5. Bohemian Slatted Crate-Style Holder
For a relaxed, collected look that suits boho or eclectic living rooms, a slatted crate-style holder fits right in. The slatted construction feels casual and handmade, plus it allows air to circulate around magazines, which keeps them from developing that musty smell over time.
Cut 1×3 boards into vertical slats about 18 inches long, then build two end pieces from wider planks with notches cut to receive the slats. Think of it as a small wooden crate tipped on its side. Space the slats about half an inch apart for that breezy look. The whole thing can be assembled with exterior wood screws and finished with a weathered gray stain or a whitewash effect.
Materials: pine 1×3 boards, 1×6 boards for ends, exterior wood screws, wood glue, stain or whitewash. Time: 3 to 5 hours. Difficulty: beginner. Whitewashing is surprisingly forgiving. Mix one part white latex paint with two parts water, brush on, then wipe off quickly with a rag. The result is that perfectly imperfect sun-faded look.
Style it leaning against a wall under a gallery of mixed-frame art, then tuck a few large coffee table books inside alongside the magazines for that effortlessly layered look.