Install a customized closet on a

do-it-yourself budget

If your closets need a facelift, now is the time to take control and get organized. It’s easier than you think to have a customized closet without spending a lot of money.

“Customized closet systems are all the rage in many newer and remodeled homes, but the cost can be prohibitive for some,” said Barbara Bell, a Home Depot design specialist. “A do-it-yourselfer can save on labor costs and create a customized storage solution for just a fraction of the price.”

Whether the closet is in the master bedroom, child’s room or hall, is a reach-in or walk-in, large or small, an organizational system and shelving units can increase a closet’s capacity by 30 percent. Adding a basic starter unit to an existing closet takes minimal skill and can be done in one afternoon.

“Closet organization systems increase the amount of usable storage space, in part, by increasing the use of vertical space. Hanging rods, shelves and drawers are arranged to take advantage of every inch of space,” said Bell. “A well-planned system can even take the place of certain furniture items leaving more usable space in the room.”

Step 1: First measure the closet you want to organize, making sure to allow for light fixtures and electrical outlets.

Make a sketch of the space and write down all of the measurements.

Step 2: Figure out what items are going to be stored in the closet. Will you need space for hanging clothing? Are there many smaller items that should be stored in drawers? Do you need space for shoes or sweaters? Make a complete list of your storage needs. Planning in advance ensures that all of the items in your closet have a place to be stored so that there are no surprises after the project is completed.

Step 3: Take your list and measurements and visit the storage aisle of your local home center. Store displays and brochures make it easy to select organizers and accessories that will transform your closet from cramped and cluttered to fabulous.

For an inexpensive and versatile solution, Bell suggests the Mill’s Pride? 10-foot Closet Starter Pak, which includes one interior shelf, two 24-inch hanging rods and three 48-inch hanging rods, and can be customized with drawers, additional shelves, doors and rods.

Slide a shoe stacker into the starter unit for a custom closet at a fraction of the price.

Each shoe stacker holds up to 12 pairs of adult shoes or a child’s collection of stuffed animals.

Step 4: Installation of your new closet system will take about four hours and requires a basic skill level using an electric drill, stud finder, level and hand tools.

“Even a home improvement novice will be amazed how easy it is to assemble the units and install in your own closet,” says Bell. “