The Repurposed Garden Tool That Makes For A Great Coffee Mug Hanging Storage Solution

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Garden tools are probably the last thing that springs to mind when you think of coffee mug storage. Then again, there's no such thing as too "unusual" when your kitchen cabinets are bursting at the seams. Even the tiniest bit of extra storage can help in cases like these, and believe it or not, a garden rake might just be the thing to show off your coffee & tea cup collection.

The trick is to turn the rake's tines into hooks and then use them to hang mugs by their handles. Besides serving as a unique mug storage display, it's also inexpensive. All you really need is a rake, which you can pick up at Dollar Tree for $1.25.

Granted, the retailer's Garden Collection 9-Teeth Rake may need a little makeover since it looks a bit too basic. Another option is the Expert Gardener Bow Rake from Walmart. This one's a bit more heavy-duty (and aesthetically pleasing!), yet still affordable at $10.56. Better yet, you could repurpose an existing rake instead of throwing it out — just make sure to thoroughly clean the rake head before bringing it indoors.

The first thing you'll want to do is figure out how to hang your rake on the wall. Different rakes call for different mounting methods. For instance, some feature an open frame that you can easily dangle from a nail. Other models may need a bit more work to hang. If you aren't sure how to go about yours, one trick is to keep the wooden handle, cut it to about three inches tall, then drill a hole at the top. Luckily, the aforementioned Dollar Tree rack already comes with a short handle and even has a pre-drilled hole, so no extra work is needed.

Once that's all figured out, don't secure it just yet — grab some spray paint to make it your own. It's worth noting that metal rakes are prone to rusting, hence why you'll want to apply a coat of metal primer (such as the Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Clean Metal Primer Spray) to seal the surface. A clear top coat can also get the job done if you'd rather add a rustic touch to your home and leave the rake as-is. 

Finally, it's time to display the finished product! Add a bow or twine at the very top for a cute finishing touch.