Wood Cutlery Organizer Finds the Halloween Spirit

Teri.jeffrey
by Teri.jeffrey
10 Materials
$35
6 Hours
Medium
Are you looking forward to Autumn? It’s my favorite season and I start celebrating early by doing Halloween Crafts. When I saw this overused wood cutlery organizer in the Salvation Army Thrift Store for $1, I knew that it would be perfect for a Halloween shadow box.
Wood Cutlery Organizer
The bottom of the organizer was covered in red felt and, as you can see from the bottom of the organizer, it was definitely a previously used item. First task...clean up.
The Makeover Begins
After removing the red felt, I lightly sanded the front, back and sides. Black chalk paint was applied to the entire surface.
The Magic of Paint
Looks much better, don’t you think? Waxed with a coat of Annie Sloan Clear Wax. Now the fun can begin.
Skeleton Home
In my craft stash, I had a miniature wood coffin that had been there for ages. Lucky me, it fit perfectly into the bottom left space and Dollar Tree came through with a 4-piece skeleton garland. While he wasn’t advertised as a contortionist, he became one to fit in the coffin. And my craft stash now has 3 skeletons for other projects.
Section Themes
Using the three remaining sections, I chose a theme for each. The bottom was perfect for a Potion Lab. I found free vintage Halloween potion labels on Pinterest and created potion bottles, spell books and a sign. The broken wood spoon became a holder with lichen (tree moss/algae) in the bowl. Miniature bottles were found months ago at a garage sale. Using E6000 glue, I affixed all to the bottom and back of organizer.
Finding & Creating Elements
The top section would have a Witch theme. By focusing on a theme for each section, it was easier to begin looking for items that could be adapted to Halloween. The yellow ceramic rose was a broken and chipped piece from a vase. Painted black with orange & gold highlights made it perfect for the Witch section.
What Does a Witch Need?
The shoe was originally blue & green but painted orange and black and the rose glued inside of it made it a focal point. Adding a broom in the background and a witch hat made from fabric covered cardboard, the top section was taking shape.
Can’t Find It? Make It.
I had wanted to make some items for the middle section which would be Halloween Celebration. Using Crayola Air-Dry Clay, I made several pumpkins by rolling balls and indenting pumpkin sections with a piece of floss. My cat silhouette was done with a mini cookie cutter. Once dried (24 hrs), I painted and sprayed with clear gloss.
Completing the Project
I filled in each section with things related to the theme. Once a few pieces are placed in each section, it’s easier to focus on things that work and see where empty spots need to be filled.


Skeleton Section - I added a piece of cheesecloth as a shroud.
Top Witch Section - An old mini frame was perfect for a vintage Halloween printable. A vintage Witch portrait would also be cute. A miniature pail was perfect for fabric rolls and a small Dollar Tree jar with a frog inside completes the shelf section.
Middle Section - My pumpkins and black cat joined a small ceramic leaf, BOO spelled out with Scrabble tiles, A Halloween banner and cheesecloth ghost with a “parking lot found” hoop earring for its neck.
Bottom Section - I added a cheesecloth spirit behind the spoon, a wire spider on top of the books and a metal type font. A Dollar Tree black votive candle completed the display and provided a nice glow to the Potion Lab.


I definitely recommend gluing everything in place. To display, you can either use wall hangers (place on back of organizer before starting to fill with miniatures) or a tabletop easel.
From Hopeless Discard to Halloween Decor
A metal easel that I had on hand made the perfect stand to display on my entry cabinet. And, today a friend gave me a tiny bat which is now on the bottom of the coffin.


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Frequently asked questions
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  • Destpete4 Destpete4 on Sep 16, 2018

    I will have to try that. I have used chalk paint in the past and the brush strokes are so noticeable. Any suggestions on painting for my next chalk board paint projects.

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  • Mumandp Mumandp on Oct 07, 2018

    I would have LOVED to see a CLOSE UP PIC. SO CLEVER and CREATIVE!!!

    Fall is My favorite Season as well!!! xo Michelle

  • SusieQ SusieQ on Nov 12, 2018

    I would love to see this same idea done with a Christmas thyme.

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