Pens Markers Crayons – Oh My!

I don’t know of any crafter, or creative, who does not have an extensive collection of pens, markers, crayons, pencils, and many various writing instruments. We collect them like they are going out of style and they fill our drawers, cups, organizers, mason jars and end up getting lost and not used. Or maybe that’s just me? I love to buy them all and I do think they look really pretty displayed, using them is an entire other hobby for another day. Today I want to show you my top methods for organizing all of these writing instruments, as well as some cheap & easy go to’s that cost less, but maybe aren’t totally ideal.

First up is the desktop pen holders I use every single day for my daily pens and pair of scissors. I like lots and lots of options but only keep my favorite pens and colors available here. This organizer is clear and screaming for some decoration (hmm maybe an idea for tomorrow’s craft?). It has held up really well is easy to keep everything I need quick and accessible. Having a sorted cup for items like pens, scissors that is open and easily accessible on your desk is key to an efficient work space. I do a lot of things digitally but I don’t want have to open a drawer and dig out a pen when I want to make a simple note, plus I tried it, it was a PAIN! Although I did love less clutter on my desk. It created an unnecessary step I had to do several times a day. This one spins which is also fun and nice so I am not having to reach very far. Lazy maybe, but I like to call it efficient.

Now for all my decorative, fun pens and markers. I keep each type separated and sorted by a color scheme that works for me. By keeping this standardized I know when I look for dark blue it will be in the back on the blue section, the darkest on the left. Little to no “hunting” for the exact right color, beyond not being able to choose which one. I keep this basic concept, dark to light and colors stay together. For example, all blue pens would stay together and I would start with the darkest blue and move to the lightest then on to the next color. This would happen for all colors. I keep blacks, silvers and golds together as their own section. Here are some examples of my color system and organizers I find very useful.

What I don’t find useful is a lot of little cups, but I do find it cost effective. That is how I had my markers organized for a long time because it was cheap and easy. And if you have a reasonable number of options or are sharing with kids, this is probably still your best bet. It is also the cheapest option. I prefer to have my pens and markers with organized slots, so when I take a few out I know exactly where they go. I am the only one using my system and my husband would not find the repercussions fun if he decided to mess with my organization. Old cups or small bins that hold pens upright so you can see all the type and colors without digging is essential to a good system. Be sure that the pens, markers, crayons are easily accessed and the bin won’t fall over every time you reach for an item. I do like whimsical as well and I have kept one set of special markers in a owl that was given to me.

My system in a nutshell:
Sort by type
By color
By dark to Light
Use sturdy organizers. Put your items away where they belong when done!
Don’t overthink it, keep to the system and add beauty and whimsy when you can!