Finding My Sanctuary: Turning a Catch-All Corner Into a Studio

I have been painting and crafting for many years, and for most of that time, the kitchen table was my workspace. At one point, I arranged a small desk next to a window in my bedroom that served as my tiny stationery studio. Then, my son left home for a two-year proselytizing mission, and I had the idea of using his bedroom to paint while he was away. I wasn’t about to let that empty room go to waste!

I learned a lot during those 24 months. First, I didn't know I could miss a person that much. Second, I realized I need to feed my creativity often—daily, if possible—in order to bring out the best version of myself.

I got used to having my own space where all my supplies were handy whenever the muse struck. So, naturally, I felt like I absolutely needed a studio. I gave it a little too much thought, conjuring up options like buying a shed and turning it into a "she-shed," renting a studio space somewhere close to home, or dreaming of adding an extra room to the house. Finally, I decided to listen to my husband and set up my studio right in the family room.

Long story short: it turned out better than I anticipated. I now feel like I have room to breathe. It gave me the opportunity to organize all my supplies and keep what I use most often in sight. It even got me started on reorganizing the entire family room; now I am squirming with ideas on how to make the whole space cozy and inviting.

The Corner Concept

I realized that, as much as I’d like to believe otherwise, I don’t actually need a large room for a studio. Choosing the corner of the room with the largest window was a no-brainer. This is the same space where I set up props to take photos of my art or Mail Club items because it has a wonderful east-facing window. Very early in the morning, the sun begins to peek in and gives the best vibes to my photos and art.

The Process of Moving

As I thought about how to organize my supplies, I knew I didn't want everything exposed. I didn't want the family room to look like a "clutter machine," as it sometimes did before. I wanted things to be aesthetically pleasing and beautiful.

I turned to Facebook Marketplace and found a big dresser that someone wanted out of their home ASAP. I immediately knew that was the solution to my dilemma. Once the dresser was in the family room, I was so pleased to find it was in prime condition, with nine drawers waiting to be filled with art supplies and whimsy.

All it needed was a dollop of paint to bring it up to my style, so I used blue chalk paint to transform it. Then, I tackled the downstairs closet—the one filled with things no one wants anymore but no one wants to throw away, either. I reorganized everything, let go of many items, and used the space for the extra supplies I don't use often but didn't want taking up precious space in the room.

Balancing Art and Family

Now, a word about the functionality of the space. I love having big pockets of time to focus on my projects—the "no interruptions" type of time. Occasionally I can indulge in those, but let’s be real: that is not typical when raising a family.

You might be thinking, “But won't she have tons of interruptions?” Well, yes, of course! Because of that, I am developing the habit of getting up early in the morning and working on my projects before my "mom chores" start. That way, I get the most important work done first, and if I have time here and there later, I can add a little more work to the day.

I actually love this setup at the moment. I still dream of adding a large room over a garage one day, with massive east-facing windows and a sunroom/greenhouse style to use as my studio. But I know I’m getting ahead of myself—I first need a garage before I can add a room on top of it!

One thing I’ve noticed from this experience is that I can adapt, and I can create a beautiful space right where I am. I can't believe I waited so many years to finally create my little sanctuary.

So, tell me, do you have a small space in your home that's calling to you?

Until next time my friend.