I don’t know what it is about vintage metal toolboxes but I can’t seem to get enough of them. So far I’ve collected quite a few and I’m always looking for more. When I get too many, I usually just sell them. It’s pretty much a revolving door of different toolboxes around here but there are a couple of favorites that have hung around since I acquired them. A lot of times, I use them for hidden storage. The key, for me though, is to remember what I am storing in the boxes. Out of sight, a lot of times means out of mind.

Mainly, I like to see the toolboxes displayed. Whether I use them for storage or to make a centerpiece with, I love seeing all of that distressed metal. Vintage metal toolboxes have a lot of character and you can find them in a variety of different colors. Here are some of the ways I like to decorate with the toolboxes.

As a Base For Centerpieces

The cool thing about metal toolboxes is that you can just lift the lid and fill it up with some of your seasonal favorites. This centerpiece is a simple example for use in the Fall. I just filled it with faux fruits, pumpkins and acorns.

Add a Vintage Metal Toolbox to a Side Table

I just happened to have a table with an opening that was the right size for one of my favorite boxes. It gives adds to the industrial feel of the table and I can keep remotes or other small items in there for storage. Toolboxes also look great on top of tables!

Place a Toolbox on a Shelf

I also have a table with a lower shelf that fits a toolbox nicely. There have been times that I place a toolbox on a wall shelf or in a bookcase as well.

Use a Toolbox to Hold Decorative Items

This idea is pretty much the same as making a centerpiece. I had a few homemade Christmas trees that I wanted to display together so the red toolbox made a perfect base for the grouping.