Trying to figure out where to begin? Wanting to get to a project but feel overwhelmed with the process? I am here to help. Here are a few steps I go through when I want to work on a space or on a project. Remember, the creative process should be fun and shouldn’t give you an ulcer. To help reduce project anxiety, I attempted to break down the planning process to help you get to those projects on your “to do” list without getting so overwhelmed that you stop before you even begin. You’ve got this.
Find Your Inspiration
As you see images, ideas, colors, textures or textiles that you are drawn to- pin them, clip them, sketch them, whatever. You will soon see the style or color scheme you are naturally drawn to. If it is a mixture of different styles, that can work too, you just need to find the commonality to pull it all together. Don’t worry about the current trends, those will change. Go with what you like and you will feel happier to have your space reflect you.
Plan your Space
Take the time to make an overall plan for the space. What is its purpose? How do you need to utilize this space in your day to day life? What elements are the most important to you? I find myself drawn to many different projects but then I need to edit to be a little more practical and livable than what my imagination desires. Once you figure out what you want to do, decide which project should come first. For example, in my creative space, I would sort through (aka get rid of the stuff I most likely will never use) and group my crafting supplies prior to painting my crafting space or building storage so that there is more room to maneuver. I am then more familiar with what I own and am able to better organize down the road. Once you have a project list made, you can get to shopping around.
Shop Around
An important step in project planning is to shop around to find the best prices on your desired products. There are always box stores, but don’t neglect to check out online options. Many online stores will let you order samples for free. This is a great way to take a look at quality and experience how the product looks or feels in real life as opposed to the portrayed online image. Have your measurements written out and on hand to make it easier and more accurate when pricing out items. I always carry a small tape measure in my bag and have measurements for furniture pieces, or whatever, on hand in the “notes” section of my phone. I will also photograph items with the price so I can do comparison shopping later. I swear that whenever I am shopping for something else, I will come across a great possibility for a different project. I have been so grateful for my stored notes that I could reference right then and there.
Make a Sketch
Once you have a more defined idea of what products you want to use for your project, make a sketch of the area to see the big picture. This does not have to be intricate and absolutely to scale, just enough general information to get the overall feel and idea for the space and how the elements will play off each other. This may also help you to calculate needed materials. This is a perfect time to make accurate measurements of walls, floors, windows, etc. I will make a more detailed and to scale drawing if I need to figure out a complicated pattern or if I will be using an expensive material. I don’t want to waste materials by winging it.
Materials List
List all of the materials needed, even the small stuff like a paper towel. This process will help you to be prepared for your upcoming project and have an accurate budget if you need to buy items. Listing your materials needed will also help you to be prepared for each step of your project. You will probably own a lot of the items on your materials list. Put a small check by the items to designate supplies you own. There may even be a few items that you can borrow as opposed to purchasing your own, that will help save money also.
Purchase Materials
This is always the scary and exciting part of project planning. No turning back now! Be sure to prepare your work space and to designate an area that you will store the materials for the project. Organization is key to success. If you can’t find your supplies, it is difficult to work on your project.
Schedule Time
Be sure to block out an appropriate amount of time on your calendar to work on your project. Be realistic. You will not be able to prep, paint, and clean up an entire room on your own in 2 hours. Calendar your project into a realistic time frame. I like to plan an afternoon or day for space and material prep (including acquiring groceries for a crock pot dinner the next day). Figure out what you can realistically get accomplished in a day and where a good stopping point would be. If it is a multi day project, pace yourself. The goal is to complete the project and enjoy the process, not to create more stress.
Clean up
One of the least desired steps of the project, but oh so important. Calculate time for cleaning up tools, materials, and the space you worked in. If you need to wait to put furniture back into place until the next day, so be it. Just don’t leave power tools and paint lying around if you have small children or curious pets.
Well, I feel we have covered the basics to help you get started with your projects. Feel free to check out some of my project ideas to help you find inspiration. Enjoy your time as you work towards making a house a home!