Quick Tip Tuesday: "Sole" Mate - Shoe Care Kit

For those of you who love to be prepared, and adore projects that involve zero DIY skills, this one is for you!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0e6LUiHYavN7wTyHs3vATyVf4q-4i5bd6Wi94OQe9e98mPECPBRmFkadhYcmGm3u-DnakdDZhN1cJ9grNTYdMK4WL0d6sE8f6IlT3jodI8Y_cbW9ld0m_OqE_DZAYlH-E76iHP_zQQoE/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0e6LUiHYavN7wTyHs3vATyVf4q-4i5bd6Wi94OQe9e98mPECPBRmFkadhYcmGm3u-DnakdDZhN1cJ9grNTYdMK4WL0d6sE8f6IlT3jodI8Y_cbW9ld0m_OqE_DZAYlH-E76iHP_zQQoE/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_Header.png" /></a></div><br />Truly, today's task was as simple as stocking up on a few essentials and corralling them in an easy-to-access bin.  <br /><br />This was definitely another case of, <i>"Why did I wait so long to do this?!"</i>  <br /><br />I don't purchase new clothing seasonally, but shoes?  I have a bit of a love affair with shoes.  And just like everything else, there are times when I might save big on clearance flats or splurge on comfort and style.<br /><br />And while I appreciate having footwear for various outfit types and seasons, our Wisconsin weather does not always love our shoes in return.  My boots are always covered in a salty film, the boy's tennies tend to be mud magnets and the hubby's dress shoes become dull and dirty after multiple days of wear.  <br /><br />Shoes are an investment, but how do we extend their life and keep them looking nice season after season?  We create a shoe care kit, that is how!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRVvldSBlLMir6ihWpA1WARmu_gnKGNIhvZloaQfXORdDjKLLHeAsENLata1uOFWVpFrQ1p3unNoW7g59xykNBJ_BfR9I17CjOp60iBqYzaJrndBs1IkT0g_liSnLVfwWTVq6NF9YGAmE/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRVvldSBlLMir6ihWpA1WARmu_gnKGNIhvZloaQfXORdDjKLLHeAsENLata1uOFWVpFrQ1p3unNoW7g59xykNBJ_BfR9I17CjOp60iBqYzaJrndBs1IkT0g_liSnLVfwWTVq6NF9YGAmE/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />What you put in your shoe care kit will vary based on your environment and shoe types.  Different types of shoes require different types of care.  So to create our kit, I took note of the types of the shoes we wear most frequently.  <br /><br /><ul><li><b>Suede:</b> I added both a <a href="http://amzn.to/1diwalJ" target="_blank">suede cleaner</a> and an eraser bar (<a href="http://amzn.to/1cNMjPd" target="_blank">similar</a>).<b> </b></li><li><b>Leather:</b> I added <a href="http://amzn.to/1PvL5Kh" target="_blank">saddle soap</a> and a rag (to clean and soften) as well as <a href="http://amzn.to/1diz5dW" target="_blank">shoe polish</a> and an <a href="http://amzn.to/1JYwBvB" target="_blank">applicator brush</a>.<b> </b></li><li><b>Tennis Shoes:</b> I added baking soda and a toothbrush (combine baking soda with dish/laundry detergent and gently scrub shoe and soles with the toothbrush). </li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbxU6MDATegaLt6tXiwi35C2z7g2zrxwnb01zajFgFq52WTOxfU_hODvmNkU8yqmZlRJWRycUKHy28vPNfZ4s_gU_Gdt1q8auiYQAtREzhY3S5HDwQAjxOs-WXPuJsUJR2rfX-n-lYdC6/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbxU6MDATegaLt6tXiwi35C2z7g2zrxwnb01zajFgFq52WTOxfU_hODvmNkU8yqmZlRJWRycUKHy28vPNfZ4s_gU_Gdt1q8auiYQAtREzhY3S5HDwQAjxOs-WXPuJsUJR2rfX-n-lYdC6/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />I also added a variety of spare shoe laces, comfort pads and an anti-friction stick.  Those items were tossed into containers found at the dollar store and labeled with vinyl cut from my Silhouette.<br /><br />A few other items that could be added to the kit are: a magic eraser (for those really tough cleanings - not to be used on delicate shoe finishes), rain and stain repellent, color shine, conditioning cream, shoe grips, shoe horns, shoe whitener, etc...  Whatever footwear maintenance items that make sense based on your shoe wearing habits.  (Should we start taking a drink every time I type out the word <i>shoe</i>?)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eiCSXN5hQoiCywgl2j9DfsQTz1zhwj-XNzg2lZt2yRmTZSZCFp2Q72nrntnuibzQQzirP568TsdkZ1Y69ibl8N009xeI-LQa8bm1cdr-Hd47jUKuFqDENlHqov3xNQ-1QRwYusI_s_pb/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8eiCSXN5hQoiCywgl2j9DfsQTz1zhwj-XNzg2lZt2yRmTZSZCFp2Q72nrntnuibzQQzirP568TsdkZ1Y69ibl8N009xeI-LQa8bm1cdr-Hd47jUKuFqDENlHqov3xNQ-1QRwYusI_s_pb/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />I found a narrow bin that can tuck away on our coat closet shelf, and printed off a label for the front.  Popped everything inside and boom, done!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7O9eVWMZjrQABgW8SgAbk5BpVDZiOKMuF2Qsbh9iZBAwCjnSz6oFB9FQB1tbO_19dPwdHXJK5T4aW2Da41dXybCqLAFhjWt70o885YiDRoG9Ez8yPu-a6mKGUUiekJNLa2UkC36CuV7z/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7O9eVWMZjrQABgW8SgAbk5BpVDZiOKMuF2Qsbh9iZBAwCjnSz6oFB9FQB1tbO_19dPwdHXJK5T4aW2Da41dXybCqLAFhjWt70o885YiDRoG9Ez8yPu-a6mKGUUiekJNLa2UkC36CuV7z/s1600/Shoe_Care_Kit_Caddy_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />Part of being organized, is being prepared ahead of time.  For me, that comes in the form of small kits or zones around our home.  In fact, I am a kit-making fanatic!  Sewing kits, cleaning kits, medical kits, stain kits, tool kits... I love and frequently use them all!  This is one more I know I will be grateful I took the time to put together, especially now that I will be able to extend the life (and looks) of my favorite foot candy.<br /><br />What are your top shoe cleaning tips and tricks?  Any footwear maintenance essentials that we should add to our new caddy?<br /><br /><i>Looking for more quick tips?  Check out the entire series <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/p/quick-tip-gallery.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</i>

Quick Tip Tuesday: "Sole" Mate - Shoe Care Kit

For those of you who love to be prepared, and adore projects that involve zero DIY skills, this one is for you! Truly, today's task was ...

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DIY Sweater Boxes

Today's project is one that I have been putting off for far too long.  Up until recently, every time I would grab a sweater from my closet, it would snag and I would become frustrated.  My initial sweater storage solution turned out to be a giant fail.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvywwnWdqHKwtSenNwrkZCkvt_sLuhs-zVlBt4OLH7Ubaxcvj_l3VnTCH50y2zlFNrkF85vqeb5rAj28r1E8NWpB_OKswxPDxvIXJPNhPPbJoTlUc-7YmTbGp65fF0F0fTr-nmwr_Km8z/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyvywwnWdqHKwtSenNwrkZCkvt_sLuhs-zVlBt4OLH7Ubaxcvj_l3VnTCH50y2zlFNrkF85vqeb5rAj28r1E8NWpB_OKswxPDxvIXJPNhPPbJoTlUc-7YmTbGp65fF0F0fTr-nmwr_Km8z/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_Header.png"></a></div><br>You see, I wear sweaters all year round (freeze baby), yet, I opted to give my sweaters hand-me-down style storage.  Two random baskets have been corralling my sweaters for far too long now.  Not at all sweater-friendly with their woven and wire finishes.  <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCN6CRfGyux8WaoW870yhuJQvNvUPdW3LMaLGxiSv27OyjkdZDZTJ07U0_Nemm0z2RxMJFQFoIVdCmOpjWis9HRwT3M3iIyqu6t-ynv_W1XEjDHDvWIKeCaN1T7HPfMOYjdiwt9BGUfeG/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCN6CRfGyux8WaoW870yhuJQvNvUPdW3LMaLGxiSv27OyjkdZDZTJ07U0_Nemm0z2RxMJFQFoIVdCmOpjWis9HRwT3M3iIyqu6t-ynv_W1XEjDHDvWIKeCaN1T7HPfMOYjdiwt9BGUfeG/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_15.jpg"></a></div><br>The other problem is that I could never see the sweaters on the bottom, meaning I was always digging and causing the mess you see above.  Lastly, the existing baskets were just too small to hold my bulkier cardigans and number of cold-weather items.<br><br>Not able to find exactly the shape, size or style of sweater box that I needed, I set out to make my own.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlxKPHz1FkApgAFHA0lZhrzhzQZwDm0WS-StyDWdOr5_lOxUHqqkMZ_xoa6dTln-F0GTnc4Gvskyx5HHbSohw1JbaI8LUqSeGZSdq3OAAoPR1ug5fhimj3Klx5SvDvc0IYpo5HG4mzyM4/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlxKPHz1FkApgAFHA0lZhrzhzQZwDm0WS-StyDWdOr5_lOxUHqqkMZ_xoa6dTln-F0GTnc4Gvskyx5HHbSohw1JbaI8LUqSeGZSdq3OAAoPR1ug5fhimj3Klx5SvDvc0IYpo5HG4mzyM4/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_1.jpg"></a></div><br><span style="color: #999999;"><b>SUPPLIES</b></span><br><ul><li>Fabric (I used Nate Berkus fabric from JoAnn)</li><li>Fray Check</li><li>Liquid Stitch</li><li>Box Cutter</li><li>Mod Podge</li><li>Marker</li><li>Sponge Brush</li><li>Fabric Sheers</li><li>Box</li><li>Cutting Mat </li><li>Label Plates (optional) </li></ul><br>I found two moving boxes from Home Depot; they were the small 16" wide x 12" deep x 12" high size.  I began by putting together the box, taping the bottom and slicing the flaps from the top with a utility blade.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XMhroGcj9RzdqGo6s7BM3VZT2q-q8OL4ZfKrPCttKOCTFiQvJFRq-fV48-pRV-FK2nQIUFKBYc2frYWE5Q-mjb4b9664eA8qDLNEapcDqiQUZhbtZ6lQWizr_RQk25wGoQnhsBZoUipQ/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XMhroGcj9RzdqGo6s7BM3VZT2q-q8OL4ZfKrPCttKOCTFiQvJFRq-fV48-pRV-FK2nQIUFKBYc2frYWE5Q-mjb4b9664eA8qDLNEapcDqiQUZhbtZ6lQWizr_RQk25wGoQnhsBZoUipQ/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_2.jpg"></a></div><br>I wanted the back to be taller than the front, allowing the sweaters to stack, yet also providing visibility from the front.  Using a ruler and marker I drew my template on the exterior of the box.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboGC9kmdMrCDfDQqZvYPrNJTzrfm99bhj3kofC-aP850Lliha2u8N1gnjll0pPAppvPbpvFQ0qYLcCK_YsJY2CMEvcI-nK9TtweOh_3f_42NRizUKRRdpvZgAuOESAmyxegfVXYGYZceo/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboGC9kmdMrCDfDQqZvYPrNJTzrfm99bhj3kofC-aP850Lliha2u8N1gnjll0pPAppvPbpvFQ0qYLcCK_YsJY2CMEvcI-nK9TtweOh_3f_42NRizUKRRdpvZgAuOESAmyxegfVXYGYZceo/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_3.jpg"></a></div><br>I very slowly cut the lines with the utility blade, yet there were still a few imperfections that I was afraid would show through the fabric that would ultimately be covering the boxes.  I used some painter's tape to add a softer edge to the box.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYOXwOpUjRA9Bt821dvDuvxb3HeIArLtlttGElYy_w9QtuzvS7kv1xGMfy_o7CScV1YXp8idaYgYOqu7oHKk2tlmX_uOEFsbeMnFWZSLiZI1oxJxBE1-OIhYFLTmz-OAT19oRQhFGziij/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYOXwOpUjRA9Bt821dvDuvxb3HeIArLtlttGElYy_w9QtuzvS7kv1xGMfy_o7CScV1YXp8idaYgYOqu7oHKk2tlmX_uOEFsbeMnFWZSLiZI1oxJxBE1-OIhYFLTmz-OAT19oRQhFGziij/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_4.jpg"></a></div><br>The fabric I purchased didn't quite wrap around the entire box because the box was a bit too big so I figured I would have to try and piece in a scrap in the back.  Because the sweater boxes would eventually be filled with sweaters and living in my closet, I was completely OK having a visible seam.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0w6msBrmCoXPJZS4OmhTfiu9r43-kS_z2V6yPfdkcTpCM8MBH2Qzxw_QXDxOo9HPnHdFIXhAXtuT7Q3w6foK5754XdaLmpVZO4kpBg28QBWXqrkc8l4_AZ8s8fvJWiSXzJmoicJ7SUDql/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0w6msBrmCoXPJZS4OmhTfiu9r43-kS_z2V6yPfdkcTpCM8MBH2Qzxw_QXDxOo9HPnHdFIXhAXtuT7Q3w6foK5754XdaLmpVZO4kpBg28QBWXqrkc8l4_AZ8s8fvJWiSXzJmoicJ7SUDql/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_6.jpg"></a></div><br>To affix the fabric, I found that Mod Podge paired with a sponge brush was the best, easiest solution.  I have used spray adhesive in the past, but didn't want any risk of sticky business paired with my sweaters.  The Mod Podge dries nice and clear without any stick.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGofjj0tfZHvngnY3Tzu0saNmy71V8xUCR_bEJOAUlaEPXpY9jMMFyLopRJe5k97t25Tc_m-mWwbyntWG0gOKp9TgaAJqelbWwxvaboyKqekyuxA9kYCYJTm6EiqfsVmRDAO6rdm0L4LD/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTGofjj0tfZHvngnY3Tzu0saNmy71V8xUCR_bEJOAUlaEPXpY9jMMFyLopRJe5k97t25Tc_m-mWwbyntWG0gOKp9TgaAJqelbWwxvaboyKqekyuxA9kYCYJTm6EiqfsVmRDAO6rdm0L4LD/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_5.jpg"></a></div><br>I gave the box a thick coat of the Mod Podge and then wrapped the box and edges with the fabric, pulling tightly and smoothing things out as I went.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRrwmr03Y9KEjjX6R1-czD5uR6PU6mFdCceW5FoewftA0G77jLAiUdwqTgiOUv116WaimpRbcPtoPbvl5f2qbAk3iF3LhD6MQgPeNn_m_o8eKe-oBzEUlrzOTZ1Iy2Q3D1p2NLUS9pjjT/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRrwmr03Y9KEjjX6R1-czD5uR6PU6mFdCceW5FoewftA0G77jLAiUdwqTgiOUv116WaimpRbcPtoPbvl5f2qbAk3iF3LhD6MQgPeNn_m_o8eKe-oBzEUlrzOTZ1Iy2Q3D1p2NLUS9pjjT/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_9.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRXor21EckOalljnkjSVs3MsYv6g4888iMrYLcJbsqCGdFq8JJeQKialPGy4RbgWa2cXRpB9voXC3S43IPuMtH2griqsZEK2ZMtAuRaIrWfVf4BzuBENfmgGYX-J3evcmKIbCGQO3TjVI/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRXor21EckOalljnkjSVs3MsYv6g4888iMrYLcJbsqCGdFq8JJeQKialPGy4RbgWa2cXRpB9voXC3S43IPuMtH2griqsZEK2ZMtAuRaIrWfVf4BzuBENfmgGYX-J3evcmKIbCGQO3TjVI/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_7.jpg"></a></div><br>After I had my scrap piece on the back, I fully wrapped the remainder of the box exterior and temporarily stuffed the excess fabric inside.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh96yNboOmD7VvwKLjOizV8qO-8ojX3oPc21z4prM7oNo5RJfD7uVc9bIdPGgtcGmZGsYzPc0G-KmD7CwonbEHisjhc5xZgQF8-84mo9FK0T8frJ89YK-GudGlk1zwufGykYJSsYiMPXJyd/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh96yNboOmD7VvwKLjOizV8qO-8ojX3oPc21z4prM7oNo5RJfD7uVc9bIdPGgtcGmZGsYzPc0G-KmD7CwonbEHisjhc5xZgQF8-84mo9FK0T8frJ89YK-GudGlk1zwufGykYJSsYiMPXJyd/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_11.jpg"></a></div><br>On the back where the fabric began and ended, I used some Fray Check to prevent the fabric from fraying down the road.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPU7bnT-M0l7juqoCJrnmDoSsAC1Gq4o-88C6hQY5gDntovdlTn06e7GrRCjvCSbZBTBtY7DDSxHLWC6lLbP5EAzjY-7RZYMpiPOrDPHP_qU08BvTTEz60hKJmGVf5duGo6te_Rg4uWQjG/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPU7bnT-M0l7juqoCJrnmDoSsAC1Gq4o-88C6hQY5gDntovdlTn06e7GrRCjvCSbZBTBtY7DDSxHLWC6lLbP5EAzjY-7RZYMpiPOrDPHP_qU08BvTTEz60hKJmGVf5duGo6te_Rg4uWQjG/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_8.jpg"></a></div><br>As you can see above, there was a lot of extra fabric, which was great for completely finishing off the interior.  I left the bottom of the box fabric-free.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKf7FdWOUWLO6lB5utkmxcDHD4jCV_Hc0DAjHuS6VwlX1BtRYR6JEOkI_TBL9dWjkFeVvSuqUc4K2s3XsVIG-IjA9JvyaZTZR9T05r8kyGPnUlH4X2sjhz1AGD5173FFhXeRWCm13wqvo/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYKf7FdWOUWLO6lB5utkmxcDHD4jCV_Hc0DAjHuS6VwlX1BtRYR6JEOkI_TBL9dWjkFeVvSuqUc4K2s3XsVIG-IjA9JvyaZTZR9T05r8kyGPnUlH4X2sjhz1AGD5173FFhXeRWCm13wqvo/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_10.jpg"></a></div><br>I found that as I worked, the Mod Podge was great for affixing the fabric to the box, the Fabric Stitch was best for gluing the fabric to itself at points within the box and the Fray Check was perfect for preventing the fabric from fraying where there were fresh, exposed cuts.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQwRtlzIhmmozTvAbedo64LJsyoSyahfWsOVKDkDXM3Y33W6H7_Dw-FGRKH9RRjnAGkcoX9rGwssl15Kl5ixkQKtRA8LpFnkSik2AdtIkuEAUDzEJlkC4YChytR9oUpSSUiEH7ujCDsD-/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDQwRtlzIhmmozTvAbedo64LJsyoSyahfWsOVKDkDXM3Y33W6H7_Dw-FGRKH9RRjnAGkcoX9rGwssl15Kl5ixkQKtRA8LpFnkSik2AdtIkuEAUDzEJlkC4YChytR9oUpSSUiEH7ujCDsD-/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_12.jpg"></a></div><br>Because I notched and sloped the sides, those cuts were a little trickier.  Above you can see how I angle cut the fabric to make it easier to lay in the corners.<br><br>I worked my way all around the box and tried to wrap it just as I would wrap a gift.  Once all was complete, the pattern was a little busy on the interior where everything met up, but I was extremely excited with the outcome of this little DIY.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRp6uiR5n3pv3hzku41jV2eU8Vy2kUPKTC4MmO6ckDzA9JijrH3adxD8wTNHGUW0P426rxYL7MaasUVtKEw_ykAbJeGyy9e6Ll2VSXvFKCv8M7_AQoU20YmmOBArB4zYTUOpMEsQilYkW/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRp6uiR5n3pv3hzku41jV2eU8Vy2kUPKTC4MmO6ckDzA9JijrH3adxD8wTNHGUW0P426rxYL7MaasUVtKEw_ykAbJeGyy9e6Ll2VSXvFKCv8M7_AQoU20YmmOBArB4zYTUOpMEsQilYkW/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_14.jpg"></a></div><br>I added a sticky label plate to the front of the box (the original ones pictured couldn't be affixed without creating a potential sweater snag on the interior) and once all of the glues were dry I filled the boxes up with my freshly folded sweaters.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfHqDsfu6fPjCFPOYmQ0WuOkprQpljzEM5lEkl26ESI0yiuui8N6CTGon4i9LDyIo8RCerhBwlKogvn_2klFS_vbqoeIiqPIwpBjLPBsCFZj2qBZNq9BbjfE5r5OKrLgywQAlO0C-iRRj/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfHqDsfu6fPjCFPOYmQ0WuOkprQpljzEM5lEkl26ESI0yiuui8N6CTGon4i9LDyIo8RCerhBwlKogvn_2klFS_vbqoeIiqPIwpBjLPBsCFZj2qBZNq9BbjfE5r5OKrLgywQAlO0C-iRRj/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_19.jpg"></a></div><br>One box holds regular sweaters while the other box holds all of my bulkier cardigans. <br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitU36BX2GtVedy4B2EYu5KTUt11PcJVhJjlyU4X0i2f_mwkkIC9UPPNf97E8AEjxpx7NGM-Pbb7tytOFBqvRO_KwHy9jAf4JiWzd_fpRaTXfu4oNAn4VDOs0LRIRQJl3xXFzWg1bvKEBo_/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitU36BX2GtVedy4B2EYu5KTUt11PcJVhJjlyU4X0i2f_mwkkIC9UPPNf97E8AEjxpx7NGM-Pbb7tytOFBqvRO_KwHy9jAf4JiWzd_fpRaTXfu4oNAn4VDOs0LRIRQJl3xXFzWg1bvKEBo_/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_16.jpg"></a></div><br>So much better!  I love the fresh pattern that welcomes me when I open my closet door.  But most importantly, I appreciate that my sweaters have a little breathing room and will no longer risk being damaged by my initial storage choice.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolYpLQ8_nWCElTCkoWalV5ZmGgzdlL4h68QFVkerF1rPfm7f8ls3wE2wRw2aG-belL0zY3njvrjOuCLR-lMgHNfkz90E4oMfR3-EXs7pT9I380Qi-hbJN_U8lTMZ5mSKTsmQ4aYNGKsQP/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgolYpLQ8_nWCElTCkoWalV5ZmGgzdlL4h68QFVkerF1rPfm7f8ls3wE2wRw2aG-belL0zY3njvrjOuCLR-lMgHNfkz90E4oMfR3-EXs7pT9I380Qi-hbJN_U8lTMZ5mSKTsmQ4aYNGKsQP/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_18.jpg"></a></div><br>I used about a yard and a half of fabric total for each box (price will vary based on fabric cost).  The first box took me almost two hours to complete (wow!) while the second was easier and only took about an hour.  So not the quickest project, but definitely worth the time and effort to preserve my clothing.<br><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja89xcqK5aeszLL0hTGc7Q0RDUgCRnFYu8VpWA8o_tSLXLQ6OXRFhyphenhyphenT-HrdeEP1_NdeS-2TazL4uqVLS6qVJAHDpjAZgsWLeVa04q16BG1R8mzM5f69fRW92umOVS7AJBH8dyZ_cuntryw/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja89xcqK5aeszLL0hTGc7Q0RDUgCRnFYu8VpWA8o_tSLXLQ6OXRFhyphenhyphenT-HrdeEP1_NdeS-2TazL4uqVLS6qVJAHDpjAZgsWLeVa04q16BG1R8mzM5f69fRW92umOVS7AJBH8dyZ_cuntryw/s1600/DIY_Sweater_Box_17.jpg"></a></div><br>

DIY Sweater Boxes

Today's project is one that I have been putting off for far too long.  Up until recently, every time I would grab a sweater from my clos...

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IHeart Kitchen Reno: An Organized Pantry

Don't get me wrong, I have been loving <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/p/quick-tip-gallery.html" target="_blank">this year's weekly Quick Tip series</a>.  It has been fun focusing on bite size organizing to get us by while we work on a much bigger project.  But come on!  This girl has been so patiently waiting to move on to bigger and better organizing projects.  The kind that fuel my organizing fire.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKJOi-c3cQtwSjipPn6nCHTun47XSbpLkDT_dnFcyq09VrjJ6Jox4N6Y-y5mclDytlyZIQzlLIB8zrvhsbOg75ahWxqibgjX754m3UoiIKNyHFN38D_rdz3N27CvrfMdMt5_S_3KuQM0O/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilKJOi-c3cQtwSjipPn6nCHTun47XSbpLkDT_dnFcyq09VrjJ6Jox4N6Y-y5mclDytlyZIQzlLIB8zrvhsbOg75ahWxqibgjX754m3UoiIKNyHFN38D_rdz3N27CvrfMdMt5_S_3KuQM0O/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_Header.png" /></a></div><br />I am not ready to fill all of the drawers and cabinets in the kitchen quite yet... I am trying to wait for the center island to arrive first.  Although we have already assigned a function to each cabinet and drawer on paper, I won't really know what we have available until everything is assembled and in place.  But one thing that won't be changing, island or no island, is the pantry.  <br /><br /><a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2013/02/kitchen-pantry-update-part-3-reveal.html" target="_blank">Our previous pantry</a> was a bit of a struggle in that it was deep, and the interior was wider than the door opening by a couple of inches on both sides.  Also, anything above the door opening was a challenge to see or access.  We made the most of the space, and when paired with a kitchen cabinet across the way, we had plenty of dry food storage.  Little did I know the difference ONE cabinet would make in how we store all of those items now.  The new pantry cabinet is a a 30" wide, floor to ceiling unit with zero clearance hinges.  That means the doors don't get in the way of the opening and allow the most possible access to drawers and shelves.  Little things, big difference.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLV61-HAWt0fRSpQp0LKx_h5I9gR614zfYIEi5cEyFmPCqEaLlLOp7adVSoVLEkuBsdfo26A-5ZfaG5A9XGZaRheZryoQhNbKHXkkYGkswQALrjuXmQr8sdB25tr11JXMX5rhvvK_0Q_2S/s1600/IKEA_Kitchen_Cabinet_Install_Tips_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLV61-HAWt0fRSpQp0LKx_h5I9gR614zfYIEi5cEyFmPCqEaLlLOp7adVSoVLEkuBsdfo26A-5ZfaG5A9XGZaRheZryoQhNbKHXkkYGkswQALrjuXmQr8sdB25tr11JXMX5rhvvK_0Q_2S/s1600/IKEA_Kitchen_Cabinet_Install_Tips_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />We made sure to have electrical added to allow us to conceal our microwave within the new cabinet.  I LOVE this!  First, the stainless finish is always covered in finger prints and it is so nice not to care.  And second, it frees up counter space which is always prime real estate in a kitchen.<br /><br />The microwave alone is fantastic, but I couldn't wait to get my paws on those deep drawers below.  However, those shelves above left me scratching my scalp a bit.   24" deep shelves are not easy to maximize unless you can pull them out.  Only problem is that IKEA didn't offer pull out drawers/shelves for their 30" pantry when we ordered from their old Akurum line.  Their new Sektion line <i>does</i> offer pull out options for the 30" pantry, however, the kitchen associate informed us that the new system doesn't work with the old system.  #boo<br /><br />We started looking at some pull out drawer options online, and another boo hoo slipped through my lips.  So expensive.  Then I remembered that the IKEA Pax wardrobe system offered drawers, in fact, we had just used them in <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/03/a-coat-closet-makeover-again.html" target="_blank">our coat closet update</a> and loved them!  The measurements were close enough to make us believe that we could make them work, coming in at 29 1/2" wide x 22 7/8" deep.  And with their IKEA Family sale, we paid just $25 per <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10246308/#/10246332" target="_blank">drawer set</a>, soft close hardware included.<br /><br />We are not the tallest family on the block, so we only needed two pull out drawer options.  The entire pantry was designed with height in mind.  A lower drawer for the kids, microwave at boy's level, one more drawer dedicated to the kids and then baking and boxed/canned goods above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAom2oqdXCIyHEIUUEDO1P3BSRXcoQojFicCWePNb8-LTLn2IvftCBFPyHaTfSSN4dEOHpZuFhVsGQO_wVRCsITnWs7Tt0TYHYDHq3hdF4zNLfJ6JoqsNPKvHoz-qUHyYnlR7gbsx_2Paa/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_2-labeled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAom2oqdXCIyHEIUUEDO1P3BSRXcoQojFicCWePNb8-LTLn2IvftCBFPyHaTfSSN4dEOHpZuFhVsGQO_wVRCsITnWs7Tt0TYHYDHq3hdF4zNLfJ6JoqsNPKvHoz-qUHyYnlR7gbsx_2Paa/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_2-labeled.png" /></a></div><br />And yeah.... those are jogging pants... moving on.<br /><br />As you can see, the drawers for the IKEA wardrobe did end up fitting inside of our pantry!  To make everything line up just right, we added a strip of 1/4" thick MDF behind each rail to get to the 30" width of the pantry.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxzTB3Do-NhKWxoFzGDxbwuS0rtrbGvldL_MRc90wm0ubJyl0yCO9Dlj56inZBFONMkO1I5n7l3wXR5NUlgjvTyGtILFNNxI2cnzwPkMh9KdsSVrwdGjwMh89TTs-9wmqG7ES90ga1FfB/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxzTB3Do-NhKWxoFzGDxbwuS0rtrbGvldL_MRc90wm0ubJyl0yCO9Dlj56inZBFONMkO1I5n7l3wXR5NUlgjvTyGtILFNNxI2cnzwPkMh9KdsSVrwdGjwMh89TTs-9wmqG7ES90ga1FfB/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once we did a test run, we removed the strip and I painted them white to match the cabinet.  Back in place and you would never even know they are there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpL9bDTtjEI9iefqeJcqtNm-tTjEB9ZZdhAVHC7YGqnUjG4Slx9kc2AekZzlAwhaIcm-R2NV7o-wx8OifepsuKWz30rWf7Llod6YSsaGCY-vzc-xg6-4kCRlz4qJrHKk2LYY-JSujiQTZS/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpL9bDTtjEI9iefqeJcqtNm-tTjEB9ZZdhAVHC7YGqnUjG4Slx9kc2AekZzlAwhaIcm-R2NV7o-wx8OifepsuKWz30rWf7Llod6YSsaGCY-vzc-xg6-4kCRlz4qJrHKk2LYY-JSujiQTZS/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_16.jpg" /></a></div><br />We still may router out a groove in the taller drawers to better see the contents, we haven't quite decided on that yet as we figure we should live with them "as-is" for awhile.<br /><br />So let's take a closer look at how I organized each zone.  I have quite a few favorite moments happening inside, so I will try to keep the obnoxious over-excitement to a minimum.  It will be hard though, I mean, check out the bottom drawer!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cjYQzOOPy_Jn45r29y7cZ6YB9MTV87syvyL9QdH504syULVJ-bU7FAHxORZfKjX7MYnQDJx_pXbNhLgSs1uNnp5Z-ivKsAp52BPJUvh2d4U3zo9Uk6ja7m3V425iWsapFeH7bKIpzL7Y/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cjYQzOOPy_Jn45r29y7cZ6YB9MTV87syvyL9QdH504syULVJ-bU7FAHxORZfKjX7MYnQDJx_pXbNhLgSs1uNnp5Z-ivKsAp52BPJUvh2d4U3zo9Uk6ja7m3V425iWsapFeH7bKIpzL7Y/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />I couldn't wait to go to the grocery store and stock the pantry, and this drawer is one of the main reasons.  I have always loved the <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/office/paperFileStorage/portable?productId=10022942" target="_blank">Multi-Purpose Bins from The Container Store</a>; they are the shining stars in our <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/03/monthly-clean-home-challenge_7.html" target="_blank">fridge</a> and <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/03/monthly-clean-home-challenge-clean-out_24.html" target="_blank">freezer</a>.  Now, they are also steeling the show in the pantry!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_HhOfDQfywVLxaKlbUaKXCAXvSQyRaa4h6JZta8Cj-vsiBY-iF36_sZtWOOL_MNwIozkXSJIXnrjM6rsPHL1iFGxKoUr_Vl73mzMTDA7RxqxyTQLd55WVWqW-XG_KaWeVjDBffGGAjTt/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_HhOfDQfywVLxaKlbUaKXCAXvSQyRaa4h6JZta8Cj-vsiBY-iF36_sZtWOOL_MNwIozkXSJIXnrjM6rsPHL1iFGxKoUr_Vl73mzMTDA7RxqxyTQLd55WVWqW-XG_KaWeVjDBffGGAjTt/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />For the drawers, I used 4 large bins and 2 medium bins.  We had a lot of conversation about the type of baskets/bins to use in the drawers for our produce.  As much as I love the look of a woven or wire basket, they are not easy to keep clean, especially when flaky, dirty and juicy produce is involved.  These plastic options are light weight, easy to clean, yet offer a ton of storage space.  I truly couldn't be happier with how they worked out.  I used my Silhouette to cut some labels out of vinyl for each bin, which can also be washed without worry.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaZTMNjOqxORHWLEvua4Mt5lkZ-Icz8PGZmemV0sVAppRhGos6MfZV2BeNzezmGyLcDNJqHetRMlkqEH5TDKSE0qAIGI0LKz8ONpU7_R2pWoYLz10U75AgtmXPP8dEOecAJ1GfTuGpwTr/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmaZTMNjOqxORHWLEvua4Mt5lkZ-Icz8PGZmemV0sVAppRhGos6MfZV2BeNzezmGyLcDNJqHetRMlkqEH5TDKSE0qAIGI0LKz8ONpU7_R2pWoYLz10U75AgtmXPP8dEOecAJ1GfTuGpwTr/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />I could gush all day, but it is time to move on.  Next drawer up is the boy's lunch drawer.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi710-bCjgYN5pp92gCfY4d6HPascdBHTfl61ZVmjiJMwNVOnCoIuVZDtgo47CocDIjLUPf3dw_KrsJuY5JzCpC0_j3x9957N8o90Y0FxBUzI8hB9lFQrugqpRkD2arqUKzWWOtnXOyg4Z2/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi710-bCjgYN5pp92gCfY4d6HPascdBHTfl61ZVmjiJMwNVOnCoIuVZDtgo47CocDIjLUPf3dw_KrsJuY5JzCpC0_j3x9957N8o90Y0FxBUzI8hB9lFQrugqpRkD2arqUKzWWOtnXOyg4Z2/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />This drawer fit the kid's lunch bags and reusable containers beautifully.  I started with <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/snack-attack-part-2.html" target="_blank">our snack bin</a> and then just filled the space around it.  Everything that use to live up high in <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2013/08/back-to-school-organization.html" target="_blank">our lunch cabinet</a>, now couldn't be easier for the boys to use each day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-ktH3Rl_9jwGUD8CMUyaJT3v8fNfSAsOU14iOUHhvh4PKpbpgfvQ5p1LP9kiGjQHPFtwD-VagMhNAmHpHWEJuo8uHAyfEl2aM_zkgjMxY1BPJcYyTR3LJ0coEM273alcEz_pnfajYth_/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-ktH3Rl_9jwGUD8CMUyaJT3v8fNfSAsOU14iOUHhvh4PKpbpgfvQ5p1LP9kiGjQHPFtwD-VagMhNAmHpHWEJuo8uHAyfEl2aM_zkgjMxY1BPJcYyTR3LJ0coEM273alcEz_pnfajYth_/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_7.jpg" /></a></div><br />Just above the microwave is our snack and breakfast drawer.  Many of the snacks are also used in the boy's lunches as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbj0eQODQemkJ9c7QiuEC-JMaQeiNk2Ih8-pPd4t1nhXn4qR880d9FuHKOzsCr6US2UPXMM1-nAQlYo1PobC_hpEjHYEE1-QK-DPunVBqRw9NqAgUQ6RG0vhsdcRWFDKu_if9yNT8mUyx/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbj0eQODQemkJ9c7QiuEC-JMaQeiNk2Ih8-pPd4t1nhXn4qR880d9FuHKOzsCr6US2UPXMM1-nAQlYo1PobC_hpEjHYEE1-QK-DPunVBqRw9NqAgUQ6RG0vhsdcRWFDKu_if9yNT8mUyx/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_13.jpg" /></a></div><br />We already had all of the containers, they were just reconfigured in the new drawers.  I decided to skip the labels this time as we had eventually stopped using them in our previous setup.  We wash the bins prior to refilling them with any new snacks and tend to change the types of snacks we eat from week to week.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPjQc4givTq9PYs4xG6O_yv2yRvTpSW8ns7PZ5RaUC6K2qvmZZP4hjoBUpLilttrOqoc0gZIc_aErsQ8PoGe8aJ9TPoUVOzAXQXke3c4vqI0qhXZ1sTqXpIIDMjFXvU4wdFSh2KrGmbKA/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPjQc4givTq9PYs4xG6O_yv2yRvTpSW8ns7PZ5RaUC6K2qvmZZP4hjoBUpLilttrOqoc0gZIc_aErsQ8PoGe8aJ9TPoUVOzAXQXke3c4vqI0qhXZ1sTqXpIIDMjFXvU4wdFSh2KrGmbKA/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_15.jpg" /></a></div><br />The small baskets work great for holding our oatmeal packets and breakfast bar options.  I still believe in ditching the off-the-shelf packaging whenever possible.  You really save so much room.  One of those small baskets holds about four boxes of bars.<br /><br />I don't bake more than boxed goods, but my hubby does (making me a lucky wife).  However, after organizing the next drawer, I can't wait to take a baking class or ten.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCm8ROqAEVLeYbYvaAPTgwFChdsRzxZjhc2_DTCCgCIIhIb2EAdKR6d61fBqkH1OxZ5gnRIRtk5IL912Hm2xahUsIpH7l3jrM-bm5dtTAOov-4vz9WQcIpMfM1ZLLD9FyDa7BItSLLY2V/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCm8ROqAEVLeYbYvaAPTgwFChdsRzxZjhc2_DTCCgCIIhIb2EAdKR6d61fBqkH1OxZ5gnRIRtk5IL912Hm2xahUsIpH7l3jrM-bm5dtTAOov-4vz9WQcIpMfM1ZLLD9FyDa7BItSLLY2V/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_20.jpg" /></a></div><br />Since I adore <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/kitchen/foodStorage/canisters?productId=10029789&N=74062" target="_blank">our snack containers</a> so much, I invested in a few more for our baking products.  After they stacked nicely inside of the drawers, there was only a small amount of room left to add a label to the faces.  I did decide to label these containers because baking powders and sugars are not as easy to differentiate as snacks.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrgLlj-MLThN-LI2CViZFg2j_Re3AXXuyIhyphenhyphenZmB4n2_aoHvAlrUmm48RNJxhSynKKFNg4hCKYjbd1tJhufREvdr-R7iePvinxh-TQVYuSbIWGTFp8qeOR75gFC44_VLNUccaXUebAat5q/s1600/Baking_Labels_Avery-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrgLlj-MLThN-LI2CViZFg2j_Re3AXXuyIhyphenhyphenZmB4n2_aoHvAlrUmm48RNJxhSynKKFNg4hCKYjbd1tJhufREvdr-R7iePvinxh-TQVYuSbIWGTFp8qeOR75gFC44_VLNUccaXUebAat5q/s1600/Baking_Labels_Avery-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Although only a small part of the label would be visible, the labels I had on hand at home were larger clear options.  So, I made the most of the area by adding a sweet little cupcake and a quote.  Super easy to design using the <a href="http://www.avery.com/avery/en_us/Templates-%26-Software/Software/Avery-Design--Print-Online.htm" target="_blank">Avery online label template</a>... <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9J-fGYypHjnfkQb8bwMZGMzFiDvZTyRmEemvSBZ89chKBfcGblvutJbkZK6EMoF9f18v9K1u2NGTbOae5AXiuUDfXNHLuVpRYQKLIPjyUECvOByWl9IU33SpA3pKxBO-KVS8zIHyJG6C/s1600/Baking_Labels_Avery-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9J-fGYypHjnfkQb8bwMZGMzFiDvZTyRmEemvSBZ89chKBfcGblvutJbkZK6EMoF9f18v9K1u2NGTbOae5AXiuUDfXNHLuVpRYQKLIPjyUECvOByWl9IU33SpA3pKxBO-KVS8zIHyJG6C/s1600/Baking_Labels_Avery-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />I mean, totally adorable right?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR34HrYFqr_EG8yX8yPaTW8IBWmbAzOUnG4Ghm2NK79r3XYWOhluzqvw5xcsNKjQ8YGb5U4-bIU8SosWiUbF9GfFJulmZMX1sIT1IYqQls4IHsgypa6Dm3KGU4KE5Yz1Z46f_aBPlHxLud/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR34HrYFqr_EG8yX8yPaTW8IBWmbAzOUnG4Ghm2NK79r3XYWOhluzqvw5xcsNKjQ8YGb5U4-bIU8SosWiUbF9GfFJulmZMX1sIT1IYqQls4IHsgypa6Dm3KGU4KE5Yz1Z46f_aBPlHxLud/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_18.jpg" /></a></div><br />Big cupcake fans in this house.<br /><br />To make the most of the drawer, I decided to put many of our baking tools in with the mixes and essential powders.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmw8ANio_3rAN9Q7a6wO1AP8t-fnqbpPq-7H-b8I5PgnDqaKVTbuzYUwELXlu0OncvFv5yhzz5E88DFj3T82JDrs-HiNOk6vnbERr5iB5fZT_70lSoyyH38G2hfbLvPYSQt2f0KlzwB7Q/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmw8ANio_3rAN9Q7a6wO1AP8t-fnqbpPq-7H-b8I5PgnDqaKVTbuzYUwELXlu0OncvFv5yhzz5E88DFj3T82JDrs-HiNOk6vnbERr5iB5fZT_70lSoyyH38G2hfbLvPYSQt2f0KlzwB7Q/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_21.jpg" /></a></div><br />Again, the acrylic organizers are from our previous kitchen drawers, I just transplanted them here.  I love the idea of everything being in one single hot spot.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcPO4A0KOMamMZaS4k8nRDKW93wxaYEW7gNnX2FXzgbY5WHvfd2ESWCfCGPqKVvxIys9PWvVB4xB9TtpWwfvdfQkFr_tXPt9si2-81oZTYyBU4b3RdI2cxAuqg8p7Mk2edWPoMG9Ru5Vi/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcPO4A0KOMamMZaS4k8nRDKW93wxaYEW7gNnX2FXzgbY5WHvfd2ESWCfCGPqKVvxIys9PWvVB4xB9TtpWwfvdfQkFr_tXPt9si2-81oZTYyBU4b3RdI2cxAuqg8p7Mk2edWPoMG9Ru5Vi/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_25.jpg" /></a></div><br />The next shelf is where things we eat less frequently live.  Canned goods, rice, noodles, sauces, etc...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXM5NEhDdTh7Al5uPHMgIr4PgXjYgqWUyCjH5S-v6g5H9knf6F0MrOyzQ09vfayLNT0reP5ZHca2_Rh5tfdLmKoWFduEWqUjoVNNCPXID9opZMf6DCjtsWvuBjDLRphyphenhyphen5k-TSQKJX_rK3Z/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXM5NEhDdTh7Al5uPHMgIr4PgXjYgqWUyCjH5S-v6g5H9knf6F0MrOyzQ09vfayLNT0reP5ZHca2_Rh5tfdLmKoWFduEWqUjoVNNCPXID9opZMf6DCjtsWvuBjDLRphyphenhyphen5k-TSQKJX_rK3Z/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_22.jpg" /></a></div><br />Given the height, it didn't make sense to do another pull out drawer, or we would never be able to see/reach.  However, to be sure nothing is lost in the far back, I snagged one of <a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/kitchen/cabinetOrganizers/upperCabinets?productId=10000696&N=185" target="_blank">these tiered organizers</a>.  I appreciate that it can be adjusted as our inventory changes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6J6yYExaHrduExtz9PWaR9AY0TAXYwcEP5nhZ36c2IqK8JGlU_Gd9LU0uCL4FLXZeTIGJizBP7dlvTPDJaHoO28ZVTqkbjFiU0v6HzP0vD_y0xRZ6ZpPFAajAOYK5G1zoKutsArZBpMpq/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6J6yYExaHrduExtz9PWaR9AY0TAXYwcEP5nhZ36c2IqK8JGlU_Gd9LU0uCL4FLXZeTIGJizBP7dlvTPDJaHoO28ZVTqkbjFiU0v6HzP0vD_y0xRZ6ZpPFAajAOYK5G1zoKutsArZBpMpq/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_23.jpg" /></a></div><br />As I was organizing and putting all of our canned goods away, I started to feel like I was verging on <i>Sleeping with the Enemy</i> territory.  Although, I know it won't take more than a couple of minutes for our fam to mess it up a bit.<br /><br />The top shelf is for any overflow, bulk items, etc... and it will also store a few of our favorite small appliances.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlR37NcZFCv_Ty8rP4s5EsF68M181laZkBhJo5KE2tHSi-lOw0tfojj6bgJXbhPXT0WVVV41ysYaIW3nOnB-Tv4jZadCEmmUyU8s1VCz_LGzLJP4_bgGan-8GIfY8tV_79YNDkb7_Gbvz/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlR37NcZFCv_Ty8rP4s5EsF68M181laZkBhJo5KE2tHSi-lOw0tfojj6bgJXbhPXT0WVVV41ysYaIW3nOnB-Tv4jZadCEmmUyU8s1VCz_LGzLJP4_bgGan-8GIfY8tV_79YNDkb7_Gbvz/s1600/IKEA_Pantry_Organization_Drawer_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />And that completes the tour!  My kids were circling like sharks as I was taking the photos of the freshly stocked pantry, but even after they ransacked it, it was able to maintain a nice level of order.  Yahoo!<br /><br />I am so excited that we were able to condense an entire pantry, double wide cabinet <i>and</i> lunch cabinet from our previous setup, into a single floor to ceiling pantry in the new kitchen.  With a microwave too!  <br /><br />Feels good to scratch the organizing itch.  Now... back to installing the flooring in <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-week-1-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">the living area</a>...<br /><br /><br /><i>You can follow all of the kitchen progress <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/IHeart%20Kitchen%20Reno" target="_blank">here</a>.</i><br /><br /><i>P.S.  WE WON!  Last week we were notified that you all voted us as the <a href="http://www.bhg.com/blogs/better-homes-and-gardens-blogger-awards-/top-diy-blogs/" target="_blank">Better Homes & Garden's Top DIY blog</a>.  I owe you all an iHeart gratitude hug and so much more.  I know I say it frequently, but I couldn't believe it more, we have THE BEST readers ever!  You guys are always so supportive, encouraging and HELPFUL!  I truly learn so much from y'all and just hanging out with you each day is a dream.  Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking the time to vote and for cheering us on as we work on this place we call home.  The other nominees are all superstar blogs and I highly recommend checking each one out for even more DIY love.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

IHeart Kitchen Reno: An Organized Pantry

Don't get me wrong, I have been loving this year's weekly Quick Tip series .  It has been fun focusing on bite size organizing to ge...

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A Coat Closet Makeover... Again...

There is nothing normal when it comes to our coat closet.  The location is odd and it tends to change roles and evolve as our family grows, yet it has never been easy to keep visually appealing or clutter free.  So, I thought I would take one more stab at it this past weekend.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbeSkrIbjsCeKjwiBO7EETqjqYkpcQmTDirPA40W4K5MZEIHm1lu99epgb0x_V9SauJ9E1SIU_DVZs78YLH-34509DTLzXnfbjzhaxxlXFa-lrCeYGqbbgglNn-AzflRIewSg3pDnppTw/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbeSkrIbjsCeKjwiBO7EETqjqYkpcQmTDirPA40W4K5MZEIHm1lu99epgb0x_V9SauJ9E1SIU_DVZs78YLH-34509DTLzXnfbjzhaxxlXFa-lrCeYGqbbgglNn-AzflRIewSg3pDnppTw/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_14.jpg" /></a></div><br />You may have spotted the coat closet in a few of the past <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/IHeart%20Kitchen%20Reno" target="_blank">IHeart Kitchen Reno</a> posts.  It is located directly above our staircase, meaning we basically have half of a closet to work with.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QrjyzoIc9TgeiDaBd5VQE9FX2EsVVm_U8C1z5Xkz6Td3mAzXc4Zo5I1wt3ptnl9NEE-eqKErLcHEzsPStZt2T3jqlW3dBKrfk7hpUGFdrD5HzDkaWPI0xbIRHw9ppK-EtOf-9DM9xRf2/s1600/CoatClosetLocation.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QrjyzoIc9TgeiDaBd5VQE9FX2EsVVm_U8C1z5Xkz6Td3mAzXc4Zo5I1wt3ptnl9NEE-eqKErLcHEzsPStZt2T3jqlW3dBKrfk7hpUGFdrD5HzDkaWPI0xbIRHw9ppK-EtOf-9DM9xRf2/s1600/CoatClosetLocation.png" /></a></div><br />Because we use <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/08/back-to-school-our-organized-entry.html" target="_blank">a credenza style piece to hold our boy's backpacks and boots</a>, and <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy-and-organized-entry.html" target="_blank">a slim shoe cabinet for our family footwear</a>, the coat closet is exactly that; a place to store coats.  We also use it to hold some additional outerwear items, extra cleaning rags, water bottles, sunscreen, etc...  <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/05/a-little-coat-closet-refresh.html" target="_blank">The last time we worked on it</a>, we used a lot of materials we already had on hand to do a free update.  For a no cost makeover, I thought I did a pretty good job!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-3p-lq4_YEUU2Y9Ayij7YWHn5szZTBIPMc_9ovoRRmz75VPZy8No5Atz8ooTzojgI8wyJDXMYR0gFKUj-ALWawrZm2yNI_mSzrRzoOvbQk9wD2WVJ3_rC9cNSbdTKv9IaURAdVtfEWU/s1600/Organized_Coat_Closet_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6-3p-lq4_YEUU2Y9Ayij7YWHn5szZTBIPMc_9ovoRRmz75VPZy8No5Atz8ooTzojgI8wyJDXMYR0gFKUj-ALWawrZm2yNI_mSzrRzoOvbQk9wD2WVJ3_rC9cNSbdTKv9IaURAdVtfEWU/s1600/Organized_Coat_Closet_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />But then we used it and seasons changed and what I didn't do well at was putting away my spring jackets when I pulled out my winter options.  And then we removed the door to pull trim and flooring for the kitchen renovation.  Funny what no door paired with a construction zone will do.  Suddenly the closet was holding more clothing than jackets, our winter jackets were instead being hung on the backs of folding chairs or tossed in our bedrooms.  And other random things that didn't have a home were being stuffed in the open alcove.  Below is a quick shot I took with my cell phone before heading out to look for new organizing options.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEips-qe1CdMavSgjNw1j40yNtuB35hsAUZ3kTouRgevQDxZpjp5SY85mV43bTcMuEy-0MqsNa-AgfTZrMfOrmCAO4O7NyBOc_abvI_0Tap9hDLSp8u2T19Q6ueK7RDFcc6tMuY19KsvPDw-/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_Before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEips-qe1CdMavSgjNw1j40yNtuB35hsAUZ3kTouRgevQDxZpjp5SY85mV43bTcMuEy-0MqsNa-AgfTZrMfOrmCAO4O7NyBOc_abvI_0Tap9hDLSp8u2T19Q6ueK7RDFcc6tMuY19KsvPDw-/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_Before.jpg" /></a></div><br />The baskets on the left side were clutter catchers and the shelf was beginning to bow from the lack of center support.  With the kitchen makeover, we also wanted to update this closet, hopefully once and for all.  That includes new storage and ultimately ditching the bi-fold door (those things drive me crazy anyway).<br /><br />Here was the initial plan for the closet:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2iSjgrFFqKI_dV0G5pZQYtnIqeVOp4_wK0TsfvmvvlyzZaEF37UYgS2R5x3HiE1EmJo8EPF39QULnBmUsiA8wFeAOq71C4jTooK4KBaowOqH2vc1-0cSid-gWgZJznmw-57xvb0Q77mX/s1600/CoatClosetDiagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2iSjgrFFqKI_dV0G5pZQYtnIqeVOp4_wK0TsfvmvvlyzZaEF37UYgS2R5x3HiE1EmJo8EPF39QULnBmUsiA8wFeAOq71C4jTooK4KBaowOqH2vc1-0cSid-gWgZJznmw-57xvb0Q77mX/s1600/CoatClosetDiagram.jpg" /></a></div><br />I love drawers because they make it easy to organize and conceal everyday clutter.  I also figured they would work much better than the flexible shoe pockets which were always overly stuffed with items.  We set off to IKEA to look for drawer options which would of course include soft close hinges.  We found an IKEA Family sale on the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10246308/#/30246722" target="_blank">KOMPLEMENT system</a> (designed to fit their PAX wardrobes).  For $17 each, we picked up six drawers, which included pre-finished white drawers and all of the drawer hardware.<br /><br />IKEA also sells frames that support the drawers, however, we needed something that would custom fit our closet, so their option was completely over priced given our needs.  We headed to Home Depot and purchased two plain <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-Melamine-White-Shelf-Board-Common-3-4-in-x-15-3-4-in-x-8-ft-Actual-0-75-in-x-15-75-in-x-97-in-1605490/202088775" target="_blank">8' x 16" white melamine boards</a>.<br /><br />Once we returned home, we ripped everything out of the closet, patched things up and I painted the closet with two coats of Sherwin William's Deep Sea Dive.  Don't you love cozy Saturday nights at home? <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRnmVXxfWPfSVUANUnFCg5bzNObaPpM9dPfHqmvlldN-FGqln_rFV_aVMr38IXKmWsTdtPrQMOQA_e0uqc68UKey20d99p9dwN-POGAm-V4upYLXUVCkW751iOpM_WWkTmd47sQdc15Ga/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRnmVXxfWPfSVUANUnFCg5bzNObaPpM9dPfHqmvlldN-FGqln_rFV_aVMr38IXKmWsTdtPrQMOQA_e0uqc68UKey20d99p9dwN-POGAm-V4upYLXUVCkW751iOpM_WWkTmd47sQdc15Ga/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_2.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>(cell phone night shot - all I had to work with)</i></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />The following evening, once the two coats of paint were dry, it came time to cut the melamine boards down to size and to fit the new IKEA drawers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCYo0T9hu8LzoCwuMjJGc4hdXLeFf8MJGPDvPmOhZL9mNw3DYmQQMQbVxBhT8-QQwl7XZ28R5GyD76pn55uQgwCnAM0hboCvJLOJVa-ZFToRozUx30b4jYDoDZYdMTF00T7L48YXHUY99/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCYo0T9hu8LzoCwuMjJGc4hdXLeFf8MJGPDvPmOhZL9mNw3DYmQQMQbVxBhT8-QQwl7XZ28R5GyD76pn55uQgwCnAM0hboCvJLOJVa-ZFToRozUx30b4jYDoDZYdMTF00T7L48YXHUY99/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />We wanted the frames for the drawers to be about the same depth, so we cut down the melamine to 14" deep.  We always recommend using painter's tape when cutting any finished material.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOd607OYAlkDSCpR44satzCZcEFMr45TTZTINLR3GwGuWYR6jfh22rIlYgNJhRDkJrpQDlITZC6Ke9glWy0GunAQPxbOwiPcde537RcDGYiGEKJf3QVgYNYvegG55BmACAqZqvli2oHzW/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOd607OYAlkDSCpR44satzCZcEFMr45TTZTINLR3GwGuWYR6jfh22rIlYgNJhRDkJrpQDlITZC6Ke9glWy0GunAQPxbOwiPcde537RcDGYiGEKJf3QVgYNYvegG55BmACAqZqvli2oHzW/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />We had a total of 6 drawers to work with (one for each family member and another for our furry pups) and each drawer is 6 1/4" tall (6 3/4" with attached gliding brackets).  To allow a small bit of space between for opening, we spaced each drawer 7" apart.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDfppI0HmB1Y22k5ka9pZ1vrwn1xtqBwu2_Cu6N9gM1o0Ei0PThHErgeTl29fu9GtGqGyGFgVcUxEzSDk_sfhLgblxgdxlOONbUgB4kTBGLjfOZkB4cpalrlHQnNjeWawsrTpPSfr7Jxe/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDfppI0HmB1Y22k5ka9pZ1vrwn1xtqBwu2_Cu6N9gM1o0Ei0PThHErgeTl29fu9GtGqGyGFgVcUxEzSDk_sfhLgblxgdxlOONbUgB4kTBGLjfOZkB4cpalrlHQnNjeWawsrTpPSfr7Jxe/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />The bottom of each rail was installed in 7" intervals, measuring and pre-drilling before attaching each rail with the provided drawer hardware. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguN8E4VqKE1YI7_Y2VnfjLGpwPaQMgmp4_U7bUVjZIQnwZ6l4CU-ruIE99aaSXFCbf0Gxsgy6_zQyYJpdvScTyTG9910_VpXZqPVL6TkfABxuVB196itky4JxZmfQVqXdSl8huYOw8Wka7/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguN8E4VqKE1YI7_Y2VnfjLGpwPaQMgmp4_U7bUVjZIQnwZ6l4CU-ruIE99aaSXFCbf0Gxsgy6_zQyYJpdvScTyTG9910_VpXZqPVL6TkfABxuVB196itky4JxZmfQVqXdSl8huYOw8Wka7/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />The holes were also measure to ensure the face of each drawer would remain flush with the edges of the frame boards.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWouhdugVThZgYuBzQAa6qjSSUBeT5x2sP-2YEup6BadNmdOOmqEtrT5i8pNtcUEnDGE3MK7UOzk7BEPrmAp3kK1wqAg23l4kgzORZD27jczo5WW0UoTN0RQR18ZrOZc7huaRqaCw8meOt/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWouhdugVThZgYuBzQAa6qjSSUBeT5x2sP-2YEup6BadNmdOOmqEtrT5i8pNtcUEnDGE3MK7UOzk7BEPrmAp3kK1wqAg23l4kgzORZD27jczo5WW0UoTN0RQR18ZrOZc7huaRqaCw8meOt/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_7.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the rails were attached, we placed the boards inside of the closet to determine installation placement.  We both decided that keeping the unit centered seemed to really chop up the hanging area, and keeping it aligned right flush with the wall made for better use of the space.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasXKXir1uXGDAy_5KTTgxRFTBJmgb4ccFMBAi-ja-YTmp7Uv_VKmixjs8rpt7U75BRkf4ll0TMqfbegxDShabejqQXvlAN8pa1U47pfMdVdvslEX43iqIx2IYfN0hcW4qP4t9JK-Ypnc9/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiasXKXir1uXGDAy_5KTTgxRFTBJmgb4ccFMBAi-ja-YTmp7Uv_VKmixjs8rpt7U75BRkf4ll0TMqfbegxDShabejqQXvlAN8pa1U47pfMdVdvslEX43iqIx2IYfN0hcW4qP4t9JK-Ypnc9/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />To be sure everything was nice and secure, we screwed the side board of the drawers into wall studs.  We then added the drawers and affixed the top shelf by screwing down into the center of the vertical boards.  Oh!  And we installed a bit of our new kitchen flooring (sneak peek alert!) as well as some new white trim.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHDI6mPIXS1B-WksSuP2tes7zD_bhKINHE9tNnCVFaU3oGA6LL-FEnSeMKu_r1nZ2Fve41hG-9UcUUOkGknAGH0a4o2nXw9YSKXAGvFEZm-qAur2skZLgemvSyiSLoBYf6umormuShh__/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHDI6mPIXS1B-WksSuP2tes7zD_bhKINHE9tNnCVFaU3oGA6LL-FEnSeMKu_r1nZ2Fve41hG-9UcUUOkGknAGH0a4o2nXw9YSKXAGvFEZm-qAur2skZLgemvSyiSLoBYf6umormuShh__/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />No more sagging top shelf!  And I loved the drama of the deep sea blue paired with the pretty white trim and new closet system!  In fact, I have been itching to bring in a bit of deep hued drama to play with all of the white and light happening in the rest of the space.<br /><br />Although I didn't want to compltely split the closet with the drawer unit, I was a little nervous about accessibly of the drawers being installed so far to the right of the closet.  However, when pulled out as far as the rails allow, everything really worked out beautifully.  Once the new closet door is installed, because we are not doing bi-folds again, we still should have no issue getting at the contents of the drawers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8ER5kAwDZL9XqxPLItOmNfw3YETg5cb_AG6zFzsemm5ENrAQEfnfV92q5Feoko47lRpQiqKrd0I9o1bY6_QoSHQsv8H2cHUa_nrvtWJyLOMSErvYGtVyApMW2ymMJrEzYJisym_mOpKs/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8ER5kAwDZL9XqxPLItOmNfw3YETg5cb_AG6zFzsemm5ENrAQEfnfV92q5Feoko47lRpQiqKrd0I9o1bY6_QoSHQsv8H2cHUa_nrvtWJyLOMSErvYGtVyApMW2ymMJrEzYJisym_mOpKs/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_9.jpg" /></a></div><br />Next step was to add back the hangers and label each drawer.  I also swapped out the baskets with our pretty white laced options (truly one of my most favorite basket purchases ever).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9BXgzycfs1rfRVGVCHstqHR60ey9x6o0_xQi77Vkj2WT9V1hxzCBbyUymW7nX3wU3L6VT4y34e3XOGVrbXZ_rius-hrr7sJcoxvcmVo64_9VScc6210uhFDn0LexRd3KVJCKITb5aKaZ/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9BXgzycfs1rfRVGVCHstqHR60ey9x6o0_xQi77Vkj2WT9V1hxzCBbyUymW7nX3wU3L6VT4y34e3XOGVrbXZ_rius-hrr7sJcoxvcmVo64_9VScc6210uhFDn0LexRd3KVJCKITb5aKaZ/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_11.jpg" /></a></div><br />This time, I decided to only add the same number of hangers as jackets we want to store within the closet; one hanger for each family member.  We have never used the closet for hanging guest jackets as they are typically hung on hooks near our front door or in a spare closet in our guest bedroom for larger gatherings.  This truly is all the hanging space we <i>should</i> need.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABfkgK5aBT3NdmLHRYThvMtXsqSqVYsw_6QuQpSYp0jh9Tt5CU83bq3DxRug5xvCixbtNcyycZnxaSciW7rppTFR-zxV8uyDmphMoJmksHqohrgI_vYIrsmRtqE8Ygqb7NUWWh6NQZV5Q/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABfkgK5aBT3NdmLHRYThvMtXsqSqVYsw_6QuQpSYp0jh9Tt5CU83bq3DxRug5xvCixbtNcyycZnxaSciW7rppTFR-zxV8uyDmphMoJmksHqohrgI_vYIrsmRtqE8Ygqb7NUWWh6NQZV5Q/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_15.jpg" /></a></div><br />The label holders are the adhesive Martha Stewart bookplates from Staples.  I am on my last bunch of previously stashed purchases and the tears are flowing because they have since been discontinued.  Staples and Martha, if you are listening, "For the love of all things pretty and organized, please bring back the bookplates!!"<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3njKORB8NgRJ1ITHIPaoIzhWJNJxmEzF3_fIw07jiG_4AWd3PlyOHxc2PT5Ts23tslcxmaTdtuKgJJJWzldCfRfZGGUDpaP-urb29ZUUeJ6C-aEc8WCXzh9AunfZBg6FDyddw0THajpa/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG3njKORB8NgRJ1ITHIPaoIzhWJNJxmEzF3_fIw07jiG_4AWd3PlyOHxc2PT5Ts23tslcxmaTdtuKgJJJWzldCfRfZGGUDpaP-urb29ZUUeJ6C-aEc8WCXzh9AunfZBg6FDyddw0THajpa/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_13.jpg" /></a></div><br />The drawers are labeled by family member in order of our height to make sure everything is as easy to get at as possible.  Pets on the top and our youngest son's items at the bottom.  And just like the kitchen cabinets and drawers, these are soft closing, making them even more of a win in the name of the storage game.<br /><br />Delightful before and after?  Why of course!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCELkBl8y7vjjtfQStS92w-l3wxPGEQO-dEXPy6gd20dZdq08oZRVRVZz8ge4FXFZyqXVYRtNljdhDsuQYnbU-viNxcCL1-7ESv7wq3vFDVuLYux672YggM48XKkYK1p2togSsUgY9VNj-/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_BeforeAfter.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCELkBl8y7vjjtfQStS92w-l3wxPGEQO-dEXPy6gd20dZdq08oZRVRVZz8ge4FXFZyqXVYRtNljdhDsuQYnbU-viNxcCL1-7ESv7wq3vFDVuLYux672YggM48XKkYK1p2togSsUgY9VNj-/s1600/Coat_Closet_Makeover_Organization_BeforeAfter.png" /></a></div><br />This is about the 26th makeover the closet has received, so if this doesn't work out, I may have to go into hiding...  And I still have to organize the drawers, but I have a pretty little plan up my sleeves for those, so stay tuned! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

A Coat Closet Makeover... Again...

There is nothing normal when it comes to our coat closet.  The location is odd and it tends to change roles and evolve as our family grows, ...

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