Library Books Crate
 We go to the library…a lot. In the summer we go even more often, usually once a week, so we always have a stack of library books that we’ve checked out. I like having a specific place to put them, so they don’t get lost, or mixed up with our own books. I made this darling Library Books Crate, and I LOVE it. It was so easy to make, and the perfect place for all the library books that come into our home.
I knew I wanted to use a crate–I made bookshelves out of them for our own children’s books, and I love them. Crates are sturdy, a great size for books, inexpensive, and SO cute!
This was such an easy project, and I adore the stripes. It turns an ordinary crate into something fabulous!
A cute tag lends just the right final touch.
I’m just so happy when I have a place for everything! Here’s how I did it:
SUPPLIES:
(affiliate links included below for your convenience)
–wooden crate ( I got mine at Michael’s with a 40% off coupon–around $7)
-free printable (see below)
–laminator or self-lamination sheets or Staples/Office Max ☺
DIRECTIONS:
1. Tape off two of the wood slats, both on the front and the back.
2. Spray paint the crate your main color choice, inside and outside, and let dry completely.
3. Remove the painters tape. Using a foam brush, apply your second color on to the wood slats. I used spray paint, so I just sprayed some on to a paper plate (don’t use foam…it will eat it), and dipped my foam brush into it. Let dry completely.
4. Use your power sander or sandpaper (I used 100 grit) to distress your paint as much as you like. Wipe off excess dust with a damp cloth.
5. Use Distress Ink (made for paper, but works great on wood too!) to distress the edges of the wood. You can also use stain or glaze if you would rather!
6. Print the printable onto white cardstock. Trim to size, then laminate. I used my laminator, but you can also buy self-lamination sheets (no heat) at an office supply store that work well. Or…just have them laminate it for you!!! Punch a hole in one end, and use jute to tie it onto the crate.
That’s it’!! Now you’ve got your own library books crate!!
DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE PRINTABLE HERE!!!
Brilliant. My kids’ books are always scattered, drives me batty! That crate is simply DARLING, simply Kierste. Seriously, I love everything about it. Ding dang CUTE!!
You really know how to make a girl’s day, lol!! Thank you so much–I’m glad you love it!! xo
Great idea!!! I always seem to not know where the books I’ve checked out are since I just threw them here and there when I am done. This will make it a lot easier to find when it’s time for me to return them cause I know where they are at!
Just also wanted to say thanks! I’ve been following your site for a while now, ever since I stumble upon it a few months back while I was looking up DIY crafts. It has been such a great help!!! I just wish I had more time to do more of these ideas! :)
Michelle, thanks so much for stopping by, and for the kind words! I’m so glad you found me, and stayed around. :) xoxo
LOVE this idea. We are always losing library books.
Thank you, Alexis!! Thanks for stopping by!!! xoxo
I am so going to do this. Books get lost under beds, under couches, mixed in with other books even though i try to keep all library books corralled in canvas bags that hang on the door knobs of the bedroom, but they get too heavy. We also need this because maybe just maybe after reading to the boys at night my husband, instead of sliding the books under the bed will put the books in the crate.
Now here is the sad part, I don’t do any kind of social media, and so many bloggers have decided that the only way to get the cute free printable is to “like” them. Kierste, I like you, I really do but I just don’t like Facebook!
Stefani–
Thanks so much for stopping by–check your e-mail, I’ve sent the printable to you!! xoxo
I’m a grandma of 18 and will make five of these for Christmas. The moms will love me. Please email me the printable when you get a chance. We’ll be following your blog~~~THANKS.
Yes, the moms will definitely love you!!! I’ve sent the printable to your e-mail!! Thanks for stopping by!! xoxo
You are an amazing Mom and woman…..your blog is so fun and informative and I love how “real” you are!
Don’t do Facebook but would like the printable to make a library crate for my neighbor that home schools 3 kiddos.
Thanks for the marvelous ideas and keep em coming. Thanks!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Susan!!! I e-mailed the file to you–let me know if you don’t get it!!! xoxo