Creating a "She Shed" or Craft Room: Pros and Cons

The DIY Craft Shed or "She Shed"

The "she shed" is widely popular. From a simple design to a designer's dream, these decked-out craft spaces are the newest craze. They can be a place where you relax to get away from the bustle of your life—a place where you can paint, craft, read or do whatever you like.

Questions to Ask Yourself

The first step in deciding if a she shed or a craft room is right for you is to define the purpose of the space. What will you use it for? Is it a space where you will do crafts or just spend quiet time reading? Think about what the space means to you.

Then the next question is: How much space will you need? Measure the furniture, bookcases, materials, etc. Really give thought to how much space you will need.

If you have a craft space or room, the question you need to ask yourself is simple. What will I gain from moving into a she shed space?

• Will you gain extra space to work with? I know most crafters would say they do not have enough space.
• Will you gain some privacy and time for yourself away from others? Sometimes, we all need that time to be alone to create something special.
• Is there room on your property for the size of the shed you would need?
• Is there a budget or funds to purchase the shed, construct the workspace and storage you would need and add the electricity?
• Finally, what is that space worth to you personally? Are you comfortable where you craft now?

If you are happy with your current craft space, then why change it? You may just need some new color on the walls, some new storage space or a new workstation to make it more comfortable.

On the other hand, if you are in a cramped space or have almost no storage area and need more space to work on your crafts, the she shed concept may be right for you.

Common Features in a She Shed

What are most ladies looking for in a she shed?

• A big-screen TV: 43%
• Mini-fridge: 34%
• Houseplants: 20%
• Sound system: 20%
• Desk: 19%
• Vanity: 18%

While I might agree if the she shed were used as a retreat, the priorities would not be the same if the space were going to be used as a craft area.

Should You Make a Craft Room or a She Shed?

OK, so you know you need space for your craft or hobby. Now the question is should you use an existing space or build an external shed?

Craft Room

So, if you have a space that you can use, like a spare room, a basement or even an enclosed porch, can you convert that to a craft room?

First, assuming that you have a space, how big is the space, and will it accommodate your needs?

If you have a spare bedroom that will work, could you or would you put permanent shelving or closets in that space? The reason that you need to consider it is the fact that someday, if you sell that house, the use of that spare bedroom could affect the sale. Or could you use things like bookcases and storage units that, in effect, would and could revert the room back to a bedroom in the future?

Of course, the ideal situation is that you have a third bedroom, an attic, cellar or home office that could be recast to be your hobby room. In that case, there actually would be an enhancement to your home.

With this idea in mind, you could do a lot with your budget. First, paint the room. A fresh coat of paint works wonders with any space. You could add shelving or cabinets. If your husband is handy with tools, you could get a lot done with a minimal budget.

The best thing about this type of craft space is that there is already air conditioning. heat and running water.

She Shed

The idea of the she shed has been a craze for a while now. There are some beautiful spaces decked out like a designer room for just about any hobby.

Scroll to Continue

Confessions of a Former Love Addict: Gaga For Guys; Sorry, Not Sorry

100 Best Songs About Starting

Four Stages of Suffering

But constructing such a space has its pros and cons. On the pro side, you are going to get the space that you want as big as your budget will allow. You can design it or get one already made. You will also enhance your property with a shed that can be used later on for just about anything. You will also create a very special private space where you can enjoy your time and hobbies.

The flip side of that is that by the time you are completed, your budget will take a hit of about $2,000 or more. Unless you place it in, you will not have heat, air conditioning or electric. And of course, no bathroom or sink.

Use an Old Shed or Replace With a New One?

You may be considering remaking a current shed into your dream she shed. There are a lot of different factors to consider before making this decision:

1. The age of the shed: If your shed has seen better days, it may be time to remove it and build a new one.
2. The shed's quality: How is it standing up, and is it still feasible to repair?
3. Does it meet your current space needs? Do you need more space to do your things?
4. What are the current problems or things that need to be repaired, replaced or upgraded? How long is your list, and what would be the cost? Is it worth the time and money to go that route, or would replacing the shed be a better option?

Here are a few problems to consider if you're thinking of reusing an old shed:

• Rotten roof timbers
• Insect infestation
• Loose panels
• Extensive rot that compromises the stability of the shed
• Warped doors

These are all indications that it is time to replace.

What Is Your Style?

Your she shed should reflect your taste and style both inside and out. Do your tastes lean towards clean and modern or vintage and cozy? Do you prefer a rustic look? This is a space that is meant for you. You want it both outside and in to be comfortable for you.

Color is an important consideration too. You want the space you will be using to look actually larger than it is.

Craft Rooms: Creating Your Space

• How to Design the Ultimate Craft Room | Martha Stewart
  Every avid crafter needs a space that allows their creativity to flow free. From organization tips to must-have furniture pieces, here is everything you need to build your very own craft room.
• 12 Tips for Setting up a Hobby and Craft Room | HGTV
  HGTV shares 12 tips for setting up and stocking a hobby and craft room.
• DIY Craft Room Ideas & Projects | The Budget Decorator
  Whether you want to carve out an entire craft room, or just need some craft room organization ideas, here are some of the best DIY craft room ideas & projects we found, and tons of inspiration!
• Crafts Rooms -- A Place to Create | Better Homes & Gardens
  Ideas and projects to create your craft space

Before You Get Started

Like any other project, before you get started, you need to do some planning. It all starts with looking at your current crafting space. Think about what is working for you, what is not and what you will need.

Remember one thing about craft sheds—the things that you store in them, like scrapbooks, paper pens, inks, etc., have temperatures throughout the year that have to be maintained. So, depending on where you live, you may have to consider heating or cooling.

1. Measure the current amount of craft space that you have. Draw it out on paper. If you are working on a dining room table or out of a closet, then anything will be an improvement. Figure out how much space you will need.
2. Make a list of all the things that you would ideally like to have in your craft shed. Go crazy! Windows, air conditioner/heater, special lighting-make your wish list. Make a list of what you have that could be used in your new space.
3. Look at your options. Start on the internet. Look at pre-made sheds at places like Lowes and Home Depot. Advance to any places in your area that might make custom sheds. Shed kits are another option if you have someone who can help you build it. Keep photos and ideas in a folder.
4. Check with the local zoning board to find out what permits and zoning laws you will need to consider. For example, when we put a utility shed on our property, the shed had to be 10 feet from the edge on all sides.
5. Decide on your budget for the project. There are a few essentials like electric outlets and workspace that are needed, but some of the extras can always be budgeted for later.
6. Know how much land you have available for your shed. Measure out the property so you know how it will fit into the space.
7. Visit the sites where the sheds are to get a feel for the space and the quality for the price. This is a fun part of the project. Visit the locations. Find out what options are available. Get information about the models you are interested in/
8. Make your decision and get started!

Start With Your Budget

As with any project, your decision on which way to go has to start with your budget. How much are you willing to spend, and how much bang will you get for your buck?

If you decide to go the she shed route, your cost will depend on the size of the shed and the materials that you want to use.

Metal Sheds

There are, of course, the prefab metal sheds. Some companies will put these together for you, but most of them are a kit that you put together. If you are not handy, then you would have to consider the cost of installing it. Depending on the size of the shed, they could run between $300–2,000 as the kit.

Wood Sheds

Wood sheds are the most popular option. That is because they enhance the beauty of your property. But the more practical reason for wood is because you can add creative options like skylights, shelves, windows, and features.

Wooden she sheds are more expensive. You can figure anything from $600–3,000 just for the base unit.

Vinyl Sheds

What sells the vinyl shed is its durability. They do not become worn by rot, insects, or decay. The other pro on this shed is that they stand up to extreme weather elements. They are considered the most maintenance-free options.

The average price on one of these averages from $500–5,000.

Redoing a Craft Room

Depending on the room or space that you have, the actual redo budget will depend on the size of the space and how handy you or your family may be.

Possible costs could include paint, flooring, cabinets, desk or workspace, lighting, etc.

Pros and Cons of She Sheds vs. Craft Rooms

She Sheds to Inspire You

• 100+ She shed ideas in 2020
  She shed ideas and tips. Outdoor living space ideas. "She Shed" decor ideas, "She Shed" building ideas, how to decorate a "She Shed," and outdoor living ideas.
• Inspiring Ideas for Shed Makeovers | Room Makeovers to Suit Your Life | HGTV
  Find inspiring ideas for transforming a shed into a home office, craft room or yoga studio at HGTV.com.
• 17 Charming She Shed Ideas and Inspiration—Cute She Shed Photos
  Forget man caves—these "She Sheds" complete with chandeliers, glass ceilings, and gorgeous furnishings are the ultimate home space.

Tips for Renovating an Unused Shed

You may have a start to your she shed if you have a shed on your property that has very little use. Consider where you may be able to put materials that are in a partially used shed. You may have a resource right in your view.

• Purge the materials—throw any unused or broken items. Donate what you can. Discard what you can. Remember to follow community guidelines for disposing of things like paint or solvents.
• Add a coat of paint—painting an area always makes it look fresh! Keep your colors light to make the area look larger than it is
• Add a skylight or windows—bring in the light
• Add insulation to the walls
• Add more lighting to the room—I would suggest getting an electrician.
• Add an air conditioner/heating unit to your shed. They have nice dual units in your local home/garden stores. Make sure that the electrical line in your shed is right for it.

Once you clean out the shed, start planning the renovations that might be possible.

Is Your She Shed Covered by Insurance?

Do you remember the commercial where Sheryl is asking her insurance agent about the she shed being covered by insurance while it was burning? Well, the point is you need to understand if your she shed is covered by insurance. You also need to know how much it is covered for, if the contents are covered, and the circumstances that it would be covered.

If it is not covered under your homeowner's insurance, find out how much it would cost to add it on.

Then make sure to take pictures of your she shed inside and out so that if something happens, you will have an easy path to get recovery.

You have put time, effort and money into your special place. Make sure to protect your investment.

Your Workspace

Ni matter where you decide to create your crafts, you need a workstation or work area. The type of crafting you do will largely decide how much space you need.

• For example, if you crochet or knit, you will want to have a comfortable chair, some good lighting and a place to lay your current projects.
• If you paint pictures, you need an easel, a stool and a small table to accommodate your brushes and palette.
• If you make cards, do papercrafts or scrapbooking, you are going to want to have a larger work area with lots of storage.

Think about the crafts you are going to do and the amount of space you will need to create and make the crafts you are planning to work on.

Adding Electricity

Every crafter knows you need a good light source to be able to see fine details to create the best projects. So, planning for the electricity is an important step for your She Shed.

Once you have figured out your workspace, you need to think about where you need electrical outlets. Start with your workspace and determine where and how many outlets you are going to need. Think about overhead lighting, air conditioning needs. Think about any refrigeration you may want to add. Draw a plan for where your electrical need will be.

You will want to consider outdoor lighting for safety in the evenings.

Electrical work is best left to professional electricians. They will be able to run a safe line to your shed, figure out the wattage you will need and install the outlets safely.

Storage Ideas for Your She Shed/Craft Space

No matter which way you decide to go, you are going to need storage space for your supplies and craft tools. Remember, before you decide what kind of storage to use, measure your space and decide the features that you need and how they will fit in your space.

• Think up! Think about your space and where you can use shelves or bookcases for storage. If you are like most of us, you have lots of things that you need to store. Shelving on the wall above your workspace uses the space that you may have overlooked.
• Work surface ideas can include two storage pieces with a desktop. That adds additional storage space.
• Rolling carts can add really handy storage. Most have shelves or drawers, depending on the type you choose. There are so many choices when it comes to carts these days.
• Use floor space with buckets and baskets. Baskets are a wonderful solution, and they add a decorative touch.
• Consider a multi drawers' unit. You can store and organize almost anything in them. The more drawers and storage units, the better.
• Use seating with built-in storage. A bench with pull-out drawers or a couch with storage space below the cushions keeps your area tidy.
• Add shelves wherever you can. Shelves can store materials or show your artwork,
• Build a murphy table. This wall-mounted unit opens out into a table, and when you’re not using it, you can neatly fold it back up into the wall. Murphy table designs often include shelves too, which is an added bonus.

Free She Shed Plans

• 50 Free Shed Plans for Yard or Storage: Shedplans.org
  Whether you need something small for a bicycle or big enough for storing garden tools, you can download free plans to build your own shed.

How to Make Your She Shed Extra Special

There Are A few things that can take your she shed to the next level. These are “extras” that you can consider for your project.

Let In Some Natural Light

When you are planning your project, you may want to consider adding some extra light in your shed. This should be a consideration if you are planning to read, sew or do crafts. It will be easier on your eyes to have some extra light in your space.

Adding a door with glass, extra windows and a skylight will all help add some light to your space. Speak to your contractor or where you purchase your shed to see what custom options might be available.

It is always nice ro have larger or more windows, especially when the weather is nice. Letting your space is great if you are using products that have a bit of an odor to them.

Window Boxes or Hanging Plants

Add some window boxes or some hanging plants to add extra interest to your she shed. You can play with different colors and plants to compliment the colors of your shed. They add a warm and personal touch, You can find some nice things to use in your local garden shops,

Landscape Your She Shed

You will want your space to be part of your landscape rather than sticking out as something that is odd or does not belong there. Include some plants and a walkway to create a symmetry within your property.

Include a Trellis to Grow Vines

Adding a trellis along one side, both sides or along the front entrance is a lovely addition to your design. You can use things like, jasmine, climbing roses and even ivy to create a warm inviting look. Make your trellis white so that the plants that you choose stand out. Choose a vine that will grow in your enviornment. Your local garden center should be able to provide you wil something that will work in your zone.

Add a Front Porch or Patio

Get extra enjoyment from your space by adding a front porch or patio. You can create them easily. A front porch will keep the heat off the front of your shed. Addink these touches gives your project a more personal and custom look.

Add Some Vinyl Tile

Vinyl tile inside of your she shed makes perfect sense. It will make it more appealing and help prevent water damage.

Consider Adding a Sink

If you are doing anything in your she shed where you may need to wash paint brushes, clean after a craft project, or anything where you may need water, adding a sink makes sense. Power the sink with an outdoor water supply to make your space more efficient.

Preventing Moisture in Your She Shed

Sheds of all kinds are prone to moisture. How much depends on where you live and the environment in your area.

Keeping mold and mildred away is important to both the materials and whatever elose that you may have in your space, but also to your personal health.

It starts with a foundation that will keep your shed off the damp ground, You can either pour a foundation or consider making one with stone.

Adding insulation will also help keep your she shed dry and comfortable. It helps keep the moisture out. But more than that it will help keep you warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer if you are using an air conditioner.

Make sure that all of your doors nd windows fit correctly and are caulked

Heat vents in the roof will pull some of the hot air from your shed.

Consider a dehumidifier for your area. It will pull moisture. This is good for any craft materials, books, electric tools like sewing machines and most other things you may store there.

Having an electric fan will not only keep you cool, but will also remove some of the moisture from the air.

Always Craft With Your Heart

I have seen some beautiful craft spaces, both indoors and as a craft she shed. No matter where you craft, you can always make something special from your heart. If you are blessed to have a special space to craft, then enjoy your space. Create an atmosphere that is filled with your love. If your space is limited, then enjoy the process and dream about your future space. Dreams do come true. Happy crafting!

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

© 2018 Linda F Correa