An Organized Project Plan

Now that the playroom is waiting on the finishing touches, I am gearing up to re-focus on the studio space.  It has been a bit of a drawn out project since there are so many variables and pieces to the puzzle.

How will I use it?  How can I make it flow?  What do I need to store?  Where will I work?  Where will I craft?

It is absolutely an organizing project that I don't wish to just jump into without following some sort of plan.  So I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to finally share the steps I take when working on a project, big or small, and also share a printable worksheet which you can also use when tackling your own organizing projects.

Here we go!

1.  Create a project file: 

 
Throughout the organizing process there may be all sorts of ideas and notes and reminders and it is a great idea to keep everything in one simple location.

2.  Print Worksheet Printables:

I have created some project planning worksheets which you can download for FREE!

{click HERE to download your FREE organizing project planning printable}

The point of the worksheets is to offer some guidance and a place to dump your thoughts along the way.

 

3.  Assess the Project:

Using the worksheet as a guide, whether working on a small closet or an entire room, it is important to assess the situation and project.  Give the project a name, think of all of the ways the space will ultimately function {how will it be used?  what is it's purpose?} and take measurements and dimensions.  Feel free to get crafty and draw a layout even take a photo of the space and toss it into your project file.

4.  Find Inspiration: 

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Pinterest is now your BFF.  Scour the web for ideas.  Print off some of your favorites and place them into your file for future reference.

5.  Clear Everything Out: 

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Whenever I begin a project, I find it works best to remove the contents of the area.  Sometimes that means emptying an entire closet, set of drawers or whole room. Give yourself a blank canvas to play with.  It will allow you to think about new layout options, realize available space and be selective about what returns.

6.  Sort and Track:

Time to begin the entire weeding and sorting process.  This step is extremely important.  Each item should be touched at least once.  Ask the following questions:

• Does this item belong in the space?
• Have I used it within the last year?
• Does it have deep sentimental meaning?
• Is it broken, damaged or functioning?
• Is it a need?

It is also important to begin thinking about what to do with each of those items.  As you make a decision on each item, log your plans.

Donate:

When donating items, it is a good idea to keep a record of the items being donated and their estimated value {this value chart is especially helpful}:

Once the items are donated, toss this tracker into your annual tax folder.

Sell:

Why not try to gain some funds back to re-invest into the project?  Or for a celebratory vacation?  I am totally a cheerleader for making an effort to sell extra items on Craigslist or eBay, prior to giving them up for free.  However, it really also has to be worth the time and effort it takes to take photos, write up a proper description and list the items.

I like to keep track of the number of items I am selling and where they are listed, so I can be sure to manage those items appropriately throughout the selling process {and give myself a goal to achieve from the sales}.  Once they are sold, I can cross it off and continue to focus on the remaining items.

Keep:

This one is extremely important; especially when it comes to full room projects.  By taking inventory and writing down each item type that is returning to the space, you can then decide if you have ample storage or if some must be purchased.  

It is important to assess storage needs first, purchase last.  By taking a moment to complete this worksheet, you may end up saving pennies by realizing you have ample storage already on hand.  You can also give yourself a budget and track item dimensions, which will come in handy when it comes time to shop.

7.  Shop 'til You Drop:

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Don't forget to shop your own home first!

If I don't have what I need on hand, I could totally go on storage crazed shopping spree.  Therefore, it is important to curb those impulse purchases and to prevent snatching up something I am completely in love with, only to find out that it doesn't even ultimately fit my storage needs.

Using a list is a great way to track spending and to also keep item dimensions on hand for when out at the store {or even browsing online}.

8.  Put Everything Back:

Now that you have all of your storage items, you can begin to place items back into the space.  This is my favorite part!

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Hopefully, everything goes back nice and smoothly and according to plan.  But if not, it is OK!

9.  Use and Analyze:

Organizing is an ongoing process and should always be re-evaluated and tweaked.  Spend time using the space and evaluate how it's working.

It is a good idea to take notes during the evaluation period so you have something to build from as you continue to enhance the space.  I also like to keep a few blank note pages in the file so I can do major brain dumps throughout the entire process.


10.  Celebrate!

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You worked hard, you deserve it!  I highly recommend checking out the final outcome multiple times a day by doing some random walk-bys, ogling, gazing, opening the drawers and cupboards, awing,  and just feeling proud of yourself for checking a project off the list.

I hear from individuals often, that it is easy to feel overwhelmed when looking at an organizing project.  Taking time to think things through and take notes is a great way to begin and feel more confident and excited about conquering the project in mind.

So what do you think?  Feeling any less overwhelmed?  What organizing projects are you currently gearing up to tackle?