Key Rack From Old Keys

Lose any metal objects lately? Put in a request at lostmystuff.net and someone with a metal detector just might show up to try to find it free of charge. These volunteers are kind of like superheroes with headphones. One of them even located a college ring that had been lost since 1977. I wish one would follow me around my house, because I constantly misplace my keys.

Here's the strange thing: While the keys I use daily often go missing, I have a growing pile of mystery keys in a tin on my dresser. I'm sure they were important once, and I probably tried hard not to lose them. But now I have no idea what they're meant to unlock, and for some reason I can't imagine throwing them out.

This project, then, is a twofer. With a piece of wood, screws, and some pliers, I transformed the castoffs into a rack to hold and organize my current stash. It was quick and easy, and I had all the materials on hand. Now I just have to remember to hang my keys there.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: 1 | CONSTRUCTION TIME: 1 HOUR
An electric drill comes in handy, but nails and a hammer work just as well.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED: 

• 3 to 5 keys, one for each hook (plus extras in case a few break)
• Pliers
• Vise (optional)
• Piece of wood (9.5 inches wide by 3 inches high is a good size for 4 keys)
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Nails or wood screws (one for each key)
• Hammer for nails or electric drill for wood screws

Step 1: Place a key in the vise and carefully bend the stem into a hook with the pliers. If you don't have a vise, bend the key by gripping the stem with the pliers and pressing the head against a hard surface. Repeat with the remaining keys. (Note: If you are using very old circular keys, you will need metal working equipment to heat and bend them).

Step 2: Line up the bent keys on the piece of wood. Measure and mark the points where you want to attach them.

Step 3: Attach the keys to the wood with nails or wood screws (for a nice touch, use decorative furniture nails).

Step 4: Hang your rack on the wall, hang your keys on the hooks, and enjoy knowing where to find them.

Based on a project by Nicholas Torretta at viraroque.blogspot.com.