Create smart storage boxes

Before you begin

Decide what you want to store in each box and pick out an example to use on the front. Choose a single item or several, depending on its size and how you plan to arrange it on the box. 

What you'll need
A selection of small, plain cardboard boxes. Choose different sizes, for instance, tiny boxes for paper clips and keys, and a larger size for reams of paper. We found ours at Muji, www.muji.co.uk, and Paperchase, www.paperchase.co.uk.

• Fine wire
• Bradawl or craft knife
• Sticky tabs
• Double-sided tape
• Glue

How it's done
Put the lid on the box and mark the position of the item to be fixed. For single items, mark up the central position, or for a row of items, lightly draw a horizontal line.

For heavy or awkwardly shaped items, like paper clips or bulldog clips, use fine wire to hold them in place. Carefully make holes in the box with a bradawl or craft knife. Then secure the items in place with the wire by threading it through the holes and twisting it together on the inside of the box.

Small, flat-backed items, like buttons and keys, can be held in place with strong double-sided adhesive pads or tape. For light items, like paper or wool, stick in place with a dab of glue. 

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