Combat Clutter (p.14)
Reuse Found Objects To Help Organize And Alleviate Constant Clutter

By Kim Shoemaker

With all the terrific new items you got for Christmas that you can't find a place for and your New Year's resolution to (finally) get organized, here are some creative and unique ways to increase storage space, and possibly tap into your crafty side and do some fun redecorating while you're at it!

1. Baking Tins. Old and vintage baking tins can be transformed into great junk drawer sorters. Muffin tins are good for separating small items such as paper clips, rubber bands, and thumbtacks, while loaf pans and pie pans are great for keeping track of pens, tape, and small notepads. Baking tins can usually be found at flea markets, antique shops or shows, and occasionally at second hand or thrift stores.

2. Glass jars. Glass jars are great for separating crafting or sewing supplies. Easily reuse tomato sauce jars, or show off a collection of old mason or canning jars. They will help keep you organized, letting you see what you have on hand immediately, and look great when grouped together on a shelf. For the garage or for storing smaller craft items, try reusing baby food jars for nails, screws, and picture hangers. A few jars in the laundry room also provide an ideal place for dropping loose change and keeping clothes pins handy.

3. Cubbies. Old store cubbies or postal bins are perfect for sorting and keeping track of important papers. They often can stand either vertically or horizontally – or consider adding hooks to them and hanging them on a wall ... a great way to decorate while providing ample storage at the same time. Depending on the size of the cubby, it can also be transformed into a creative and unique wine rack.

4. Hardware. Ordinary hardware found in old homes can have a plethora of new functions. Doorknobs and faucet can be cleverly mounted to a board for use as a coat or towel rack, while old drawer knobs can be mounted to your wall or on an old piece of wood for a distinctive way of hanging jewelry.

5. Wooden Crates and Boxes. Various wooden crates stacked in all directions make for instant bookshelves. Try looking at area flea markets for vintage crates with interesting markings or pick up a couple new ones at your local craft store and give them a fresh coat of paint, creating a great focal point to your décor or unique conversation piece at your next get-together. While searching for those vintage crates, also keep an eye out for old suitcases or fun tin picnic baskets. By stacking several of these, they will not only double as a great eye catcher, but they also provide the additional bonus of what is likely much-needed storage.

Kim Shoemaker is the owner of Old Magnolia Trading Company, located at 213 S. White Street in Downtown Wake Forest. She can be reached at 919-562-8867 or visit www.oldmagnolia.com. You can also find Old Magnolia on Facebook at www.facebook.com/oldmagnolia.