How to MAKE ART in a Small Space | Tiny Art Studio Setup Tips

[@deborahmeyers551]

I have a tiny desk in my bedroom I do all my art there you have some great tips here❤

[@hayleyhawkins]

Love that!! Even if its tiny it's so great that you're prioritizing that space for yourself 💙

[@lynnl6965]

This is a really good video. Your ideas are good and your personal comments are fun, too.I have an interesting scenario: I have a small but big-enough space in a spare room with all my stuff organised the way I like it (paints, beads, sewing stuff) and then my husband moved in! LOL! He has developed a taste for creativity and asked for resin art supplies & polymer clay for Christmas which I happily got him. Now, the space is a bit cramped because obviously this is now "our" art space. I've been eyeballing my dining room area thinking maybe we could set up something very small there (small apartment dining room) but clutter drives me nuts so I came to a stand-still. Solution? The 3-tiered tray on wheels that you showed in your video! I could put my paints and paraphernelia in that and just wheel it to my dining room whenever I need it. Funny how sometimes you need someone to show you something you've already seen a thousand times! Thanks so much for this video - I really enjoyed it.

[@hayleyhawkins]

Yess that is a great solution!! That way you can have more room since you both are creating now :) the wheeled carts are truly so helpful for organization!! 🩷

[@theabstractvoyager]

This is so comforting knowing I’m not the only artist who is struggling with the small space situation right now! These tips were super helpful and I’m actually working on finding more foldable furniture items now! If anyone is like me and the have a big family who likes to hang out in your art space, I recommend foldable mattresses! It keeps your space versatile and comfy at the same time!

[@theabstractvoyager]

And it was very nice to e-meet you @HaleyHawkins - looking forward to seeing more videos from you in the future😁

[@hayleyhawkins]

@@theabstractvoyager I definitely know that feeling!! Foldable furniture is such a great option :) let me know if you find anything else that is helpful! thanks so much for watching and i'm happy you're here! :)

[@lindathaxton1994]

I have a corner in our small living room - folding table from Costco - good adjustable lamp, table easel to hold reference material. Works well for me! Thank you for sharing 🙏

[@hayleyhawkins]

Yes that’s perfect!!🤩

[@b.bailey8244]

stumbled upon this video full of good tips. I have a tiny little space to work and your minimalist thinking is helping me figure out what materials i want to work with and really need and keep the rest put away.

[@LaurieWalker207]

I'm in a super small apartment and working out how to dedicate space for art at the moment, so I apprreciate your insights. You're right about the economy. It means I have to stay where I'm at, or face a rent increase. I also have some misgivings about painting en plein aire. I also wouldn't feel safe in some places, but it's possible to paint outside just about anywhere, like the beach or even in an urban area. Usually there are groups who organize events and outings to paint together, so maybe look for that where you are. It's a goal of mine to do that once we head into warmer weather. I suppose it's important to do some logistical planning, such as a restroom handy LOL

[@hayleyhawkins]

LOL right! Those are such good suggestions. I should look for a plein air group - that would be so fun!!

[@lizadivine3785]

Make sure you don’t vote for Harris

[@LaurieWalker207]

@@lizadivine3785 What a bizarre thing to do... stalk someone's year old post and comment with something completely irrelevant. Very weird.

[@angieevert833]

Thank you for sharing your ideas! I see I’m not alone in wanting to be by myself while painting. No pun intended. It’s hard to concentrate when others are around. I haven’t figured my space out yet. I love your idea of building up.

[@JohnHarrisonArtist]

Good tips. I recently made an area by a bay window in my front room, my art space. Having a dedicated area makes it easier to just paint. The main working space is only 5ft x 5ft. I have a foldable chair and stool I put my paints on, I use a realy big table which has two sides that open out, I just have one side open. Underneath I have storage with plastic containers for my watercolours, Acrylic, charcoal etc. So I just unfold my chair and stool, bring my water and get out my tub of paints, and I'm ready in a couple of minutes. I live on my own, so being disturbed is not an issue. I also have my artwork on the walls to remind me of my progress and what I'm capable of. All the best, John.

[@hayleyhawkins]

I love that so much!! Thank you for sharing. That sounds like the absolute perfect little setup for a small area for 1 person :)

[@soniainateacup]

great video and inspiring to read all the comments too!! I moved back into my elderly parents/family home some years ago and tho I have a spare box room, it also is my chill room in the evenings/'sitting room!! I currently continuing my process of decluttering and totally agree about the minimalism factor (for me anyways). With my bedroom next door, I find having too much in my art space got me anxious. I also sshifted away from canvases to canvas paper and got rid of a lot of extra materials

[@hayleyhawkins]

@@soniainateacup love that so much! Switching to paper was so helpful for me too, and just having very limited materials 💖

[@ArtByHazel]

Love your work space and using the walls. I have waaaay too many supplies and you’re right it’s very overwhelming. Thank you.❤

[@kathyamen7173]

Been struggling with my small space setup this is inspiring thank you

[@hayleyhawkins]

i'm so glad it's helpful! wishing you well in your space :)

[@kathyamen7173]

I have literally been trying to make my space for seven months. Long story but things are coming together! Omg !!

[@MonaeKekeDesignz]

Just happen to click on your video...and wanted to say Thanks for sharing this and giving advice and tips on how to work in small spaces...It was very helpful...because i deal with this too while tryna to create art and get frustrated and overwhelmed too but I am gonna redecorate my small space soon so i can get more motivated to want to do art everyday...and i hate when i have unfinished artwork left undone...but am going to get around to doing them soon one day at time...lol😅I am glad I am not the only one who feels this way as a artist that loves to create and paint 🎨 🖌 BTW: I like your beautiful artwork and art space set up...its really cute and simple❤😍😊Have a great day❤

[@hayleyhawkins]

I know it’s tough to finish pieces sometimes lol!! Thank you so much!! 💗💗🩵

[@MonaeKekeDesignz]

@@hayleyhawkins you welcome and thank you😊Have a great, safe and blessed day...😁😄

[@notcomputersavvygirl]

I definitely like to be alone when I paint. I am in a very small space but need to make it work because I miss painting so much

[@hayleyhawkins]

Me tooo! I hate when people bother me 😅😅

[@helenvas-art]

This is my current mood!! Hope it will work for you!! Keep doing what you love with what you have!!

[@michelewelisevich8808]

When family comes into my very small art space, I get overwhelmed at the first words! I love my family. I just need to art for a bit uninterrupted 😳

[@saltandlight44777]

i lost the extra bedroom that has been my art studio craft space when a family member moved in ....its tough out there folks...anyway.. .it took some planning but i used some tall walmart shelving to carve out a corner of the dining room. i was able to keep access to a portion of the windows but had to supplement the rest of the light. its VERY cramped but at least i still have a space. what i miss most is the quiet space i could turn on some music and totally relax into the creative process.

[@hayleyhawkins]

It’s so hard not having our own dedicated space. Sometimes we have to make sacrifices & trust that our own space will happen in the near future again, but it can feel very discouraging. I’m so glad you were able to carve out a small area though, and I hope you’re able to find quiet periods where you can be uninterrupted! Wishing you well 🩵

[@alyshiarobison2290]

you've got great ideas, thanks!

[@hayleyhawkins]

Thank you so much 🙂

[@ArtzyAshez]

These are very helpful tips! I'm a college student but prepping to start my own sticker and print shop and moving into a little apartment has been challenging when figuring out a good space for working!

[@hayleyhawkins]

that is so amazing!! wishing you well on your new ventures!

[@helenvas-art]

Thank you! This was very helpful!! I live in a small apartment and want so bad to paint again and make it work!!

[@Pebblesmas]

Thx!! Such a wonderfully positive and such a complete video, thx so much. BTW I use a lot of your great ideas 👍

[@hayleyhawkins]

This means so much, thank you & glad you enjoyed the tips!!💖

[@cynthiakammann7368]

Great video. I'm a painting newbie. I'm playing with gouache, acrylic and monoprinting with gel plates. Thanks for the inspirational ideas. I do have a small guest room that I turned into a studio with a great folding bed stored in the closet. It's never been used, but I like knowing I 'can' have a guest room with just a little rearranging. Your space saving ideas spoke to me. Even though I do have a dedicated space, I also use my room for other hobbies and try to have discrete areas for each, to make it easy to switch from one hobby to another without needing to stop painting, and again, so that it could be a functional and pleasant guest room with just a bit of rearranging. Having watched your video, I now realize I could better utilize the walls in that room! One thing I have done is intentionally used furniture that doesn't look utilitarian, so it looks more like an interesting room than a workshop. It happened over time, but used furniture that just needs some adapting is helpful towards that. My best find is a long table with one side that folds down. I keep it up, but when folded it can serve as a desk against the wall and open up floor space to make room for a guest bed. As your video shows, where there's a will, there's a way!

[@hayleyhawkins]

When there is a will there is a way - yes absolutely! That is so nice that you have an extra room to use! We actually finally moved and I am going to have a small art studio/office/guest room as well and I cannot wait :) And like you mentioned, you can add other hobbies in there too. I may use the room to exercise as well, work on video editing etc! Making spaces simple and versatile so they can be rearranged is a great tip!

[@dg5595]

Thank you for sharing ☺️❤God bless you 🙏❣️

[@taliykat3712]

I have a desk in my kitchen that's allowed me to paint and draw. It's can be hard for storage but I use snaplock containers so nothing is lost.

[@hayleyhawkins]

Such a good idea!!

[@apeacefulworld9095]

Awesome Tips 👍🏻 100%feasible!!

[@2tinytreasures]

The drop cloth is a brilliant idea! 💡 thank you

[@hayleyhawkins]

💖💖🙂🙂

[@kryssygee4814]

Thanks!! Very inspiring ideas. Surprised to hear you use oils… how do you ventilate the space?

[@hayleyhawkins]

I paint mostly solvent free actually! I have a couple videos all about it :) and keeping windows open all the time. it can be a huge hassle sometimes but it’s doable!

[@2tinytreasures]

This is such a practical video for these times. Thank you for the share 🥰

[@hayleyhawkins]

So glad it was helpful!!😊🥰

[@MadisonBriggsArtchick]

I really enjoyed your video. I just found your channel and subscribed. Here’s to small space painting!

[@hayleyhawkins]

Thank you so much Madison! I see you also made some videos which is super cool :) So glad to have you here!!

[@BlancaVarguesArt]

Very usefully video, nice and interesting😍😍

[@leannedelux]

I seriously need to reevaluate my small space….thank you for this video, it was super helpful!

[@hayleyhawkins]

I'm so glad it was helpful! :)

[@DreyaLynx]

Great tips! Thank you.

[@pendlera2959]

Plein air painting doesn't have to be alone in the wilderness. You can do it at a cafe, shopping mall, or local park.

[@hayleyhawkins]

That’s so true, great ideas!🙂

[@GoOutsideToday2024]

Thanks for addressing this issue and providing practical solutions. Also, I thought I was the only one who cringed if anyone sees what I’m working on!

[@alisonpark9751]

What a thoughtful video. Thank you!

[@hayleyhawkins]

So glad it was helpful!!

[@traces2807]

I recently had to give up the spacious studio I was renting due to the increased rent, insurance etc. The only room in my house I can reasonably use is my daughter's old room in the basement. One tiny window and not much space at all. 😢 I love abstract and was experimenting with larger scale substrates. Now I have to completely rethink my art practice.

[@lynnehall246]

Thank you that was very positive and helpful ❤

[@hayleyhawkins]

Yay I’m so glad!!

[@ellisclub]

Love this video ❤️❤️❤️

[@yagnasrinambiar4734]

Very helpful video

[@hayleyhawkins]

thank you for watching! :)

[@ilsegomez8087]

So I have my little corner art space in my room which I share with my fiancee, he's a gamer and a loud one at that. He has his computer and i have my desk, I always wanted to get a divider because he's like right there and i need my privacy when im in art creative mode now that i saw this video im definitely getting one 😂

[@hayleyhawkins]

😂😂 yes exactly!!!

[@Shadowridercc]

I also have a very small area and I think you have great ideas! I just don't think it's a good idea to have candles under your paints like that! It will surely dry your paints out! Cheers CC

[@hayleyhawkins]

They are fake! Hahah. I don’t like real candles so I use little electric ones - no heat 😊😊

[@333rosepetal]

hi, where did you get your collapsible table?

[@hayleyhawkins]

Hi! The one I showed in the video was one I found online, not mine personally, and I couldn't find a link sadly! But here's a similar really cool one: amzn.to/46Uz639 Also this one amzn.to/44NZpGi

[@mikeinengland9982]

I wanted to know how you keep those tubes on your wall.

[@hayleyhawkins]

Here’s the link! I love this pegboard! amzn.to/4hQ3HEz

[@hammoussiu.c.w8816]

Your art paint very interesting

[@hayleyhawkins]

thank you :)

[@DraggingBallZ]

This should be really helpful for my girlfriend, thank you for making this video!

[@hayleyhawkins]

That’s so awesome, thanks for watching!!

[@JeanettsFarm]

Be versatile.

[@contentviewer815]

I live in a 135 square foot tiny house rental with my dog and boyfriend. There's no way I can have a section for my art space. So I just have a portable station that I take outside and paint. It sucks so bad.

[@hayleyhawkins]

I’m so sorry that you can’t have a permanent space, that’s really difficult ugh 😭 and that’s an extremely small space for two people! I hope you’re able to still paint outside & in other ways though, keep the creativity alive as much as you can 💖

[@contentviewer815]

@@hayleyhawkins thank you and we pay $1300 a month, the cheapest rental we could find, the only one we could afford.

[@hayleyhawkins]

@@contentviewer815 oh noo :( what city?

[@contentviewer815]

@@hayleyhawkins San Fernando Valley, CA. And I just lost my day job today because the company is shutting down for good. But at least now I'll have time to devote to art.

[@hayleyhawkins]

@@contentviewer815 I’m so sorry 😭 I moved out of California last year due to how expensive it is. I miss it so much but prices are insane. Job market is bad too, hope you find another job soon 💖

[@boohoo7477]

I have no desk and my storage is full and now overflowed to things being scattered all over my bedroom and the floor. I also have to work on the floor. I’ve given up on it now and I can’t afford to rent a studio space

[@hayleyhawkins]

please don't give up. it's so tough and I'm really sorry to hear you're struggling. could you try a small watercolor set and take it outside or to a coffee shop? or find a spot on the floor with some pillows to paint? the world needs your gifts - wishing you well 💙

[@boohoo7477]

@@hayleyhawkins thank you, I’ll try that

[@HitherandYarn]

For me, it's the smell. It doesn't bother me, but it bothers my husband and he's always cold, so keeping the window open won't work. Trying to figure the best way. The only place in the apartment with an outside vent is the bathroom. It helps get rid of the smell, but is too cramped to paint in. I'm attached to oil, but may have to change.

[@hayleyhawkins]

I definitely understand that! The smells can be a lot. I love oils too so it's difficult! Are you using solvents like gamsol? If so, I recommend watching my solvent-free painting video - switching to safflower oil is super helpful if you're in a small space :) Even with solve-free painting though, oil paint still smells strong unfortunately

[@HitherandYarn]

I decanted the commercial concoction and don't remember the name. I'll watch your video. I've used low odor mineral spirits for cleanup, but it still smells. I finally made a very tiny studio in the corner of our bedroom because he's only in there to sleep, and when he goes to sleep i can move the painting to the bathroom with the vent. He has asthma so I have to be careful. I'm putting all my makeup (which i never wear) in the bathroom and using the ikea desk for brushes, etc. I dismantled my keyboard and put it under the bed. I have a set of Helmer drawers which should work for other stuff. I'm so glad I found your channel, but I WAS looking for it. Or something. Thanks for your reply. It means a lot to me.

[@hayleyhawkins]

@@HitherandYarn It sounds like you are being super resourceful with what you have available, and that is so amazing! We have to prioritize painting even if it's not in the ideal situation. Another thing that could help is getting closed lid containers and you can store paintings in there while they're drying to reduce smells. Going solvent free and opening windows - as you mentioned. Plein air is an option as well and then of course water based oils or gouache/acrylic/watercolor as a last resort. It's not easy in a small space so I applaud you for trying new methods while also respecting your husband! Thanks so much for watching and I'm glad you're here :)

[@b7b-o7f]

Have no expertise in this but wonder if a small air purifying machine would help clean the air and eliminate the smell?

[@sigrunasa]

Inspired by this video as itwas referred by Angela Murray? You`ve got a new subscriber here from Iceland

[@hayleyhawkins]

Hi! Wow that is very nice to hear :) Was it a video on KZbin? I'd love to see where it was recommended! So glad to have you here - I love Iceland & I visited a few years ago - incredible country!

[@hayleyhawkins]

actually I found the blog post - that is very nice she recommended my video. Thanks for telling me! :)

[@sigrunasa]

@@hayleyhawkins Hey, welcome visiting again!

[@Gwenny89]

Small space and toddlers around 😢 here

[@jellyjamzxo]

💕