Monday, January 9, 2012

Homestead Quicktip- A Speedy Shelf Makeover

I recently bought one of those closetmaid cubical shelving units. It was plain white with 6 cubbies. I thought it would be a perfect fit next to the white crib on the 'Nursery Wall' of my bedroom. I didn't think to take a 'before' shot, so here's the generic picture of the unit I started with:



Not very eye catching, eh? Plus, it looked way too contemporary next to my spindle crib. So, here's what I did, and I will say right now that I LOVE the results! (Thank you, Lord!)  I went to the craft store and got some 12x12 red and white plaid scrapbooking paper. I trimmed it to roughly fit the backs of the enclosed 3 cubbies (11 1/4" x 11 1/4") and attached it with poster tack (so I can easily remove it later).  See how it looks behind the white lazy susan? (I purchased that for holding diapering supplies and miscellaneous clippers).

I realized, looking at this pic, that paper is not hanging perfectly straight. Off I go to readjust.
Thank goodness for using poster putty!


Then, instead of using the plain, solid color canvas bins that Closetmaid sells to fit the cubbies, I spent an extra $2/ea. for these great Martha Stewart ones from Home Depot.  They fit the openings perfectly, and the contrasting trim/handle definitely dress it up a lot more. Plus I love the fact there's a label holder for describing the contents.  Since this shelving unit is doubling as the baby's dresser, that will be very helpful for sorting onesies, gowns, etc.



So, here's a full shot of the finished product.  I am so thrilled with how it turned out.


I had originally planned to add some simple white scalloping to the horizontal edges of the unit, but then realized it would block the bins sliding in and out. Even still, just having the background paper and the upgraded bins looks so much better than the before shot, doesn't it? As an added bonus, I found the cranberry hatbox on sale at Safeway of all places! I hung it above the wipes warmer with a small 3M Command wire hook to store...what else? Hats!

I'm not sure what all is going to go in each cubby and basket yet. I've even bought a few items to possibly make a hanging bar across one of the papered cubbies, but am not sure if I will...Right now it has become a temporary catch-all for the great deals and hand-me-downs I'm receiving as well as the diapers I am hoarding! :)

(Blogger note: I am so thankful to the Lord for these blessings. We have been given most of the big baby gear, and have been able to buy the rest at deep discounts-including this shelving unit! I was happy just to have a pack n' play next to my bed, but I am thankful He has provided abundantly more than I could ask for.  While I am having so much fun getting ready for the baby, I want to be sure I give Him all the thanks and glory for what I have and what has been accomplished.  I realize none of this is truly important when it comes to having a healthy baby, but it has been a lovely gift to receive from above :)

Blessings to you and your homestead,
Hillary At Home

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