7 Creative Workspace Upgrades That Will Make You Actually Want to Sit Down and Paint

You sit down to paint a miniature. The idea is clear, your paints are ready… but something’s off. Maybe your back aches, maybe the lighting makes your colors look wrong, or maybe you’re just not feeling it.

Your creative space is a mood-space; a place where you alone can do whatever the heck you want. A workspace should keep you coming back. It even smells good! A bad one? It’s where projects go to die.

Here are seven simple upgrades that can turn your workspace into a place you actually want to spend time in—whether you paint minis, build terrain, or just need your own creative corner.

1. Task Lighting That Shows True Color

Poor lighting kills motivation—and color accuracy.

• Use adjustable LED task lamps with high CRI (Color Rendering Index).
• Daylight-balanced bulbs (5000–6500K) are best for miniature painting.
• Clamp-on or articulating arms give you flexibility to avoid glare and shadows.

Tip: Position your light at a 45-degree angle to avoid casting your own shadow over your work.

3. A Hobby Mat or Modular Cutting Surface

Your workspace should fit your project—not the other way around. It should also be durable over a long period of time. Protect your furniture.

• Use a self-sealing cutting mat or modular cutting surface to bring your minis off your hard desktop and even bring working surfaces closer to eye level.
• Bonus: Many mats come with built-in measurements for terrain or conversions.

Tip: For taller people, raising your work surface can reduce neck strain and help with brush control. Some cutting boards made for the kitchen may help, especially if you can’t raise your desk.

RELATED: Explore options in 13 Best Portable Hobby Workstations for Miniature Painting.

4. A Real Monitor or Reference Screen Arm

Digital references are part of the modern hobby workflow. I love having my iPhone setup on a kickstand to stream YouTube or simply glance at reference images.

• A side-mounted screen arm lets you display reference art, paint schemes, or tutorials.
• It also keeps your main workspace clear of phone stands or clutter.

Tip: An old iPad or budget monitor (attached to your smartphone) can be a dedicated “inspiration screen” that you can display images or video. Just make sure it’s easy to glance at.

REVIEW: Expand your lighting options over your computer with a Quntis Monitor Light Bar.

5. Creative Storage That Keeps Tools Visible

You shouldn’t have to dig for your favorite brush.

• Use magnetic strips for metal tools or tiered organizers for paints.
• Open bins, clear drawers, or even a pegboard make essentials easy to grab.

Tip: If you can’t see it, you won’t use it. Keep your best tools out in the open.

Check out the Review of Bucasso Hobby Tool Storage Rack for a compact and customizable solution.

6. Personal Touches That Spark Joy

You’re not in an office cubicle. This is your creative zone.

• Add a plant, a framed piece of your favorite art, or even a display case of your finished minis.
• Decor matters more than you think—it reminds you why you create.

Tip: Every time you look up, something should remind you why this hobby makes you happy.

RELATED: For inspiration on creating an ideal painting environment, read The Ideal Miniature Painting Room (Philosophy and Designer Tips).

7. Cable Management You’ll Thank Yourself For Later

Yes, this one’s boring—but trust me, it matters.

• Use adhesive clips, velcro ties, or under-desk trays to tame your cables.
• Fewer cords in the way = less frustration, especially if you’re also filming or photographing your work.

Tip: Route your cords once, label them, and forget the mess ever existed.

Learn about efficient lighting setups that can reduce cable clutter in Lume Cube Flex Light Pro: A Review for Hobbyists and Creatives.