PLEASE post pics of how you hide couponing stuff in plain sight

[IntoTheMystic]

I know you said you don't want to build, but I'm going to throw some plans out there in case you see something that you can work from, like maybe it might make you think of a way to re-purpose or modify something you already have. I have made some of these plans, though, and they were pretty simple.

This is a sewing table with drop sides. I can imagine using this for all sorts of things, and it has hidden storage and folds away. It could be rolled into a closet or stored in plain site like an accent table. Just pull it out, set up the sides, do your thang, and then fold it up and put it back.

Ana White | Build a A Sewing Table for Small Spaces | Free and Easy DIY Project and Furniture Plans


I've made one of these tables, and I want about 73648 more of them. I've used it as a tv tray, laptop desk, rolled it to the side of the couch as an end table, and it's currently holding my printer. Seriously the handiest thing ever and super easy and cheap to make (or maybe you could modify something you already have with casters). You can see where some people have modified theirs with shelves.

Ana White | Build a Rolling C End Table or Sofa Table | Free and Easy DIY Project and Furniture Plans


I'm thinking that one solution to hiding the printer would be to set it up on something that serves as an accent table (or better, something like the sewing table above with the drop sides that can serve as a desk), and build a simple matching wooden box to cover it. Just flip the box over the printer, plop a vase or photo frame or whatever on it, done, hidden storage.

Thanks, Smee! I love it, but still am not sure of building abilities.

[IntoTheMystic]

IntoTheMystic, yeah I know some people have some expensive stuff on there - but ya see, most of the stuff I am interested in on there is organizational type stuff and my hubby is pretty handy with a saw, hammer and paint :D So he can make me the things I like instead of buying them, because I would never buy something so expensive.

As for your original question... my desk isn't very organized and I don't have a pic, but coupon type stuff has a home next to the desk on top of a 3 drawer storage bin. I try REAL hard to keep it all in that general area, and try to get it all put away once a week.

Thanks, Melli! I think the real solution is that I need a bigger house. Now, how to reconcile that with my NY goals of paying down debt and building an EF....hmmmmm.....

[IntoTheMystic]

My couponing stuff is a little desk in my bedroom Right beside my bed. I find that being alone I work better on my coupon stuff. I alos find myself working on coupons at night

I think I could fit my desk in my bedroom if DH would just move out of it

[IntoTheMystic]

We have one of those computer armoires (sp???) with the folding door that closes to hide the computer/desk. We got it at one of those assemble your own furniture places before IKEA was in town and en vogue. I am guessing you could get something there too. I think we paid maybe $300 for it. I keep most of my couponing stuff in my binder, an expanding file (has flap to close shut) and a file folder box. Basically the uncut inserts and receipts go in the expanding file until a couple months passes then they move to the file folder box, and I go through that to clear out expired stuff. Other than that, it's a total mess! LOL. I do have a household binder also (there is a thread on here about that somewhere) which I love.

So, I'm thinking maybe one of the armoires you mentioned, or even if I could get an entertainment TV stand with doors (which I need anyway), and keep a wireless printer and some of my office supplies in there. That still leaves the problem of the my insert bins, and rebating stuff, so I'm still looking for a way to hide them.

Thanks for the great ideas, everyone! Keep em coming. It is helping.

[IntoTheMystic]

I'm addicted. I think I have a problem . . . how to be addicted to couponing AND pinterest, any suggestions? I don't have time for both, ummm, I don't have time for either . I'm REALLY in trouble.

I had to slam the door on pinterest

[CouponQueen23]

I really like this thread! After an ordeal around here the other day I wanted to just recycle all of my couponing stuff because of lack of space, dealing with clutter issues, and Dh on a moody cleaning spree.

Now I think I might suggest this handy little cart I like chey's idea toss a cloth over the top to hide it :) I will need to get a tape measure out but I think it will fit perfectly under my counter in my kitchen. Thanks everyone lots of great ideas!

[Smee]

Thanks, Smee! I love it, but still am not sure of building abilities.

Do you know anyone who is moderately handy that might swap chores? You can go into just about any store and give them the measurements and they will cut the lumber. Then it's just like a pre-fab kit and all you'd need is someone to fasten it together with screws or nails and glue. If you are friendly with someone who is handy, I bet it might still be cheaper than buying new stuff for storage solutions (if budget is a factor; I always just assume it is).