The best paper organization solution + pretty organizing tools

(folders from seejanework.com)

Paper clutter is one of the banes  of my existence.  I try endlessly to stay on top of it, but at the end of the day, it always seems to be on top of me.  Receipts, statements, preschool masterpieces, medical bills, coupons (that I never use)- if it's paper, it's currently taking over my countertop. This never happens to you, right?

My favorite professional organizer, Kelly Pratt, talked about a great system for managing paper clutter, on my favorite local TV show, Studio 5. She always has a logical approach to organizing and she thinks of everything.

To follow her approach to organizing paper, you need three containers: 

1. An inbox
2. A desktop file or easily accessible filing cabinet
3. A  container for reading materials 

I'll put a link to the t.v. segment that details her paper organizing system, at the end of this post. She has inspired me and I am on a mission for three pretty containers to help me tackle the paper clutter, Kelly Pratt style. Here are a few organizing tools that have caught my eye.

First on the list, an in box. This industrial-looking basket from See Jane Work is pretty great.

This desktop file from The Container Store seems like a practical and pretty solution.  It's metal, meaning it will last and be easy to clean (and re-paint if my hankering to spray paint takes over)

The desktop file is part of the Brocade office collection.  

 You can choose any of these colored hanging files to go inside

My hat is off to my husband who suggested I check etsy for file containers.  I really didn't think that would be a product one would find on etsy, but find one I did and it's really cool- but don't tell him that.

This is a vintage file box: The Dandy File- sadly it's already sold, but isn't it cool? It' so compact and unique- what's not to love?

This simple, colorful file box from See Jane Work comes in a variety of colors and would certainly get the job done.

These patterned magazine files from Ikea would be a good solution for a reading material bin and the matching boxes might work as a desk top file.

 There are so many pretty folders available to fill those filing containers.

  I love the stripes from See Jane Work

Paper Source has some great vintage-inspired folders

 Vera Bradley folders offer loads of color and pattern.

Do you have any sources for great organizing tools?

You can visit the Studio 5 website to read Kelly Pratt's article or watch the video by clicking here. I promise it's worth a few minutes of your time.