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How to make “In-Boxes for your kids
Do you find yourself at the end of each day with a whole bunch little odds and ends around your home, none of which belong to you? All of which belong to your kids? There are many methods for getting kids to pick up after themselves. I have tried many of them, most of them only work temporarily. This is by far the best method I have found for organizing your “jonque des enfants”!
I learned this tip from a highly organized client, who learned it from a professional organizer her husband’s firm had hired to get his employees organized. We have had this system for a while, and it works!
This is what you will need:
Plain box that you can paint to suit your tastes, I purchased these for cheap at Michael’s.
Sandpaper, 220, and 400 (for between coats), paint of your choosing, Stencils or paint pen for children’s names…
Other Materials (optional)
Wax, sand paper for distressing and latex gloves (my hands are bad enough as it is)
Tools: Leveler, Straight Line Laser tool, Long screws, stud finder and pencil
I began by sanding the boxes thoroughly with 220 grit to smooth them out. Next, I painted them with a toned down black paint I had left over from a previous project. Â
I then used painters tape to secure stencils and spelled out each child’s name and initial on the boxes. I staggered the letters for visual interest.Â
I had my kids help with this step, I used a stencilling brush and basic white acrylic paint.Â
When stencil paint was completely dry, I used 220 grit to distress the edges and the letters. I then went back over the edges with my favorite Antiquing wax to give it an “aged” look.
Now ready for the install…
I placed my boxes at the landing of my stairs, it is wide enough that it will not obstruct the foot path, and right in the way of kids as they make their way upstairs.
Measure out how much space you want between each box. Leave enough space so it is easy to retrieve items and not bump the box above it. Â
Use a straight line to mark where you want the box to go. Use your stud finder to find a secure spot for a screw.
I installed two screws for the box to rest on, the slats just sit on the screws, which I tightened down after I made sure they were level:
perfectionner!!!
Here they are in the finished form:
 Now, the motivation to get your kids to regularly empty out their in boxes will be up to you…..
Check my side bar to see where I am linking up this week!
au revoir – GTC
Linking this project up to:Â
http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/2011/08/tutorials-tips-link-party-23-stella-dot-giveaway-50.html
Very cute! I love this idea. I don't have any kids but should do this for my husband, who is horrible about leaving odds and ends strewn about the house all the time.
I love this idea…there are so many “bits and pieces” everywhere. I like the idea of putting it all in the box to corral it all in one spot. My wheels are turning for how I can adapt this idea for my family….
Love this idea, I love how you made them look old and rustic. Love your blog! I am about to go buy burlap for a chair I bought for $10! First time using burlap, wish me luck!
cute idea!
Awesome idea! and keeps clutter under control! 🙂
the miller's
prezidentail life
Great idea, I love the boxes!
These are adorable. I will have to remember this when my girls are older. More the Merrier Monday will be open until Wednesday at midnight. I would love for you to stop by and link up your in boxes. http://diyhshp.blogspot.com/
so cute! I love your little boxes! You did a very nice job!
gail