On the importance of material supply

The pursuit of our Wargaming or RPG hobby offers a vital and creative escape from everyday life, but relies heavily on a healthy amount of painting and crafting supplies. But, disorganization or missing supplies can disrupt our creative flow. Therefore, I advocate an effective hobby material management. Through thoughtful setup, intelligent organization, and strategic replenishment, you might avoid potential frustration further down the road.

The following is, in my opinion, a perfect example of 1st world problems!

During one of my last projects, I “urgently” needed some spray adhesive and realized my can was empty! Before I started to “panic”, I found a new can in my crafting supply box! Thus, I could continue crafting, without interruption. There was no need to go to the store or online to get fresh glue.

This brings me to the topic of this article:

It’s OK to be a hoarder (of crafting material).

Or, in other words:

How to setup and maintain your hobby supply (box).

Some items to keep an eye on:

• Spray adhesive
• Spray primer (grey)
• Matt varnish
• PVA and super glue
• Paints
• Sand
• …

Get a box. And only one box. It can be a used cardboard box or a nice and sturdy plastic container. Make sure it’s big, or at least large enough to house your main crafting supplies.

Be very mindful about what you put into your treasure chest and where you store it. I usually keep my box somewhere else than next to my hobby desk.

And if (or rather when), one day, you work on a project and run out of supply, have a look at your box.

Once you take out your spare supply, write down the item on your shopping list of choice and buy it at the next opportunity. This way, you’ll always have a proper supply of hobby stuff.

Establish your personal Hobby Area

Establishing a dedicated workspace for your Wargaming and RPG hobby, including a well organized storage for your supplies, fosters focus and efficiency. A well-organized hobby area (even if it’s the size of a toolbox) is critical.

I keep my essential tools well organized. This way, I enhance my enjoyment by reducing frustration when I can’t find a certain tool. My point is, to keep your tools, as well as your painting and crafting material, in a precise area. You’ll need to know at every moment where to find a certain item, that you’ll need for your project.

Organization for an uninterrupted experience

Effective organization directly translates to a more enjoyable and creative experience.

Core Principles: Grouping, Visibility, and Adaptability

The first step is grouping similar items, either by material type, craft or usage. For example I keep a basing material box with small labeled drawers on the left side of my hobby desk. The drawers are transparent, so that I know at every moment when it’s time to refill that static grass for instance. Thus, supplies should be easy to see and access, using clear containers, labeled boxes, and open shelves, if possible. Organizing by color can also be beneficial, if your OCD demands it. The most important thing, is that your system is yours. Meaning it should work for you. Of course, if you pursue your hobby with someone else, organize your material supply together.

Smart Storage Solutions: Innovative Ideas for Every Material

Containers and drawers are key for organization. Clear containers are effective for small parts. Repurposed items like spice racks for paints or jars for beads and basing material offer creative and cheap solutions. Vertical storage, such as hooks and pegboards, frees up work surfaces. Proper storage also extends product lifespan, reducing waste and saving money in the long run. Organization is dynamic and should adapt as hobbies evolve. Plus it can be a fun activity to go though all your horded ,sorry, curated, stuff and organize it according to your personal system.

Strategic Replenishment – Keep working

A thoughtful approach to inventory management prevents mid-project pauses and ensures continuous creative flow.

Keep an inventory

Know when it’s time to restock your material. Don’t wait until that spray primer can is empty. Write the item(s) on a list and at the very next opportunity, get a refill. I tend to keep a list handy when I’m going to our favorite cheapo hobby store.

The Reorder Point Strategy involves defining a “minimum stock” that triggers replenishment. Just-in-Time (JIT) replenishment is ideal for less frequently used or perishable items, purchasing only when needed.

Preserving Precious Materials: Maximizing Lifespan and Preventing Waste

Proper material care reduces waste and ensures optimal usage. Acrylic paints, for instance, should be stored between 10-30°C to prevent spoilage. As a general rule: Always close glue and paint lids tightly and directly after use. Super glue requires a dry environment, with refrigeration in an airtight container recommended. Since, the one I buy is dirt cheap, I tend to always have some in stock, just in case the nozzles clogs up. Plus super glue is an item I frequently use. Thus, I make sure to always have enough in supply. For spray cans, vigorous shaking before use and cleaning the nozzle after each use prevent clogging. Also, items you use less frequently tend to be more prone to drying out or going bad. Therefore it’s important to properly seal and store these items.

Smart Shopping & Inventory Habits: Avoiding Overstocking and Under-stocking

Always “check before you buy” to avoid (too many) duplicates. Strategic bulk buying is advantageous for high-volume items (such as my super glue), but avoid unnecessary impulse buys that lead to more clutter or even worse, expired materials.

Enjoy your Hobby

Well-managed wargaming and RPG hobby supplies promote an uninterrupted creative flow, reduces stress, saves time, and improves cost efficiency by maximizing material longevity. By embracing these core principles, we, as wargamers, can unlock uninterrupted creativity and profound joy in our noble hobby.

Have fun managing your “stuff”!