Every once in a while we do a project that has us wondering, “why the heck haven’t we tried this before!” and using craft crates to make DIY built-in shelves was one of those projects! I think I said 250 times, “This is so stinkin’ easy!”
This project was part of our coastal bedroom makeover episode we did for “Knock It Off” If you missed the episode a few weeks back, you can check it out here!
We’re big fans of craft crates, we like that they’re cheap, easy to work with, and totally customizable! We picked ours up at Michael’s on sale for just under $10- but, we were kinda bummed though because they were on sale online for seven, but we waited and missed the sale. Dangit!
First, we painted all the crates white. You could use spray paint, but it would get costly, and you could paint by hand, but your arm might fall off… we used a paint sprayer and it made it a quick and easy step!
We use a sprayer similar to this one that we connect to our air compressor. Sometime soon we’ll do a round up of our go-to tools for the show- I know a lot of you have been emailing us about that.
Once the crates were dry, we brought them into the room and stacked them on two bathroom vanities that we had picked up at our local ReStore. We did a combo of vertical and horizontal and left open squares where the wall color could show through.
Once we had them all stacked, we just put a couple nails into the back of each crate, securing it to the wall. It doesn’t get any easier than this people. If you saw the episode you know that I did this project with a 6 month pregnant woman and even she worked it like a boss! If you’ve never tried one of our building projects before, this would be the perfect one to start with!
Finally, so that the crates could go all the way across, we cut a piece of pine, painted it, and rested it on either side, attaching it with a few nails. Then, we could just sit the top row right on top (we also attached them to the wall with nails- we don’t want to be the ones responsible for anyone’s built-ins crushing them in their sleep! Yikes!)
Sorry we don’t have more process pictures, but you could watch the episode (hint, hint) and then see every step in real time! Jess and I were chatting about this project and we think it could have a completely different feel if they were painted black or another color. This room has a coastal vibe, but it could work with a ton of styles!
So, if you’re looking for an inexpensive solution for built-in storage, give craft crates a whirl!
PS- If you think this project is kinda-sorta cool, would you Pin it? Facebook has been killing us and not letting the world see our projects. Thanks for the help- we SO appreciate it! Darn you Facebook! LOL.
this is such a game changer- I love it! I must remember it for when I turn one of my closets into a built in desk space!
Your answer was just what I nedeed. It’s made my day!
Watched this video a few days ago and loved it! I want that room!! Or better yet come do something at my house ……any room you’d like
Love it! I would love for you to redo my house. Sent you an email…..
Ohhh I love this!! You have my wheels turning for my living room in the future…hhhhmmmm
It would be good if you could break down how you trim out and did the vanities. I am new to DIY and i need step by step instructions.
Very nice! I would love if you guys would help me rearrange things at my house to give it a more Nutica feel. I have all American Signature furniture and accessaries but its missing your touch. Please contact me. Mrlon3132012@hotmail.com
I’m obsessed with “Knock It Off”!!!!! I’ve seen each episode multiple times. I have to say I absolutely LOVE the wall of built-in crates. Genius! Keep up the great work.
Hi Jacqui,
Thank you so much for watching the show and visiting our blog. We’re so grateful for your support! 🙂
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