Reclaim Your Kitchen Space: 3 Simple Storage Solutions

Looking to maximize your kitchen storage? In this guide, Fix This Build That shares 3 straightforward projects that help reclaim wasted space in kitchen cabinets and drawers. These projects are perfect for anyone wanting to organize their kitchen without complicated tools or techniques.

Materials and Tools Needed

• Plywood
• Iron-on edge banding
• Wood glue
• Polyurethane finish
• Shelf clips
• Various hand and power tools (circular saw, jigsaw, etc.)

Step 1: Adding Extra Shelves to Upper Cabinets

The first project is simple yet effective: adding extra shelves to your upper cabinets. Many cabinets come with only a few shelves, but you can easily add more.

Start by adjusting the existing shelves downwards to create space. Measure the height you need for your new shelf, and use a piece of plywood for making the new shelf. Here’s how:

1. Lay the existing shelf on top of the plywood and trace a line for cutting.
2. Use a circular saw to cut the plywood, ensuring you have a guide to keep your cut straight.
3. Cover the edges of the plywood with iron-on edge banding to give it a finished look.

After applying the edge banding and finishing the shelf with polyurethane, install it in the cabinet using shelf clips.

Now, you have additional shelf space for items under six inches tall, maximizing your cabinet storage.

Step 2: Creating a Pull-Out Shelf for Pots and Pans

The next project addresses the often-wasted space where pots and pans are stored. If you have a pull-out tray, you can enhance it by adding a shelf for lids or smaller pots.

1. Measure the height of the largest pot and the corresponding lid to ensure your new shelf fits.
2. Cut the sides and shelves from half-inch plywood for a lightweight solution.
3. Assemble the shelf, ensuring it can hold the weight of the pots and lids.

Install the shelf in the pull-out tray, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the pots and lids.

This addition allows for better organization and access to your cookware.

Step 3: Organizing the Junk Drawer

Finally, let’s tackle the junk drawer that often becomes a catch-all for miscellaneous items. This project involves creating a double-decker organizer to utilize the vertical space.

1. Start by evaluating the contents of your drawer and plan the layout for your dividers.
2. Use quarter-inch poplar board to create dividers, cutting them down to size.
3. Use dados to connect the outer frame and secure the dividers in place.

Assemble the organizer and friction-fit the dividers to allow for future adjustments.

This solution not only organizes your drawer but also ensures you can find what you need quickly.

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