The Organized Option | Organized Solutions for Quilt Makers, Crafters and Others

    You’re a do-it-yourself kind of person. You want to get organized. You have the motivation; the energy; the plan . . . but you haven’t the cash. Well, I’m here to tell you that you can still accomplish your goal without investing in costly supplies. With a little elbow grease and/or planning, we can find creative and inexpensive solutions.
    One time I purchased an old green sewing cabinet for a small amount of money. I stripped the green paint and found that the wood was oak, and it also had brass hinges. Once I re-stained the oak and polished the brass, I was thrilled with the results. I’ve also purchased old water-stained dressers, repainted the, purchased new knobs, and I’ve got the shabby chic look!
    Let’s say you need a good used file cabinet. Where would you find one? You could drive from yard sale to yard sale, or just go directly to a source. By searching the Yellow Pages or the internet, you can find a used office furniture warehouse in your area. I’ve purchased everything from used cubicles, task lighting, desks, file cabinets, bookshelves, task chairs . . . and all I needed was patience, cash, a pick-up truck, and a good pair of walking shoes. I would rather buy a used, dented heavy-duty file cabinet, than purchase a new, poor quality file cabinet.
    One year, a local company went out of business and advertised that they were selling off their furniture. On the day of the sale, I arrived at 5:00 a.m. Although I found myself in a long line of other savvy buyers, there was more than enough inventory for everyone. I purchased a complete U-shaped cubicle, file drawers, overhead shelves and task lighting for only $60 in cash. I didn’t expect perfection in the furniture; but it was functional, heavy-duty and affordable.
    Other opportunities exist when model home furniture companies sell off their existing inventory. Again, it’s a cash and carry business, but the furniture is mostly unblemished and like new.
    I also recommend building material warehouses. These warehouses receive daily truckloads, and inventory comes from many sources: Manufacturer over-runs, discontinued items, manufacturer mistakes, general contractor’s purchasing too much of a product. All of the inventory is new, not used or damaged. Whenever a client has needed inexpensive storage solutions for their sewing room, I’ve gone to my local warehouse and purchased a kitchen pantry. They come in a variety of wood and stain, and most items are half off retail. One time I bought a beautiful maple cabinet and since one of the drawer fronts wasn’t screwed in perfectly, I got it for less than half off retail. Keep in mind, however, that at these types of warehouses, merchandise is sold as is, and all sales are final.
    So, put on your thinking cap and get creative. It takes time to research and squeeze through the aisles of these huge warehouses but, if you’re on a budget, it’s a priceless investment.