As a seasoned DIY enthusiast with years of upcycling experience, I've discovered that everyday office furniture holds untapped potential. This flip-top file cabinet, sourced from a used office store, becomes a robust, stylish dresser. Its spacious drawers handle heavy loads, and built-in safety features prevent multiple drawers from opening at once. A sleek racing stripe update makes it both practical and eye-catching.
By Sam Henderson
By Sam Henderson
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the cabinet.
By Sam Henderson
Scrape off old labels using a razor blade. Apply adhesive remover if needed.
By Sam Henderson
Carefully mask the handles with masking tape, trimming excess with a razor blade or craft knife.
By Sam Henderson
Apply masking tape across the cabinet top, positioning the front edge at least 3 inches from both sides of the handles. This guides your racing stripes.
By Sam Henderson
Spray paint between the tape guides for the racing stripes. Apply lightly near edges, let dry fully, and add coats as needed. Remove guides.
By Sam Henderson
Create a paper strip as wide as the handles, long enough to cover the front and top. Ensure even width. Tape it in place continuously, with outer tape edges extending just 1/4 inch beyond. Add spacer tape next to it for fringe width guides, then mask outer areas.
By Sam Henderson
Remove spacers. Cut paper and outer masking into drawer gaps. Secure small tape pieces over drawer flap ends, wrapping top and bottom.
By Sam Henderson
Spray the cabinet in the main color, covering all visible drawer sides except bottoms (which get liner). Dry fully and recoat if necessary.
By Sam Henderson
Remove all tape.
By Sam Henderson
Use steel wool to distress paint edges and smooth tape lines. Wipe clean with a damp paper towel.
By Sam Henderson
Cut and apply self-adhesive shelf liner to drawer bottoms and backs, covering any knockouts.
By Sam Henderson
By Sam Henderson
By Sam Henderson
