Organizing Bits & Bobs In The Pantry

As I mentioned a week or so ago, I am repainting my pantry -- click here to see.  My house is 120 years old.  I am not a stickler for authentic, age-appropriate furniture and décor -- but I certainly like a vintage vibe at the very least.  And it has to be functional.

For instance, I don't try to hide my new washer and dryer.  But in the past I've used the three shelves above them to display vintage items -- the first few years it was lunchboxes. I would use the lunchboxes for storage, but I could never remember what I had stashed in them.  I'm too old and practical for that kind of thing now.

Two of the shelves I've turned into totally practical and functional shelves for bits and bobs.  All of the jars are clear (or just light aqua) so that I can easily view the contents.  It is amazing how much time and money can be saved when you can instantly see what you have.  I resisted the urge to label the jars because I sometimes trade a jar out to sell it and replace it with another one.

On the shelf above that I have kind of a vintage laundry theme going on.  I can't reach it without a ladder, so that is going to be kind of a permanent (and dusty) exhibit.

My husband and I visited Niagara Falls many years ago and I thought this area was perfect to throw in some vintage Niagara Falls items.

My favorite item on the shelf:  a tiny whisk broom with a whimsical face painted on.

I stuck it in a wire flower frog so that it would stand upright.