Desktop Organizer

Belle Jaeger
by Belle Jaeger
4 Materials
$15
2 Hours
Easy
These are antique zinc bulb starter pots. They’re mini, they’re cute, and they’re hard to find. So imagine my excitement when I found some these on our trip to Waco with the girlfriends! I was searching for a divided item to serve as my “writing implement” container. Why? Cause if you don’t know by now—I’m kind of a freak! Call me what you want, I like a neat desktop, an organized one, and one that is unique! AND–I l♥ve to re-purpose things!!!
They’re also known as zinc saps, they’re made out of zinc or galvanized metal and they are wonderful “as is” or painted. After I found these I still wanted something that would “house” them or hold them all together. Then I found this sturdy thing…
An old metal drawer that was probably a part of a filing cabinet of some sort. $8- woohoo! I dusted off the cobwebs and dirt and got her ready for some fresh paint. First, adhering some felt on the bottom, so it wouldn’t scratch my wooden desk.
Fresh coat of paint after priming and some black spray paint on the file drawer & voila!
Don’t be afraid to “think” outside the box and find a new use for something old! I promise it will give your space character and certainly be a focus piece. I mean…even buying a bag of dried split peas to use as a filler will be a nice touch and helps keep my zinc pots from getting off balance!
You can find more details and entire diy instructions on the website below.
Suggested materials:
  • Zinc pots   (antique store)
  • File drawer   (antique store)
  • Acrylic paints   (hobby lobby)
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Belle Jaeger
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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  1 question
  • Linda Sharp Linda Sharp on Dec 31, 2015
    If you just filled the container with the dried split peas (eliminate the cups) would the pens just stand up by themselves?
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  • Blb2 Blb2 on Jan 03, 2016
    I used red pebbles from driveway in my container don't have to think about possible rotting but will add some coffee beans in netting to lay on top. Holds small scrapping scissors glue sticks etc
  • Sandy Hartnett Sandy Hartnett on Jul 23, 2016
    Good one! Hugs
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