Organizing Projects and Tools | Making a Work Space

New uses for sushi boxes, desktop supplies and old blankets.

1 tray chic
Sushi boxes have compartments that are handy for organizing projects. The smallest compartment, usually reserved for wasabi, is perfect for seed or crimp beads. These ceramic or lacquered plates are useful when traveling or working outside, since their weight keeps them securely on your lap or table.
- Laura Bracken, via e-mail

2 cutting at an angle
Flexible beading wire can fray. To make finishing a breeze, trim the wire's end at an angle; the narrow tip will go back through beads more easily.
- J. Warner, via e-mail

3 thinking outside the box
Magnetic or wire mesh containers for pens and note pads provide a compact storage area. Hang tools along one of the top edges; the inside area can hold spools of beading wire, keeping the contents visible.
- L. Mikulsky, Green Bay, WI

4 package deals
Many bead catalogs carry packaging and display items, such as jewelry boxes, gift bags, tissue paper, and ribbons for purchase in bulk. Even if you don't sell your jewelry, it's convenient to have packages on hand if you give your jewelry as gifts. To reduce the cost, share an order with a friend.
- T. B. Scott, via e-mail

5 security blanket
Cover your workspace with a plush Vellux blanket; beads and findings stay in one place. For a portable work area, cut an old blanket and use it to line a tray.
- Wilma Anderson, via e-mail

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November 2005