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Friday, January 18, 2013

222

DIY Cereal Box Drawer Dividers

Home Office month is in full swing!  And it's not just about the papers.  And paper piles.  And filing.  And paying bills.  It's also about the area you do your work within.


My desk is pretty neat and tidy and I have been really happy with how the organization has held up over the last year plus, however, there was one drawer....

It used to look nice and lovely!  My favorite acrylic drawer organizers and all!


But then one day, I decided I would rather use the acrylic dividers in my vanity for a fun project, and that I would address the desk drawer at a later date.  Almost five months later, it was time.  Here is a true life story of how drawers can suffer once dividers go bye bye:


Eeek!  Dumping ground!  Everything I use at my desk was being tossed right into the drawer.  I couldn't even tell ya what was at the bottom of the messy mess.  At least my pencil pouch was sort of acting like a divider, no?

Thank goodness for this month's challenge, because I am beyond words smitten with the outcome of my little drawer organizing project.  Here is what I used to DIY some super cute drawer organizers:


Pretty papers, {both wrapping and decorative cardstock}, regular tape and double-sided, pencil, scissors, box cutter and a yard stick.

Over the last couple of weeks, I have been collecting leftover food boxes such as those from cereal, waffles and granola bars.  Once I had enough to play with, I popped them into the drawer to see how I could use them as dividers to reorganize my madness.


Once I had my desired location for each of the boxes, I used the drawer as a guide to mark the height around each edge of each box.


Then, using the box cutter, I cut the boxes!


The next step was to slice down the decorative paper {any pretty paper will do}.


There are plenty of ways to wrap a box with paper, and after a few completed dividers I definitely had a system going.

I started by using a thin strip across the bottom, attaching it to the box with double sided tape.


Then I used a pencil eraser to push in the creases around the inside edges {carefully so the paper wouldn't tear}.

Once the first strip was taped down nice and tight, I repeated the same step the opposite direction.


Again, pushed in the inside edges with a pencil eraser and taped it all down.  I did find that it was easiest to do my creases/folds before taping, vs. trying to work around the tape.


All done!


Love polka-dot.  Seriously, obsessed lately.

Anywho.  Here they are all together in their happy new home.


So cute I could barely stand it!  I didn't even want to fill them up they were so darling!  Love love lovity love!


But, after oohing and aahing for a little bit, I refocused and started organizing.  I purged, put things back where they belonged and the rest of the items found themselves in their new brightly colored cereal box drawer organizers.


Everything had a home and was paired with like items.  Oh happy day!  No more messy drawer!


And just because I know you all want to see it in it's real live location, here is what I get to peek at now when I am working away and need to grab some hand cream or a highlighter:


One of my favorite projects yet and all using materials I already had and re-purposing food boxes.  Who knew?

I will always have a love for acrylic drawer dividers, but I now also have a new found love for leftover food packaging too!

What out of the ordinary objects do you use to keep your drawers tidy?  Yogurt cups?  Flea market bowls?  Shoe boxes?

222 comments:

  1. I love this! I will now collect boxes to do my kitchen junk drawer!

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  2. How lucky are you that the boxes fit so perfectly! I'm definitely going to do this - so much right up my alley - green organized, free! It will take me awhile to cover the boxes, but form follows function!

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  3. Oh wow, this is genius!! And I have just the perfect junk drawer for it at home. Thank you!!

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  4. Oh how I love this! Such a great frugal way for organizing! And a great way to repurpose all of the cereal boxes my family goes through!

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  5. Awesome! Where did you find the awesome paper??

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    1. Hi Jill!

      The papers in this post were found at HomeGoods, Paper Source & Archivers. You can snag all of my favorite wrapping paper shopping sources in this post here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/08/you-asked-wrapping-paper-wrap-up.html

      xo!
      Jen

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    2. I got nice wrapping paper (very similar to the blue) at Marshal's for $3. they had several different patterns as well. If your boxes are small enough scrapbooking papers are a great option. inexpensive and a huge variety. look for a Hobby Lobby of Michaels store in your area.

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    3. You made organizing so pretty! I'm going to snag this for my daughter's room but attach them together to make one of those jewelry trays that are so popular now but aren't worth buying!

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  6. Genius! Pinning right now and cutting up all my cereal boxes when I get home tonight! LOOOOOVE it!

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  7. What a great idea! I'm always needing storage boxes, but never want to buy any because they're so expensive. But I can just use some old cardboard food boxes!

    Chloe
    http://rainbowsandhoneysuckle.blogspot.com/

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  8. I loooooove this! I am seriously super thrifty and find it hard to spend on items that can be DIY or needs just a little bit of elbow grease. This is perfect!

    I seriously just blogged about making my own sewing supplies so my budget could be spent on more fun things!

    http://vintagezest.blogspot.com/2013/01/sewing-rewind-sewing-basket-edition.html

    I'm also wondering where you found the cute paper. :)

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  9. This is fantastic! And so resourceful. Great project!

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  10. Ok...this I can definitely do!! So thrifty!

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  11. Seriously cute idea!! You have no idea how much scrapbooking paper I have!!! I am not getting pages made fast enough!! I definitely could use this idea either in my scrap room or in my office. Thanks, Jen!!

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  12. I know this post was supposed to be about the DIY dividers, but where did you find the adorable pink plastic storage for your ear buds?

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    1. Hi Donna!

      Thank you! The ear buds are stored in a Q-Tip container. :) You can snag the details here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/04/organized-music-to-my-ears.html

      xo,
      Jen

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    2. OMG! Brilliant! Now that I know what they are, that's exactly what they look like! Thanks.

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    3. Thank you for sharing this great idea. I was wondering how we could line the boxes with some of the colorful duct tapes there are now. Would you say they could work as well?

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    4. I absolutely think you could wrap them in decorative duct tape! Such an easy solution!

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  13. OMG! This is the GREATEST idea!!! Thank you SOOOOOOO much for sharing!

    Xo,
    Ana

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  14. This is the coolest idea (so resourceful)! Did you come up with this on your own?! love it! When you mentioned you were hoarding cereal boxes to organize your home office I guessed you'd make magazine file holders...ha! this is much better! :) wow, I'm really excited about reusing cereal boxes.

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  15. I love anything that reuses cereal boxes! Thanks!

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  16. What an awesome, thrifty, and adorable solution!!

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  17. So, so cute! I am a huge fan of "upcycling" but have never thought to use cereal boxes in this way. Thanks for the inspiration! As a previous poster mentioned, I would love to know where you get your wrapping paper. I have been searching for some for a project, but I can't seem to find any that I love. Thanks!

    - Abby =)

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    1. Hi Abby!

      The papers in this post were found at HomeGoods, Paper Source & Archivers. You can snag all of my favorite wrapping paper shopping sources in this post here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/08/you-asked-wrapping-paper-wrap-up.html

      xo!
      Jen

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  18. Ha! I love repurposing, reusing, and recycling items!
    I have used boxes that my magnet file boxes came in, food boxes. And to decorate them, I use pretty "Duct Tape" there are some great colors and patterns now! I love Duct Tape! I want to be called " The Duct Tape Queen"!

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    1. Rhonda I would love to see some done with duct tape! How do you deal with the lines? Does it produce a clean finish?

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  19. I use the bottom card board sections of Velvetta containers. Now I must go wrap them in pretty paper! What a great idea!

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    1. I got the idea of the Velvetta containers from my Grandmother years ago. She would wrap hers in contact paper so they could be wiped down. I have just plain in my junk drawer and I too need to find paper to wrap them in. I also wrap the big office boxes you can purchase to use as storage in my bedroom closet. I have the leopard print paper to replace the pink roses, but haven't got them done yet. I love how she wraps them, wonderful idea. Vickie

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  20. I love this idea! I will definitely give it a shot for my messy drawers! So cute and thrifty!

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  21. Brilliant and pretty idea! I'd love to try this.

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  22. I love that you reused food containers! We have so much recycling, I will definitely use this tip. I also figured out recently that the big plastic containers that spinach and salad come in are perfect for transporting baked goods to a party. An entire batch of mini muffins fits in there, no problem!

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  23. Love the mix of patterns and colors in the paper!

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  24. Jen! You are amazing! Seriously. I love it!!

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  25. I've seen this on pinterest before but yours are hands down the cutest. I love the papers you chose.

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  26. Seriously - you must be some sort of genius!

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  27. Wow! What a great idea and cheap too! No more wasting boxes! Off to eat some cereal :)

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  28. love this idea! and how well all the boxes fit in the drawer! i hate empty space... do tell where the paper came from!!

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    1. Hi there!

      The papers in this post were found at HomeGoods, Paper Source & Archivers. You can snag all of my favorite wrapping paper shopping sources in this post here: http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/08/you-asked-wrapping-paper-wrap-up.html

      xo!
      Jen

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  29. Jen, I salute you! (I wondered what you were saving your cereal boxes for...)

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  30. this is pretty genius! and so very thrifty of you. love that it's totally free and functional!

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  31. Love Love Love this... Couldnt stop looking at the beautifully organized drawers!!!!!

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  32. Found organizing makes a person so happy!

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  33. I absolutely love reusing stuff because re-using is even better than recycling for our environment. I'm a jars, tins, boxes hoarder! I use them for organizing little spaces but us usual Jen, you took it to the highest level of cuteness possible!

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  34. Simply gorgeous, and might I add, frugal too! Love it, and I just might nick it! :)

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  35. Brilliant!! We've just moved and I've been procrastinating the office all because I want it really well organized!! This post has inspired me! Thanks for the great idea :)

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  36. Ditto all the "love" comments! I just moved into a new (old!) place with a built-in hutch. I am using this idea for all those drawers and cabinets!

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  37. Hi Jen: Lovin' this! i have some skinny drawers that are difficult to find storage for so i will definitely be trying this!

    If you don't mind me asking - where do you keep your printer?

    thanks!
    amy

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  38. I have several drawers that could use this kind of help, Jen. The pretty paper would cheer me up, too. Since the boxes would eventually wear out and require replacement, I'm thinking seasonal touches wouldn't hurt--Christmas wrapping, for example.

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  39. I SO need to do this. Like yesterday. ...next week, it's getting done!!

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  40. Completely love this! I plan on sharing this on my blog!! Thanks for sharing such an amazing project.

    Melissa
    http://shakeshakee.blogspot.com

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  41. Velveeta boxes work great, too!

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  42. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this! I get Birchbox once a month and the boxes are 5x7x2" and they work GREAT to put in a desk/craft drawer. Thanks for the idea to make them PRETTY!

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  43. I've been using cut down boxes this way for a while, but never this cute! I never thought to cover them. So happy & cheery looking. great wrapping technique too. I'm hooked on the plastic dividers too. I even use them for my silverware instead of one of those silverware things. Leaves more room in the drawer for iced tea spoons, straws,etc. Pinning this, thanks.

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  44. Brilliant! It's great to see simple but functional (and supercute) solutions like that.

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  45. I LOOOOOOVE this. I've been thinking about this as I've got a bunch of little boxes in a drawer - but none of them pretty. They're all just random boxes. Now I'll have to pretty them up like yours.

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  46. I can't stand the cuteness either. Saving up cereal boxes immediately! What the heck, I'll buy some just so I can make these, hehe.

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  47. You are a genius! I love this idea! I really need to organize my make up drawer and this is perfect! THANK YOU!

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  48. This is crazy amazing!! I would have never thought those dividers were paper covered boxes - I thought they were chic designer pieces! Thanks for reminding us all that it's so easy to repurpose stuff we all throw out everyday into something gorgeous & useful:)

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  49. I love this idea. I was just ogling a some beautiful wooden drawer organizers for my nightstand, but couldn't justify the cost. This is much happier to look at and just as good and organizing all those lotions, lip balms, reading glasses, eye drops.....

    But drat. Yesterday was recycling day and all my cereal boxes were taken away.

    OK kids...no more pancakes and eggs. It's all cereal all the time until I get my organized nightstand...and kitchen junk drawer...and bathroom drawers....

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  50. I think these types of projects are my favorites: using what you have (or could even be considered trash). They came out so beautifully too! I am definitely going to try this all over my house!

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  51. Great idea. Love all the colours and so easy to do.

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  52. Ok...this is something I can and WILL do!
    Thanks for letting me believe that ADD does not have to keep me from being organized! :-D

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  53. You are amazing! I never would have thought of that but it's genius!! I can't wait to do this. I have tons of scrapbooking supplies to use as well. This is one of my top 3 favorite blogs to follow/read. LOVE IT! Thanks for sharing! (This is Pinning material.) ;)

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  54. That's so creative!

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  55. what a great idea! I am going to do this with my classroom drawers as well as home! thank you:)

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  56. This is the best project by far of the last 12 months. I can use this system and idea for so many rooms....the ones with drawers...hahaha....love it love it love it! Thank you.
    I'm enjoying all the organizing ideas and really have gotten more organized than I ever have been before.
    Great ideas.
    Thank you.
    Blessings,
    Debbie

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  57. Clever idea! I love the fact that you reused instead of trashing the cereal boxes. I think I am going to try this with my daughter who loves crafts and doesn't care too much for organizing. Hopefully, this will help her peak her interest to organize her craft drawer.

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  58. Jen, you are an idea factory! Love it!

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  59. This is genius! Drawers are a big problem for me. I may try this in my bathroom drawer actually.

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  60. I am in love! And now I know EXACTLY what I will be doing with my empty boxes from here on out!

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  61. I loved seeing this! I am endlessly recycling food boxes, and always think, I should be able to re-use these somehow! Thanks for the idea :)

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  62. OMG such a GREAT and budget friendly tip. Thanks!!!

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  63. WHY IS THIS SO CUTE OMG this is brilliant

    stephanieslook.blogspot.com

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  64. OMG... This is so creative and fun! I'm starting to save cereal boxes now!! I can't wait :)

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  65. I was wondering where you get all of the adorable washi tape. Sources? Dividers are so cute!

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    1. I keep my eyes open for it when I am out and about and have found it at craft stores and even Target {although, often times limited options}, Paper Source also. My favorite spot is Etsy, this shop has been great to me: http://www.etsy.com/shop/TwineAndTape

      xo!
      Jen

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  66. I've been saving cereal boxes for some project just like this. Your tutorial is the perfect thing to get me busy - thank you!

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  67. what an amazing idea! love this blog xxx i am new to DIY and this is very inspiring !!!! thanks xxxx

    http://babyemilycloset.blogspot.co.uk/
    http://babyemilycloset.blogspot.co.uk/

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  68. Ohh this is very helpful and creative , i should try , thanks for this jen

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  69. Awesome!! Now I have to go run outside before the recycling truck gets here!! =)

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  70. how did you think of this?? Such a great idea Jen! I am now about to go dig through my recycling bin to see how many boxes I have so far! I can think of quite a few drawers that could use this type of makeover! Now to find some super cute wrapping paper!

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  71. I love this - I can't tell you how many of these boxes I send to the recycling bin each week when I should have been organizing my "junk drawers". Thank you!!

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  72. Great idea!

    I use the 16 oz and 32 oz Chobani yogurt containers for all-purpose storage. The plastic on these is really nice, and you can easily remove the outer printed label and be left with a plain white container. The lids are transparent, so you can easily see what's inside. Plus, they're stackable. Love, love, love these!

    Another great free storage idea is to reuse Crystal Light drink mix containers. The plastic label easily slides off, and you are left with a clear tube-like container with a secure lid. I use these to store my kids' markers, colored pencils, and all kinds of little household items. They lay flat in my drawers, so they're also nice to use to organize office and junk drawer supplies.

    Happy organizing, everyone!
    Monica

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  73. I love this!! I'm on a spending fast for the ENTIRE year, but this I can easily do with the supplies I alredy have. So I love this for being so super cute and so super sustainable :)

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  74. Hey Jen...This is such a great idea..love your blog!! Also wondering what do you use to make your home smell good like candles or warmers??

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  75. Your blog makes me happy :-) BTW- where do you find all your cute washi tape?

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    1. I keep my eyes open for it when I am out and about and have found it at craft stores and even Target {although, often times limited options}, Paper Source also. My favorite spot is Etsy, this shop has been great to me: http://www.etsy.com/shop/TwineAndTape

      xo!
      Jen

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  76. Oh. My. Stinking. Heck. You are a genious. YOU ARE A GENIOUS!!! A GENIOUS, I SAY!

    AAAAAAAAUUUUUGGGGGHHHHHHHH!

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  77. So much cuteness - I can't wait to try it! I've been on a huge clear acrylic kick, and this will be a nice way to mix in some colors and patterns that can change when the mood strikes!

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  78. Thanks for such a thorough how-to, and PS - I buy unopened drawer lining paper at the local thrift shop, which will work perfectly for this project when using larger side of each box to organize my "socks & slips" drawers!

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  79. I started this today! Yesterday I was so excited when I saw your post! I wish I could cut & paste my pic here in the comments but if you're "dying" :) to see it - you can look on Instagram my username is dnbarton (: Thanks for the inspiration! I have a huge junk drawer so far I've done 7 boxes and I honestly think it will take 7 more! yikes! but I'm pumped and l love the cuteness!!

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  80. Oh, Jen! This is why we love you! "Love, love, lovity love!" Best blog quote ever!
    Chris...I'm soooooo saving velveeta boxes....(yes, you all do buy velveeta, admit it) they are already the perfect height and sturdy!

    Thanks again Jen for your inspiration!!!!

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  81. Loved it!! just now i entered ur website, got love with ur first post. Thank u and keep doing this good work. May God bless u. Take care. Nasifa

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  82. very clever I will try this my drawers are terrible cant find a thing

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  83. OMG! This is insanely adorable!!! One of the best DIY projects I have seen! I forwarded this to almost everyone I know! Keep up the amazing work!

    xx
    Inna

    www.footprintsinthecity.com

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  84. I recently started collecting old tin loaf pans. They fit perfectly in our bathroom drawers. I like them better than paper, because they don't attract bugs.

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  85. Old baby food jars. For little things :)

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  86. Is there no end to your creativity? I think these drawer dividers are so pretty. I need to make me some ASAP!

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  87. lovely!!! Will have to put that one aside as a 'to do' (like you did lol).

    In the meantime I used cereal boxes to organise the rear (and almost useless) door of our 4wd.
    http://seemyfootprints.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/very-mini-mods-vehicle.html

    not a permanant option but it works for now. See how long it lasts :)

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  88. I know what I am doing this weekend with my junk drawer :) thank you for the creative ideas.

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  89. So cute! We use old boxes like these in our pantry to organize some of the smaller items. I never thought of covering them to make them prettier to look at. I just did my desk drawer organization this past week with organizing trays from the Dollar Tree. You're right, having things labeled with their own container makes it mentally so much harder to just throw something in the drawer.

    Do you ever have trouble with the wrapping paper getting ripped as you put things in and out of the containers, or is the paper thick enough that that's not a worry? I'm just thinking of all the Christmas presents that end up with a ripped corner before Christmas morning.

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    1. Hi there!

      I used pretty thick paper and because the dividers are so close together, they don't move around much, so, I am guessing things will last for quite awhile, but if not, it's simple to update. :) I wouldn't recommend the softer flimsier wrapping paper, I am guessing that would tear much easier and wouldn't be as forgiving to work with.

      xo,
      Jen

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  90. lol your just ahead of me, I am saving my food boxes also for this purpose. I have a few messy drawers to do!
    these are lovely
    J
    http://lifelovesand.blogspot.ie/

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  91. Wow, what a great idea! Those dividers are so pretty. I am always looking for ways to save money for my clients. I will definitely be saving up food boxes and putting this idea to use.
    Thanks for sharing.

    Brooks Hall, Professional Organizer
    www.peninsulaorganizing.com

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  92. I definitely need to do this when I clean out my guest room (which is where my desk is!). Thanks for the how-to on the wrapping.. I wouldn't have tried it that way and would have wound up with a mess!

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  93. I love these thanks for the great tip!

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  94. Excellent earth-friendly idea...love, love, love!

    Elisabeth@Simply Parkers

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  95. I love your site!!!! I'd like to know if wrapping paper can be used as I don't have scrapbooking paper where I am? Is it the same? or different?

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    1. I used wrapping paper and scrapbook paper. Both worked great, but I recommend a heavier weighted wrapping paper for a longer life on the dividers :)

      xo,
      Jen

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  96. Wow, your drawer looks amazing!! So pretty!

    In the bottom drawer in my kitchen unit, I've used boxes that pouches of cat food came in as they are really sturdy and just the right size, but I've yet to 'prettify' them (is that even a word?! If not it should be!)

    I also used small, clear grape punnets inside a drawer in the lounge to corale all the odds and ends that get thrown in!

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  97. Great ideas here - a quick question: do you have any suggestions for the really sturdy boxes perfume sets often come in? I always save them bec it feels wrong to throw them but never know what cool thing to do except hide junk in. Problem is they are all different so they dont look great by themselves. Many thanks in advance

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    Replies
    1. Hmmm... really depends on your storage needs, but maybe hair accessories, makeup, drawer dividers, small tools or hardware, etc...

      Sometimes I just keep empty containers around until the day I have a problem to solve, then, I am happy I saved them! :)

      xo,
      Jen

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  98. Such a great, inexpensive project!

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  99. This is such a good idea for the long low dresser I have repurposed to my kitchen! The drawers are so deep I'm having a hard time using them well. Thanks girl!

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  100. LOVE this idea! How fun. I may need to do something like this for the kids too.

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  101. YEP- You're a genius :) These are so cute and practical, all wrapped up into one project. I'm polka dot obsessed lately as well. Hope you had a great weekend! xoxo

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  102. What a great idea! I have tried re-purposing boxes before but they looked so drab and out of place. I can't believe I never thought to cover them with pretty paper.

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  103. Thanks for the awesome idea! I believe there are so many materials that go to waste in our homes that have many repurposing functions. Thanks for getting the creative juices flowing!

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  104. I need to try this. Honestly, it's the papers that make it just...well, fun.

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  105. I use the clear plastic tubs that we buy apples in ... The 1kg packs have nice, strong tubs to put in the drawers so I can see everything in them ... Love the cereal boxes idea though :-)

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  106. This is the absolute cutest idea ever!

    Amber@sittingpretty13@blogspot.com

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  107. I love this. Love! The papers you chose makes for the prettiest drawer. I'd have a hard time filling them too!

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  108. I dont know if I could make them all fancy, but I sure know how to cut up things, I love to upcycle.

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  109. Hello. I love your idea!!
    Greetings from Poland :)

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  110. hi jen,

    wow soo cute n cheap DIY organiser.. u always give us sooo much
    inspiration and ideas with so much beauty..

    1st thing i everyday do is looking into your home..:)

    lovvvv your blog
    thanks

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  111. This is one of the best organizing projects I've seen in a long time - pure genius!

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  112. i love this!!! the boxes are just so pretty.

    Natasha @ www.serenityyou.com

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  113. i'm ALSO savings boxes at the moment to do this! i think i will modge podge them to make them a little more sturdy, though! what a FUN project and relatively cheap!

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  114. So pretty! I used some clear packing tape over the top edges ....hopefully will help prevent wear and tears.

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  115. I just did this for my crafting drawer - thank you so much for the instructions! You are inspiration!

    Credited you on my DIY blog (thoroughlymodernmandy.blogspot.com).

    =) Mandy

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  116. I actually did the same for my junk drawer last year (cereal and cracker boxes), but mine are still bare cardboard, so I think I might try this. It is SO much prettier!

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  117. Very very beautiful and useful
    Lilly (Italy)

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  118. Such a great way to reuse! I just pinned this. :)

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  119. I saved this tip and finally have started on it! My new (old) apartment has a built-in hutch/china cabinet, and I don't want ot put sticky contact paper on the old bare wood drawers, so using pretty paper (Target) and boxes will help spruce up those drawers. Thanks for the great tips! They're both frugal AND attractive!

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  120. What a perfect DIY project that anyone can do! I went right into my recycle bin and pulled out two boxes I had flattened. I pulled out the packing tape and reassembled them. I will be wrapping them tonight and will anxiously wait for my family to eat more boxed food... thank you!

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  121. just wow! thats brillant!! thanks for sharing!! :)

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  122. I use food boxes in my kitchen drawers. Mine are weird depths and nothing I have purchased has ever fit well. I love that I can make them as deep as the drawer allows. And toss them when necessary! I love how yours turned out with the cute papers! I have used contact paper on my kitchen ones so they are somewhat wipe able.

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  123. what a great idea... I know what I will be doing for the next to my drawers thank you

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  124. I just had to share with you that you made my day!! I tackled my junk drawers last week following this wonderful post and I was beyond thrilled when my father-in-law opened my "junk drawer" and went out of his way to tell me it was the most organized junk drawer he ever saw!! And coming from him, it was a huge compliment!! Thank you for sharing this brilliant idea!

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  125. So, so, so pretty! Definitely going to give that a try! Thanks for sharing. x

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  126. So cool! I love drawer organizers and making your own is even better! Love all the fun colors you used!

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  127. I tried this, enjoyed doing it. I cut the boxes differently. I cut the face or back this way you have a bigger "tray". I also used two different plain coloured paper.
    ~Wendy

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  128. We LOVED this project! Here's a link to our adventure tackling our bathroom junk drawer! Thanks so much for the inspiration!
    http://www.frommyhearthtoyours.com/2013/02/project-junk-drawer-overhaul.html

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  129. Awesome idea! I knew I was saving my shoeboxes for something. I have plenty of scrapbooking paper too. Already made one. Thanks!

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  130. Such a great idea! These are so, so cute! What a great way to reuse something we all have. I've got to try these. I just posted (today) a way fold a piece of white card stock to make a box for storage as well. You can stop by blissfulroots.blogspot.com to check them out. Thanks so much for sharing! I LOVE your site! P.S. New follower!

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  131. Hi, I am with Sage Magazine and we would love to feature this in our April issue. Just let us know if you are interested. Thank you! sagemagazineonline@gmail.com, sagemagazineonline.com

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  132. ooooh! I have a feeling I'll be here a LOT!! I <3 Organizing too! And this cereal Box trick is Brilliant! Can't wait to check out more of your organizing posts! Awesome Blog! :-)

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  133. FANTASTIC ! I love it
    thank you very very much

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  134. I have been dying to try these budget friendly drawer dividers since reading your post several months ago. I finally decided on the perfect place that needed so much organization... my bathroom drawer. I am a little worried since mine are not water proof {in the bathroom}, but so far they have been working great! Thanks so much for the amazing inspiration. Check out my bathroom DIY drawer dividers at http://levees-lace.blogspot.com/2013/04/eight-weeks-to-organized-bathroom-part-1.html

    ~Nicole

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  135. I like the idea but i dont have that kind of scrapbook or wrapping paper. I never do... I have contact paper and its hard to use contact paper on boxes. I couldnt finish it because my kids keep bugging me. I have to do alone when they are in bed.

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  136. i love the idea smart thinking i would love to know where you got your wood looking paper? that is awesome. geeky me lol but yea

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  137. Wonderful ideas! Thank you, so much, for sharing your creativity.

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  138. What a great idea!! I use those square transparent boxes where cotton swabs come, but pencils and scissors don't fit in, so cereal boxes is the solution. Thank you!!
    Sweet Faery Creations

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  139. Jen, is there a reason why you did not chose adhesive paper for this project?

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  140. Nope, not really. I just didn't need to use contact paper for where I am using the dividers, and I have a larger supply of colorful wrapping and craft paper. I also think wrapping paper is easier to work with at times.

    xo!
    Jen

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  141. Love, Love, LOVE! I am so making these. Actually, I'm going to have the kids make these for me. The drawer is coming out today and I am raiding the pantry!

    Thanks so much for the inspiration!
    ~Heather

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  142. Love this. Thinking this will be a great summer project to help the kids keep their desk drawers organized.

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  143. i love this! i was inspired to do it myself, my attempt is here http://abimakes.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/box-dividers-from-cereal-boxes.html

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  144. I love your idea! ! I took it one step further; I used kleenex boxes that have pretty colors on the outside and used contrasting paper or contact paper on the inside. They are really handy! Thanks for the inspiration! ! !!

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  145. love love love. I've had organizing problems with drawers, and can't pay the expense of decent looking drawer organizers, much as I wanted them! I really think this idea will work - thanks!

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  146. What an awesome idea. I posted a link to your blog for my readers to check out this cool idea. I used your idea to organize my LEGO® bricks. Stop by and check out my post at http://www.buildinglegoswithchrist.blogspot.com

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  147. I love this idea! I'm totally going to use it for my desk drawers to organize everything that's just rolling around in there right now. Where do you find the best/inexpensive wrapping paper and card stock?

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    1. Hi Ann!

      HomeGoods and Archivers are my go to places for pretty papers.

      xo!
      Jen

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  148. I have been using checkbook boxes for years but haven't covered them...I know what I am doing now!

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  149. My "kind of" organized make-up drawer thanks you in advance! And so does my scrapbook remnants drawer which is overflowing with pieces of beautiful paper that's waiting to be used. I have made a rule for myself in regard to what I keep or toss. If the paper is smaller than a standard size envelope it goes in the recycle bin, if not it goes "in the drawer" Same goes for the last couple of brads, ribbon, other embellies that have no home. "The drawer" will be cleaned up soon! Thanks for the help.

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  150. Very nice! I'm all for re-purposing! I have been doing this since forever... I was "green" before going green was gaining popularity in recent years! Thanks for the cool idea!
    Trisha

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  151. I collect all sorts of boxes - - drives DH mad, but when I find a few same-size boxes at Wal-Mart, for instance, they are mine. I always find them at school-supply sales there. The boxes are often empty, and sturdy, and they go in my basket. Have never been questioned about taking them, either. Sometimes I cover them, sometimes not, if they are brightly-colored, and have no printing on the outsides. I use them to corral my socks, bras, panties, etc., in a tall, library bookcase with glass-framed doors. I affixed long drapes of burlap to the insides of the doors and it looks pretty neat! My office at home is a glory of specially-repurposed boxes. It all started 50+ years ago with checkbook boxes and Velveeta boxes......I too was green before it was cool. I used to sit down in January and hand-date a year's worth of small notebook pages that I used for my personal appointment book, or "life book", as my brother called it. A few years later someone invented the Day-Timer and Filo-fax notebook systems. I am an antique dealer, and I often like to put things into special boxes - I am always on the lookout at Wal-Mart or Target for a variety of empty boxes! Such fun to re-use stuff and save money for other things, like yarn, for instance. I am a busy knitter with a giant-sized yarn stash. That lives in plastic bins, and is entirely inventoried on a datebase. I have used Crystal Light plastic containers for things. One of the shake-and-pour muffin mixes is in a circular plastic tube with lid, and these now hold double-point needles and crochet hooks by number and size. I treasure all the Cottonelle Wipes plastic lidded containers that I have - which are no longer available. Sewing and knitting notions are so happy living in these. Oh, I could go on and on.....and I see that I have! Thanks for this idea - a novel way of covering the boxes. I'm a newbie to your blog, but I expect to get lots more ideas!

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  152. I bought one of these drawer organsiers but I must say yours is much more creative! Well done!

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  153. Such a great idea, Jen! I love it. I'm going to try this for my bathroom drawers later this week. :)
    Thank you for the inspiration you provide me each week. :) I aspire to be like you in my own way. So thank you for sharing your light. :) Reading your posts make me smile. :) Your pictures are beautiful as always. :)

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  154. Silly question - where do I buy a box cutter like this?

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    1. Hi Alison!

      I believe we found ours at a local Home Improvement store. Can exactly recall which since we have had them for quite awhile now, they came in a multi-pack, but I imagine you could find them on their own as well.

      xo!

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  155. I pinned this so long ago, and have cereal boxes saved up to try this...I just need to pick a drawer and do it! I featured this idea on my blog today as well, to spread a little organization inspiration around :-) http://www.unoriginalmom.com/original-fridays-organization-ideas/

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  156. U R too Cute & Soo Funny!! I'm gonna start following u, (& as a Pinterest-a-holic, I don't usually follow bloggers) I don't have a site or NE thing, I'm just a stay @ home mom of 2 boys, & Wonderful husband, but Thanks 4 the GR8 ideas! I can't wait 2 C what u'll do next! God Bless!

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  157. I ADORE this idea! I have about six drawers I can use this on! I do use thrift store tea cups in one drawer... they were about 50 cents each. Just have to be careful not to open or close the drawer too roughly!

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  158. LOVe the colors and patterns you chose, way to recycle! I recently shared these on my Facebook page and they were a huge hit :) https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153743964365217&set=a.353593675216.349539.323548680216&type=1&stream_ref=10

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  159. I came across your blog via Pinterest and this is the first post I saw. I've been back reading since. Please continue to write and share ideas. I fell in love with your blog and its been bookmarked. Besides having great ideas, your articles are accompanied by nice photos which I appreciate. Love all the way from The Philippines! - Rica

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  160. I love this! I used a couple of boxes that I came across from the kitchen today, and made two drawer organizer boxes. I may never leave a cardboard box alone again.

    The only thing is, I haven't covered them, and I'm not sure I can do it and make it look nice.

    Sorry if I commented twice; I got no indication that my last comment "took."

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  161. This is such a genius DIY!! I made these dividers for three drawers and love them!

    I did find that it was easier to cut the boxes when they were flattened and then just tape them shut.

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  162. HI THERE! My name is Katie! First of all...this is my first comment that I have ever made on your blog, but I have been following your blog for a long time and I HEART IT! You have such amazing ideas! I have 1 drawer (that's right...1) in my master bathroom and I use it to hold my hair ties, some of my make up (foundations and powders), and a ton of other things. My drawer was ALWAYS a mess! Lately (thanks to you and a few other organizing blogs lol) I have been on a major ORGANIZING OVERHAUL! I decided to try this DIY Cereal Box Organizer for my bathroom drawer and it is amazing!!!! I can't tell you how excited I am to be able to open that drawer and not want to throw up all over it :). I have not yet covered them yet, but soon will once I gt the time too! Thank you so much for all of your inspiring ideas! You are awesome!

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  163. Oh gosh, just had another spinoff idea! I often have small items that I really don't want to combine with other things in a container but also don't want to waste space by separating them into another large container. I'm going to try making shorter boxes and layering them brick laying style. Don't know if it'll work but it's just another box away from being fixed. Hmmm, maybe make dividers from the cereal box scraps? Oh my, I have to go do something else for a while... :P

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  164. WE JUST MOVED 2 MOS AGO AND I HAVE LEFT OVER CONTACT PAPER FOR LINING THE SHELVES... THIS WILL WORK GREAT, AND NO COST , SINCE I ALREADY HAVE IT :)

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  165. Just stopping by to let you know I included this post in my favorite craft projects for February. These were the most popular posts on my Facebook page during February as well, so thank you for such a great project! You can see the round up here http://craftsbyamanda.com/2014/03/great-craft-ideas-february-2014.html :)

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  166. This is just the best result of drawer dividers I've ever seen! Thank you so much for adding photos of the wrapping process as well, I always make a mess with the papers! And I'm also happy to see the source of the papers in the comments, great job with the project and the post! Thanks for teaching us!

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  167. What a lovely way to organize a drawer! So colourful and fun! Thanks for posting. - Denise, Ottawa, Canada

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  168. i loved that , i made it and my kid loved it in his drawers too. thank you for sharing this brilliant idea

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  169. Awsome Idea. I have a cabinet( in Dutch a last) with 3 drawers, they can use some boxes :-)

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  170. OMW Jen, I am SO excited to see your post, I am gonna do this for my drawers asap, they're in dire need of some organisation! Just one question, how did you get all the boxes to fit so perfectly?? Hmmm, I might have to make some up eventually. Thank-you so so much!!! BTW, how do I follow you on Pinterest? Thanks hun.

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    1. Hi Candice!

      Glad you will be able to use this idea! I had quite a few boxes on hand to select from, so I just continued to piece and puzzle them together until I utilized the majority of the drawer space.

      You can find me on Pinterest here: http://www.pinterest.com/iheartorganize/

      Thank you!
      Jen

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