Every writer needs a quiet place to let their creative juices flow and create excellent content. It’s not always easy to pick out the right location, and when you do, setting it up might take a while. This article gives you the basics of setting up a functional writing workspace.
1. Pick Location.
The location is an essential factor in setting up your workspace. It is best for it to be a place that allows you to think and brings out the artist in you. If you have a spare room in your apartment, you might choose that, but if you don’t, a discrete corner of your room might suffice.
A closet that you don’t have much use for is another great option.
2. Map Out Your location.
Mapping out your location is an often overlooked step. You do not want to start piling in lots of materials without considering if the available space can accommodate them. You need to get a tape and take note of the dimensions of the workspace. If you can, draw it out or print it to scale. Mark out possible positions of your desk, seat bookshelves, and other essentials. Planning gives you a very organized workspace.
3. Procure Basic Equipment.
You can use available materials, but it’s best to choose equipment that you can use with ease. There are some tools that every workspace should have, and you should ensure to procure those first. Here are some you might want to look into:
● Desk
A desk is the first thing you would want to have in your workshop. Ensure that it’s at a comfortable height for you. You don’t want to strain your arms from typing for too long.
● Laptop
You would need a working laptop in your space. It doubles as both a research and writing tool.
● Book Shelves
What is a writer without her books? It would be best to include your bookshelves in your workspace, so you don’t have to run out whenever you need to refer to something. You can build your own bookshelves if you like but the tools you’ll need require instant power.
● Notebook
Having a laptop is great, but you might benefit from having a notebook to take notes and scribble thoughts before writing.
● Chair
A writer spends most of her time seated, so ensure you choose comfortable seats. You cannot reach your potential when you’re distracted by back pains.
● Curtains
If your workspace is in your room, you might want to use curtains to separate your workspace. Now you can focus more on your writing.
4. Arrange Your Tools
When your tools are organized systematically, then you can maximize your space. Invest in things like pencil racks to keep your pencils organized. Store away books and materials that are not used frequently. Clean up the clutter.
5. Portable Tools
Try to buy desks and chairs that have wheels for motion. This way, you can easily rearrange your workspace whenever you need to. You need only to choose wheels that can be locked. You wouldn’t want your desk moving in the middle of typing.
6. Electricity
Your workspace needs to be correctly electrified. You might need a qualified electrician’s services to provide you with electric outlets for your laptop. You don’t want your computer dying in the middle of your creative process, so you may want to charge it while in use. If your workspace is located at a place where power outages are common, you might need to invest in a generator when you need instant power.
7. Lighting
It would be best if you had good lighting to work efficiently. If you can’t see it clearly, then you might not function efficiently. You also put your eyes under unnecessary strain. Imagine being unable to make out your scribbles in the dark. Let in natural light by opening up the doors and windows. Also, invest in some brilliant LED lights. A white paint coat will also reflect the light and add a bit to keeping your workspace lit.
8. Temperature Control
If you’re located at a place with extreme weather, you might want to look into temperature control equipment. Portable heaters in winter and fans for summer. Installing these will make your working conditions more conducive. You might also need to dress to suit the temperature, light clothing in summer, and multiple winter layers.
9. Ventilation
Larger windows and open doors will help bring the fresh air in. The air might improve your overall mood and productivity.
10. Bulletin Board
A bulletin board will help you create a visual display of your goals. You can use it to note your resources and inspiration. You can get cheap bulletin boards or make your own. But when making your own bulletin board, make sure that you have the right woodworking tools so you can easily make one and with great quality. Some tools you might want to consider are a table saw (bestcabinettablesaw.com/contractor-reviews/), nails, hammer, plywood, wood for the borders, and corkboard.
11. Mood Setter
Every writer has that one thing that gets them in the mood to write. It could be a small candle, your favorite plant, or calm music. Set these up in your workspace and start writing.