Spice Rack Project

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Yesterday, I checked off another item on my Sweet November “want to do ” list 🙂

I wanted a fairly large spice rack in my kitchen but I don’t have a lot of blank wall space (due to all the windows) to hang something massive. There is a large blank space on my pantry wall, but a spice rack there would protrude into the alley and cause problems. Think, think …. what if I could inset the spice rack into the pantry wall?  It’s a perfect use of empty space and in a very convenient location. Win -win.

Here are the project details …

My collection of spices that need to be organized. I usually buy spices in bulk and then use an assortment of recycled jars to store them.

My collection of spices that need to be organized. I usually buy spices in bulk and then use an assortment of canning & recycled jars to store them.

Just to the right, of the previous picture, is the wall of my pantry. It is here that I cut an opening between the studs, and inserted a spice rack. The rack is made from leftover mdf moulding, and a piece of bead board for backing. I used glue and a brad nailer to assemble it.

Just to the right, of the previous picture, is the wall of my pantry. It is here that I cut an opening between the studs, and inserted a spice rack. The rack is made from leftover mdf moulding, and a piece of bead board for backing. I used glue and a brad nailer to assemble it. I measured the height of the shelves to match the spice jars.

Here is the "rough draft". Everything fits fairly well so it's on to the finishing.

Here is the “rough draft”. Everything fits fairly well so it’s on to the finishing.

I framed the rack in more mdf moulding. I also added some cedar strips to the front of the shelves, to even everything up.

I framed the rack in more leftover scrap mdf moulding. I also added some cedar strips to the front of the shelves, to even everything up.

Same stage in the project, from an opposite view. This shows how close the spices are to my stove and baking counter.

Same stage in the project, from an opposite view. This shows how close the spices are to my stove and baking counter. Igmore the 1974 floor, hardwood will be installed before 2014

I've filled, sanded and painted the trim white. I chose the paint the shelf interior with a gray-green to add a country feel.

I’ve filled, sanded and painted the trim white. I chose to paint the shelf interior with a gray-green to add a farmhouse feel.

I also took a moment and spray painted some of the jar lids charcoal gray to add continuity.

I also spray painted some of the spice jar lids a charcoal gray, to add continuity.

The finished project, unobtrusive and ready for use.

The finished project, unobtrusive and ready for use.