Label makers create perfectly wonderful labels. I use a label maker constantly, and each time that machine cranks out a bit of tape and type, my clients react as if I’ve just bestowed a grand gift upon them. The labels are neat, tidy, and perfectly uniform, which is saying quite a lot (more like everything), and they’re undeniably effective at reminding you where your things belong.

However, there are those people for whom label maker labels are utterly jejune. These creative spirits thrive on eclecticism and have a penchant for an overwhelming sense of individuality in all things–labels for their stuff included. Far be it from me to stifle creative flair with a replicable label.

So, we meet in the middle then; me insisting upon the importance of some kind of labels, and further prohibiting a reign of chaos, and them, requesting we find some more interesting, stimulating way to identify the placement of their stuff.

Here’s an idea you can take, or not: (unlike all the others, which you have no choice but to take, excuse me) forego the sticky bits and opt, instead, to map it out. Think of this technique as a kind of storage template.

If you want a sure-fire way to identify where your belongings belong, outline them in their respective positions. A Beautiful Mess did this with cookware and a pegboard:

While Domino showcases a kind of reserve outlining system:

At Levi’s Workshop for photographers, (via Shawn Hoke) cameras are arranged along a couple of shelves, with each one’s respective parking spot so marked in chalk.

Meanwhile, Martha prescribes the placement of each item in a utility drawer with the use of stickers:

And House to Home uses giant, striking letters:

Anyhow, at least we can agree it’s a pretty charming presentation for outlining table settings (via Buzzfeed) can’t we?

Not a type-written sticker in sight, but certainly all the clarity about where to put your stuff.

Any takers? Listen; I’ll keep trying. I’m just one little Annie on a tireless quest to get you to Live Simply. We’ll find the optimal technique for you YET.