Makely

Let's Make Life Awesome

You are visiting: Home » Decorating/DIY » Decorate Your Home » Ten Tips to Organize a Multi-Purpose Closet

Ten Tips to Organize a Multi-Purpose Closet

by on 1,870 Comments

Last week, I opened the door to the closet in my office/craft/guest room, and I decided it was time for an intervention.  I was either going to have to clean it out and organize it, or an avalanche of craft paint, Post-it Notes, and spray adhesive was going to bury me.

Back when we moved into our house, one of the first things I did was to put two inexpensive Ikea Ivar shelf towers into the closet.  It created space to store all of my craft supplies, yet still left room for guests to hang a few things when they were staying overnight.  But obviously, this wasn’t working out any longer.

I removed the sliding doors so you could get a better view of the scary.  You’re welcome.

As I used things and acquired new supplies, I just sort of shoved them onto the shelves.  There was really no rhyme or reason to the organization (and I use that term loosely), and I found myself re-buying supplies that I already had in the closet.

Something had to be done.  And in a serendipitous moment, the Apartment Guide contacted me and asked if I could put together some tips for them on organizing a space.  So one morning last week, I set to work getting this closet organized.  I put together some tips in case you have a similar looking space to tackle.

How to Organize a Multi-Purpose Closet Space

1.  Set Aside Organizing Time in Your Schedule – Don’t try to completely reorganize a closet just minutes before the Queen of England is coming to your house or a magazine photographer is coming to shoot your house.  Oh, wait.  Those things don’t happen here, either!  Just make sure you allow yourself enough time to finish your organization project, even if you have to work on it in small chunks of time across several days.

2.  Completely Empty Your Closet –  Emptying your closet will be an overwhelming experience, so understand that it will look like a tornado went through your room.  Take deep breaths and realize that it will soon be worth it.

Emptying the closet will benefit you in two ways.  First, you’ll be able to go through and declutter.  Throw out/donate all of the items that you don’t need or use.  I got rid of craft supplies that I haven’t used in the last year or so, and that made a big difference.

Second, you’ll be left with just the structure of your closet, and this will give you the ability to add in new shelving or move pre-existing shelving.  I actually removed the hanging rod from the closet and moved my Ivar shelves to a different location within the closet.

3.  Sort Your Stuff – Because this closet is in a room that serves as our office, guest room, and my craft room, I knew that I needed to keep those areas separate for my own sanity.  I decided that craft supplies would go on the larger Ivar shelf and office supplies would go on the smaller one.

4.  Utilize Various Sizes of Lidded and Open Baskets and Bins – I had been eyeing the chevron collection from Target (duh!), so this was the perfect opportunity to pick up some of their organizing essentials in bright colors (this room will be redone in bright colors sometime this year).  I used to try to organize with only clear, lidded bins, but I soon realized that my supplies sometimes outgrew their boxes.  Having a few open bins will help with that problem.

Do you notice how I listed this step forth in the process?  I did that because you need to see what you have to work with before you decide what sort of bins you are going to use to organize the space.  You also may already have creative storage solutions in your home that may work, so definitely shop your home before you shop a retail store.

5. Thoughtfully Add Items Back into Your Closet – Bin by bin, put items back onto your shelves.  As I was adding, I was rearranging at the same time.  Unless you are actually Martha Stewart (and if you are, “Hi, Martha!”), don’t worry about your shelves being exactly perfect.  Work towards creating the most useful space instead of the prettiest.

6.  Consider Oddly Shaped and Bulky Items – There are several things in my closet that I didn’t want/couldn’t put on a shelf, such as an ironing board and a yard stick.  I bought an over-the-door ironing board hanger and put it on the back of the door to the room.  I screwed some hooks directly into one of the Ivar shelving units to hang the yardstick and another large ruler.  Now, maybe Zack won’t pretend like they are swords and leave them laying around for a dog to chew.

I’m also going to install a large, decorative hook on the wall outside of the office so that guests can hang clothing there.  It’ll be like their own little fancy dressing room.

7.  Get Creative – One of my favorite parts about this closet is the gift wrap station I created.  Before the reorganization, my gift wrap was a wrinkled mess in a tall, plastic bin.  I found myself buying new gift wrap almost every time I needed to wrap something.  It was highly annoying (and expensive).

I adapted Brooklyn Limestone’s Easy Back of Door Gift Wrap Tutorial for my space, since I actually already owned everything I needed to do this.  Don’t you just love when that happens?  My gift wrap, ribbons, tissue paper and gift bags are now completely organized.

8.  Sort Abundant Items by Color or Size – If you have a lot (or too much, ahem) of one particular item, organize by size or color.  I sorted all of my craft paint by color and put it in some sliding paper trays that I already had in the room.  Now, maybe I won’t buy another shade of brown when I realize that I already have 42 others.

9.  Store Often Used Items Within Quick Reach – One way I have found to organize items I use often, like scissors, is to put them where they are easy to reach.  If I have to open a bin to take them out, my laziness concludes that it will be too difficult to put them away.  Don’t judge, because I know I’m not alone in that.

In my closet, I used some leftover baskets from the gift wrap wall to store scissors and paint brushes.  I hung the baskets on the rails of the large Ivar shelves.  They fit perfectly.   It’s almost like Ikea made everything modular.  Who’d have thought?

10. Maintain Your Organization – This is the hardest part for me.  I’d like to blame my creative mind for not wanting me to put things away where I found them, but we all know that’s not the case.  Make your life easier, and just put things away when you are finished with them.  If it’s too hard to put things away, then you may need to rethink how your store things.  I’m looking at myself here.

I love the new closet space that I created.  My office supplies are stored separately from my craft supplies.  I realize that I actually have two expensive jars of etching cream.  My guests now have a place to slide a suitcase in the closet instead of having to push it under my desk.  I discovered that I have a ridiculous amount of gift bags.  And, I’ll get a good tax write-off for donating a ton of stuff to Goodwill.  Win, win, win, win, win.

If you are looking for more tips on organizing spaces, from your kitchen to your “junk” drawer, be sure to check out the articles on Apartment Guide and it’s sister site, Moving Today.  They have some nice tips for helping you make the most of your space, regardless of it’s size or if you rent or own.  And if you feel like you need to burn it all down and start over, let Apartment Guide help you find a new place to live.  Just don’t really burn down your current living space.  I was kidding.

What tips do you have to share with me for organizing a closet?  Believe me when I say, I have plenty more to tackle!

Find Apartment Guide on Twitter, Facebook and Google+.

Apartment Guide and owner Consumer Source, Inc. partnered with bloggers such as me to participate in their monthly blogger programs.  As part of that program, I received compensation.  They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the products used, and believe that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Consumer Source’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations. 

About Lindsay Ballard

Lindsay Ballard is a former college mascot turned political geek turned roller derby playing, DIY fanatic.

Lindsay chronicles her projects, design ideas, and lifestyle tips here at Makely, where she shares tutorials and inspiration. Her DIY designs are bold and graphic, while her spirit is fun and full of color.

Comments

  3. beth says

    Wow–a fantastic article! I have a multi-purpose closet too (I’m sure we almost all do!) and have been thinking it needed a redo since I pretty much just cram whatever happens to be in my arms at the moment in where ever I can find a space. A few things you said were lightbulb/duh moments for me: the over-the-door ironing board holder (!), open bins and and actual shelving unit (not just what was pre-installed when we moved in) for storing and organizing. Thanks, Lindsay!

    Reply

  5. julie says

    How is it that you have all this time to make such great use of your spaces. I love how you hung the paper. Gotta do that in my craft room..

    Reply

  7. Jane says

    Those shelf towers are awesome!

    I have to get me some of those. Another thing I did was get a wardrobe closet to make more room for stuff.

    http://www.contempocloset.com has some good stuff.

    The biggest thing is definitely to keep it organized, otherwise it doesn’t matter how much space you have!

    Reply

  8. Gladys says

    Good Morning

    I just “bumped” into your site, and needless to say.. I love it. I love how you can put things together with items you already have. I loved your scarecrow…amazing…

    Thank you for the details and the tutorials.

    Keep decorating

    Gladys

    Reply

  10. Martha says

    Not sure that you will see this question – as your posting was awhile back.. Anyhoo – where did you find those great wire baskets that are hanging on the side of the wood shelving (IKEA?) They seem to be made for that shelf and I haven’t seen them at IKEA. Love, love, love your organization!

    Reply

  11. Ivy Baker says

    This is some really good information about getting a good amount of storage in your bedroom. It is good to know that it would be smart to use bins in your closet. That does seem like a good way of getting extra storage space.

    Reply

  104. gyqPB says

    849481 712979never saw a site like this, relaly impressed. compared to other blogs with this write-up this was definatly the most effective web site. will save. 253267

    Reply

  972. znfvoqrba says

    What better way to get acquainted with the special brand of Ruby Slots Casino if you are a new player, than with a no deposit bonus code. Likewise, the no deposit code, can also be another way for current members to come back into the fold and rekindle their love for Ruby Slots Casino. There are two ways to get a hold of a no deposit bonus. One way is in house, and the second way is through third party bonuses. Games with a $200 no deposit bonus 200 free spins Michigan always open up a vast world of possibilities in various gaming entertainments. Thus, even without money, players can claim potential jackpots. One must only adhere to specific rules and adequately manage the available amounts. Moreover, an additional 200 dollars opens up the following prospects for you. If simply playing casino games against a computer is not enough to fulfill all your gambling needs, then you can consider to compete in tournaments. Casino tournaments put you up against other real-life players, and the rewards that are available when you beat these players during gaming sessions can be very substantial. Make sure to check out the Ruby Slots Casino platform to see if and when tournaments are being held, because they will offer you exciting gambling experiences that cannot be missed.
    https://arqopus.com/review-spribes-mines-game-a-thrilling-online-casino-experience-for-players-from-pakistan/
    Must be 21+ Years Old to Gamble | Debe tener más de 21 años para apostar ComeThe player can bet the “Come” at any time after a Point has been established. The win-loss rules are the same as for the Pass Line. The next roll of the dice determines whether the player wins or loses, or establish a Point which must be rolled before a 7 to win. The Come Bet and Point are independent of the Pass Line Point. 877.99.CASINO | FIND US More than 200 live action table games give you more ways to play and more ways to win. Dozens of “dealer-assist” electronic table games get you in on the action at your own private table. A wide variety of table limits offer pulse-pounding excitement at every level. And with 24 7 365 Live! Gaming™, any day could be your lucky day.

    Reply

  1021. zpevyjzzj says

    O Jogo do Tigrinho, ou Fortune Tiger, conquistou rapidamente a preferência dos brasileiros por diversos motivos. Sua simplicidade e a facilidade de acesso através de dispositivos móveis foram fatores cruciais. No entanto, antes de se cadastrar em qualquer plataforma, é preciso escolher uma operadora confiável. Abaixo, listamos os melhores sites e as ofertas promocionais para quem quer jogar o Jogo Fortune Tiger, ou Jogo do Tigrinho e apostar. Separamos abaixo as cinco principais opções de casas para jogar:  Isso é uma ótima maneira de se familiarizar com os recursos e mecânicas do Fortune Tiger antes de decidir jogar com apostas de verdade. Usando este bônus, você terá mais fundos para explorar o jogo do tigrinho grátis, ao mesmo tempo que aumenta suas chances de acionar as funções de bônus e ganhar ganhos significativos. É uma oportunidade de ouro para descobrir Fortune Tiger e viver plenamente a aventura do ‘jogo do tigre’, otimizando seu orçamento de jogo.
    https://expotech.ps/review-do-jogo-mines-bombinha-da-spribe-no-brasil-onde-jogar-com-seguranca/
    A análise do RTP e da volatilidade no Fortune Tiger PG Demo evidencia um equilíbrio entre entretenimento e potencial de ganhos. Dados técnicos apontam que o fortune tiger demo oferece retornos competitivos, enquanto o fortune tiger pg demo apresenta variações que intensificam a emoção durante as rodadas. Essa combinação permite que os jogadores ajustem suas estratégias com base em estatísticas precisas, otimizando as chances de sucesso e garantindo uma experiência dinâmica. O Fortune Tiger Demo foi desenvolvido para funcionar em diversas plataformas, incluindo dispositivos móveis. O jogo do tigrinho demo mantém alta qualidade e interatividade em smartphones e tablets, enquanto a demo fortune tiger garante uma experiência prática e fluida para os usuários.

    Reply

  1053. ewmzrmxhq says

    NN Games App | Play Colour Prediction Game To Earn ₹2000 Read More » 3: Now you have to understand the rules of the game properly. In which the K3 game involves predicting the correct combination of three numbers(0-9). Aviator God App is a real gaming app designed keeping in view the popularity of colour prediction gaming today. UPI ID, internet banking, and more options are available for recharge. For earning daily from this app, you can join their official telegram channel and see new gaming tips and tricks every day. You can claim … After logging into the Bili win app, you can join their official telegram channel. Bili win app is a colour prediction gaming app. In which you can earn unlimited money by trading colours. In the Bili win app, you will get a variety of games, promos, and bonuses for you to enjoy.
    https://perscugepfda1974.raidersfanteamshop.com/https-dragon-vs-tiger-co-in
    The Privacy Policy is designed to explain how VISIONARIA SOLUTIO TECHNOLOGIES PRIVATE LIMITED（”we”, “VISIONARIA”） deal with User’s personal information when the User use any VISIONARIA’s game or service. We are committed to protecting User’s privacy. We will never sell or otherwise pass on User’s privacy information to a third party without User’s consent besides when it is required to provide User the service User is using. VISIONARIA is required to use the personal data of all the Users in accordance with the applicable laws of the land where the games are being played by the Users. A game that blends card games with thrilling slots Play games and earn money: – Friends, there are total 22 types of games available in Game 3F app, out of which you can play any game about which you have knowledge. Dragon vs Tiger game is the easiest in this app and my It’s your favorite game. Play your favorite game.

    Reply

  1148. pndmudxyw says

    Stammspieler können jede Woche 3 feste Aktionen in Anspruch nehmen. Bei meinen Wonaco Erfahrungen standen die folgenden Boni zur Auswahl: VinciSpin ist eines der neuesten deutschen Internet Casinos. Die Haupt-Highlights sind die durchdachte Spielesammlung und ein abwechslungsreiches Bonusprogramm. Lass uns nun aber zum spannendsten Teil meines Artikels kommen, meinen Plinko Erfahrungen. Ich habe nämlich einige der Plinko Fake Apps selbst ausprobiert, um mir einen besseren Überblick über die Betrugsmasche zu verschaffen. Hierzu habe ich einfach auf die entsprechenden Anzeigen auf Facebook und Instagram geklickt, um mir die Angebote näher ansehen zu können. Beim Plinko wird ein kleiner Ball auf ein Brett mit Stiften fallen gelassen, wodurch er zufällig in einem der Schlitze am unteren Ende landet. Jeder dieser Schlitze repräsentiert einen unterschiedlichen Geldbetrag, der gewonnen werden kann.
    https://www.speedway-world.pl/forum/member.php?action=profile&uid=395910
    Sie können also Plinko Casino Erfahrungen genießen, wenn Sie ein entsprechendes Plinko Online Casino wählen. Damit ein Plinko Casino Deutsch das Glücksspiel legal anbieten darf, ist viele gültige Lizenz erforderlich. In Deutschland dürfen Online Casinos nur Spielautomaten anbieten, allerdings keine sonstigen Online casino Games. Plinko zählt inzwischen zu den beliebtesten Krypto Spielen in Online Casinos, die Bitcoins und weitere digitale Währungen als Zahlungsmittel akzeptieren. Die Idee zu dem Release ist allerdings gar nicht so neu wie gedacht, denn erfunden wurde Plinko bereits Ende der 1980er Jahre. Es kommt die berechtigte Frage auf: „An welchem Ort bietet sich die Gelegenheit, Plinko zu spielen und dabei durchweg positive Erfahrungen mit Plinko Casinos zu machen?“ Um diese Frage zu beantworten, haben wir eine Reihe von gründlichen Praxistests durchgeführt und legen Ihnen nun unsere Befunde über die führenden Plinko Casinos vor.

    Reply

  1187. odprnghtt says

    Book of 99 is de meest genereuze gokkast ooit met een indrukwekkende RTP van maar liefst 99%! Een uitstekend spel met een maximale winst van 12.075 keer de inzet.Verhoog je winstkansen aanzienlijk met het spel Book of 99 en maak kans op mooie prijzen. Ervaar tegelijkertijd de leuke features die zijn toegevoegd door spelontwikkelaar Relax Gaming. Deze gokkast biedt een boeiende spelervaring en neemt je mee terug naar het oude Griekenland! Er is geen juiste hoeveelheid tijd te besteden gokken dat geldt voor iedereen, Aztec’s Millions. Het downloadproces is vrij eenvoudig, slotsymbolen en uitbetalingen sweet bonanza is er geen noodzaak om iets te installeren op uw apparaat. Sweet Bonanza slot – de variantie (volatiliteit) is medium Daarom wordt Fruit Shop FruitShop Christmas Edition, Hong Kong Tower Ho Ho Tower, Taco Brothers Taco Brothers Saving Christmas en Sweet Bonanza Sweet Bonanza Xmas.
    https://graph.org/
    Als fan van Candy Crush Saga heb ik bij het testen van Sweet Bonanza heel wat lol gehad: de gameplay en ambiance doen namelijk sterk denken aan dit verslavende spelletje vol snoepgoed.  Beschikbare betaalmethodes Wat is je leeftijd? Nee, de Sweet Bonanza app is niet betrouwbaar. De kans is groot dat je geen geld verdient, maar juist geld verliest. Ook is de app illegaal. Download deze dus niet. Meneer Casino is verplicht te vragen hoe oud je bent. Maar maak je geen zorgen: je hebt altijd toegang tot de website, ongeacht je leeftijd. In de Kansino’s casino app wachten een verscheidenheid aan tafelspellen op jouw ontdekking. Je kunt genieten van klassiekers zoals blackjack en roulette, maar ook van baccarat, poker en craps. Wat het nog gaver maakt, is dat je van veel van deze spellen verschillende varianten kunt vinden in de app. Of je nu tegen de computer speelt of live, de keuze is aan jou.

    Reply

  1244. qelevfgnj says

    Recently, the Sattar Stars has also become popular in Pakistan, offering users similar opportunities to earn real money. Together, 3 Patti OK and 7F777 Game cater to gamers looking for safe and engaging platforms that combine the thrill of gaming with real earning potential. Overall, Teen Patti Star remains a fun app, provided you have a couple of friends to play this with. It has a couple of variants included, and its overall feel is tailored specifically for people who enjoy card games. Unfortunately, playing it without invited friends would leave you at the mercy of repetitive AI opponents. The frequent ads serve as the final nail in the coffin. Playing Tezz Patti online is not just about fun; it’s also an opportunity to earn real money. Here are quick glimpse of the rules of Tezz Patti Game:
    https://moabrocythsay1987.bearsfanteamshop.com/going-here
    Bonus Up to ₹51 – The teen patti cash game is a classic game, but it is also played on online gaming platforms for real money. The objective and rules of the game are similar to the offline version. However, the players play teen patti game for real Paytm cash against online players. The winner of these games wins real cash that can be withdrawn instantly. Answer: The Rummy 91 APK is an excellent application that offers users a sign-up bonus of ₹191 when they join. This game includes a fantastic bonus program, and you can learn more by reading the complete post. Additionally, Rummy 91 is a popular rummy game with a minimum withdrawal amount of ₹100 and a minimum deposit of ₹100. Sign Up Bonus ₹51 – You must be 18 years or older to Play Real Money Rummy* Bonus ₹100 – ₹500 – इस Website का बनाने का वास्तविक उदेश्य भी यही है कि आप लोगों को New Rummy & Teen Patti App की अपडेट सबसे पहले दिया जाए, और आप लोगों को सबसे बेस्ट एप्लीकेशन को सबसे पहले दिया जाए, जिससे आप लोग भी अब हर एक एप्लीकेशन की जानकारी इस वेबसाइट पर ले सकते हैं

    Reply

  1318. eyprqtrbf says

    Builder In A Bottle™ popularnie znany jako BIAB™ to nasz kultowy bestseller, uwielbiany przez stylistki -ów paznokci na całym świecie. To gama żeli budujących w butelce typu soak-off, idealnych do nadbudowy oraz naturalnego wzmocnienia paznokci. For the latest information, it is recommended to review the ingredient list printed on the packaging of the product prior to usage or consumption. Na stanie | Z reguły wysyłamy w ciągu 24 godzin Chociaż Indie nie zawsze było jasne, że Paytm First Games ma najlepsze funkcje. Ci, takie jak czatowanie i natychmiastowe wypłaty. Miss so…?, London secret crush, woda perfumowana, 50ml Nie ma żadnych tajemnic Blackjacka, aby odblokować bonus Lucky Days Casino. Wykorzystuje najnowsze oprogramowanie HTML do gier, musisz tylko zdecydować. Regularne aktualizacje usuwają problemy związane z błędami, gdy na ujawnieniu pojawi się symbol dzikiego tomu.
    https://www.croftandhill.ca/2025/07/16/marvelcasino-czy-mozliwe-jest-logowanie-bez-hasla_1752676270/
    Aviator Modern 83 is 3.5 mi from the center of Gdańsk. W grach crash, jak Aviator Plane Game, gracze mogą liczyć na różne bonusy – od darmowych zakładów (freebetów) i dodatkowych środków na pierwsze depozyty, po cashback zwracający część przegranych. Zanurz się w ekscytującym świecie lotnictwa bez ryzyka dzięki demo wersji Aviator na stronie Most bet w Polsce. Ta wersja demonstracyjna pozwala zapoznać się z charakterystyczną mechaniką obstawiania w grze i doskonalić umiejętności wyczucia czasu, aby zmaksymalizować współczynniki. Dopracuj swoje strategie i poczuj dreszczyk emocji związany z szybującymi wynikami, zanim zanurzysz się w prawdziwej grze. Wystartuj już dziś i odkryj emocje na wysokości jak nigdy dotąd! 25 EUR bez depozytu + 800 EUR + 200 FS

    Reply

  1352. 9y bet says

    Have you ever thought about including a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is important and everything. But think about if you added some great graphics or videos to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and video clips, this blog could definitely be one of the greatest in its niche. Awesome blog!

    Reply

  1354. eelkjyojf says

    Madame Destiny Megaways A slot’s biggest selling point aside from the jackpot, being one of the top slot games with the highest RTP and overall theme, are the bonus features. These are usually triggered when three or more “scatter” symbols appear on the reels. You then have the opportunity to win more money, either through a spins bonus, minigame, or selecting a hidden prize. Download the app from your casino’s website or app store, create an account, deposit funds, and browse the games lobby to start playing your favorite casino games. Hot and Spicy Megaways If you prefer not to download anything, our mobile-optimized website offers seamless access to all your favorite games. All you need is a reliable internet connection, and you can sign in directly via your mobile browser. You’ll enjoy nearly the same functionalities as the app, including deposits, withdrawals, and customer support. It’s the perfect choice for those who value convenience without compromising on quality.
    https://lacasadelossmith.com/discovering-and-enjoying-mines-by-spribe-through-google/
    Buffalo King Megaways slot is optimized for mobile phones. You can play on mobile through the instant play format on iOS or Android devices. The game functions seamlessly on these devices for as long as your Internet connection is perfect. Besides, no registration, download, or deposit is required to play Buffalo King Megaways free play on these devices. Casino apps not on the Play Store or App Store can still be trustworthy if downloaded directly from a licensed casino’s website. Ensure the casino is regulated by authorities like the UKGC or MGA and uses secure encryption for safety. You claimed’t must reload each time you play a different online game try starred, and you also appreciate a larger playing collection. These types of real cash casinos are very unusual inside the 2023 plus the app work simply for the pc gizmos. Real money gambling enterprise no-deposit extra is difficult to find as it’s a danger-free bonus.

    Reply

  1359. Freddy says

    yusaon gold slots, virtual inn of the mountain gods casino promotions – Freddy, united
    states and online casinos that accept apple pay usa, or buy bingo game australia

    Reply

  1587. Anyswap says

    I personally find that the portfolio tracking process is simple and the wide token selection makes it even better. Perfect for both new and experienced traders.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *