10 Budget-Friendly Hacks to Create a Cozy, Creative Writing Space on a Budget

As a writer, you’re probably on a tight budget. I understand!

But just because money is tight doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a nice space to call your own.

And guess what? Creating an inspiring and comfortable writing space doesn’t have to be expensive!

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or a beginner, having a dedicated creative writing space can significantly boost your productivity.

In this blog post, I’ll share 10 unique and budget-friendly hacks to transform any space into a cozy, creative writing sanctuary.

But first, let’s talk about why you need your own space as a writer and how to set up a quiet space that will keep you motivated and inspired to write your book.

*As an Amazon affiliate I earn a teeny tiny commission if you make a purchase. (And I mean tiny!)

Do writers need a space to write?

Yes. Remember this: where you write has a major effect on how you write.

Setting up a dedicated creative writing space has a ton of benefits. Having a quiet place to write will:

• Keep you organized. All your writing tools will be in one place so you can easily find something as soon as you need it, saving you time.
• Encourage discipline. A dedicated space for writing can boost your discipline because it is a physical reminder that signals a clear intention to write whenever you’re in that space.
• Help you set a routine. When you sit down to write in the same place consistently, your brain starts to connect that place with writing, and it switches into writing mode whenever you’re in that space.
• Improve concentration. A distraction-free writing space can make it easier for you to write freely and significantly boost your concentration.
• Encourage creativity. Surrounding yourself with things that inspire you, such as your favorite quotes, images, or books will allow you to let your creativity flow.
• Cultivate mindfulness. Your writing space should be your sanctuary – a place where you can block out the outside world and focus only on your writing.
• Boost productivity. Creating a comfortable space free of distractions allows you to write more effectively and efficiently.

How do you set up a creative writing space?

Now that you know the benefits of a dedicated creative writing space, it’s time to learn how to set up a space that meets your needs. Remember: your writing space should be personal, unique, and comfortable. It should fit your needs. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Choose the right spot.
This may be difficult depending on how much space you have in your home. However, it’s important to choose an area where you are only engaged in writing and nothing else.

The size of your space isn’t as important as the location. The goal is to find a distraction-free zone that is fairly quiet. If you don’t have an extra bedroom to turn into a creative writing space, consider these options instead:

• A corner of your basement
• An empty closet (but not too small so you don’t feel cramped)
• A corner in your bedroom

Virginia Woolf chose to write inside a converted toolshed in her garden!

2. Use comfortable furnishings.
More than likely you’ll be spending a lot of time in your writing space, so you need to think comfort.

• To keep from sitting for hours, consider investing in an adjustable desk or a counter-height table.
• Choose a chair that provides back support. It should be comfortable even after sitting for long periods.

3. Tackle the clutter.
Clutter causes stress and overwhelm and can make it difficult to concentrate on your writing. Think of ways to keep your space tidy and keep the clutter out, such as:

• Remove anything from your desk that doesn’t need to be there. The only items you need on your desk should encourage creativity and productivity.
• Use storage containers to organize your pens and pencils and any documents.
• Keep notes on your computer or laptop, in a notebook, or stuck to a bulletin board so there are no loose papers cluttering your desk.
• Clean your space often and get rid of trash immediately.

4. Choose the right lighting.
According to numerous studies, light has a tremendous effect on both mental and physical well-being, as well as productivity. It’s important to have the right lighting in your writing space.

Since natural light is best, consider placing your desk near a window. Just make sure there is no glare on your computer screen. If you don’t have a window in your space, LED lights work as well.

Also, think about adjusting the lighting according to whether you work during the day or at nighttime. Research has found that blue light increases alertness and focus, but it also causes eyestrain. Consider purchasing blue light blocker glasses or putting a filter on your computer screen that blocks out blue light.

5. Decorate minimally.
Give your creative writing space some personality by decorating it in a way that makes you happy and inspires you. It should be a place you love going to every day. Here are some decorating tips:

• Paint the walls in motivating colors (reds, oranges, and yellows have been shown to inspire creativity)
• Add splashes of color that promote creativity, such as green
• Bring in some plants
• Put up inspirational and motivational quotes
• Hang pictures
• Don’t forget to display your reason for writing! (Your why)

6. Label it a work-only space.
Your creative writing space should be used for focusing only on writing your book – nothing else. When you need a break, leave the space. Check your phone notifications, watch TV, and do chores in a different spot. This ensures that your writing space remains a work-only space.

Also, make sure family and friends respect your writing space and understand that when you are in your space you are working.  

7. Redecorate as needed.
After a while, your creative writing space may be a place you dread to go. If you start to feel unmotivated, unproductive, and no longer inspired, redecorate!

What should be on a writer’s desk?

Your desk should not be cluttered and messy. Keeping an organized desk will help you find things quickly and easily when needed so you have more time to focus on your writing. Here are the most important items you should have on your writing desk:

• An English Dictionary: A good dictionary, such as Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, covers information on the meaning, pronunciation, etymology, word classes, and word usage.
• A Thesaurus: A thesaurus provides a range of synonyms for words, which will give your writing uniqueness and variety.
• Chicago Manual of Style: This book is considered the industry standard in the book world and is one of the best resources for writers. It includes everything you need to know from writing rules to the book publication process.
• Planner: A planner is excellent for measuring your daily word count, keeping track of your writing progress, as well as keeping notes of your writing goals. (I love this one!)
• Desk Lamp: Good lighting is important!
• Pens/Pencils/Notebook: Even if you are doing all of your work on your computer, sometimes you just need to jot down an idea in a hurry. Physically writing something down on paper also helps you remember it better.
• Water Bottle: Writing can be exhausting, so you need to stay hydrated to stay energized. (This one is so cute!)

10 Budget-Friendly Hacks to Create a Cozy, Creative Writing Space on a Budget

Creating a creative writing space is possible even if you’re on a tight budget. Here are some budget-friendly hacks to help you set up a space that makes you happy and keeps you inspired:

1. Shop thrift stores for furniture.
Thrift stores are excellent places to find gently used furniture for cheap. Keep an eye out for vintage desks or quirky chairs that add character to your writing space. Also, look for furniture that can be repurposed with a fresh coat of paint so you can personalize it to fit your space. Or look for free furniture around your neighborhood on trash day.

2. Make your own wall art from scraps.
Use old maps, magazine pages, book pages, or fabric to create your own inspiring wall art. Or print out your favorite motivational quotes, put them in dollar store or thrift store picture frames, and hang them up near your desk.

3. Upcycle items for storage.
Turn old crates or wooden boxes into stylish storage solutions for books, notebooks, and writing essentials. These can also be painted with whatever colors you wish to use to match your space.

4. Use aromatherapy for creative vibes.
Essential oil diffusers are a great way to fill your writing space with scents that get your creative juices flowing. If you need a pick-me-up, basil essential oil energizes the mind and helps you think better by promoting mental alertness. You can use my coupon code to get 15% at Plant Therapy!

5. Use what you have.
Look around your house for pieces of furniture that you can use in your writing space. For example, an old table that isn’t being used can be turned into a desk.

6. Bring the outside in.
Integrate natural elements such as small succulents or plants into your writing space for a breath of fresh air. Rocks and driftwood are great to use as decorative pieces to bring the outdoors in.

7. Create a personalized vision board.
Make a vision board filled with images and/or ideas that represent your writing goals and dreams.

8.  Think outside the box for desktop organizers.
Start saving your food cans and turn them into pencil holders! Or use mason jars or coffee mugs that have been sitting around your house collecting dust.

9. Use soundscapes for creativity.
If you like sound while you’re working, consider experimenting with ambient sounds or instrumental music to create a writing-friendly atmosphere. There are plenty of online platforms that offer free soundscapes, from rainforest sounds to coffee shop vibes.

10. Paint your walls with chalkboard paint.
Keep your desk clutter-free by writing your notes on your wall. Paint the wall in front of or beside your desk (or both) with chalkboard paint. You’re also saving money because you’re not buying extra notebooks. And you can draw your vision board goals right on your wall!

Find more writing tips here:

• Should You Use Passive Voice in Fiction Writing?
• Grammar Tips for Fiction Writers
• Simple Sentence Structure Rules

I also recommend:

• The Everything Organize Your Home Book: Eliminate clutter, set up your home office, and utilize space in your home (Everything®)
• Vision Board Clip-Art Book for Writers
• Vintage Typewriter Pencil Holder