DIY Storage Ideas

There is a large variety of storage solutions available, and there is no shortage of stuff requiring storage containers: seasonal items, art supplies, keepsakes, and important documents are all items that need safekeeping. Decorative boxes are a great solution to hide away items not in use and as long as you can find one that suits your style and décor you’re all set. However, these boxes can be pricey depending on size, style and where you purchase it. An affordable alternative is to make your own decorative storage boxes. Decorating storage boxes adds a nice personal touch and enhances the box with beauty bound to match your style. The boxes you choose can be cardboard boxes, milk crates, fruit crates or just anything you have around the house. To decorate you get to choose your personal preference of fabric, paint, wood finish, or decorative stamps. Shoe boxes, cardboard boxes, and canvas storage bins are also excellent options for mini self-storage. Storage boxes may be any size and using them can add storage to your existing space in closets, under beds, and just setting out as part of the existing décor.
• Helpful Hints for Better Storage
Ray provides packing and storing tips to help you get the most of your self storage experience with us.
• Make Your Own Decorative Storage Bins
Learn how to transform basic plastic bins into chic storage solutions at WomansDay.com.
• Craft Room,covered cardboard storage boxes | Make It and Love It
I made these storage boxes completely out of old cardboard boxes covered with a little fabric on the front.

Fabric Boxes
Measure the surface of the box precisely. You will not want a piece of fabric that ends up hanging off edges or fitting loosely. Remember you will need two separate pieces, and possibly three. One for the outside of the box, one for the lid, and possibly one more for the interior. Mix and match colors and patterns for added aesthetic appeal. Applying is simple: using either a hot glue gun or fabric glue, apply the fabric to the bottom of the box first. Make sure that you have accurately measured the distance of the box edges from the edges of the fabric so that it is even. Using a flat piece of throwaway wood or cardboard as a table, mark out the exact location where the box is going to rest on the fabric. Apply the glue, but not too liberally, to the fabric, then lower the box onto the fabric where it should rest. Place a heavy object in the box to solidify the adhesive and let it rest for an hour or so. re.

Old Wooden Boxes
Wooden crates were often used a half-century ago for transporting fruit and liquor, but have fallen mostly out of style at this point for this purpose. Since it is such a popular trend now for furniture and storage items to have a weathered, lived-in look, wooden boxes can fit right in with this theme and can provide the storage you need for your home. This is great for people on a budget because these items can be easy to come by. First, ask a local business if you can have or buy any wooden boxes that might end up in the trash. (Don’t just pilfer through businesses’ dumpsters; in most cases this is illegal.) Antique stores will also often have these available somewhat cheap. Once you have a few in your possession, simply apply a new stain or a coat of paint, or even spray paint them through a stencil with your names. Then simply place them on shelves or under the coffee or end tables. They keep all of your knick-knacks out of the way but look fashionable and rustic while doing so.
When it comes to self storage, be creative. Many cost effective and eye-catching projects can provide both a decorative look and additional storage for your home.