Dollar Store DIY: Vintage Locker Bins

When I gave my office a makeover this past fall I stocked my shelves with lots of Ikea boxes for storage. I realized a few days ago that I needed some extra storage for markers, pens and scissors. But I wanted easy access to them and I am maxed out on my Ikea storage. I needed a little something different before my office just looks like a display right out of Ikea! When I saw some bins at the dollar store the other day I knew I could do some Dollar Store DIY.
The Dollar Store was loaded up on storage bins and containers. When I stumbled upon these I knew they would make perfect faux, vintage style locker bins. Only one problem, they were neon green and plastic. Not exactly vintage looking.
But with a little of my favorite spray paint, I could fix that problem. I used Rustoleum Flat Antique Nickel to get the perfect metal look. I love this paint because you can use it on so many surfaces and it sticks really well.
I spray painted the sides and the inside and allowed them to dry. And then I flipped them over and sprayed the bottoms and under the lip of the bin to hide all that green.
I sell these little tags at my retail space and they look like the numbers that you would find on real vintage locker bins. They would also be great on baskets or attached to mason jars. To attach the tags I poked a hole through the plastic bin with a large upholstery needle. And then used some twine to tie the tag onto the bin.
I separated my markers and supplies into old cans and placed them in the bins. Now I have plenty of room for more supplies and I can easily see what I have. If you like this idea and would like to see more please visit my blog at http://www.chiccalifornia.com
Chic California
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  • Ravenhouse Ravenhouse on Mar 03, 2020

    These look awesome, but I want to know where you found the "locker" tags? They really are the finishing touch!! You did a great job!


  • Lre54608020 Lre54608020 on Nov 08, 2021

    Is that a metal piece placed over the hollow handle?

  • Tambra A Golden-Haidon Tambra A Golden-Haidon on Feb 24, 2022

    How is your paint holding up? I tried this, but the paint would not adhere. Any suggestions on what I did wrong?


    i would like to try again, however I did 20 of them and hate to waste my time again if I won’t succeed!!!

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