Ready to bring more upcycling habits into your routine this year? One practical place to start is by repurposing pre-loved items with a stylish, DIY twist. We decided to thrift some old metal file holders (which are super cost-effective and durable!) and transform them into pantry organizers for storing fresh produce. In terms additional supplies, all you need is spray paint, washi tape and kraft labels to create a unique kitchen organizing solution that also happens to be aesthetically pleasing.
Materials Required:
- Thrifted metal file holders (three or more)
- Spray paint in your favourite colours
- Drop cloth
- Mask
- Kraft labels
- Scissors
- Washi tape
- Markers in different colours
Related: Must-Have Gardening Essentials When You’re Short on Space
Step 1: Thrift Your Metal File Holders
Firstly, thrifting old metal holders to organize fresh produce is a great idea if you’re looking for an eco-friendly organizational hack that’s also easy on the wallet.
Metal file holders are extremely durable, and are a perfect solution for holding the weight of fruits and vegetables. Plus, you can customize them in any colour to match your kitchen aesthetic.
Bonus: The open file-holder design can help reduce food waste. This is because your produce will be showcased front and centre, where you’re less likely to forget about it, and the air circulation can also help prevent mold growth.
Related: The Creative and Affordable Way to Organize Your Spice Drawer
Step 2: Spray Paint the Kitchen Organizers
Place a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area (such as outdoors). Always wear a mask when spray painting. Make sure the file holders are clean and don’t have any rusted areas.
Shake the spray paint can for about one minute. Then, hold the can 30 centimeters away from the file holder and apply light, even coats from side to side until the file holders are completely covered in paint.
Let them dry for about one hour, and repeat this process for a second coat until each file holder is completely dry.
Related: Fridge and Pantry Organization Hacks That Can Prevent Food Waste
Step 3: Decorate Your New Produce Organizers
You can personalize your new produce organizers with kraft labels by writing the names of the items being stored. To attach the labels, we opted for a colourful washi tape pattern and cut the excess tape with scissors. We love this added decorative touch!
Related: The Best Fall Vegetables to Plant Before Winter Hits
Step 4: Add the Fresh Produce
Now it’s time for the fun part: placing your fresh produce in your newly labeled organizers, sorting them by category or use (we chose potatoes, citrus and carrots).
Happy crafting, and get inspired with more sustainable living ideas here!
Images Courtesy of Maca Atencio
