Manda and Caitlin McGrath, the duo behind The Merrythought blog, are scrappy women who are forever upgrading their houses without spending a penny more than necessary. Close in age, the two live in Western New York and are related by marriage: “We probably have one of the oddest/most interesting blogging partner relationships,” they write. “Manda is Caitlin’s stepmom.”
They share an interest in bare-bones wooden design, and a knack for coming up with storage solutions that they tackle themselves. They’re both also able stylists. Here are seven of their DIY standouts: go to The Merrythought for more photos and step-by-step instructions.
Photography courtesy of The Merrythought.
Ladder Plant Stand
Paper Organizer
She gave each of her kids a pocket (with instructions to weed out the unnecessary and the out of date). But notes that it’s also ideal, as shown here, for mail or magazines.
Peg Rail
Not up for making your own? Take a look at Object Lessons: The Shaker Peg Rail.
Floating Shelves
Standing Shelves
Cube Side Table
Toilet Paper Stand
Feeling inspired? Peruse our DIY Projects archive for more ideas, including The Merrythought’s Simple and Elegant DIY Towel Holder for Under $10. And also:
- DIY: Wrapped Wire Coat Hangers, Madrid Edition
- DIY: Easy Burlap Shades (for Less Than $20 Each)
- A DIY Shower Curtain Hoop Mae from Plumbing Parts
And be sure to check out Your Weekend Project on our companion site The Organized Home.
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