Let’s talk about receptacles: creative storage solutions

Peek inside any artist’s studio and you’re likely to find a wonderful assortment of containers — some purpose-built, others lovingly repurposed over time. There’s something so satisfying about giving new life to an old jar or tin, turning the ordinary into something useful, and often beautiful too.

Looking around my own studio, I can count at least a dozen storage heroes: candle jars, body butter tubs, seaside buckets from St. Ives and hair mask pots.

Plastic buckets from St Ives bring a little seaside vibe to my creative space

There are also sturdy plastic baskets, two drying racks my dad made from scrap wood, empty tomato tins, indulgent dessert pots and even a chipped mug featuring my artwork that didn’t quite survive a courier journey. And where would I be without my trusty IKEA Kallax shelving complete with drawers and cupboards - keeping paints and other supplies contained?

One of two drying racks made by my Dad

Each one has a little story. Some practical, some personal, some sentimental. Together, they make up the quiet architecture of my creative space — bringing a little order to what at times can be colourful chaos.

How about you? What unique or quirky storage solutions do you use in your studio or home?

Repurposed scented candle jar