Upcycling old metal file cabinets is a creative way to give these office relics new life. With a little imagination and DIY spirit, you can transform dated file cabinets into functional and stylish pieces for your home. Here are some tips and project ideas for upcycling metal file cabinets.

Assess the File Cabinet

Before beginning your upcycling project, thoroughly examine the file cabinet. Check for any structural damage, loose joints, or rust. Light sanding may help remove scratches or paint imperfections. Ensure all drawers slide smoothly after removing the contents. Measure the dimensions and identify the cabinet’s potential uses. This assessment determines what upcycling project matches the file cabinet’s current condition.

Clean and Prepare the Surface

To begin, disassemble the file cabinet drawers and hardware. Remove any contents and thoroughly clean the surfaces with soap and water. Use a degreaser to eliminate grime buildup. Sand lightly to help new paint adhere. Wipe down with tack cloth to remove dust before priming. Filling small holes with wood filler creates a smooth canvas for painting. Prime and paint with your choice of color to give the filing cabinet a fresh new look.

Creative Painting Techniques

Plain white or solid colors modernize traditional file cabinets. For more interest, consider creative paint techniques. An ombre look with graduated colors adds visual depth. Use painter’s tape to create fun geometric patterns. Stenciling intricate designs makes the file cabinet pop. Paint the interior a bright contrasting color for a dramatic reveal when opening the drawers. Chalk paint creates a trendy distressed finish. Paint the exterior one color and the interior a different hue. So many painting possibilities exist for metal file cabinets.

Add Hardware and Accents

Swapping old tarnished hardware for updated brass or crystal knobs refreshes the look instantly. Stencil patterns onto the drawers for added flair. Adhere decorative paper, fabric or contact paper inside the drawers. Attach small handles or pulls for a more modern or cottage feel. Paint, stencil or apply patterned contact paper to the interior to coordinate with the exterior design. Add skinny trim molding around the sides and top to frame the cabinet. Details like customized handles and color accents give new life to old metal file cabinets.

Upcycle into Storage

File cabinets already have excellent storage with their wide, shallow drawers. Lean into this functionality for your upcycling project.

Kitchen Storage

In the kitchen, use a file cabinet for storing baking sheets, cutting boards, tablecloths, cookbooks and more. Add drawer liner and labels for an organized feel.

Office Storage

A playful paint color transforms a filing cabinet into fun office storage. Corral office supplies, craft materials or filing in the handy drawers. Add cute knobs and paper lining the drawers.

Bathroom Storage

In the bathroom, file cabinets provide discrete closed storage. Stash towels, toiletries, first aid supplies, cleaning products or hair tools in the cabinet. Paint it to coordinate with your space.

Garage Storage

The garage is a great place to utilize a metal file cabinet. Store tools, hardware, automotive supplies, sports equipment and seasonal items neatly organized in labeled drawers.

Upcycle into Furniture

With a little creativity, metal file cabinets become unique furnishings.

Side Table or Night Stand

A petite two-drawer version works nicely as a side table or nightstand. Decorate the top and paint the exterior to match your room. Add knobs or pulls if desired.

TV Console

Flank a large flat screen TV with two similar size file cabinets painted the same color. This makes a budget-friendly media console for the living room.

Bar Cabinet

Upcycle a file cabinet into a bar by adding a wood counter top. Style with hardware and paint or contact paper on the exterior and interior. Stock the drawers with barware and spirits.

Buffet Server

Create a narrow buffet server by placing a wood top on a filing cabinet. Use in the dining room or kitchen to store serving pieces and table linens.

Desk

A metal desk frame paired with a wood top makes a sturdy workspace. Paint or apply contact paper to the file cabinet before attaching the desktop. Customize with legs or casters.

Safety Considerations

When upcycling metal furniture, keep safety in mind:

• Use hardware and adhesives rated for heavy items to ensure sturdy attachment.
• Avoid sharp corner edges by adding edge protectors.
• Anchor tall cabinets to the wall using heavy duty brackets.
• File cabinets convert best into storage furniture rather than seating.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips for a successful file cabinet upcycling project:

• Fully clean and remove grease from the original surface.
• Lightly sand to help paint adhere.
• Prime before painting for a smooth finish.
• Use high quality exterior/interior paint.
• Consider wax or polyurethane over chalk paint for durability.
• Measure carefully when adding wood tops for a secure fit.
• Pre-drill holes for attaching hardware.
• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Seal any raw wood edges.
• Display decor items in glass containers inside the drawers.

Conclusion

With some simple cleaning, priming, paint and new hardware, it’s easy to transform outdated metal file cabinets into functional and trendy furnishings. Assess the cabinet size and condition to determine the best upcycling project. Paint the exterior and interior to refresh the look, using creative techniques like ombre, patterns or contrasting colors. Add updated knobs, pulls or handles. Then, repurpose into handy home storage or stylish furniture like a side table, buffet, desk or bar. Follow safety guidelines and tips for success. Upcycling metal file cabinets takes a little effort, but the end result is custom furniture on a budget.

FAQs about Upcycling Metal File Cabinets

What type of paint works best on metal file cabinets?

High quality spray paint formulated specifically for metal adheres best on smooth metal surfaces like file cabinets. Rustoleum and Krylon are top brands for metal paint. Primer helps the paint stick.

What’s the best way to remove rust from a metal file cabinet?

For surface rust, sand lightly with fine grit sandpaper until removed, then clean and prime immediately. For heavier rust, use a rust remover solution first to penetrate and dissolve rust, then sand and prime.

How do you give a metal file cabinet an antique look?

There are a few techniques to antique a metal filing cabinet:

• Use a bronze or metallic finish paint for an aged look
• Rub on a patina finish solution after painting to create a weathered effect
• Sand paint edges lightly after drying to distress the surface
• Apply dark glaze over paint, then wipe away excess to antique
• Paint different sections different colors for a vintage mismatched appearance

Should I remove old paint from a filing cabinet before repainting?

If the existing paint is cracked or peeling, remove it by sanding, scraping or using paint stripper. For paint in good condition, lightly sand and clean before priming and painting over it.

What are some ideas to organize the interior of an upcycled filing cabinet?

• Use drawer organizers or dividers
• Adhere contact paper or fabric
• Attach vinyl tabs or labels
• Create sections with magazine holders
• Incorporate hanging racks or shelves
• Place small bins or trays inside drawers

What are safety precautions for upcycled furniture?

Use adhesives made for heavy items, pre-drill holes for hardware, secure tall pieces to the wall, avoid sharp edges, and don’t convert filing cabinets into seating. Prioritize storage furniture over other uses.

What are some beginner upcycling projects using old file cabinets?

Some beginner ideas include:

• Kitchen pantry storage
• Craft supply organizer
• Garage tool storage
• Side table or night stand
• Office drawer organizer
• Bathroom linen and toiletries storage

Can you upcycle wood filing cabinets too?

Yes, wood filing cabinets can also be upcycled using many of the same techniques:

• Paint, stain or decoupage the exterior
• Sand lightly and refinish with stain and polyurethane
• Replace hardware like knobs, handles or hinges
• Remove upper cabinet section to lower height
• Add new tops to convert into furniture

The solid wood construction lends itself well to refinishing. Assess the cabinet condition and get creative with wood filing cabinet upcycling projects!