Best 5 Simple Workspace Setups for Painting in Small or Shared Spaces

If you paint miniatures long enough, you start to notice how much your environment shapes your hobby. Where you paint, how quickly you can set up, and how easily you can clean up all influence how often you actually sit down with a brush. Over time, I have settled into a minimalist way of working that keeps painting approachable and even allows me to work in places where space is limited.

If you paint miniatures in a small or shared space, your workspace setup often determines how often you actually sit down and paint.

In this article, I share five things that help me work effectively in smaller spaces when time is limited and I want to focus on painting rather than setup.

What I look for in a small painting setup

Most of us paint in spaces that serve multiple purposes. You may work at desks, dining tables, and whatever surface is available at the time. In those situations, the biggest obstacle is usually the setup time. Extra steps before you can start, clutter that distracts, and the hassle of cleanup.

There are a few unwritten questions you may be asking when you’re find a possible spot to paint:

• Can I start painting right away?
• Am I comfortable? Is there enough light?
• Is the mess going to disrupt what already happens in this space, e.g., kitchen table?
• How fast can I clean-up this space?
• How much stuff can I bring with me and can I spread out?

If a product help you with the above, then keep it. If it adds complexity, walk away.

A practical comparison of small-space painting tools

2. Lighting that makes painting easier

Neatfi XL 2,200 Lumens LED Desk Lamp (Clamp)

Lighting shapes how long you can paint comfortably and how accurately you see color and detail. Poor lighting leads to eye strain, rushed decisions, and shorter sessions.

The Neatfi XL lamp avoids a common small-space problem by skipping the tabletop entirely. It clamps to the edge of a desk or table and extends over the workspace. You attach it, adjust it, and start painting.

I find this especially useful when moving between rooms or working at shared tables where surface space is limited.

If you want a more premium option that doesn’t take up much space, take a closer look at the highly-recommended RedGrass Creative Solo Task lamp (see the Full Solo Task Lamp Review).

Why it works well in small spaces

• Clamp mount eliminates the need for desk space
• Adjustable arm positions light exactly where needed
• Bright, even illumination supports longer sessions without fatigue

3. Defining your workspace

Fiskars Folding Self-Healing Cutting Mat (18×24″)

A cutting mat protects your table space and defines the boundaries of your work area. You can keep things clean and contained.

The Fiskars folding self-healing mat provides a generous surface when open and folds down for storage when the session ends. That balance matters in shared spaces where the table needs to return to normal use.

I like how the mat creates a clear visual signal that the workspace is active, then disappears when it is time to clean up. If you are working on something, and someone walks by, they will know to leave whatever is there alone.

Why it works well in small spaces

• Large enough to organize tools without overcrowding
• Folds for easy storage in drawers or shelves
• Protects shared surfaces while clearly defining a work zone

4. Better control while you paint

Citadel Colour Painting Handle (Mk2)

I rarely paint without a handle. Holding a miniature directly introduces unnecessary tension and reduces control. I have other recommended painting handles and holders that I’ve reviewed. But, the Citadel handle is one of the most useful because of its simplicity.

The Citadel Colour Painting Handle Mk2 stays compact and unobtrusive. When set down, it occupies very little space. Most of the time, it stays in your hand, keeping the table clear.

This kind of tool supports steadier brush control and more comfortable sessions, especially when working in tight areas.

Why it works well in small spaces

• Minimal footprint when set down
• Hand-held design keeps the table uncluttered
• Improves control without adding setup complexity

5. When everything needs to pack away

Frontier Wargaming Paint Case 2.0

Some situations require a fully contained solution. Travel, limited storage, or the need to clear a space completely between sessions all point in this direction.

The Frontier Wargaming Paint Case 2.0 stores paints, tools, and models inside a single enclosed case. When closed, it occupies the footprint of a small briefcase.

When opened, it becomes a functional workstation with vertical storage. By the way, Frontier Wargaming also makes a portable lap desk, i.e., The Hobby Deck, for painting at your sofa or anywhere else away from a desk or table.

Why it works well in small spaces

• Enclosed design keeps all supplies in one place
• Briefcase-sized footprint when stored
• Fast setup and teardown for shared or temporary spaces

How I recommend choosing your setup

Most small-space painters fall into one of three patterns:

• You want a minimal setup that comes out quickly
• You want a modular setup that adapts to your space
• You want an all-in-one system that stores everything

There is no answer that is best for everyone. The best setup is the one you will actually use when time and space is limited. I hope you find this info especially useful if you paint at a dining table, desk, or any space that needs to be cleared quickly.