If you've ever found yourself drowning in craft supplies or spending more time searching for materials than actually creating, you're not alone. For years, I struggled with plastic bins, mismatched storage solutions, and the eternal question: "I know I have that somewhere..." That all changed when I finally took the plunge and invested in a Dreambox crafting cabinet - quite possibly the most transformative organization system I've encountered in my 15+ years as a crafter.
The Dreambox isn't just another crafting storage solution; it's a meticulously engineered workspace that unfolds like a crafting command center. While the price point might initially cause sticker shock (they typically range from $2,000-$3,000 depending on configuration), I'm going to break down why so many serious crafters consider this an investment rather than an expense.
What Exactly Is the Dreambox?
For the uninitiated, the Dreambox is a fold-out crafting cabinet that transforms from what looks like an attractive piece of furniture when closed into a comprehensive crafting station when open. Created by The Original ScrapBox company, these cabinets have developed something of a cult following in crafting communities.
When closed, it takes up just about 5 square feet of floor space. When open, it reveals:
- A large central workspace that can accommodate a sewing machine or other equipment
- Multiple shelves and cubbies specifically designed for craft supply organization
- Customizable storage components that can be rearranged as your needs change
- Fold-down tabletops for additional workspace
- Built-in lighting options to illuminate your workspace
The Game-Changing Features That Won Me Over
After living with my Dreambox for over a year now, these are the features that have genuinely transformed my crafting experience:
1. Everything Visible at Once
The most revolutionary aspect of the Dreambox is how it displays virtually all your supplies simultaneously. The psychology behind this is fascinating - when you can see all your materials at once, you're more likely to use them and find unexpected creative combinations. My fabric scraps that once languished in bins are now regularly incorporated into projects because I can actually see them.
2. Customization Options
The interior configuration is highly adaptable with adjustable shelves, specialized storage containers, and optional add-ons. I've reorganized mine three times as my crafting focus has shifted, and that flexibility has been invaluable.
3. Close-and-Conceal Functionality
For those of us who don't have a dedicated craft room, the ability to close everything away is life-changing. My crafting station now sits in our living room, yet guests would never know the creative chaos that lurks behind those elegant cabinet doors.
Real Talk: The Drawbacks
In the interest of complete honesty, there are some considerations before making this investment:
- The price. This is unquestionably a premium product with a premium price tag.
- Assembly required. While the instructions are clear, this is not a quick afternoon project. Expect to spend 6-8 hours on assembly, or budget for professional installation.
- Weight and size. Once assembled, this isn't something you'll move easily. Consider its permanent location carefully.
Is the Dreambox Worth It for You?
After comparing numerous craft storage systems over my career, I've developed this quick assessment to help determine if a Dreambox is worth the investment:
- Do you craft at least weekly and find yourself frustrated by your current organization system?
- Is finding supplies often the most time-consuming part of your crafting process?
- Do you work with multiple types of crafts or materials that need different storage solutions?
- Would having a dedicated, organized crafting space likely increase your creative output?
- Is the ability to hide away your crafting area important in your living situation?
If you answered yes to at least three of these questions, a Dreambox might be worth considering despite the investment.
Organization Tips for Dreambox Owners
For those who already have a Dreambox or are seriously considering one, here are my top organization strategies after a year of trial and error:
- Group supplies by project type rather than material for more intuitive workflow
- Use clear containers for small items to maintain visibility
- Establish a "one in, one out" policy to prevent overcrowding
- Reassess your organization quarterly as your crafting focus evolves
- Keep your most frequently used items at eye level for easy access
Whether you're a quilter drowning in fabric scraps, a paper crafter with washi tape taking over your home, or a mixed media artist with supplies scattered across multiple rooms, the Dreambox offers a compelling solution. While not inexpensive, the combination of space-saving design, comprehensive organization, and the ability to close it all away makes it worth serious consideration for dedicated crafters.
Has anyone else taken the plunge with a Dreambox or similar crafting cabinet? I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments!