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Easy DIY Spice Rack Projects

If you’ve ever dug through a cluttered cabinet for cumin or knocked over five bottles looking for cinnamon, it might be time to give your spices a new home. A spice rack isn’t just a kitchen organizer — it’s a functional decor piece that makes cooking easier and your kitchen neater.

The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune or be a woodworking pro. These easy DIY spice rack projects can be done with minimal tools, basic materials, and a little creativity. Let’s dive into fun and practical ways to create your own spice storage, no matter the size of your kitchen.

Why Make Your Own Spice Rack?

Before we get to the projects, here’s why a DIY spice rack is a great idea:

  • Custom fit: Tailor it to your space — wall, drawer, cabinet, or countertop.

  • Budget-friendly: Use scrap wood, dollar store supplies, or upcycle old items.

  • Stylish: Match your kitchen aesthetic — rustic, modern, minimalist, or farmhouse.

  • Functional: Easier access to spices = faster, more enjoyable cooking.

1. Wall-Mounted Wood Shelf Rack

Perfect for: Empty wall space, renters, or farmhouse-style kitchens.

Materials:

  • Wood planks (reclaimed or new)

  • Wood screws or nails

  • Wall anchors (if needed)

  • Drill

  • Wood stain or paint (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Measure your available wall space and decide on rack size.

  2. Cut wood to size for shelves and side supports.

  3. Attach the shelves to the supports using screws or nails.

  4. Mount it to the wall securely with wall anchors.

  5. Stain or paint to match your kitchen decor.

Tip: Angle the shelves slightly or add a front lip to prevent jars from slipping off.

2. Drawer Spice Organizer

Perfect for: Hidden storage fans or those with deep drawers.

Materials:

  • Thin plywood or foam board

  • Wood glue or strong adhesive

  • Measuring tape

  • Saw or utility knife

Instructions:

  1. Measure your drawer dimensions.

  2. Cut strips of plywood or foam board to create rows or angled tiers.

  3. Glue in place with enough space for jars to rest securely.

  4. Optional: Label each row or use jar lids with top labels.

Tip: Organize spices alphabetically or by cuisine (e.g., Italian, Indian, baking).

3. Hanging Test Tube Spice Rack

Perfect for: Modern, minimalist, or science-loving cooks.

Materials:

  • Test tubes with cork stoppers

  • Wood plank (for mounting)

  • Hose clamps or test tube holders

  • Screws and wall anchors

Instructions:

  1. Mount hose clamps or holders onto the wood plank in evenly spaced rows.

  2. Secure test tubes inside and fill them with your favorite spices.

  3. Label the test tubes with a marker or adhesive tags.

  4. Mount the board to your wall or inside a cabinet door.

Tip: Only use this style for dry spices — avoid moisture-prone blends.

4. Magnetic Spice Rack

Perfect for: Small kitchens or renters who can’t drill into walls.

Materials:

  • Small metal tins with clear lids

  • Adhesive magnetic strips or strong magnets

  • Metal surface (fridge, magnetic board, or baking sheet)

Instructions:

  1. Fill tins with spices and label the lids.

  2. Stick magnets to the back of each tin.

  3. Attach the tins to your metal surface in a grid or fun shape.

Tip: For a sleek look, spray-paint a baking sheet black and hang it like a frame.

5. Upcycled Pallet Rack

Perfect for: Rustic kitchens or anyone who loves upcycling.

Materials:

  • Wooden pallet

  • Sandpaper

  • Screws and drill

  • Optional: Chalkboard paint or wood stain

Instructions:

  1. Clean and sand the pallet to remove rough edges.

  2. Remove every other plank to create shelf space.

  3. Mount it to the wall and add jars.

  4. Optional: Paint labels or a chalkboard section to write spice names.

Tip: Pallets vary in quality — choose one that hasn’t been treated with harmful chemicals (marked “HT” for “heat-treated”).

6. Lazy Susan Spice Organizer

Perfect for: Inside cabinets or on countertops.

Materials:

  • Two cake pans or wood circles

  • Marbles (as a rotating base)

  • Super glue or a lazy Susan bearing kit

Instructions:

  1. Glue marbles between the two pans for a quick DIY spinner — or install a turntable bearing.

  2. Place your spices on top and spin to your heart’s content.

  3. Optional: Add a second tier using candle holders and another tray.

Tip: Group similar spices together for easy access (e.g., cooking vs. baking).

7. Over-the-Door Hanging Spice Rack

Perfect for: Pantry doors or inside cabinet doors.

Materials:

  • Over-the-door wire rack

  • Spice jars or containers

  • Labels (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Hang the rack over your cabinet or pantry door.

  2. Fill each shelf with spice containers.

  3. Label jars for a clean, professional look.

Tip: Make sure the door still closes comfortably — measure thickness before buying the rack.

Spice Storage Tips from the Pros

  • Keep spices in a cool, dry place. Heat and sunlight degrade flavor.

  • Use uniform jars for a clean, cohesive look and easy stacking.

  • Label everything clearly — especially homemade blends or bulk buys.

  • Refill in small amounts. Spices lose potency after 6–12 months.

Final Thoughts

A DIY spice rack isn't just about saving space — it's about making your kitchen work better for you. Whether you’re a casual cook or a culinary enthusiast, having your spices neatly organized and within reach makes every dish easier (and more fun) to create.

With a little effort and creativity, you can transform your messy spice cabinet into an organized, stylish feature of your kitchen — and you’ll never waste time hunting for paprika again.