How To Make Your Own Craft Paint Organizer Storage Rack DIY

This video tutorial shows how I make a space saving paint storage solution using only PVC pipe and PVC glue.
UPDATE: Since I made this video I now offer something easier and more flexible. Check out the Hex Hive storage organizer! No cutting needed. No tools or adhesives either. It is also Made in USA! Here is a link for more info on Hex Hive: marksmandalas....
The use of a chop saw is part of this video so if you do not have or are not comfortable using a chop saw maybe you have a friend, neighbor or family member that has experience with a chop saw that would be willing to cut down the PVC for you.
I am using 1-1/4 inch schedule 40 PVC pipe from the plumbing section of one of the big box DIY stores. This size will hold your standard 2 ounce bottles of craft paint such as DecoArt, Americana, CraftSmart, Martha Stewart, Apple Barrel, etc.
To glue the PVC together I am using Christy's Red Hot Blue Glue. Here is a link: marksmandalas....
If you decide you are going to give the video a thumbs down I would greatly appreciate if you would contact me to let me know what you do not like. I learn so much from the feedback I receive and I am always trying to find ways to improve what I do including my videos. Thank you.

[@wildroseranch1]

I’ve looked at a lot of paint storage videos. I think I like this one the best

[@janetjennings7324]

Great tutorial! Nicely shot. No extra chatter, just good info for people who don’t know anything about cutting & glueing pvc. Addressed safety issues, too! Thank you so much!!! I think I can do this!

[@lorir9226]

I would do a few rows like you do your first row and then glue the rows together rather than trying to balance the pieces on subsequent rows.

[@kathleenrobbins7544]

Mark! My husband build me two of your paint organizers. Each one holds 90 paints, 2 oz each. He put a wood frame and back on it too. It's great!

[@MarksMandalas]

Thank you for sharing! What a great guy your husband is for making that for you! I hope you enjoy your new paint organizer! :^)

[@wildstarchild6879]

These are some really wonderful ideas. I'm going to share this video with a lot of people on a Facebook page in a group for model car building. One thing that I want to caution you about. Be careful using that saw wearing gloves! Usually in my community we don't ever use gloves while using a miter or table saw... The reason being is that blade grabs that glove it is going to jerk your whole hand into that thing and go round and round before you realize it. It can make what would be a simple but bad enough injury into a whole situation where you lose a hand. Now if you're like me you're going to be super super careful, and you'll probably be okay, but even then, crazy things can happen. Just for the sake of anyone else who may be watching this... be careful using gloves around these types of saws... Again it doesn't take but one tooth on that blade to grab a tiny bit of that glove and then jerk your whole hand and arm into that saw blade. It only takes a split second to remove digits that will never grow back. Have fun doing your crafts and model-making and building stuff but just be careful! PLEASE?

[@MarksMandalas]

I now have Hex Hive 2.0 available which is much lighter does not need to be cut down and assembled with no tools or adhesives. Check out HexHive.us 😄❤️👍

[@wildstarchild6879]

@@MarksMandalas stuff looks pretty cool... Might just have to try that out

[@mightyman8028]

Great job, But i was wondering why you didn't just put the glue on the top of the bottom one's instead of trying to guess where to put the glue on the two sides of the piping as well as standing them up so they don't roll. Excellent idea though thanks going to save me lots of money!!... Especially instead buying a revolving space rack!

[@joleencox5900]

The BEST paint storage video I’ve seen yet!! Going to recreate one tonight! Thank you so much much for sharing

[@jillsmith5787]

Excellent step-by-step video, Mark. Just exactly what I need to make to organize all my gadzillion craft paint bottles! Thank-you!!!

[@fotzilla3832]

Anyone ever tell you that you kinda sound like David Letterman? Great vid!

[@GoodFoodsGoodMood]

I like this idea from everything I've seen so far on youtube, only downside is that you need a cutter to cut all these pipes.. only if hardware stores made them for sale this size.

[@Lyn4817]

Thanks Mark for this idea. I have two sets made up by my husband. He still has at least one more to glue, if I get my way, I would like another three made up.

[@drschultz04]

Best video I’ve seen. Exactly what I need!❤️🌴🌴PVC is ideal. Easy to use and expand if needed. Thanks so much. Like the idea of tray on top too

[@StalkeraBg]

This would be amazing in a wooden container too. We have 40ml or 1.4oz jars in my local store 10 per package, amazing for washes- and storing em in a movable container made up of these would fit perfectly

[@monteladow159]

Perfect... great idea and soooooo very simple! Thank you!!

[@terryramsey5979]

Great idea, quick, inexpensive build, and a good space saver.

[@topanga5759]

Thanks for sharing. I was looking for an idea to hold all my 2oz bottles of paint This is easy and mostly inexpensive

[@MarksMandalas]

Since I made this video I have created the Hex Hive storage organizer that you can put together the size and shape you want with no tools & no adhesives. I thought I would let you know about this new option if you decide you don't want to have to cut down PVC and glue it together. Here is the link to my website that tells you more about Hex Hive: marksmandalas.com/products/100-pc-set-hex-hive-craft-paint-storage-organizer-rack-for-paint-pens-dotting-tools-rolled-vinyl-etc-craft-room-storage-organizer-made-in-usa

[@vettejsmith]

Thank you soooo much

[@marisolmiranda5133]

Loved this! Thank you so much. I have tons of paints and yours is by far the best organizer I’ve seen. Going to try and put one together.

[@MarksMandalas]

Since I made this video I have since designed a storage organizer that can be assembled with no tools and no adhesives. It is called Hex Hive. Here is a link if you would like to see more information about it: marksmandalas.com/collections/marks-mandalas-dotting-tools

[@michelesimpson4817]

I’m going to store the unit inside of a drawer as I like to store my paint upside down and out of sight. I have a piece of thin white board I will tack on the bottom/back.

[@LisaPeckenpaugh1]

Awesome idea Mark, my hubby is in the garage making me one right now!

[@gailrhodes7771]

Great idea!!! Going to make one tomorrow!!!! Thank you!!!

[@robertmiller8384]

Well Done and Thank you very much for the tip!!!

[@Lexielouwho]

Excellent idea and great video. Am I the only one who envisions Tom green talking. Lol. This is my first video so I have no idea what you look like, but you sound like Tom Green.

[@lauracorona4943]

You are so detailed and clear in your explanation. Great job!

[@gratefulgirl6716]

Love your dotting tools!💖🙏

[@MarksMandalas]

I'm very happy you enjoy them :^)

[@Skittl1321]

Great idea! This looks super easy and so inexpensive!

[@cesarplaza6254]

It would make more sense to sit the top row on two of the bottom row so the tray when standing up is staggered while also making the whole of it more reinforced for strength. Also the clear PVC cement is better for bonding whereas the Red Hot Blue cement is actually for sealing joints so to keep water pressures optimal when using for plumbing.

[@MarksMandalas]

I don't care for the look of the PVC being staggered especially when keeping colors organized. I will look into the clear PVC cement. I do know for sure the Red Hot Blue is super strong and works great for this project. I am always open to suggestions though and I will definitely look at the clear. I'm not a plumber so I have very little experience with PVC and their adhesives. Thanks for the tip. :^)

[@aaronc1107]

The reason that PVC cement is so strong is it's more solvent than adhesive. It actually melts the two PVC surfaces and makes them one. Good cost effective solution I'd say.

[@kckid68]

You could put one swipe on the top of the bottom row.

[@bornintheusa1644]

Thats what i thought too

[@themakerken3453]

Maybe use a block held in place with a C clamp on your chop saw? That way you don’t have to line up on a line every time

[@wildstarchild6879]

The problem with using a stop block on this, is if you're not careful when you pull that blade back up... It has a tendency to throw those smaller pieces all across the shop LOL so the smart thing to do would be to cut and then release the trigger while the saw is still in the down position. Make sure the blade stops turning before you lift it back out and you will solve this issue

[@lynetteclauser3551]

Very helpful

[@kaymoon7424]

Awesome idea!

[@Rexach1]

Thanks clever

[@JenaHuffman]

Excellent! Thank you for the tutorial. I will be trying this :)

[@juliehomer3884]

Brilliant idea thank you 👍😍

[@ladyhill9744]

Neat idea!!

[@mariacruzgarrido7126]

Estupenda idea. Gracias!!!

[@aaronc1107]

I'd suggest blocking the left side of your chopsaw to the desired PVC length for your pieces. Would be way faster and they'd all be identical. You forgot to mention the type of chopsaw saw blade you're using too. Finer toothed = less chance of chipping. I appreciate the safety callouts on the respirator btw. That stuff is no bueno to breath. Nice video though. Thanks for sharing.

[@MarksMandalas]

Since I made this video I have created the Hex Hive storage organizer. No tools or adhesive needed. You assemble it the size and shape that fits your space. Here is a link for more info: marksmandalas.com/collections/marks-mandalas-dotting-tools

[@erinshriner4815]

I'd like to know the blade used as well. Our pipe is chipping, and I can't afford the hex hive, which is why I searched a diy storage shelf!

[@jamn4God]

You could probably make a wood box and just insert the pvc pipe as well, no glue required.

[@lorir9226]

Except then when you're removing a paint you risk the pvc pipe coming out as well.

[@susanjerrell9220]

Great idea and not too expensive, well except for the chop saw. LOL Just kidding.

[@MarksMandalas]

Susan Jerrell I have a new organizer coming to market around the end of this calendar year that will be a little more expensive but you can customize the size and shape of it as well as expand storage one compartment at a time.

[@yvonneost12]

this is a brilliant idea but I have way took many paints to put the all in something like this..

[@melissawatson2607]

If you don’t have room on desk or shelf, how would you hang it without a frame around it? I do love this! Thank you!!

[@MarksMandalas]

I have a fully functional prototype wall hanger that you slide hex hive on. I have been including them in orders from people that request them. I still have some testing to do but I am confident enough in their ability to send them out upon request. I am also still working on instructions but the mount to the wall with a single screw and wall anchor if necessary. The screw and wall anchor are also included. Please feel free to email me through my website if you have any additional questions.

[@catgir5x]

Clever :)

[@marthamyers1539]

You would have saved some vertical space if ever other row of tubes alternated and rested between the tubes of the first row. Just another option! first row

[@anonymousprepper1463]

saved me $100

[@tablet2016]

Why not have just glued them together on end on a table then put against wall whe. Finished instead of all that proping up with boxes to glue while on the floor??

[@MSAPPLE337]

Love your work... Is the black pipe that u use in your Hex Hive something you made are is it store bought?

[@MarksMandalas]

Hex Hive is my creation and I have it manufactured for me here in the USA. 😃❤️👍🏻

[@courtaneyrenee]

I want to make this for my sister and spray paint it to match her decor. Should I spray paint before I glue or after?

[@MarksMandalas]

I think it would be easier to paint before gluing together but I am not sure if the paint will interfere with the glue holding the pieces of PVC together. Maybe spray paint a couple pieces and try gluing them together then test to see how well they hold together. I hope this helps.

[@jamesvarnell9917]

You could have swiped the glue on the PVC rack and just place the PVC on it

[@cyndiewarren94]

Great idea! What kind of stand do you have for your dotting tools? Btw, I have a set of your dotting tools! Love them!

[@MarksMandalas]

I'm so glad you are enjoying your my dotting tools. Here is a link for more info on the stand: marksmandalas.com/collections/other-products-i-use/products/tomum-12-layers-clear-acrylic-display-stand-for-pen-eyebrow-pencil-makeup-brush-nail-brush-e-cigarette

[@mikel4510]

Nice idea, but kind of expensive compared to buying one.

[@lorir9226]

Any you buy already done are very expensive. PVC pipe is cheap.

[@mikel4510]

@@lorir9226 PVC pipe isn't cheap, and neither is one's time (or shouldn't be). Yeah, some of those organizers are expensive, but just as many cost less than PVC pipe.

[@sueheimann8069]

what kind of saw blade are you using to cut pvc on chop saw?

[@MarksMandalas]

Fine tooth or extra fine tooth if I remember correctly. It has been a few years now since Hex Hive & Hex Hive 2.0 have come along.

[@JimBuschman]

well shit, this is exactly what I've been trying to figure out. Never thought of PVC pipe! Is the bond strong enough to hang on the wall without falling apart under weight?

[@MarksMandalas]

Pvc is pretty heavy so I’m not sure as I did not test it. I have since created the Hex Hive storage organizer that you can definitely hang on the wall. I have created a wall hanger kit for Hex Hive. Here is more info on Hex Hive: marksmandalas.com/collections/marks-mandalas-dotting-tools/products/100-pc-set-hex-hive-craft-paint-storage-organizer-rack-for-paint-pens-dotting-tools-vinyl-rolls-etc-craft-room-storage-organizer-made-in-usa

[@aldridkg]

Can you use hot glue gun instead of that other glue?

[@kaygenio2129]

Would these sections with the 2oz. paint bottles be too heavy to hang on an average wall ? Also, I don't know anyone with a saw so I was wondering if you or any viewer would know what kind of business would possibly do non-commercial sawing? Home Depot used to saw boards but not anymore.

[@MarksMandalas]

The PVC is pretty heavy for wall hanging. I have since created the Hex Hive storage organizer. It is much lighter and it is already at the proper length. You assemble it the size and shape that works for you. No tools or adhesives needed. Here is a link for more info about Hex Hive: marksmandalas.com/collections/marks-mandalas-dotting-tools/products/100-pc-set-hex-hive-craft-paint-storage-organizer-rack-for-paint-pens-dotting-tools-vinyl-rolls-etc-craft-room-storage-organizer-made-in-usa

[@jenniferlepore8054]

Can you hang these on a wall??

[@bluestarhealingangels9162]

Cool idea but cost to much for me

[@jademoon5996]

I think you are amazing =)

[@cynthiayaw9453]

How many pieces did u make out of one pipe

[@annabethchase4326]

What other glues would work well for building this?

[@MarksMandalas]

I think most pvc glues should work. I have found a clear medium pvc glue works as well as the blue glue I use in the video.

[@Lyn4817]

Thanks Mark. These are sensational and so easy. I now have three 25 bottle racks. I have configured them differently as I feel there is more strength and stability. I have one more rack to go, pipes are already cut. I have also glues a back panel to the bottom. I really love these. So easy to add to over time. I am in Australia so I had to get inventive as you don't ship to us. I have also bought two pen racks. They are also amazing. One question. Do you have the metric sizes on your Mike Mandalas tools please, that you can tell us.

[@TruthSeekingElf]

Wow, just amazing!! Very innovative indeed!! Are you married? ;)

[@MarksMandalas]

Thank you for you kind words! Lol...yes I am married. :^)

[@TruthSeekingElf]

@@MarksMandalas Awww... well ok then! :D

[@lindajacobs1487]

Is storing paint by the window a good idea?

[@MarksMandalas]

I think if it is kept out of direct sunlight it should be ok but I think it also depends on how extreme the weather is in your area. These PVC storage units can be made to go around a window so your paint is not directly in front of the window.

[@missmandee4733]

Didnt you invent the hex hive? I am so confused!!

[@MarksMandalas]

Yes I did. This video was the catalyst that led to Hex Hive. When I made this video I had no idea it would lead to Hex Hive. I am so thrilled it did! 😃❤️👍🏻

[@suziesusen]

no sound !

[@MarksMandalas]

I just went and played the video with no issues. The sound was there for me. Maybe try watching it on another device and see if that works.

[@cornelishenk4569]

As a plumber and a miniature painter . Feel disgusted I didn't figure this one out sooner. 🥲