I especially like to make things that have a practical application, so I decided to make myself a hanging jewelry holder. For years, most of my earrings have been stored in a plastic grocery bag that I had stuffed them into when we last moved. Because I don’t have a good place to put them, they have languished in that bag unused. I don’t want a traditional jewelry box because I hate it when the earrings get all tangled up, and I don’t think it’s very easy to see what’s available or find something you’re looking for. I have been wanting some sort of display method where you can see everything and have everything easily accessible.
After spending way too much time online looking for earring holders, I decided that the picture frame idea was exactly what I wanted. I found some examples that looked easy enough to make on my own. I took ideas from different things I found so that I could have all the feature that I really wanted without any that I didn’t need.
My project was pretty simple—I bought a frame, a decorative metal sheet, and some hooks. I cut the metal sheet and replaced the glass and backing of the frame with the metal, using nails to keep it in. Then I drilled holes in the bottom of the frame and inserted the little hooks. In total, the project took about an hour.
A few things about this project surprised me. First, the cost of the materials. The frame was $15, and then I almost balked at buying a piece of decorative metal for $20, because at that point maybe I should just BUY a jewelry holder! I think this must happen a lot, when you want to make something yourself but it turns out to be much more expensive than just buying it. Of course, when you make it yourself, it will be exactly how you want it.
It was also surprisingly difficult to nail the metal sheet to the frame. It took some trial and error with different tools. Luckily my husband has a whole garage full of tools and nails and fasteners. Otherwise it would have taken many trips to Home Depot and much more hassle.
In the end, I am very pleased with the result and I love it! I even had extra metal to make another one for a friend.
That's the decorative metal grilles with holes that you've used, isn't it? What a fabulous idea - especially since I've seen that sort of thing in lots of colours, you can match your room's decor. And the hooks at the bottom to hang longer things like necklaces on are a terrific touch.
ReplyDeleteRosemary Bailey @ Wabi Iron & Steel Corp.