The Creative Toolbox

Every creative has a toolbox whether digital or physical, where they keep all the things they need most often. What they put in it depends on what they do, their hobbies or careers. Those that write will have different things than an artist or designer.

So, What Exactly is a Creative Toolbox?

A creative toolbox is an organized place, either digitally in files, physically in a container of some sort. or both that contains all the items one needs to complete their reoccurring projects, goals, and stay productive. This “toolbox” could be a list of tips, documents, or ideas. It could be a box of supplies you use daily or it could be a system of apps you use to plan, keep track, communicate and more.

What Goes in a Creative Toolbox

What you put in your toolbox is really up to you and what you are trying to accomplish. As mentioned above, one persons toolbox will have something completely different than the next. That also goes for those within the same field. Two artists could have two totally different toolboxes, depending on what medium they use and what they find most important to keep in it.

Online

Your toolbox could include items that are done on your computer: sites or apps you use regularly during your projects.

These could include email provider for written communication, video messaging site like Skype or FaceTime for face to face messaging, word processor for written documents, notes app for quick jots, and an online calendar to keep track of important dates.

You could also keep track of any design apps you use if that’s part of your toolbox like Photoshop or Gimp (Free).

Physical

This would be everything you can touch, pick up, and use. When gathering all your tools and materials to your toolbox, remember that it may take you time to gather everything you want. You may use one item one day and remember another item the next. It’s perfectly fine to continue adding to your toolbox as you grow and progress in your field.

Your toolbox doesn’t have to be an actual toolbox either, we say toolbox as a way to categorize your items into one space. This could be any setup that fits you and your personality. You could use a bookshelf with bins or baskets, your desk if there is enough room, a peg board with small buckets, etc. As long as your tools and materials are in one general area for easy access, it is your toolbox!

Toolbox Examples:

Extra Items To Think About

There are some other items to think about when gathering your toolbox that you may not have thought about or think should be included, but with all other things you work on, they should be.

• Planner (online or off)
• Vision Board/Mind maps (Inspiration, Brainstorming, Brain dump)
• Self-Care
• Inspiring Locations (Places to go that inspire you)
• Inspiring Images/Quotes

So, when you are thinking of what you want to add to your creative toolbox, think of all the things you use regularly: Items, resources, tools, supplies, apps, programs, and more. Organize them in a way that serves what you want to do and you’ll be set whenever you get to work and that is a great feeling!

Click below for your Creative Toolbox Planner!