15 Easy (and Pretty) Ways to Organise Utensils

Keeping your kitchen utensils tidy doesn't just save time; it can also add a touch of charm to your cooking space. Here are 15 simple yet attractive ideas to help you organise your utensils effectively:

1. Mason Jars: Use vintage mason jars to store utensils like wooden spoons, whisks, and spatulas. They add a rustic feel and are perfect for countertop display.

2. Magnetic Strips: Install a magnetic strip on the wall to hold metal utensils. This not only saves drawer space but also creates a striking visual element.

3. Drawer Dividers: Invest in drawer dividers to keep your utensils neatly separated. Opt for bamboo or plastic dividers that can be adjusted to fit your drawers.

4. Peg Boards: A pegboard can transform a blank wall into a functional space. Hang utensils, pots, and pans, making it easy to access while adding an artistic touch.

5. Utensil Caddy: Use a decorative caddy for a portable solution. This can be moved around as needed and looks charming on any table setting.

6. Baskets: Woven baskets make for a chic and organised storage solution. Group similar utensils together, such as baking tools or grilling gadgets.

7. Lazy Susan: A rotating lazy Susan can be a fantastic way to organise utensils. Place it in a cabinet or on a countertop for easy access.

8. Wall-mounted Shelves: Install shelves at eye level to hold jars or canisters filled with utensils. This keeps everything visible and adds a stylish element to your kitchen.

9. Cutlery Trays: For drawers, opt for a stylish cutlery tray that matches your kitchen decor. This keeps forks, knives, and spoons organised and easy to find.

10. Vintage Crates: Repurpose old wooden crates as utensil holders. Stack them vertically or horizontally for a unique organisational solution.

11. Tiered Organisers: Use tiered organisers for smaller drawers. This vertical stacking keeps utensils visible and easy to grab.

12. Command Hooks: Stick command hooks on the inside of cabinet doors for hanging measuring spoons and cups. It utilises often-overlooked space efficiently.

13. Decorative Tins: Collect colourful tins to serve as utensil holders. They can be found at thrift shops and will add character to your kitchen.

14. Wall Racks: A decorative wall rack can hold frequently used utensils, freeing up drawer space while providing easy access.

15. Labelled Containers: Keep everything sorted by using labelled containers. This is particularly handy for larger collections of utensils, ensuring you always find what you need.

Organising utensils doesn't have to be a daunting task. With these easy and pretty methods, you can create an orderly and inviting kitchen.

How to Hand Carve a Wooden Spoon

Carving a wooden spoon is a delightful and rewarding craft that connects you with the natural world and hones your woodworking skills. To begin, gather your materials: a freshly cut, greenwood branch, preferably from a hardwood like birch or cherry, a sharp carving knife, a hook knife, and some sandpaper.

Start by selecting a suitable branch, about 1-2 inches in diameter and 12 inches long. Use your carving knife to whittle the branch down to a more manageable shape, removing the bark and excess wood. Focus on forming the bowl of the spoon; you can roughly mark out the shape you desire with your knife.

Once you have the basic spoon shape, switch to your hook knife. This tool will help you carve out the bowl’s interior. Take your time and work carefully, pulling the knife towards you in smooth, controlled motions. Patience is essential here, as rushing can lead to accidents or uneven carving.

After achieving the desired bowl depth and shape, refine the spoon's outline with your knife, ensuring the handle is comfortable to hold. Lastly, smooth out any scrapes or rough edges with sandpaper, progressing from a coarse grit to a finer one for a polished finish.

For added protection and a touch of warmth, consider applying a food-safe finish, such as mineral oil or beeswax, to your completed spoon. With just a bit of practice, you’ll find that not only have you crafted a functional utensil, but you’ve also created a beautiful piece of art that can be cherished for years to come.