ᐅ How can I set up Ikea PAX wardrobes for storing craft supplies?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to get an IKEA PAX system to store my craft materials in an organized and clear way. The challenge is that I have a wide variety of different materials: from paper, fabrics, and ribbons to paints, brushes, glue, and various smaller tools and accessories. My question is: how can I set up an IKEA PAX most effectively to organize this variety optimally? Which combination of shelves, drawers, boxes, or maybe other inserts works especially well? I am mainly looking for a practical but also easily accessible setup that allows me to quickly find everything again while using storage space efficiently. I would really appreciate tips on recommended dimensions, organizing aids, or ideas for the interior layout!

Hello PRAILSE32,

I think your question is very well thought out, and I would approach it the same way. A PAX system offers a lot of potential, especially because of its flexibility. The first important step is to roughly sort your craft materials – for example, by size, frequency of use, and type of material.

- For paints, brushes, and adhesives, I recommend drawers with dividers or small pull-out boxes.
- For fabrics and large sheets of paper, shelves work well, where you can place flat boxes or stacks.
- Small accessories can be stored in stackable boxes or containers with lids – transparent versions are available, which makes it easier to find what you need quickly.

Additionally, I’ve had good experience with pull-out clothes rails where you can pack smaller items into so-called clip bags – this is unusual but very practical.

Also, pay attention to the lighting inside the closet, especially if the space is a bit dark. An LED strip can work wonders.

Feel free to make notes about the materials you use most often so you can plan those drawers at the front. When it comes to depth, be sure to stick exactly to the PAX dimensions, as otherwise some items may tip over.

I hope this gives you a good starting point! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Jeanbar schrieb:
A PAX offers a lot of potential, especially because of its flexibility.

Absolutely! I would add one more tip – take a look at IKEA’s own organizers, especially the VARIERA series. They’re simply brilliant for small items and fit perfectly in PAX drawers.

And when it comes to crafting, keeping things organized is really important; otherwise, it’s easy to lose track and motivation. A great idea is also a small fold-out shelf on one of the doors, if you use those with hooks, for brushes or scissors.

Another effective solution is magnetic strips for attaching metal tools or clips. That way, everything stays in place and your PAX truly becomes a crafting paradise!

Hello PRAILSE32,

to set up your IKEA PAX optimally for craft materials, I recommend a structured approach:

1. Planning:
- Measure your available space precisely and plan the size of each module.
- Consider the depth – 35 cm (14 inches) or 58 cm (23 inches), depending on how bulky your materials are.

2. Interior fittings:
- Drawer inserts: Ideal for small items like beads, buttons, and pens.
- Shelves: For larger flat or bulky materials like paper and canvases.
- Storage boxes: Clear or labeled for quicker access.
- Hanging solutions: Magnetic holders or hooks for tools.

3. Organization:
- Use color-coding or labeled boxes.
- Store frequently used materials in lower, easily accessible drawers.
- Place less frequently used items at the top or back.

4. Lighting and comfort:
- Installing LED strips inside the cabinet helps with visibility.
- Possibly door organizers for extra storage space.

Small mistakes happen quickly when trying to cram too much into one area. Better to have a second PAX if you have the space.

Summary: The combination of fixed shelves, well-organized drawers, and individual storage boxes usually does the trick.

I have had good experiences with drawer inserts that can be arranged flexibly. This way, you can organize everything by size and avoid mixing things up. I also use transparent boxes that can be stacked.

dijan schrieb:
A good idea is also a small, fold-out shelf inside one of the doors, if you choose doors with hooks, for brushes or scissors.

That’s a great tip! There are also small accessory holders that can be attached directly to the inside of PAX doors – perfect for tools you use often.

anfeteo schrieb:
Small mistakes happen quickly when you try to cram too much into one area. Better to have a second PAX if there’s space.

Exactly, the temptation to pack everything in is strong. It’s better to plan for what you actually use regularly and store the rest elsewhere. Sometimes less is more, especially with craft materials.