5 DIY Storage Ideas for Small Spaces: Organize Your Painting Tools Like a Pro

Living in a small space doesn’t mean giving up on DIY projects or painting. With some smart ideas, you can keep your tools organized and your area tidy. This article shares five DIY storage ideas for small spaces, focusing on tool organization tips for painters and workman tools.

Pegboard Wall Organizer

A pegboard is a fantastic way to store tools in a small space. It’s like a giant bulletin board for your gear. You can hang it on any wall and use it to hold painting tools like brushes, rollers, and small paint cans. When I put one up in my cramped garage, it changed everything—I could finally find what I needed without digging through piles.

Here’s how to do it: - Measure your wall and grab a pegboard from a hardware store. - Secure it with screws or wall anchors. - Add hooks, baskets, or small shelves.

For painters, try sorting brushes by size on hooks. Hang rollers and trays on bigger hooks. Keep paint cans on a shelf so they’re easy to grab. You can move things around whenever you want, which makes it super flexible.

Magnetic Tool Strips

Magnetic tool strips are perfect when you’re running out of room. They stick to walls or cabinet sides and hold metal tools tight. Painters can use them for metal paint stirrers, small cans with metal lids, or even scissors and knives.

I first tried this trick in my kitchen for utensils, and it worked so well I brought it to my tool area. To set it up: 1. Pick a spot you can reach easily. 2. Screw the strip into the wall. 3. Stick your metal tools on it.

Paint the strip to blend with your space if you like. It keeps tools off counters and in plain sight, saving you time.

Under-the-Bed Storage

The space under your bed is a goldmine for storage. It’s great for bigger tools you don’t use every day. Painters can stash paint sprayers, extension poles, or folded drop cloths there.

I use rolling boxes under my bed for extra stuff, and they’re just as good for tools. Here’s what works: - Get boxes with wheels so they slide out easily. - Use clear bins to see what’s inside. - Label them if you have lots of gear.

This keeps bulky items out of sight but still handy when you need them.

Hanging Shoe Organizer

A shoe organizer isn’t just for footwear—it’s a secret weapon for small tools. Hang it on a door or wall, and its pockets can hold paint bottles, tape, brushes, or sponges. It’s a cheap, easy way to save space.

I’ve got one in my craft room for sewing bits, and it’s perfect for painting tools too. Try this: - Hang it where you work most. - Put small cans in the bottom pockets. - Use top pockets for lighter stuff like tape.

Label the pockets if you want to find things fast. It’s like having a mini supply station right where you need it.

Repurposed Furniture

Old furniture can get a new life as tool storage. A dresser or cabinet with drawers works great for organizing workman tools and painting gear. You could have one drawer for brushes, another for rollers, and one for odds and ends.

I turned an old bookshelf into a craft spot once, and it was a hit. For tools: - Clean out the piece and check it’s sturdy. - Add dividers in drawers to separate items. - Stick labels on each section.

If it has doors, screw hooks inside for hanging tools. It’s a stylish way to keep everything in order.

Summary

Small spaces don’t have to cramp your style or your tools. These five DIY storage ideas for small spaces—pegboards, magnetic strips, under-the-bed boxes, shoe organizers, and repurposed furniture—let you stay organized and ready to work. They’re perfect for painting tools and workman tools alike. Pick one, mix them up, or try them all to turn your tiny space into a neat, creative hub.