Well, to keep it zoned, I picked a corner for most of the craft/sewing things. That corner contains my sewing table and a low set of bookshelves where I keep a lot of "stuff." Next to that corner is a tall bookcase that holds craft tools and thread. The only thing that's not near that corner is a tall bookshelf on another wall where I stack fabric. I stack it in color families and actually roll some of it to try to give those shelves an orderly, more interesting look. The bed, nightstand, and a small chest of drawers are near each other on the other side of the room, if you can picture that. It's a pretty straight shot from the bed either to the closet or the bathroom. Also, it helps that this room's dimensions are pretty generous.
If I have to spread anything out on the bed to work on it, I try to make sure there's enough time to finish the "spread-out stage" before company appears. Usually, there's a little warning that company is coming. This gives me time to shift any overflow to the craft corner, if I happen to be working on anything of significant size. Usually, if it's a sewing project, I can drape it over my sewing chair; and it will be out of guests' way. Also, I pretty much straighten up as I go because working in clutter distracts me too much.
Something else I do is keep my eye out for nice boxes at good prices. This gives my storage a nicer look. I've even covered random sturdy cardboard boxes myself (with Mod Podge and tissue paper) just to have pretty storage. Everyone probably knows that Tuesday Morning and Target often have pretty, reasonably priced storage boxes. Then, too, baskets are nice for hiding clutter.
Last edited by cela; 03/03/08 10:37 AM.