have you read this book yet? it's called Country Living Simple Country Wisdom: 501 Old-Fashioned Ideas to Simplify Your Life by Susan Waggoner & came out in June 2009... it is packed full with tips & tricks, household hints, & practical solutions to everyday problems.
i love these pages... here they took vintage items: patterns, belt & measuring tape & used them all for wrapping a gift !
here's a great idea: repurposing an egg carton for a sewing kit & storing your current craft project...
... i was so inspired by it that i made one of my own - super easy & didn't cost anything as i used what i had.