Close to my Heart Embellishment Storage

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Reported by: Katie Renz

Today I'm reviewing Close to my Heart's (CTMH) My Accents Embellishment Organizer. Organization is a topic that arises in almost all craft message boards and/or chat groups. As crafters, if we are more organized we generally get more accomplished. In fact, I think many of us consider organizing a craft sub-category all by itself. I know for me, I think I enjoy the process of arranging and rearranging my scrapbooking stash just a little too much.

Here are some specific details about the CTMH My Accents Embellishment Organizer (page 105) that I own. The holder measures 12 3/8" x 10 1/4" x 2" and is constructed of a sturdy plastic. Both sides of the holder are translucent plastic so the items inside are visible. There are 2 latches on top and handles that fold down on either side. The inside is lined with a stiff foam with cut out circles for the craft jars. The holder can either sit up on your shelf and only take up 2" width or can be stacked on top of each other.

The original reason I purchased CTMH's embellishment organizer was because I wanted to be able to house some CTMH embellishments that I was also purchasing, but what I found out though was that it would also hold many of my other small embellishments. What I liked about this case and the reason I bought another one is because I like having all my things in one spot. Because the case opens like a sandwich I can also have access to everything right at my finger tips.

It is important to note that the embellishment case does come empty. If you purchase CTMH's line of embellishments, most come in small, round, clear plastic containers with a screw top lid that fit perfectly into the case. I like the fact that the jars are clear and I can see what is in them. I also like the fact that I am able to unscrew just the lid and have access to my embellishment - I don't have to pull the entire jar out of the case.

But what if you don't fancy CTMH's specific brand of embellishments? Fortunately, CTMH offers a 6 pack of empty containers simply called Craft Jars (retail value $2.50). These craft jars work perfectly for a variety of embellishments from a variety of manufacturers.

In the following picture, I have CTMH embellishments on the right side and embellishments from other manufacturers on the left side. They are actually some dew drops and one container of grommets that came with the Big Bite.

Pros:

• Lots of storage in a relatively small space
• Cases store side by side or are stackable
• Appears to be well constructed

Cons:

• Price might be prohibitive for some
• There are no replaceable foam inserts available
• Will only fit CTMH plastic containers
• Need to find a CTMH Independent Consultant

Retail value for this case is $19.95 and can only be purchased from a CTMH Independent Consultant. Click here for their main website. From there you can browse their online catalog, but you will have to do an online search for a nearby consultant. At that point you can decide to contact the consultant or find one that has a website you can purchase from.

The case is very easy to use and in my book the value is good considering that the case holds 60 plastic jars. I would rate this embellishment organizer an 8 out 10.

You know that I like mine, but we would love to hear what you think of this holder if you have one and if you don't, would you consider buying one?