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How to turn plastic crates into fun storage boxes

By Bunnings magazine /

Pink, orange and yellow crates stacked on top of each other.

Overview

Transform a plain black crate into a gelato-hued storage with a bit of spray paint and some elbow grease. These crates make ideal storage for small toys, stationery and magazines.

Steps

  1. 1

    Clean the crates

    Wipe the crates with a cloth to ensure they're free from debris and dust. Lay a drop sheet over the area you'll be working and place the crates upside down over the sheet.

  2. 2

    Paint the outside

    Wearing protective gloves, glasses and a safety mask, apply the paint using a back-and-forward motion, working over the base and around the edges. Apply two to three coats of paint, leaving the paint to dry between each coat.

  3. 3

    Paint the inside

    When the last outside coat is dry, turn the crates over to spray inside, working around the sides and over the base for even coverage. Apply two to three coats of paint, leaving the paint to dry after each coat.

  4. 4

    Fill your crates

    Once the last coat of paint is dry, your crates are now ready to be used as storage for whatever you like.

  5. 5

    Stay organised

    Looking for more ways to keep your space organised? We've got plenty of shelving and storage ideas for you to try.

     

    Photography credit: James Moffatt

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.