Organizational purchases at the thrift store

**williamson_ja** · 01-19-2012, 11:24 PM

So, today I bought a bunch of different baskets today at the thrift store for $0.50 each. Then, I spray painted them all red and put a pretty ribbon on them. The whole project cost $5 for 5 baskets with all the supplies. I used them to organize my spice cupboard and it looks fantastic. If you buy storage containers new, they can be pretty expensive (especially if you want something that looks good). I saw some at walmart that looked similar to what these looked like at the end of the project for $7 each. When you buy them at the thrift store, they can look mismatched. I found the idea to spray paint all of them to match and add the ribbon off one of my favorite blogs. I hope this helps someone. I thought it was a great idea and I'm thrilled with the results.

**frugalfranny** · 01-20-2012, 01:34 AM

I like looking for storage type items at TS.........have to be thinking outside the box and then you have a great find.

Bought a bunch of zippered pouches (cheap) to put inside another large one for an emergency kit.

My spice cupboard wouldn't have room for any baskets........it is JAMMED with spices......

**mamamia** · 01-20-2012, 05:53 AM

What a cute idea! I'm not sure it would work in my cupboards either, but I sure could use an idea like that for the kid's bathroom closet. I seem to always be battling with organization in there!

Thanks!

Theresa

**leighcat** · 01-20-2012, 06:48 AM

I never thought of that. What a neat idea! Can you post pictures?

**227melissa** · 01-20-2012, 09:46 AM

Use baskets for storage all over my house, all from the thrift store. Don't really want them to match exactly kind of love the homey old fashion look.

**frugalwarrior2** · 01-20-2012, 10:07 AM

I spray painted a bunch pink for DD's baby room years ago (she's nineteen) to match the kitties in the baskets on the wallpaper border.
I think your project sounds great. My spices take up 2 drawers in a lg. rubbermaid stackable in my stockpile pantry. I never do anything small!
S.A. and garge sales are a great place to get baskets-cheap. Most people can't see potential just what something is at the moment.
Forgot to say I like the ribbon touch.

**Libby** · 01-20-2012, 10:10 AM

Don't you feel proud that those baskets mean more to you b/c you put forth the effort to make them your own vs just buying them at retail?

WTG!

**bookwormpeg** · 01-20-2012, 01:34 PM

Cute idea....I am trying to get organized and refusing to buy anything to do so. I am using what I have...as someone said "thinking outside the box." Would love to see a picture of your baskets.

**heartofmine** · 01-23-2012, 01:20 PM

Great ideas. I use baskets too for storage. We are building a new home and for the first time ever I'm going to have a big walk in pantry. I've been picking up baskets at thrifts and yard sales to use in it to keep things organized. Spray painting them to match is a great idea. Thanks.

**Jets Jewelry** · 01-23-2012, 02:57 PM

Wonderful idea

**williamson_ja** · 01-23-2012, 08:52 PM

I can't figure out how to post pictures yet. If someone can tell me how to do it, I'll get pictures posted.

My next project is to redo a table we got for free. I'm painting the legs black. Then, I'm going to sand the top and restain it. I love cheap/free stuff that can be repurposed to make wonderful new things for your home.