Key Organizer DIY

If you're like me, your keys aren't ever available right when you need them. I seem to be frantically searching for my keys right before leaving for somewhere, which is a pain! I'm sure time management is part of it, but that's a whole other issue/(potential post).

I came up with a solution for keeping a household's keys in a handy spot while providing a key ring/easy grabber for when you're on the go. This project can be done in about an hour and costs less than 15 bucks to do!

Supplies:
-piece of scrap wood (I used a piece of 2 x 6 I had lying around the studio. I hate throwing away wood, because you never know when you can use it for something!)
-1/2" dowel rod
-5 key rings
-2 keyhole fittings

Tools:
-hand saw
-drill 1/2" drill bit
-paint
-sandpaper

Step One: Cut your piece of wood to desired length. I cut mine to 8 inches so it was just big enough for five key rings and so that it would fit the space. You can make yours any size you want, with any number of key rings.

Step Two: Cut envelope/memo groove. I used a handsaw. If you're really handy, you could use a miter saw. Sand.

Step Three: Measure and drill holes for key rings. I centered them and allowed about an inch on either side for breathing room. Drill deep enough so that dowels stay in; you can make the holes as deep as you want. I cut my dowels about 5 inches long.

Step Four: Drill holes at the ends of the dowels and stick the key rings on them.

Step Five: Install the keyhole fittings in the back. I glued a piece of doweling on the back between the keyholes, just so that it would be a more even surface.

Paint the key ring ends and the shelf. Or you can stain, whatever looks good in your space. After everything is dry and looking good, install and enjoy!

I hope this helps keep track of your keys and adds a bit of order to your life.

Happy building! -Josh

Credits // Author: Joshua Rhodes, Photography: Joshua and Sarah Rhodes. Magic print by Elise Blaha/Make 29. Photos edited with Merit from the Signature Collection