painting the walls and installing the window treatments.

My new studio looks great and everything is within reach and well organized!  No more wasted time trying to find the right supplies.  I even had enough space to create a mini mailing center.  I won't hesitate inviting clients over now.