13 Chest of Drawers Upcycling Projects to Try Today

Turn an Old Dresser into a Kitchen Island with Wheels and a Cutting Board

4 Steps to Create This Old Dresser into a Kitchen Island with Wheels and a Cutting Board

1. Prepare the Chest of Drawers
   • Clean the chest of drawers thoroughly and sand off any rough or damaged areas. You want the surface smooth for the next steps.
2. Add Wheels for Mobility
   • Attach caster wheels to the bottom corners of the chest of drawers. This not only makes it mobile but also gives it a fresh, modern look.
3. Repurpose the Top with a Cutting Board
   • Place or secure a sturdy wooden cutting board on top of the chest. This will act as your new work surface or food prep station.
4. Decorate and Final Touches
   • Style the chest with kitchen essentials like utensils, baskets, or plants. You can also repaint or stain the wood for a polished finish that matches your kitchen decor.

Create a Vibrant Art Station with Paint and Supplies

4 Steps to Create This Vibrant Art Station with Paint and Supplies

1. Prepare Your Dresser
   • Clean the chest of drawers and sand down any rough or chipped areas. This provides a smooth surface for painting and ensures a long-lasting finish.
2. Apply Vibrant Paint
   • Choose bold colors like teal and yellow for a modern, eye-catching look. Use a brush or roller to apply the paint evenly, and allow it to dry completely before adding a second coat.
3. Organize the Drawers
   • Line the inside of the drawers with compartmentalized organizers or colorful boxes to neatly store your art supplies. Categorize items like paints, brushes, and papers for easy access.
4. Style and Personalize
   • Arrange your art supplies on top of the dresser with pots for brushes and jars for paints. Don’t forget to add a touch of personality with decorative elements like plants or patterned containers.

Turn Old Furniture into a Modern Storage Solution with Paint and Binders

4 Steps to Create This Modern Storage Solution with Paint and Binders

1. Clean and Prep the Dresser
   • Remove all items from the drawers and clean the piece thoroughly. Sand down any rough patches or old paint to create a smooth base for the new finish.
2. Apply Fresh Paint
   • Paint the dresser in a bright, clean color like white or cream to give it a modern look. Use multiple coats if needed, and allow time to dry between layers.
3. Organize with Binders
   • Label white or black binders for storing important documents, papers, or supplies. Arrange them neatly on top of the dresser for easy access and a polished appearance.
4. Add Final Touches
   • Keep the area tidy by only placing minimal items on top, like small decorative pieces or plants. Ensure drawer contents are categorized for maximum functionality.

Revamp with Paint, Tassels, and New Knobs

4 Steps to Create This Chest of Drawers

1. Prepare the Chest of Drawers
   • Remove existing handles and sand the surface to remove chipped paint and even out rough areas. Wipe clean to prep for painting.
2. Paint the Dresser
   • Apply a fresh coat of light gray or any color of your choice. Use a brush or roller for even coverage. Allow time to dry between coats for a smooth and polished finish.
3. Add New Knobs and Tassels
   • Replace old handles with modern white knobs for a clean, sophisticated look. Attach tassels to the drawer pulls for a touch of luxury and charm.
4. Decorate and Organize
   • Layer folded clothes, accessories, or decor items neatly in cubbies and on top of the dresser. Add personal touches like hats, scarves, or small decorative accents to complete the look.

Turn an Antique Dresser into a Stylish Bench with Padding and Fabric

4 Steps to Create This Stylish Bench

1. Clean and Prepare the Dresser
   • Remove old dust, cobwebs, and any lingering grime using a damp cloth. Sand the wood gently to smooth the surface and prepare it for polish.
2. Polish and Enhance the Wood
   • Apply wood polish or varnish to bring out the rich tones and details of the antique carvings. Allow plenty of time for it to dry before moving forward.
3. Build the Bench Seat
   • Cut a piece of wood or sturdy board to fit across the top of the dresser. Cover it with padding for comfort and staple your chosen fabric over it, securing it tightly underneath.
4. Decorate with Throw Pillows
   • Place the padded seat on the dresser and style it with coordinating throw pillows. Choose colors and patterns that match your room’s decor to create a warm, inviting look.

Give New Life with Paint, Baskets, and Towels

4 Steps to Give New Life

1. Clean and Repair the Dresser
   • Clear out the drawers, remove dust, and sand down rough, worn surfaces. Fill in any chips or scratches with wood filler to create an even base for painting.
2. Paint the Dresser
   • Choose a soft, neutral color like cream or white. Apply two coats of paint for a smooth, polished finish, allowing time to dry between layers.
3. Organize with Baskets and Towels
   • Use wicker or fabric baskets in the open compartments or drawers for added organization. Keep folded towels neatly in place for a clean and inviting look.
4. Style with Skincare Products and Decor
   • Arrange your favorite skincare bottles, potted plants, or scented candles on top of the dresser to tie the look together. Hang a soft cloth over the edge for an extra touch of coziness.

Turn a Dresser into a Velvet-Lined Jewelry Cabinet with Paint and Carvings

4 Steps to Create Velvet-Lined Jewelry Cabinet

1. Prep and Paint the Dresser
   • Sand the dresser to smooth out any rough patches, then apply a coat of light gray paint. Use a second coat for a polished look and allow it to dry completely.
2. Add Carved Details
   • Choose decorative wooden appliques or carvings and attach them to the corners or edges of the dresser. Paint over them to blend seamlessly with the main piece.
3. Line Compartments with Velvet
   • Measure and cut velvet fabric to fit inside the drawers or added compartments. Secure the velvet with glue, making sure it’s smooth and wrinkle-free for an elegant finish.
4. Install New Knobs and Jewelry Hooks
   • Replace the existing knobs with sleek white ones. Add hooks inside compartments for hanging necklaces and pendants, creating a functional and stylish jewelry cabinet.

Transform with Paint, Mirrors, and Makeup Organizers

4 Steps to Create This Makeup Organizers

1. Clean and Sand the Dresser
   • Remove all dust and debris with a damp cloth. Gently sand off any chipped paint or rough areas to create a smooth surface for painting.
2. Paint the Dresser and Mirror
   • Choose a sophisticated color like white or cream. Apply two coats of furniture paint to both the dresser and the attached mirror frame for an elegant finish.
3. Refine with Decorative Details
   • Replace knobs with ornate handles for a touch of sophistication. Add carved appliques or other embellishments if desired, and paint them to match.
4. Style with Makeup Organizers and Accessories
   • Arrange clear or pastel-colored makeup organizers on the dresser top. Add a set of makeup brushes, small mirrors, and other cosmetics for a clean, organized look.

Modernize with Paint, Woven Baskets, and Chic Hangers

4 Steps to Create This Hangers

1. Clean and Prep the Wardrobe
   • Carefully remove dust and peeling paint with a damp cloth and sandpaper. Ensure the surface is smooth and ready for paint.
2. Paint for a Fresh Look
   • Opt for a soft, fresh color like white, cream, or pastel pink. Apply two coats evenly, letting each layer dry completely for a polished finish.
3. Organize with Baskets and Hangers
   • Use woven baskets for storing smaller items or accessories. Hang clothes on slim pastel-colored hangers to save space and add cohesive visual appeal.
4. Style the Space
   • Arrange neatly folded garments or soft fabrics in drawers and add decorative accents like a small rug or draped fabric over the edge for a cozy touch.

Cozy Makeover with Fabric, Padding, and Wooden Handles

4 Steps to Create This Wooden Handles

1. Clean and Prep the Dresser
   • Remove all dust and grime from the chest of drawers. Sand the surface to get rid of any peeling paint or rough areas.
2. Add Padding and Upholstery
   • Measure and cut soft foam padding to cover the drawer fronts. Wrap fabric over the padding and staple it to the back for a seamless, cushioned look.
3. Replace Handles
   • Remove the old handles and install smooth, wooden ones to contrast beautifully with the fabric. Choose a natural finish for an elegant touch.
4. Cozy Styling for Pets
   • Place soft cushions or pet bedding on the top of the dresser. Add plush toys and set up bowls or accessories nearby to create a welcoming spot for your pets.

Transform with Wood Stain, Books, and Decor

4 Steps to Create This Book Shelf

1. Remove and Prepare Drawers
   • Take out all drawers from the dresser and clean the surfaces thoroughly. Sand and smooth any rough edges for an even finish.
2. Refinish with Wood Stain
   • Choose a wood stain that complements your decor. Use a brush to apply an even coat, allowing it to dry between applications for a rich, polished look.
3. Attach Shelves or Reinforce the Structure
   • Add wooden boards where drawers used to be for sturdy shelving. Use screws to secure them and ensure they can hold books and decor.
4. Style Your Bookshelf
   • Arrange books by color or theme for visual appeal. Add decorative elements like vases, sculptures, or framed pictures to enhance the overall design.

Modern Desk Makeover with Paint, Golden Knobs, and Style

4 Steps to Create This Modern Desk

1. Clean and Remove the Drawers
   • Start by clearing the clutter and giving the dresser a thorough cleaning. Remove all drawers and set them aside for refinishing.
2. Refinish with Paint
   • Choose a dark, sleek paint or stain to give the dresser a modern look. Apply at least two coats, letting it dry completely between layers for a smooth finish.
3. Add Golden Knobs
   • Replace the old knobs with modern, golden ones for a contemporary touch. This simple detail instantly elevates the overall design.
4. Style Your Workspace
   • Position a laptop, a small desk lamp, a potted plant, and minimal decor on the top surface. Make sure to declutter to maintain a clean, organized aesthetic.

Transform Vintage Furniture with Fabric and Paint

4 Steps to Create This Drawer

1. Clean and Prep the Dresser
   • Start by wiping down the dresser and sanding away any chipped paint or rough edges. Remove the handles and clean all surfaces for even application.
2. Paint the Dresser
   • Select a soft, modern color like beige or pastel blue. Apply the paint with a brush or roller for a smooth finish. Allow the dresser to dry completely before proceeding.
3. Add Fabric Finishes
   • Cut fabric pieces to fit the drawer fronts or open compartments. Use a spray adhesive or glue to attach the fabric, smoothing it out to avoid wrinkles or bubbles. Pair neutral or patterned fabrics for a sophisticated touch.
4. Reassemble and Organize
   • Reattach updated or original decorative metal handles. Use the drawers to neatly store items like folded clothes or fabrics. Arrange shoes or accessories in open compartments to add both functionality and style.