FREE Fixes with Great Returns

Not all organization projects need big bucks to shine.  Sometimes there are great fixes to everyday problems using what you already have.  

Yes, that's right, that makes these fixes FREE!  In my book, these budget-friendly ideas are always at the top of my interest list.

Let's look at a few free ideas I found on Pinterest. 

1-  This idea is so simple!  Computer cords seem to be everywhere under our desks getting tangled, collecting dust, and just being ugly.  So, why not tame them and take back control?  First, untangle them and figure out which cord goes to which appliance.  Next, take a Sharpie and write where it belongs to, clasp it onto the cord, and you're done!  How easy!  If you really wanted to go the extra mile, you could secure the cords together with a small piece of Velcro, a cord wrap, or even a few neatly placed rubber bands.  Whatever your choice, it's sure to be better in the end.

2-  If you've ever been frustrated with keeping wrapping paper wrapped up, this is for you.  Use an old toilet paper core that's been cut in half lengthwise to manage wrapping paper.

 

Why didn't I think of this?

 3- I've seen this around the internet and it's a great idea.  My sis-in-law actually got to try it out before I did and I like the way it works.  Under her sink, the rod doesn't have enough space to hang straight across.  So, it fits diagonally around the pipes and still works nicely to hang bottles of cleaners.

If you have an extra curtain rod that will fit under your sink, try it out!  I really like this idea because it makes great use of the vertical space we often forget about or waste.

Tension rod under the sink

What ideas have you designed that work in your space? 

Let us know and help us all Get it All Together.

It Is Better To Give

Last week I happily donated a bag full of our old treasures that I hope someone else will enjoy.  I was very excited to make more room in our home and purge what just didn't work for us anymore.   

 

 

Saying goodbye to all of those things made me remember how good it feels to give to someone else. 

We've all heard it before- It is better to give than to receive.  

But, have you tried it lately?  If it's been awhile since you donated 

something to someone else,

 I challenge you to give something to someone else this week.  

 It could be a bag of clothes from your newly cleaned-out closet, toys you quietly removed from your kid's bedroom, a surprise note of admiration to a friend, or even a hand folding the laundry.  

 Whatever you choose to give, donate with love.  Give because you can and someone else will happily receive. You'll be happier that you've de-cluttered, given something to someone else, and moved one step closer towards Getting it All Together. 

Jewelry Week- Summed Up

All week long we've looked at great ideas for organizing our sparkles and glam.  

Today we look at a few "out-of-the-jewelry-box" ideas that are great for a small, versatile collection. 

 

Idea #1- Hanging Organizer

If you'd like to make it easier to coordinate your jewelry with your outfit, this is a great option for you.  Numerous pockets on the front make it ideal for earrings, rings, everyday pins, & small bracelets.  The hooks on the back give more space for necklaces to hang freely without getting tangled up and for chunkier bracelets that need more space than the pockets allow. 

Idea #2- Stacking Jewelry Trays

These trays are so versatile!  They can easily accommodate rings, earrings, pins, bracelets, and more.  I like this option better than your average jewelry box because it has more compartments so you can organize your pieces better and still have room to store them in a small space.  Plus, it could fit into a more secure location if you're concerned with safety.

 

How have you been inspired?  

How are you Getting Your Jewelry All Together?  

I'd love to hear from you!

Jewelry Week Day #5- Brooches, Cameos, & Pins

Brooches, cameos, & pins are usually larger and often more delicate pieces that require a little more security than an everyday piece of costume jewelry.  

 

Let's take a look at ideas for keeping these treasures safely organized.

 

 

Idea #1- Jewelry Trays

I think this is one of the best ideas for these delicate pieces.  It gives each brooch its own home where the pin can be protected from damage and dust. 

Idea # 2- Individual Boxes

While they may not be as pretty, individual jewelry boxes that contain foam or another protective material, are great options for keeping a few pieces safe and organized.  To ensure you remember what's in each box, label the top or side.  If you have just a few pieces to store, the boxes may fit nicely in a drawer or in a jewelry tray.

 

Idea #3- Swivel Accessory Organizer

This versatile option is great for storing everyday glam that needs a less secure home with easy accessibility.  You may add a bit of tissue paper or other padding to the bottom to give a little extra protection to the delicate pin on the back. 

Idea #4- Jewelry Cube

This option provides great storage with just the right amount of space and cushion for numerous pins.

Remember that pins and brooches are delicate and need a proper home.  They shouldn't be stored in a bag or pouch because it doesn't offer enough protection for the pin, an essential part of the jewelry. 

Whether your beautiful sparkles came from a sweetheart or a gift from a relative who has past, I hope you find a great home that allows you to take care of your treasure and keep it for many years to come.  Happy organizing while you keep Getting it All Together.

Jewelry Week- Day #4 Rings

from Amazon.com

  Idea #1- Display Storage Case

This idea is great for security.  It comes with a lock and key to protect your valuables from theft and dust bunnies.  Plus, it's small enough to store easily in a drawer, closet, etc.

 

 

Idea #2- Jewelry Tray 

This idea keeps coming up because it's so versatile!  It's great for all types of jewelry- rings, bracelets, necklaces, and much more.  Some are stack-able, while others are better for flat storage in a drawer. 

 Idea #3- Ring & Accessory Storage Case

This new idea comes from The Container Store.  It's a great way to save on space and keep things handy, yet safe.  It's also great for earrings or other small pieces that you don't want to lose.  Plus, it's stack-able.  :)

 

 

 Idea #4- Ring Stands

You can also find stands to hold rings.  Many look like hands waving in the air or some look like a cat (or other object) that you slide the rings on while you're washing dishes or for a short period of time. 

Whatever you choose, consider how it fits in with the rest of your collection of jewels.  Will you have room to store it?  Will you actually use it?  Is it large enough to accommodate your needs?  

Happy organizing while you keep Getting it All Together.

Jewelry Week- Day 3: Necklaces

Today we talk necklaces.  

From gold to silver, diamond to gems, these beauties need special care.  

Add caption

 

Idea #1- Hanging Pocket Organizer

This one is great for both earrings and necklaces.  Hooks are on the back to give great storage for necklaces to hang free without getting tangled up.

Idea #2- Necklace Rack

 A rack is a great place for your necklaces to hang freely and it gives great access to your favorites. It's not very secure and doesn't protect from dust.  But, it's a great idea for your everyday glam.

 

 

 Idea #3- Jewelry Trays

These are great for more secure storage or for drawers.  They can be stacked or stand alone.  Avoid overcrowding and tangles by laying necklaces out neatly.  Plus, they look even prettier when they're organized :)

 

 

Idea #4- Storage Cube

This idea is so versatile.  It can hold anything from necklaces to earrings, bracelets and more.  Be cautious not to overcrowd your treasures.  Allow them room to spread out and you'll find them easier, too.

I hope these ideas help you find the best solution for you and your sparkles.  They are so much fun to wear, they should have a great place in your home.  All items pictured are from The Container Store.  While they are great, you can find similar ideas at stores that are closer to you.  Keep hunting for what works best for you.

  Good luck and keep Getting it All Together.

Jewelry Week Day 2- Bracelets

Whether you call them bangles, bracelets, or armbands, they can be tricky to store.  So, let's check out some ideas to keep them safe and accessible.

Lovely from The Container Store

 Idea #1- A Freestanding Jewelry Holder

This look reminds me of the jewelry counter at a department store.   :)
You can find these in clear or a rich velvet. 

Pros:

• Great visibility for easy access
• Good for counter top or armoire storage

 Cons:

• Doesn't protect from dust
• Gets crowded easily

Swivel Organizer from The Container Store

 

Idea #2-  4-Section Acrylic Swivel Organizer

I really like this versatile option.  It's just a little different than what we're used to seeing for jewelry containers.

Pros:

• Clear makes for great visibility
• Could be a good bonus storage for a small space where you'd like to keep a few favorites
• Protects from dust

Cons: 

• Small!  You may need several of these to accommodate your entire collection without creating too much overcrowding.

 

 

Idea #3- Jewelry Trays

Bracelet Stacking Tray from The Container Store

Trays are a classic option for jewelry storage.  Today you can find them in clear, velvet, or felt lined and they come in various sizes.  Make sure to choose one that will best fit your treasures without overcrowding and that are large enough to store even chunky bracelets.

Pros:

•  Great for drawers

Cons:

• Not very accessible

 Idea #4- Jewelry Cube

This is another great idea from The Container Store.  (yes, I'm aware I sound like an ad for them.  Sorry, I just love them!  Plus, they do have great stuff :) It's similar to the trays, but it's a stand alone product. 




 Pros:

• Hides items for a little more privacy
• Protects from dust

Cons:

• Looks a little big & may take up more space than you have
•  No visibility

I really like that these organizational tools are versatile for most of your jewelry.  They can accommodate necklaces, earrings, and rings.  Or they can be a bracelets only option.  

 

Keep designing your ultimate jewelry storage space 

and tell us all about it when you've Got it All Together. 

Jewelry Week Part 1- Earrings

From clip-ons to pierced, a girl can (almost) never have too many earrings.   

They give us that added sparkle to make our wardrobe pop and are so fun to wear.

An important key to remember with earrings is to keep them together!  No one likes losing one.  So, let’s take a look at a few ideas for storing them where they’re easily visible, paired together, and neat. 

Idea #1- Hanging Pocket Organizer

Hanging Jewelry Organizer from The Container Store

 It can hang almost anywhere you have a hook- closet, bathroom door, or even from a nail beside your dresser.  You can find different varieties that hold more or less, rollup for travel, or look like a little black dress.  Don’t overcrowd them by putting more than one pair in a pocket to save space.  Allow each pair to have its own space to keep them protected.

Pros:

• Vertical Storage- less stuff on your dresser 
• Clear pockets have great visibility to grab and go 
• Keeps the pairs together 
• Protects from dust

 Cons:

Only $20 at The Container Store!

• Preference for another type of storage 
• Less privacy than a jewelry box or safe 
• Compartments may be too small for long earrings

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Idea #2- Mesh Jewelry Holder

This stylish idea is especially great for long, dangling earrings that need more space to hang.  You can find tutorials to make your own or find a great handmade one from an Etsy shop.

Pros:

• Pretty! 
• More room for longer earrings to hang freely 
• Vertical storage- keep on a wall to free up your dresser 
• Good visibility to grab & go

Cons:

• Doesn’t protect from dust 
• Possible to have some fall and get lost 

 

 

 

Idea #3- Jewelry Trays

This is a classic approach that’s great for drawers.  Many are clear, stack-able, or even felt lined to keep your treasures safe and happy. 

9 Section Felt Tray from The Container Store

Pros:

• Keeps pairs together 
• Visibility (when pulled out of the dresser) 
• Can be locked up easier for protection 
• Can protect from dust when stored in a dresser, armoire, etc.

Cons:

• Can be difficult to store without the right amount of space.  You may need several trays to accommodate your bounteous treasures & run out of room.

 

Protect your favorite pairs and don’t be afraid to use those beauties to glam up your space. Whether you choose to display them or keep them safely tucked away, you’re sure to impress your girlfriends because you’ve Got it All Together.

Jewelry, Jewelry, Jewelry!

Girls love jewelry!  Girls love to wear jewelry!

But, how do we store our beautiful gems and sparkles?

Bookmark this page because all this week we talk jewelry- how to store each type 

and great ideas to inspire you to Get it All Together.

 Here’s the "out-of-the-jewelrybox" lineup-

Monday: Earrings

 Tuesday: Bracelets

Wednesday: Necklaces

Thursday: Rings

Friday: Pins, Cameos, and Brooches

 

 

 

 

Gift Giving- Planned Out

I love to receive gifts.  :)  Who doesn't?

  

I also love to give thoughtful gifts that I found for a steal!  

So, here are a few tips to remember as we embark upon the spring/summer gift-giving time.  

  1- Start with a plan.  

• What birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, etc. are upcoming?  What's my budget? Are there any good sales coming up?

2- Remember that the holiday that just passed is the best time to buy for it next year.  

•  For instance, Easter is on Sunday.  All those cute Easter clothes, baskets, Easter grass, etc. will be on sale by Monday morning.  Remember to save a little holiday cash for a shopping splurge next week and make your dollars stretch even farther.  Who knows, maybe you'll find a cute dress for a niece's birthday or a  beautiful basket to store goodies in throughout the year.  

 3- Keep an open mind.

•  Deals often come in places that you may not have thought of first.  Keep shopping.  Start at the back of the store for sales and look at the lower shelves for clearance items.  

4- How do I remember what I've purchased?

• One easy way is to make a spreadsheet of all the birthdays and gift-giving occasions.  Create a column that allows you to check off that a gift has been purchased.  Be sure to leave room to write in what it was and where you've stored it.
• OR, our smartphones have calendars built in that remind us of important dates.  Keep digital notes on your calendar of what you've purchased.  This way is great for less paper and fast, convenient updating.

5- Where do I keep it all?

• This is where it gets complicated.  Some people are blessed with enormous closets that just beg to be filled with gifts bought at a steal.  Others are forced to cram gifts into small closets or under beds.  
•  Whatever your circumstances are, re-inventory your options, get creative, and re-think the spaces you do have available.  Maybe you can rearrange things in your modestly-sized closet to accommodate all you tokens have purchased for loved ones.  Just remember where you've stored the items!  :)

Don't let a lack of space cramp your gift-giving style.  

Remember to get creative in your space and keep an open mind for deals and storage.  

Then, when you give the perfect gift that you found for a steal, you can smile confidently, 

knowing that you've Got it All Together.