Caitlin’s project caught our eye the moment we read “purchased for $1.14” and “found on the side of the road.” The thrifted window screen and rescued nightstand combined into a charming shabby-chic jewelry station that’s both affordable and stylish. Read her note below:
I’ve been a long-time reader (my morning routine includes coffee and your blog), so I wanted to share a recent project. I picked up an old window screen from a local Habitat for Humanity ReStore for just $1.14 and found this nightstand on the side of the road. It turned into a very inexpensive makeover.
I sanded the nightstand and painted it white. After a candle mishap left a big blue stain on the top, I recovered it with leftover fabric to hide the stain and to coordinate with our bedroom decor. For the window screen, I left the chippy paint and simply leaned it against the wall to use as an earring holder.
To organize bulkier or less frequently worn pieces, I added small mirrors inside the nightstand. A few faux flowers and a ceramic bowl to catch loose jewelry complete the setup. The result is a nearly free jewelry box that’s practical and pretty.
This would be a fun, space-saving project for someone living in an apartment or dorm. It dresses up a wall or corner without taking much room. – Caitlin at That House on the Corner
Caitlin’s idea is perfect for small spaces: a salvaged window screen used vertically becomes an attractive earring display, while a refreshed nightstand offers hidden storage. The fabric-covered top adds a vintage, cohesive touch—even if it started as a happy accident. It’s a great example of how small, inexpensive finds can be turned into useful decor with a little paint, fabric, and imagination.
Would you try a window screen jewelry display in your home? Or line a drawer with small mirrors to keep your jewelry organized and visible? This project shows that you don’t need to spend much to create a functional and beautiful solution for everyday accessories.
Psst — don’t forget to check out this week’s post on BabyCenter for more inspiration from our recent Ikea trip. It highlights kid-focused finds that caught our eye. We’ll also share an adult-friendly Ikea roundup here next week, so stay tuned.