Creative Ways to Repurpose a File Cabinet

An old file cabinet that is no longer used to store paperwork is worth saving. I had a large four drawer unit that I no longer wanted for holding files and papers. I began filing all of my receipts and paperwork electronically. I could have put it out with the trash. Someone would have picked it up, but I wanted to repurpose the item instead of throwing it away. I had a few plans in mind for my old file cabinet, and I ultimately settled on one idea. Find out how I chose to repurpose the metal furnishing, and discover other new ways to make use of a file cabinet that is no longer needed for storing receipts and other papers.

Repurpose a File Cabinet for Clothing Storage

I decided to repurpose my file cabinet for off season clothing storage. I ruffed up the slick painted surface with coarse grit sandpaper, and I repainted the metal with deep blue enamel. I used peel and stick appliqués to decorate the sides with black, brown and light blue paisley designs. It no longer looked like a file cabinet, especially after I topped it with a crystal vase filled with blue delphiniums and white carnations. Because I chose to repurpose the file cabinet for off season clothing storage, I was able to create more space in my dresser drawers.

Make a Unique Plant Stand

Do you need a new plant stand with built-in storage? Repurpose a file cabinet to hold live plants and supplies. Add color by sanding, priming and painting the metal. The drawers can be used to store plant food, extra pots, seeds and any other plant related items. Be sure to store the heaviest items in the bottom drawer to avoid tipping the file cabinet upon opening.

Create Garden Shed Storage

Repurpose an extra file cabinet to the garden shed. I used my oldest metal cabinetry to hold outdoor plant and garden supplies. I filled the bottom drawer with stacked clay pots and several hand tools. I used the top drawer to hold plant food, containers of seeds and a few other lightweight miscellaneous items. As a result, I had more shelf space than ever before.

Repurpose a File Cabinet for Tools

If gardening is not your cup of tea, repurpose an old file cabinet to hold tools. Use drawer organizers meant for holding kitchen utensils to store everything from screwdrivers to wrenches. The organizers can be stacked inside of the drawers. Place the heaviest tools in the bottom drawer and lighter weight implements in upper locations. If tipping is still a concern, securely bolt the file cabinet to wall studs. Repurpose the metal storage unit to hold anything that you need to organize, and make use of a sturdy furnishing that will last for many years to come.

Source: Personal and Professional Home Design and Crafting Experience