Upcycle An Old Utensil Caddy Into A Portable Garden Tool Storage Basket

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The arrival of spring means flowers, greenery, and the perfect weather for eating al fresco and taking long walks. Of course, it also means the arrival of pollen, bugs, and yard work, which can be taxing on both your body and bank account. Even for those who love gardening, the expense of a garden's upkeep can be an unexpected downside, with the many plant purchases and the pots, equipment, tools, soil, fertilizers, plant food, and anti-pest security measures it can take to keep them alive. When it comes to storage for your many gardening tools, you could purchase a garden tool bag, but they run around $15 to $50 depending on the brand. Instead, try repurposing a utensil caddy as garden tool storage.  

Utensil caddies are typically used for parties or large gatherings, and probably never at the same time you'd find yourself gardening. Most of the time, they are stored in the attic with party supplies, or in a kitchen cabinet, taking up much-needed space. Upcycling an old utensil caddy is a great green thumb gardening hack that will save you money, provide much-needed portable tool storage, and clear up space inside your home. Furthermore, there are no DIY skills needed, simply swap your forks, spoons, knives, and napkins for your trowel, shovel, shears, and gloves.

Utensil caddies come in all shapes and sizes, and not all make great portable garden tool carriers. Some are too small to hold anything larger than a fork, and others are made from flimsy material. Good options are galvanized utensil caddies, which are intended for indoor/outdoor use, or those made from wood or basket weave. Aluminum, wire, and mesh varieties can also work with a coat of Rust-Oleum Spray Paint, which provides protection against rust and looks cute in the process. It comes in a wide range of colors, and is a great idea for prolonging the life of any type of utensil caddy. 

You can also use the brand's Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray Paint on tools that have already begun to rust — just sand rust away, clean the tool, and apply the paint. This will prevent future rust, and allow you to match your garden tools to your new garden tool storage basket. Or, grab one of these top-rated garden tool sets to fill your caddy with so you're ready to go. With the right tools, and a repurposed utensil caddy, you'll be organized in no time.