Organization is the Spice of Life

—Jennifer Noonan

No matter the square footage of your kitchen, the perfect amount of space for storage and prep always seems just out of reach. Fortunately, nothing frees up space like a little organization. And when we hear that you can clear out a full drawer by devising a DIY solution for spice storage, we’re all ears. Actual woodworking is not a requirement, because these 5 ideas for storing spices include simple repurposing projects as well as custom-tailored solutions, and all of them get the job done.

1. Stick It

photo: instructables.com

Turn the front of your refrigerator into your spice rack. Just empty your spice containers into magnetic tins and arrange them on the fridge door for an eye-popping presentation. This in-plain-sight presentation means you’ll never again have to dig through a cabinet or drawer to hunt for the oregano.

Related: 16 New Ways to Store Kitchen Necessities

2. Refinished Pallet

photo: lessthanaverageheight.com

Is there anything a shipping pallet can’t do? With some sanding and staining, you can turn one into a DIY spice rack that’s both functional and charming. Attach small cup hooks to the bottom for handy storage for measuring spoons and cups.

Related: 15 Shipping Pallet Projects for the DIY Home

3. Test Tubes

photo: instructables.com

Cooking is a science. Take that idea to the next level by organizing your seasonings in test tubes, a design that’s simple in both looks and construction. Just drill holes into a strip of wood to accommodate your test tubes, and mount the strip on your kitchen wall. Then, pour your spices into the test tubes and top each with a cork.

Related: Recipe for Success: 10 Easy Kitchen Storage Hacks

4. Wire and Nail 

photo: freckledlaundry.com

Put a fresh twist on the traditional wall-mounted spice rack by hanging your spice bottles directly on the wall. Simply wrap floral wire around the necks of some clear spice jars, and form a loop in the back. Set nails (or even adhesive wall hooks) into the wall in your favorite configuration, and hang.

Related: 10 Ways to Unleash the Potential of Your Blank Walls

5. Vintage Coke Crate

photo: dogsdonteatpizza.com

Turn a vintage Coke crate on its side and mount it to the wall for an easy DIY spice rack. The bottle compartments are just the right size for your herb and spice containers. Remember to place a label on the top of each jar so you can easily see what you need before pulling it out.

Related: 8 New Ways to Use Old Wooden Crates