The Boxes of Christmas

I know you.

You're the thrifty sort.

It's okay, it's why we're friends.

 You've hit the after Christmas sales and giggled with glee at your 90% off scores.

Well me too, babies.

And after a cruise through Big Lots and Joanns Fabrics, I came home laden

with rock solid storage/gift boxes averaging under $1 apiece

Brilliant, no?

Well there IS the small matter of poinsettias, snowmen and Santas.

I want these for everyday use, just like the sturdy receptacles that run you $10 or better.

 What to do, what to do, what to do...?

 Oh, right, spray paint!

Those of you who have been here before know I favor Caribbean colors

to splash across my tropical home, so for these two boxes we 

played with Rustoleum's Raspberry and Key Lime colors in a gloss finish.

Give them three light coats, allowing them to dry in between,

for a smooth, even finish.

These will be perfect for my cloth napkins.

 While the paint dries, feel free to torture your Feline Overlord by playing

"The Pit and the Pendulum,"

 a well know favorite cat pastime.

Nab a little ribbon and your hot glue gun.

Starting from the center of the back of the lid, we're going to add a little contrasting trim

that will tie the colors together with our main hues throughout the house.

 Lap the ends over in the back.

 Tailored and simple, without a reindeer in sight.

And at around $2 per box, c'mon people, this was CHEAP.

Feel free to duplicate this quick storage project in taupe, ecru, or eggshell.

 I'm okay with neutrals...

 ...at YOUR house, of course.

 The idea here is to have a little fun and get yourselves organized for a song.

 Now, how do you tell what's in the box?

 If the cardboard is too thick for a hole punch, drill a quick hole.

Hang a tag and your contents are clean and easy to find.

This week is all about hiding your stuff in style.

Your style.

I'm well aware that I have the personal taste of a clown.

Tomorrow's project: storage for your collection of red rubber noses.

 Please do join us.