Creative Space: Garden Shed Art Studio

Your creative space is a very personal thing, and sometimes, a very difficult thing, as it often has to fit in around the household essentials! Tracey's art studio is a smart solution - a little chalet shed in the garden, with all an artist could need.  If you wonder what folks get up to in their art studio, craft room or hobby space, and perhaps what ideas you can pick up for your own space, then read on.

Some of you may recognise the lady sat working at her watercolours, as Tracey was my rather talented mumsy (not singling out that that she was a specifically talented mum, but a good many other talented things too!). Standing in her shed shortly after her death, I thought "This is an amazing studio, more people should think about a studio shed!" so here's a tour of her shed, which may inspire your own creative space.

Creature comforts. 
The shed was insulated and lined, fitted with power, light and even a heater - ensuring that it's warm and comfortable. It was snug even at 4am when the combination of medication and inspiration took Tracey out there to work in the wee hours! 

If you like the idea of a craft shed - can you efficiently and safely get the work done to supply those comforts? It's not rocket science, but worth planning from the start.

Organisation from scratch!
Storage was easy to manage, as a blank rectangle with the door and window all on the same wall, instantly gave three walls to work with. Shelves were put up, and second hand storage units added.

What would you really want to hand in a craft shed? Would your hobby kit fit effectively into the space, and leave room to work?

Security.
Luckily the area is a good one, so sheds and garages etc aren't often targets for vandalism or theft. The door is well secured, a security light nearby,  and the curtains down when not in use, to deter anyone trying to have a nosey.

Would your garden be a safe place for your craft safehaven? What steps could you make to add peace of mind? Simple additions like a motion triggered shed alarm are inexpensive and effective.

Keep inspiration close.
The walls, and especially around the desk, are full of pictures, sketches, photographs and unusual bits and bobs. These technique and colour tests, combined with happy memories, create a mentally comfortable space to relax and work in.

What frame of mind do you work best in? Relaxed, invigorated, energised? How can you decorate your space to help create that mood?

Think you could turn your spare room back into a spare room and get your craft on in the garden? It takes a little more effort than fitting out a room inside, but starting out by choosing your size, shape and layout allows for much more versatility when it comes to making it your perfect space.

Want to show off your Craft Space? It just takes a couple of pictures and some bullet points! Get in touch.

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Just before mum passed away, I signed up to Macmillan's Ben Nevis Night Hike Challenge. Up and down the tallest mountain in the UK - in the dark! If you'd like to donate, even only £1, click the button: