Make a handy CD case collection keeper

The Eiffel Tower is tarnished, and a stone is missing from Big Ben, but my friend’s charm bracelet, though not in mint condition, is priceless.

There is something magical about the way collections take us back to places and events.

Before you toss the shells, pebbles and coins in the bottom of your kids’ drawers, let them sort the treasures by shape, color and size, and then mount just a few of their favorite little things in plastic CD cases.

Here’s how to turn an empty, plastic CD case into a mini collection keeper:

“Cut a piece of construction paper, felt or craft foam to fit the back half of the case where the CD was stored.

“Glue in place and then mount a collection of fairly flat objects such as coins, tiny shells and sand, pressed flowers, ticket stubs, postage stamps, etc., directly on top of it.

“Make labels to describe the contents, if you wish. Snap the case closed and display on a shelf, or attach a self-sticking hook on the back to hang on the wall.

“Display throughout the year in these nifty cases. If you make several, it’s easy to stack and store them. Bring them out occasionally for a revolving showcase of your kids’ evolving interests.

Extra idea: Make a mini CD case scrapbook of an outing. If your family spent the day at the zoo, for example, print the words “OUR TRIP TO …” on a sheet of paper the size of the front of the CD case. Glue it inside the front of the case so the words show through the cover. Open the case and write “THE ZOO!” on the back of the paper.

On the right side, make a collage of animals you saw that day using cutouts from your photos or a zoo brochure.