What to do with this crate?

If you sit it on its side and since it has 24 squares, it would make a cute advent calendar for Christmas.

Hang it on the wall as a shadow box for the many interesting little things that come your way over time, I wouldn't paint it. Just clean it up and watch the little squares fill. A piece of glass could prevent dust bunnies from enjoying such a sweet little nook.

Hi there. Cindy here. You could use it for either a sock holder. Or perhaps a tie holder for the man of the house. Roll the ties so they don't get wrinkled. Don't paint this box. It's too awesome to paint.

I'd use it to sort my art supplies by type and color.....or my sewing supplies......or craft supplies

That is an awesome piece! I think a few glass bottles withs some dried flowers would look beautiful!

Small shadow boxes.

It would look great as a little shelf. You could hang it sideways and put little knick knacks in it

We have a similar style crate and use it to organize my essential oils! Love your find - enjoy. Hugs, Holly

https://pinkfortitude.com/organize-your-essential-oils/

Wow! What a treasure. I would not do anything to change the finish. I would accept it in all its natural glory, I've used similar crate in the same way others have suggested. I really like Holly's use as storage for her essential oils. Somehow, that seems just a natural place for the oils to go. I am so envious!

Have you considered hanging it up to show off a collection of something like miniature objects? Just a thought. How unique and special! Yes, show it off by using it on the wall!

Make a base, cut some glass and make it an end/ coffee table! Add knickknacks or small pots of succulents

You could place glass bottles and vases at various heights in the compartments. Then put single stem flowers that go with the current season.

I love the single stem flower idea in each compartment. I would do matching small/tiny vases in each compartment, each with a matching flower, then place the tray on top of a round /oval or diamond shaped fabric(floral,lace,plaid..whatever you like). A good spot for this would be on an entry table or sofa table oe even coffee table..surrounded by a few other things of varying heights.

Use for craft supplies! How cute and convenient~!

I would use differently for different seasons, the ideas here are all great, change it up a bit each holiday.

Socks bras underwear

I use a crate like that to hold all my brushes in my workshop. Every section has brushes I use all the time standing straight up for easy use.

I use it on my coffee/tea bar