Sunday, February 15, 2009

Attractive And Cheap Storage Ideas

Attractive and Cheap Storage Ideas


Everyone who has "stuff" needs a place to store it. Unfortunately, many storage options are useful, but not very attractive. But useful and ugly don't have to go together--you can have useful and attractive. You can buy some great, inexpensive storage solutions or re-purpose items you already have. You have many options, and all of them are attractive.


Repurpose


If you can't afford to buy something new, repurpose an item you already have. If you have an aged dresser that is collecting dust, use it to store craft supplies. A small bookcase in your bathroom can store beauty items, or a jelly cabinet can be used for kitchen storage. Make these items look like new with a different shade of paint.


If you don't have extra furniture, these items can be found everywhere from thrift stores to department stores. Also scour online marketplaces such as Craigslist and eBay for people looking to unload items for cheap. Don't be ashamed of taking items from the curb. If it is on the curb wearing a sign that says "free," and you like it, take it.


Reinvent


Are you the proud owner of a useful but ugly wardrobe? Reinvent it. You can make it country by cutting out door panels and replacing them with chicken wire. Or you can make it "shabby chic" by painting it creamy white and distressing it. Add some glamor to the door with a rectangle made of panel moulding. For added interest, paint the door and the panel moulding two different colors. Voila, you have a brand new armoire!


Small Stuff


Many people have piles of stuff that seem to grow over time--stuff they will need at some point, so recycling or disposing of it is out of the question. You can, however, organize those items in cute containers, like plastic shoe box-size containers that are available at most dollar stores. If you find clear plastic boxes, they'll provide a clear view to your cute collection of headbands or nail polish.


Never underestimate the power of the basket. If you are short on kitchen space, a long and deep basket can hold rolls of aluminum foil, parchment paper and plastic wrap. Toss the basket on top of the refrigerator, keeping needed items close and organized, but out of the way.


Re-Create


Upscale home furnishing stores offer beautiful storage items at a price that may cause fear in the casual shopper. You don't have to buy the item, but you can make your own or check out discount stores for a look-alike. Inspiration is everywhere. Storage containers can be much more than just plastic; they can be anything you want.







Tags: already have, already have have, Attractive Cheap, Attractive Cheap Storage, Cheap Storage, Cheap Storage Ideas, have have