Ditch Your Traditional Key Holder For A Stylish DIY That Gives You More Storage

Having an easy place to stash keys, sunglasses, and other one-the-go essentials can be very important in any home, where the amount of clutter that can occasionally pile up can lead to headaches as you head out the door and additional clutter, one of the most important foyer design mistakes to avoid. You may also want to present an attractive entryway area or mudroom when entering your home, with organizers and similar pieces that are as attractive as they are functional. Luckily, according to TikTok's @woodshopdiaries, it may be easier than you think. You can create an organizer for keys and other items for far less work and expense than similar store-bought pieces using just a wood plank and two sizes of wooden dowels.

This inexpensive DIY not only has pegs for hanging keys and glasses but also side compartments for stashing things like mail, books, or files. You can also use it to hold your devices as a charging station that doubles as home décor. This stylish wooden key holder would look amazing on a console table, counter, or shelf and can be completely customized in size, number of compartments or hooks, and overall finish.

Start by cutting your plank of wood into three pieces. One will be the base, one the side wall, and the other the middle piece that will hold the dowel aloft. For the side wall, use a miter saw to cut a 45-degree angle on both pieces so that they fit together. Lay them flat and tape them together, then add some wood glue in the seam as you fold up the side, driving in a few brad nails for extra support.

Place the remaining piece perpendicular to the base, using wood glue and screws for a firm hold. Use a circular router to place a divot at the top, large enough to accommodate your larger dowel. Create smaller divots along that dowel to add small pegs made from the smaller dowel, securing them with wood glue. To streamline the top, cut the edges off with the miter saw at an angle to give it an old-school antique toolbox look.

You can customize the length and width of your organizer to fit any space available, making your structure higher and wider or varying the length of the dowel to accommodate more or fewer hooks. You can also add additional compartments at either end for storing more things just by adding additional pieces of wood placed fastened to the bottom. Finish by staining or painting the boards to completely fit your décor scheme. Try a rustic white crackle finish created with paint and glue for a more cottage or farmhouse aesthetic or a rich wood mahogany stain for a more contemporary, high-end look.