How to Organize Your Craft Supplies

A simple, step-by-step guide for kids to sort, store, and tidy their art supplies so they are always ready for the next project.

1. The Great Sort. Clear off your table and put all your craft supplies in one big pile. Separate them into categories: things that color (markers, crayons, pens), things that cut (scissors), things that stick (glue, tape), and things that are paper or scrap.
2. Bag and Tag. Put small items like beads, buttons, or stickers into small plastic bags. Use a piece of masking tape on the outside of each bag to write what is inside so you don't have to open every bag to find what you need.
3. Assign a Home. Place your items into bins. Keep the things you use most often in the easiest-to-reach bin. Ask a grown-up to help you store these bins on shelves or in a closet where they won't get knocked over.
4. Make a Map. If you have a lot of bins, draw a little picture on the outside of each one or write the name of the contents in big letters. This way, you will always know where to put things back when you are finished.