How to Store Children’s Artwork (Without Drowning in Paper)

As parents, we want to treasure every drawing, scribble, and glitter-covered masterpiece our little ones create. But let’s be honest—if we kept everything, we’d need a second house just to store it all. The key? Finding a system that keeps the memories alive without the clutter.

Here’s how to store your child’s artwork and keepsakes in a way that’s practical, organised, and meaningful:

1. Take Photos of the Artwork

Kids are prolific little creators, and it's easy to get overwhelmed. One of the best ways to preserve their art without hanging on to every physical piece is to take photos of it.

- Set up a simple backdrop (a white wall or wooden table works well)

- Snap a quick photo in good lighting.

- You can even involve your child and let them tell you about their art as you photograph it—those stories are just as precious as the picture!

2. Create a Digital Album

Once you’ve photographed the artwork, store it digitally:

- Create a dedicated album on your phone or computer for each child and each year.

- Name the files with the date or a short description (e.g., "Willow - Oct 2024 - Rainbow Dragon").

- Use cloud storage (like Google Photos, iCloud, or Dropbox) so it’s safely backed up and easy to access.

3. Turn It Into a Photo Book

At the end of the year (or whenever the mood strikes), create a photo book filled with your child’s artwork. This turns hundreds of loose drawings into one beautifully bound keepsake.

- Use services like Chatbooks, Snapfish, or Canva to easily design your book.

- Add captions with the child’s age or funny quotes about their creations.

Over time, you’ll build a stunning library of "Art Yearbooks"—a sweet way to look back at their creative journey without needing to keep every paper.

4. Save the Truly Special Pieces

Not everything needs to go digital. Choose a handful of items to keep each year—those with special meaning or extra effort.

Invest in a keepsake box for each child and label it by year. In it, you can include:

- Handwritten cards or notes

- School reports or certificates

- First drawings or crafts made with love

- A few favourite photos or mementos

Pro tip: Use an expanding file or large clear document folder to keep flat items organised.

5. Get Your Child Involved

Make this a fun tradition! Let your child help decide what to keep, what to photograph, and what can be let go. It teaches them to value memories over things, and it makes decluttering feel like a celebration instead of a chore.

Remember: You Don’t Have to Keep It All

It’s easy to feel guilty about letting go of anything your child made. But memories live in our hearts (and now, beautifully in your phone or photo book!). Keeping the best of the best is more powerful than drowning in a sea of paper.

An organised keepsake system = more joy, less mess, and special memories you can actually enjoy.