My Stationery Life

If you’re like me, your pens and paper deserve a home as charming as they are.

My office is my little sanctuary. It’s cozy but mighty: two desks (one for the $DayJob, one for writing), a pull-out couch (for resting between tasks), a mini-fridge and a “pantry” for drinks and snacks, and a bookshelf for the usual suspects.

But the crown jewel is my stationery cart. This cart is three-tiered and literally packed with all my favorites: pens, pencils, sticky notes, art supplies, and everything in between. I even keep a few current-use notebooks tucked in there. It’s organized with one purpose—my workflow—and everything has a place based on how often I use it. I'm not kidding when I say it's full -- I don't think I can fit anything else on this poor cart.

Of course, stationery storage is deeply personal. What works for me might not be your thing, and that’s totally okay. There’s no “right” way to store your stuff. But if you’re looking for ideas, I’ve curated a few suggestions that might inspire you to create (or upgrade!) your system.

Dorm Room-Style Organization

If your space is small or your budget is tight (like mine), I can’t recommend dorm room organization enough. Dorm-friendly storage is usually compact, affordable, and surprisingly cute. Plus, it’s made for maximizing space, which makes it perfect for tiny home offices or apartments.

One useful site to browse is DormCo. Their selection is practical, affordable, and easy on the eyes. For example, a mini desk hutch can give you vertical storage without sacrificing your writing space. If you’re ready to splurge just a little, a storage trunk can both organize and protect your most beloved supplies.

And don't forget about everyone's favorite Swedish furniture store: Ikea. Their pegboards are on my wish list. I could really use the extra vertical space for odds and ends. You probably could too.

Desk Organization

I have a love/hate relationship with desk storage. I want things neat, but I also need space to actually write. If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you feel the same.

For on-desk storage, less is more. I keep only my go-to essentials visible. A magazine holder from The Container Store helps me organize notebooks and books I use daily. A monitor stand with a drawer holds cables and tech odds-and-ends. And my iPad/book stand is in constant use.

Everything else? It lives in my desk. I use a simple drawer organizer to keep semi-regular items tidy and accessible. As for the stackable drawers, I keep them tucked away on the bottom shelf of my cart for rarely-used bits like binder clips, staples, and backup supplies. They may be useful to some, but for me they're just archival. 

Niche Organization

Now here’s where it gets fun.

I’m always tempted by this Mildliner organizer, even though I don’t own enough Mildliners to justify it (yet...). If you’re an artist or color-coding enthusiast, this marker stand is dreamy.

If you're looking for something small and cute, check out these clip holders. They're both functional and adorable, and might be just the push you need to corral your paperclips.

Final Thoughts

The truth is: the best way to store your stationery is the way that works best for you. Whether your style is ultra-minimalist or maximal chaos, there’s no wrong answer. Just don’t be afraid to personalize. Your pens deserve it.