Project: Magnetic Spice Containers

By : Diana Rodgers | 2 Comments | On : October 7, 2012 | Category : Uncategorized

I’ve been wanting to do this project for a while now, and with a long weekend (and my birthday today) I decided to give myself a present and make it happen. Digging around in my cabinets searching for spices is frustrating. This system makes it super easy so find what you need. Ideally, the herbs and spices should be stored in dark containers. I’ve seen other bloggers make creative labels for their containers. I go through them so quickly and these clear lids allow me to see my stock levels quickly so when I’m ready to go to the store, I know exactly what I need to replenish.

First, I ordered Tin Clear Top 4oz w/Clear Lid containers from Specialty Bottle Supply.  They’re about $0.85 each plus shipping. I really like how snugly the lids fit on these containers. There are other options (square containers, pretty glass jars, etc.) Then I found some strong magnets online, and even called the company for advise on which magnets would work best for the job, about $0.02 each plus shipping. Finally, I bought quick setting epoxy at the local hardware store. I put down some paper so the epoxy wouldn’t get all over the table.

I mixed the epoxy and applied a small dab of it to the bottom of each tin. The magnets were very difficult to separate from each other – one even broke in half, so I do suggest you buy a few extra for the project. Another piece of advise is unless you like your hands covered in epoxy, I suggest you separate one magnet and then SET THE STACK OF MAGNETS DOWN, and not keep them in your hand while you try to apply the individual magnet to the can. The stack of magnets are very strong and attract all the tins. Keep the stack of magnets far away from your tin.

While the epoxy cured, I make the labels. Using clear tape, I entered as many spice names as I could on one strip. If you do each spice name individually and print it out one at a time, it will take much longer and use more tape.

I cut each name apart with scissors and attached them to the lids.

When I finished the lids, I checked on the magnets and although the package said to wait 24 hours for it to fully cure, I was too impatient and decided to fill the tins with the spices. In no particular order, I put them on the fridge. If you have one of those fancy stainless refrigerators that is not magnetic, you can purchase a magnetic strip that you can attach to your wall. I’m so thrilled to be able to see all of my herbs and spices in one place! Also, buying them in bulk either from your local natural foods store or online saves money. The whole project too only about 45 minutes from start to finish.