If your measuring cups seem to disappear into the same drawer where lids, clips, and mystery gadgets go to hide, this is the kind of kitchen fix that feels tiny but makes everyday cooking so much easier. For this project, I turn small copper tin spice canisters into a magnetic holder for a full set of measuring cups, mounted right on the side of the refrigerator so they stay visible, tidy, and easy to grab when I’m in the middle of baking muffins or making dinner for my family.
I love a project like this because it doesn’t take much time, but it adds real function and a polished little decorative touch to the kitchen. If you cook often, bake with kids, or just want your most-used tools out of the drawer and within reach, this is a simple DIY with a big payoff.
Materials
Instructions
1. Wash and dry the copper spice canisters and your measuring cups so there is no grease, dust, or factory residue left on them.
2. Lightly sand the spot on each canister where the magnets will attach, then wipe the area with rubbing alcohol and let it dry fully.
3. Mark the back center of each canister, then dry-fit two magnets side by side on each one to make sure they sit flat and give enough contact for a strong hold on the refrigerator.
4. Mix the epoxy according to the package directions, apply a generous layer to the first pair of magnets, and press them firmly onto the marked spot on one canister.
5. Repeat with the remaining canisters, then use painter’s tape to hold the magnets in place while the adhesive cures for the full recommended time.
6. Add one small felt dot inside the rim or on the lower back edge of each canister if you want to soften the sound when the holder is placed on the refrigerator.
7. Once the epoxy is fully cured, test each canister on the side of the refrigerator and make sure it grips securely without sliding.
8. Arrange the canisters on the refrigerator in a straight vertical line or a gentle staggered layout, leaving 3 to 4 inches between each one so the measuring cup handles have room.
9. Slip one measuring cup handle into each canister so the bowl of the cup hangs below and the handle stays supported by the tin.
10. Put the cups in order from smallest to largest or largest to smallest, depending on what feels most natural when you cook.
11. If you want a more polished look, label the canister lids with the cup sizes using a paint marker, or add the size to the front bottom edge of each tin.
12. Give the whole setup one final tug test, then load and unload the cups a few times to confirm the magnets hold steady during daily use.
Variations & Tips
For heavier measuring cups: If your cups are thick stainless steel, use three magnets per canister instead of two, and choose deeper canisters so the handles sit more securely.
For a matching kitchen look: Copper is lovely and warm, but this also works with silver, white, black, or brushed metal spice tins if that fits your kitchen better.
For picky organizers: In my house, everyone puts things back a little differently, so I like to mount the cups from largest to smallest top to bottom because it makes the spacing feel easy to remember.
To prevent slipping: If a canister shifts on the refrigerator, clean the fridge surface again and upgrade to slightly wider magnets for more grip area.
To make it extra useful: You can create a second matching column for measuring spoons, tea infusers, or small baking tools, as long as each holder has enough magnet strength for the weight.
Adhesive tip: Hot glue usually is not strong enough for this project long-term, especially in a busy kitchen, so stick with a quality epoxy made for metal-to-metal bonding.
Placement tip: Mount the holder on the refrigerator side closest to your prep area so it feels natural to grab a cup while you’re scooping flour, sugar, oats, or rice.