While I know we are all neck-deep into digital (thanks blog-readers!), I also know many of us still enjoy reading actual, hard-copy magazines and newspapers from time to time. If you're throwing yours into a catch-all basket or bin, you're missing a great opportunity to do something far more clever -- and even beautiful -- with your stash.
As is my mantra, if it's not "pretty" and "easy," it won't end up on my blog. Here are a few ways you can organize/display your mags and newspapers which meet both criteria in a very inexpensive way.
Towel bar(s): This photo may showcase a more elaborate "collection" than you have, but what a great way to house your magazines by hanging them on a series of towel bars.
Obviously, this concept can be done in a much simpler way, with only a couple of bars -- taking up a small corner wall or an area over a desk. Maybe you just want a single, long bar to drape your newspapers. Regardless, choose your style of hardware and, voila, you have highly practical wall art.
Wine rack: This idea is beyond easy -- no drilling or hanging involved. Just take a free-standing wine rack of any style and place your rolled magazines in the compartments, tabletop- or floor-style.
If you do want to put a bit more effort into this same idea, buy a wall-mount wine rack and follow suit. There are plenty of contemporary takes on this last idea, and lateral towel racks can serve the same purpose -- with rolled magazines instead of rolled towels.
Shutter: If you like the "cottage" look, this technique is right up your alley. An old shutter -- as distressed as you want it -- can be transformed into an interesting display, with publications folded right into the louvers. Hang it... or stand it against the wall (small ones can sit atop a table). This style is particularly simpatico with a screened-in porch or outdoor covered area... with a nice margarita next to it. (Well?! :-))
What about doing the same with your kids' skinny picture books? You could even paint each slat a different color.
Ladder: Keeping with the vertical theme, this next idea is one which, while simple, might appear a little more sophisticated. By propping a ladder against a wall, you add a new dimension to your room -- large enough for visual impact but compact enough that it can actually be a space-saver.
Wood may transmit a more rustic vibe, while metal may lend itself to a modern feel. Whichever you select, for heaven's sake, do not spend big $$ getting one from Pottery Barn! Ladders abound at salvage and "junk" shops and usually come with built-in character.
File organizer: Still too much trouble? Check out this next idea.
One of the easiest methods for organizing magazines is to hang them over a stacked or "incline" wire file organizer.
A few months ago, I purchased one for a buck at Goodwill, and it took mere minutes to set this up on the lower shelf of my nightstand for convenient bedtime reading. I get compliments all the time for this super-simple, cheap-o display. Ha!
Sure, you can buy some very nice (and very expensive) containers, organizers, or display units to perform the same function, but then you will be out dollars that are better-spent elsewhere... and you won't be able to say "Ha!" like me. Just be a copycat and try some of the easier, less costly ideas above... and make sure to send me your photos and feedback!
-------------------------------------------
Photo credits: Towel bar design from Sweethomestyle.tumblr.com. Wine rack compliments of JunkChicCottage.blogspot.com. Shutter design from MyRepurposedLife.net. Ladder style from CoryConnorDesigns.com. File folder organizer photo from Christy Charlton (aka me!).
Take a look at this easy idea of draping them across your ceiling, canopy-style, with a few balloon embellishments and streamers. What a great way to add color and texture in a dramatic, eye-catching fashion, with few dollars and little effort.
