149 Reader Space: Swoon Worthy Dollar Store Storage

We often times look at dreamy magazines and high end pictures so that we can identify what we adore about it and then try to replicate that look on our own personal budget.  What I love about today's reader space is that you look at it and think, "Gosh, she must have spent a fortune on fancy storage containers, I could never afford that" only to find out that she found majority of her items at.... THE DOLLAR STORE!



Jen wrote:

Hi Jen, it's Jen!

And like you, I HEART organizing! And your blog, of course! I love how it motivates me to simplify my life every day. As I get older, I am quickly beginning to realize that putting in a little effort organizing my home will save me loads of time in the future, and who doesn't like to save time {and money!}.

Last summer I decided to overhaul my kitchen cupboards, and not only make them more functional, but more pleasing to look at! All that mismatched packaging and cardboard boxes be gone! I love being able to see everything, so I know when I'm running low on an ingredient and can put it on my shopping list instead of finding out that I'm almost out when I need it for a recipe.

I sourced out my local dollar store, and was SO happy to find everything I needed there, instead of having to fork over $20 a pop for the containers I originally wanted. The cost to outfit this one large cupboard was under $50! Here's the breakdown.

8 x Vintage Looking Square Glass Containers $1.50 each = $12

6 x Large Plastic Bulk Containers $2.00 each: $12

6 x Glass Round Containers $2.00 each: $12

20 x Clear plastic "disposable" containers $2 for 10 = $4

4 x White Plastic Baskets $2 Each: $8

Total Cost: $48

Last week I took my pantry makeover one step further and designed some fun and vintage-inspired labels that make me smile every time I look at them! I believe that organizing should be equal parts pretty and practical, and I think this fits the bill! I loved the white baskets for loose kitchen items so much, that I even bought some for the fridge and am head over heels in love with them. Can't beat their $2 price tag either!

The labels I designed on my Mac using various inspiration I found online. I'm not a graphic designer by any means, but my past life as a wedding/event planner allowed me to develop some elementary skills for label/graphic making. The only problem with my label-proficiency is that I often have creative bursts that make me want to re-design and re-label everything! However, I must say I really like these ones so I think they will stay for a while!

Hope you enjoyed a peak into my pantry and THANK YOU for all of your inspiration!

Jen 
http://thesocialhome.blogspot.com/

OK, I am warning you, this is incredible.  Here is what she accomplished!  Oh SO pretty!

After I spent too long gazing through the gorgeous space, I pulled myself together enough to ask about the labels.  Here is what she had to say:

"I actually printed the labels on weather proof mailing labels from Staples that I had on hand from another project and then hand cut the shapes. I haven't had a problem with them so far but have also considered laminating ones in the future for more durability.  I expect them to last in the cupboard longer than the fridge though. I'm sure something similar could be done in vinyl- I just have yet to join the Silhouette club, but boy when I do I'm sure there will be some crazy label making in my house!"

Pretty super right?

What is better is that she is also offering up some freebie printables so you can have the same labels if you wish!

{click HERE to download your free copy of the rectangle pantry labels}

{click HERE to download your free copy of the square pantry labels}

• It's pretty, oh so pretty!  We have the same belief that organizing should be both practical and lovely!
• It's functional, I have always boasted that clear storage in the kitchen is the way to go.  It preserves the life of your food for longer and it gives you that quick visual inventory so you never run out of something you need in a pinch.
• She re-created an uber high end look on a dollar store budget.  I personally never would have guessed those items were $2 or less a piece!
• She made her own labels.  Anyone can do this!  Sometimes it just takes some trial and error, but I always encourage you to try!  The outcome is typically one you can be proud of!
• Her cabinet is streamlined.  It is far more functional than having endless amounts of boxes and bags just stashed on the shelves.  All of that mix and matched packaging can be overwhelming on the eyes and items can easily get missed.

And, lucky us!  If you love Jen's creations and are looking to have some customized, you can check out her Etsy shop here! 

Thank you Jen for reminding us to check out that Dollar Store FIRST when shopping for storage solutions.  No need to spend $20 per container when $2 will do!  That goes for anywhere in the house as well, just a little imagination can make any storage lovely.  Just look at the magic of those pretty labels.  Wow, they make such a show stopping difference!  LOVE IT ALL!

Lets share dollar store organizing stories.  Who else has been pulling off high end looks for less?  What's your best dollar store score?

ATTENTION!!  Want to be featured in a Reader Space edition?  Have an awesome organizing story to share?  I am looking for projects that have made a positive impact to your life.  Please send your story and photos to iheartorganizing@gmail.com and I would heart to feature them right here, on the blog!!  Photos should be high resolution and unedited.  Please include a description of the project, including any costs, inspiration, and how it has changed your life and routine for the better!  Oh, and no worries my friends, we will NEVER judge "before" pictures because that just wouldn't be nice!  Only love goes on at this blog!  More info HERE.