It wasn't my intent to create a series on studio improvements, but I guess by writing a third installment, that's exactly what I've done. Number one -
recovering my ironing board, and number two -
building a design wall, are both upgrades I've been really happy with. They make my time in the studio so much better. And number three may seem a bit random and insignificant to some, but for me, I know it'll be a destresser, and something I've thought of doing for a long time: gathering all my mailing supplies in one spot.
Here's what I've collected:
- A variety of sizes of zip-loc and other plastic bags; the unboxed ones saved from mailings I've received
- Several sizes of mailing envelopes, both Priority and manila
- A roll of packing tape
- A Sharpie for addressing said packages
- Business cards, which I include in each mailing
- Washi tape to secure plastic bags shut or for decorating envelopes
In doing this I was reminded that I've been out of return address labels for a long time, so I hopped over to
vistaprint and ordered some! It would be nice if I stocked up on some notecards too, since sometimes I want to include a note.
If you participate in bees or swaps at all, you'll understand why doing what I just did will be so beneficial. Looking at this photo of the inside of my desk drawer, I can count 5(!) different locations in the house (2 outside of my studio) where these items were previously kept. And getting packages ready to mail off has always been a huge chore for me, so hopefully that will no longer be the case. Hmmm. What next?
I totally agree with having a mailing kit like this! I have a basket with plastic bags, tissue paper, notecards, my address book (with my bee buddies addresses in it) tape, envelopes etc. It certainly makes the task SO much easier and quicker!
ReplyDeleteI have a drawer in my hubby's office just for these things. It felt so great to finally clean through my many drawers and have ONE place for just for my studio mailing/shipping needs :) Now if only I could come up with a way to store my handbag collection/patterns I'd be good to go LOL!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great idea. I also need airmail stickers and customs forms.
ReplyDeleteThe concept of having one place with everything you need for that function is HUGE! I go nutty when I know I have something but can't think of where I put it last (and I can't even blame my kids anymore for stealing all the scissors). I often put off mailing for that very reason. Thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteGood planning and a great idea. I need to do this.
ReplyDeleteI love that you reuse your plastic bags. I'm the queen of used mailing supplies for packages. I always cut just a sliver to open a padded envelope. I was inspired by an aunt who even sent her family Christmas newsletter out in a used envelope decades before we used the word "recycle". It always made us chuckle. I draw the line at standard envelopes. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea Debbie!
ReplyDeleteExcellent timing! I just emptied a coffee box and I wasn't sure what I wanted to organize next. (Monthly coffee boxes = same size storage.) Tossed in my mailing stuff since it was all out yesterday anyway. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteGreat idea Deb! Mailing supplies are always a stumbling block for me...as well as actually getting to the dreaded post office...do you have any tips for that one, too? :o)
ReplyDeleteI use an old dresser located in the hallway outside my sewing room- drawers for wrapping paper, shipping fillers, bags & tissue. The top drawer contains tags, ribbons, packing tape, pens & scissors. I have a postal scale, string holder, 3 hold punch & tape dispenser on the dresser top for quick use. If you sign up for an online account (USPS.com), you can print your own labels, pay with paypal and get a slight discount as well. You can leave package for mail carrier to pick up or drop off at PO without standing in line.
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome!
DeleteI have my stuff in one spot too. I love my quilting bees but the worst part is addressing those envelopes and getting to that post office. Always feels so good when it's done ; )
ReplyDeleteMine is pretty much in one place but your post spurs me to get it a little more together. Thanks Debbie.
ReplyDeleteI also moved the wrapping paper box, and note cards to the same place, so now any parcel at all can be sent out without digging around the house to find the tape! XX!
ReplyDeleteYep I totally get the need for having all your mailing supplies in one general location. Thanks for sharing your method.
ReplyDeleteAll my mailing supplies are in a plastic carrier bag next to my recycling (obviously o.O), and I do need more parcel tape, but never remember to buy any
ReplyDeleteNice post. Well what can I say is that these is an interesting and very informative topic on plastic mailing bags
ReplyDelete