#6 DIY Kitchen Islands

We've said it before. the prep space in our kitchen is minimal to say the least. One of the first purchases we're making this weekend will be a kitchen island which will make cooking time (if you can call it that) so much easier. And even though we've got our eye on this guy from Target, we also wanted to check out the DIY options out there.

1. Celia and her hubby needed a DIY solution on a budget. What they came up with is this functional beauty made from metro shelving and an IKEA butcher block top.

2. Shopping carts aren't just for grocery shopping. Pick up a pair (legally) and make your own kitschy kitchen island.

3. IKEA to the rescue again--this time with two LACK tables stacked with a maple butcher block on top.

4. We've always liked card catalogs for organizing office and craft supplies but never thought to overhaul one for a kitchen island.

5. A super easy kitchen island made from standard kitchen cabinets with a little beadboard and molding to dress it up.

6. We can usually find a thrift store dresser for cheap. All you need is a coat of paint, some new hardware and casters to make it the perfect kitchen island--that's customized for your style.