Easy DIY Shelf Project

Clutter often feels like chaos to me. But I don’t claim to be a minimalist either!

So this easy DIY shelf project was the perfect solution to display a small collection of Sea shells or Air plants here at the cottage.

This little project was quick, inexpensive, and very easy!

I found this cassette tape wooden crate at Goodwill for only $4.50. You remember cassette tapes, right? Everyone used to have them. But I never really saw them hung on a wall. I guess it was a “thing” though, because I see these storage crates pretty regularly!

I was inspired by the Sea shell display ( I snapped a picture with my phone), when we visited the Wonders of Wildlife Museum & Aquarium after Christmas.

The black background really accentuates the sculptural form of all of the beautiful shells!

After thinking about how I could display my own Sea shells (in a non-cluttery way) somehow I came up with the cassette crate. It had been hanging out in my garage awaiting it’s transformation!

First I had to get all of the black plastic slots out of the inside. They had been glued in, so it took a little bit of effort to get them all out!

I used a putty knife and slid it under. I successfully removed most of it, but not all. I could have tried some type of chemical remover or borrowed the hubby’s muscles. But he’s so busy with the kitchen remodel (and that pesky job) that I didn’t want to sidetrack him!

Next I screwed “D” rings onto the back for hanging. These can be found at any hardware store, or Wal-Mart.

I had this galvanized handle hanging around in the workshop. So I added it to the top for a little Farmhouse style!

Just look at those dovetailed corners! This crate is constructed well.

Finally, I painted the inside with some Americana Chalky Finish paint that I had left over from another project. I used a sash (angled) brush.

I love black for a project like this because it covers a multitude of imperfections. That’s why I like to wear black! Ha.

I hung it on the wall in our loft turned bonus room. I’m still working on the layout and decor in here. I’ll be sure to give you an updated tour when I’m done. If you want to see the first makeover, then check out this post.

I’m really happy with the results. I’m especially happy that it cost me less than $5.!

This little shelf would be great in a kitchen, bathroom, or even a kids room.

Let me know what you think in the comments. What would you use this for AND did you ever own cassette tapes?

Watch me complete this project on my YouTube channel.

Don’t forget to pin this project for later!

See ya again soon at Free Range Cottage.