Mixing the Old with the New

It’s been a while since I’ve shared photos of my studio, so here are a few for you today. My studio is at Western Avenue Studios in Lowell, Massachusetts, a huge converted mill over 5 floors that houses 300 artists creating and showing their work.

When I look around my work space I realize that I have an eclectic mix of old and new storage items. Don’t get me wrong – I have dozens of plastic draws and tubs that are really useful – but I do like good looking storage solutions in my studio. I think that the things we look at every day should make us smile, and these things always do. Here are a few:

I found this set of wooden draws, that stores the multiples of tools that I use in classes, such as awls and bone folders, in an antique store in Camden, Maine several years ago.

I love using cigar boxes to store things, this one holds a selection of waxed threads.

On these Ikea shelves I have several old wooden draws filled with paper scraps and another cigar box holding washi tape. On the top shelf I have my ribbons in Ikea jars. I love having these sorted by color although it’s probably not necessary but they make me happy 🙂

And here’s my book press and a vintage typewriter I use for words on the front of my simple journals. Both were gifted by friends.

Talking of words, you’ll also see lots of words and quotes stuck all over the walls in my studio. Here’s an old frame that I use to display things that inspire me. Below it is a vintage suitcase I use to store students’ class packets.

Ikea is my go-to place for modern pieces. I love the clean lines of their furniture and the super practical storage solutions they offer, like this metal rod and shelf system.  I’ve use a variety of plastic cups, mugs, jam jars and metal buckets to hold small tools. Above it is a white board that I use to write notes or demonstrate stitch patterns to students.

In the background you can see my Cath Kidston tool caddy that holds my everyday tools. I bought it during a trip to England about 5 years ago. It’s probably my favorite item in the whole studio:

Here’s look at an Ikea work table that’s between 2 Ikea book shelves with another typewriter and vintage wooden storage boxes plus a fun banner made with strips of fabric.

Thanks for virtually visiting my studio today. What items do you use in your studio that make you smile? Let me know in the comments below!