Boxes, Boxes, Decorative Boxes

Does anyone else buy those pretty, decorative boxes without a plan for them??? I love to organize, arrange and rearrange things. Everything I own has a specific place or container to return to when I am not using it. My mother has even given me the nickname of "Container Queen". I have containers like these in every size and shape. I use the plastic storage bins/containers to store items that I won't need for a few months (holiday decorations, baby clothes,etc). They stack easily...I just love them.

I also like to use baskets. I have baskets for toys, remotes, office supplies, socks, hats, gloves, etc, etc, etc. I really believe that you can't go wrong with a great basket. They work well for storage and have easy access because they don't have a lid that you need to remove to get to the items that you want to use. You will find baskets like these all over my home.

I think I am pretty good at organizing but I will admit that I have bought a decorative box (covered in a beautiful fabric print) or two that I really can't find a use for. I usually end up using them just like I would a plastic storage bin/container, storing items in them and then putting them on a shelf or in a closet not to be seen but once or twice a year.

When they look this cute you really can't blame me for buying them and thinking that I will need them later...

I found this cool post on the Budget Wise Home blog that shows step by step instructions on how to cover boxes to make them look like the ones in the above photo. I also found instructions on how to make the entire box from scratch on the Handmaiden blog.

Don't you like these boxes too...

Anyway............................................................................................ I did find something to do with one of the medium to large boxes that I have. I turned it into my daughters 1st keepsake box. It still resides in the closet, even though that is what I was trying to get away from, looking sophisticated on the top shelf of a little girls closet. I think it is the only item that is black and white because everything else is pink and green to match my daughters bedroom.

I labeled it, Mackenzie's Treasures, and put her first piece of artwork (paper that she scribbled on at 14 months) inside.

I put the lid back on the box and placed it on the top shelf in her closet. I guess it is waiting for me to place more treasures inside.

Hopefully, I can come up with additional uses for the other beautiful fabric covered boxes that I have around the house...if you have any suggestions please let me know. :)