Survey #270—Full Response from Johanna
| Pronouns | She/her |
|---|---|
| Describe ways in which clutter has interfered with your ability to carry out or enjoy creative projects and activities. | My crafting table is covered in boxes and mail and everything but crafting supplies. When I do sit down to do a project, I feel guilty for crafting instead of decluttering, tidying and cleaning. I cannot start or continue with a project because I cannot find an essential tool or materials I need, eg the right knitting needle or the remaining balls of yarn that I bought for the project. I have so many supplies all over the place that I can't decide what to make out of them or what to use. I have bought many things that I already had in my stash but couldn't find them. All the aspirational clutter of materials I intended to but actually never used (and probably won't in my lifetime) makes me feel guilty for spending the money. I could continue this list forever... |
| Describe ways in which the desire to declutter and organize your space has conflicted with or impaired your ability to carry out or enjoy creative projects and activities. | My two bedroom apartment has been in almost constant disarray since I moved in two years ago. I don't have enough space to craft, let alone cut some fabric for sewing. I cannot settle down to craft while looking at the piles and the mess around me. The guilt is overwhelming. My supplies are organised, but not kept in one place. Since I have mainly hand-me-down furniture that is not suited for storing my supplies and really doesn't fit the space I wasn't able to establish a good storing system or a practical working area. I also have way too much, since I have a lot of interests and a hard time letting go of things. Paradoxically, whenever I've reached a state of an organised, clean and inviting house, I am so afraid of messing it up again that I go in total freeze mode. Perfectionism first keeps me from tackling the mess, then it prevents me from using my space. |
| Describe ways in which your efforts to declutter and organize your space have enhanced your ability to carry out or enjoy creative projects and activities. | I let go of some UFOs, sorted everything in clear plastic boxes and stopped buying and collecting everything in sight that I might be able to use some day. I now have a better overview of what I have and where it is stored. I mostly lack the space and time to actually make something. |
| Describe the key features of your ideal creative workspace. | I need a table and chair with adjustable height and good lighting so I can work comfortably without back pain or headaches. I prefer to only have the most commonly used tools out in plain sight. The rest is organised and put away, but in reach. I would keep my current projects in clear plastic boxed to protect them from collecting dust and losing tools or materials. I would keep an inventory of my yarns and fabrics, so I can pull from my stash when I want to start a new project or even better, get inspired by what I already have instead of buying new things just for the thrill of it. |
| Here’s your chance to ask Gayle and Ed any question you’re curious about. It need not be related to this survey’s topic(s). If we think that your question—and our answer—might be useful or instructive to The Clutter Fairy Weekly audience, we’ll share them in an upcoming episode. | No specific questions, just a big thank you for everything you do! |
| Future topics | Perfectionism |
Be the first to comment!
Comment on this survey response
Please use the form below to share a comment on this survey response. We ask that you keep your comments courteous and respectful. Polite disagreement is fine, but abusive language won’t be tolerated. Your comment will be held briefly for moderation after submission.
"*" indicates required fields
