Design Happens

One thing I like about you readers is that you’re not shy with your suggestions. When I asked for everyday objects that could have hidden craft potential, you challenged me to find cute uses for things like empty prescription bottles and used dryer sheets(!). I’m still working on those — couldn’t give me any softballs, could you? — but in the meantime, I think I’ve finally cracked this request from my coworker, Liz. Freshen your breath, then freshen up your surroundings with these ingenious mint tin projects.

A cork board is cool, but this mint tin message board from Design*Sponge does more than just keep track of loose scraps of paper. You can tuck all kinds of things inside the tins (like that spare key) and adorn it with magnets. Plus, you can’t beat the punchy colors.

Some people have mini Zen gardens for their desk, but me? I think I’d rather have this mint tin garden instead. Fern Richardson tells you how to set up the little sempervivums on her blog, Life on the Balcony.

There’s nothing like two major storms to make you appreciate the old-school ambiance and reliability of candles. These mint tin candles from Instructables are compact, easily portable and a cut above the plain tea light.

There’s no need to buy an expensive business card holder or display if you have a few minutes to jazz up a mint tin! I especially love the tiny bunting inside this example on Adelyn Stone.

Photo: Miki Duisterhof

Mint tins can be tough, too. This makeover on Country Living looks like a tiny toolbox and would be an adorable way to gift small treasures like cuff links this holiday season.

Which mint tin project feels freshest to you? And hey, keep those Designer MacGyver material suggestions coming in the comments section below!