Week 5 or #Organizedin2013 is commencing! We’re lucky to not have to wear coats that often in the South. But, sadly, it is that time of year. So, I think it’s perfect that we go for a Coat Closet Re-Do this week. Mine was in desperate need of attention. Not only is a dump zone for all of the coats owned by my husband and me, it’s also board-game and gift-wrapping central. Considering we don’t do a whole lot of coat wearing or board-game playing, and not much gift-wrapping outside of the holidays, it amazes me that this closet is always overflowing.
Time for that to end. First order of the day: Get rid of coats. I pulled a fleece coat I hadn’t worn since college days, a jean jacket I had kept for sentimental reasons and an over-sized maternity jacket I never liked. There was a coat I love that I haven’t worn because buttons were falling off, and a lovely warm winter black coat I forgot I owned. I dusted that off, and then pulled the coat with the button issues so I can take it the seamstress. I really should learn how to thread a needle…
I organized scarves on a pant hanger that we weren’t using… It actually works really well!
Next step: Gift wrap organization. I realized first up, that I needed a way to keep the gift wrap rolled up. So, I simply took a hair band and wrapped each one with the elastic. Next I reallocated a storage unit that wasn’t in high demand, and decided to make it gift wrap central. Top drawer, bows, tags and ribbon. Second drawer themed gift bags, bottom drawer tissue paper and collapsible boxes. I tossed all of the junky gift bags that I knew I wouldn’t feel good reusing, and tossed a bunch of gnarly tissue paper. I also got some more of those over the door hooks (I love those things), and put all of the generic (good for any season) gift bags on those for easy access.
Also in this closet? Stationary and hostess gifts. A long while back, I purchased a collection of various birthday and holiday cards. I’ve used those up, but keep each section stocked so I always have a card if I need it. I also have a box for hostess gifts and gifts I’ve collected throughout the year for various birthday presents and such. These all go with the cards and gift wrap. Trying to keep it simple, folks!
Finally, it was time to organize the board games. My husband had an idea to host a monthly board game night back in the summer and went on a board game purchasing rampage. Sadly, no board game event has been held… but we hold high hopes to one day host one. To that end, the board games are now organized and visible to enhance our inspiration for such an evening. You know what else? I finally put all of the various deck of cards in one place! Have you noticed it’s almost impossible to find a deck of cards when you “need” one? Well, no more, my friends.
As a last note, I also recommend that you invest in a fire-proof lock box. We recently got one, and put all of our important documents in this. It lives in our coat closet and is easily accessible in case of an emergency.
Here’s the finished product:
If you’re just starting with our #Organizedin2013, don’t miss out on our past weeks:
Week 1: #Organizedin2013: Beginning with the Refrigerator and Pantry
Week 2: #Organizedin2013: Time & Toss Kitchen Organization
I have one of those soft shoe organizers hung over the back of our coat closet door. I put all the scarves, hats, gloves in the compartments. With three kids it seems like we have millions of them and it keeps them nicely organized to grab on cold mornings!