The Importance and Art of Labels
The easiest way to stay organized is to use labels. Yes, labeling is one of our “Universal” organizing tips that benefits all personality types. Frankly if more than one person is doing the tidying then unless you have labels, or are micromanaging everyone else’s clean-up routines, there’s no way things will stay organized. The problem is that while Classics (SJ) say, “You had me at label”, the more big picture types often revolt against such a detailed and utilitarian tool. The white tape and plain fonts of a Dymo or Brother machine send shivers up many an Organic’s (NFs) spine. The good news is that newer label machines have nicer fonts these days and if you really can’t stand them, or are a Fun (SP) who balks at the expense of the refill tapes, then there’s always the good old fashion handwritten method.
At PixiesDidIt! we favor handwritten labels because frankly they’re more our style, and we think they look pretty neat. As an Organic Freedom (NFP), I stayed away from these machines until they started offering a few more of what I deem “artistic” fonts. I’m a big fan now, especially if we’re on a job and have run out of that very expensive tape that runs out way too quickly. And if we need to label a basket, we end up using gift tags Kelly bought in bulk from an artisan on Etsy. The Brother and Dymo labelers are great, but these days, handwritten anything is almost vintage and tends not to offend those with unique aesthetic sensibilities.
The other option is to go crazy at Michaels and use their scrapbooking stickers to double as labels. Just make sure to use some clear packing tape to protect them and make sure they stay stuck. Also, these days it’s very easy to find free printables on line or pay for a designer’s label that allows you to input your text with a funky font for a professional look. I’ve picked some great examples of creative fun things you can do with labels and pinned them on our “Universal” board on our Pinterest page. Most of my favorites, I found on the blog “From Overwhelmed to Organized”. Start labeling things today and automatically things will tend to go back to their proper homes!