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Buckle Up
Three easy ways to reuse old belts
by Jen Trolio
GET A HANDLE ON THINGS
Add flair to basic storage boxesand make them easier to pull down from your shelveswith pulls made from colorful belts. Using an X-acto knife, cut two vertical slits through the front of each box (as tall as the belt is wide), thread the cinchers through, and fasten in the front. Glue the rest of the belt around the inside edges of the box so it won’t interfere with the precious cargo within.
HOLE IN ONE
Belts with lots of eyelets or perforations make it easy to keep earrings organized. Hang up the belt by its buckle, then slip hooks and posts through the holes until you’re ready to don your baubles.
SITTING PRETTY
Replace a worn-out seat cushion with sturdy—and beautiful—leather belts. Weave together the straps across the top of the frame, pull taut, and buckle each one underneath (if any of the belts are too long to stay tight, use an awl or utility knife to make extra holes). Trim off any excess leather, and take a load off.


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