Ditch The Shelf: This Thrifted Find Is A Cuter Way To Store & Display Trinkets
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
When it comes to collectibles, a "more is more" mentality is the only acceptable approach. However, that doesn't necessarily mean there's always a place to put them. If your knick-knacks have taken over the mantle, adorn all of your shelves, and pop up in drawers unexpectedly, it's time to get them in order. One savvy thrifter on TikTok, Breeya Shade, decided to upcycle an Advent calendar into a mighty adorable trinket shelf, and you'll feel inclined to follow suit.
Grandma chic decor is a nostalgic find with Gen Z's stamp of approval, similar to the vintage plate walls and doily renaissance. Not only do these bite-sized cubbies give your tchotchkes a place to live, but they allow you to show off your passion and personality. Designer Diane Rath described the trend to House Beautiful as "a visual autobiography in miniature" and a "curated gallery of curiosities." New pieces on a smaller scale hover around the $30 mark, but a large trinket shelf can cost up to $65 or more. Breeya Shade's approach is inexpensive, customizable, and entertaining.
How to upcycle an Advent calendar into a trinket shelf
Once you've secured your Advent calendar, the first thing to do is remove the holiday accents. (Should this feel blasphemous, keep the seasonal decor and utilize it for a Christmastime DIY project.) Once they've been taken out, Breeya proves that the process is fairly straightforward: Apply primer, and then apply a stain with real wood fibers to bring out the piece's natural aesthetic. Once it's dry, it's time to assemble your collection and help your little tchotchkes find a cubby spot. Plus, you don't necessarily need to put the shelf on the wall: It can live on a mantle or side table, if you so choose.
@breeya_shade The second project though 🤭 which one is your favorite?! #diythriftflip #vintagethrifting #cottagecore #vintagelover #thrifting
Just like its location, the style of the DIY is completely customizable, too. While Breeya opted for a wood appearance, you're not limited to copying her approach. You can paint your DIY cubby system in a color that complements the room. Or, add additional touches and adorn each tiny opening with fabric by cutting it down to size and applying Mod Podge. (Be warned, this could take some patience.) Just make sure to place it next to other meaningful items, like photographs and artwork, that capture your essence and give the room a unique pop. Like your collection of minis, the styling possibilities are endless.