I want to say one word to you. Plastics.

The last time I gave an organizing tip, I sang the praises of plastic storage boxes. This time, think about the ways you can use plastic bags. They are available in many sizes, from small, snack-size bags meant for lunchboxes to heavy duty, XXLarge bags that can store multiple blankets.

1. Gather the items to be stored and sort them into piles, then load each pile into an appropriately-sized plastic bag. On a small piece of paper, write down the contents and place the label in the bag before you seal it shut. You can fill a box to the top, yet the all contents will still be protected and easily accessible.

2. To store materials that are small or easily tangled, group smaller plastic bags inside of larger ones. I use this method with my box of trims.

3. Recycle plastic grocery sacks by using them for lightweight padding when shipping artwork.

4. Stock up on the 2-1/2 gallon size of bag, available in the foil and wrap section of most grocery stores. You will use them a lot more than you think and you can even store smaller framed artwork in them.

5. When traveling by air, store each day's clothes inside its own plastic bag. Place a label inside and squish the air out before sealing it shut. Your outfits will stay together and in good shape, plus the baggage inspectors will be able to see everything easily, so they won't disturb the contents of your suitcase any more than necessary. Use the empty bags for your laundry on the way home.