| Metal storage cabinets are often heavy and | | | | Sewing or Crafts Storage Solution |
| cumbersome, but those old file cabinets can be put to | | | | Who says a filing cabinet has to hold files? Utilize that |
| good use. By utilizing them as part of a contemporary | | | | storage space to house your hobby, craft or sewing |
| design strategy, you can refurbish and transform those | | | | supplies in one convenient location. Start by organizing |
| old metal cabinets into unique and innovative storage | | | | your supplies into categories like notions, fabric scraps, |
| solutions. | | | | accessories and patterns. |
| For some great DIY ideas using metal file cabinets that | | | | Then, label each drawer with a Polaroid photo or |
| you can do, keep reading. | | | | printed label indicating the contents. You can even paint |
| Paint it Up | | | | your labels right on the drawers using a stencil and |
| You can instantly give your metal storage cabinets an | | | | metal paint. |
| updated and fresh look with metal or auto paint. The | | | | Vinyl Record Storage |
| appeal of auto paint is that it's designed for use on | | | | Older file cabinets typically boasted deep drawers that |
| metal and comes in a wide variety of colors. | | | | are at least 12 inches deep, if not more. And, since vinyl |
| You can jazz it up with stenciled or geometric patterns | | | | records (remember those?) are usually about 12 |
| or simply go with a solid, fresh, new color that matches | | | | inches with their sleeve, they'll fit inside perfectly. |
| your design strategy. | | | | The drawers will also protect your vinyl from outside |
| Before you start applying paint, wash your cabinets | | | | debris, dust and moisture. Though this isn't an airtight |
| with a gentle soap and water mixture to clean off any | | | | solution, it's better than being stacked next to your |
| debris or grease that can prevent the paint from | | | | record player. Finish your project by alphabetizing your |
| adhering to the metal. | | | | collection and labeling each drawer. |
| Once the cabinet is dry, either remove or cover the | | | | To prevent the drawer sliders from breaking under the |
| handles to avoid painting them. Now, you're ready to | | | | strain of the weight, try to put no more than 30 |
| paint. Apply even layers in a downward motion and | | | | records in every drawer. You'll also find that limiting the |
| allow the paint to dry between layers. Ideally, you want | | | | number of records in each of your metal storage |
| to apply at least three coats to get a sheen and | | | | cabinets will make browsing easier since you'll have |
| professional finish. | | | | more room to flip through your selection. |