Turning A Bookshelf Into A Cabinet: My Personal Experience
When I moved into my new apartment, I had an old bookshelf that I wasn’t using anymore. Instead of getting rid of it, I decided to turn it into a cabinet to store all of my extra kitchen supplies. It was a fun and easy DIY project that I’m excited to share with you. In this article, I’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to turn a bookshelf into a cabinet, as well as some tips, pros and cons, and my personal review.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Remove the Shelves
The first thing you’ll want to do is remove all of the shelves from the bookshelf. This will give you an empty space to work with. Make sure to keep the shelves somewhere safe in case you want to use them for another project.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Back Panel
Measure the back of the bookshelf and cut a piece of plywood to the same size. This will be the new back panel for your cabinet.
Step 3: Add Hinges
Attach hinges to the back panel and the bookshelf, so that the panel can open and close like a door. Make sure the hinges are securely attached and can support the weight of the panel.
Step 4: Add a Knob or Handle
Depending on the style of your bookshelf, you may want to add a knob or handle to the front of the back panel. This will make it easier to open and close the door.
Step 5: Add Shelves or Baskets
Now that you have a cabinet, you can add shelves or baskets to store all of your items. If you’re using shelves, make sure they fit securely and can support the weight of your items. If you’re using baskets, make sure they fit the space and are easy to access.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Choose a bookshelf that is sturdy and can support the weight of your items.
2. Take measurements before starting the project to make sure everything fits properly.
3. Use paint or wallpaper to add a pop of color or pattern to the back panel.
4. Add lighting inside the cabinet to make it easier to find your items.
5. Use baskets or bins to organize smaller items.
6. Add hooks to the inside of the door to hang utensils or towels.
7. Use adhesive shelf liner to protect the shelves or baskets.
8. Add a lock to the door if you’re storing valuable items.
9. Use the top of the bookshelf as a display area or extra storage space.
10. Have fun and get creative with the design!
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– It’s an affordable way to create extra storage space.
– You can customize the design to fit your style and needs.
– It’s a fun and easy DIY project.
Cons:
– It may not be as sturdy as a traditional cabinet.
– It may take some time and effort to find the right bookshelf to use.
My Personal Review
I loved turning my old bookshelf into a cabinet. It was a fun and easy DIY project that gave me extra storage space in my apartment. I used adhesive shelf liner to protect the shelves and added a knob to the front of the door for easy access. The only downside was that the cabinet wasn’t as sturdy as a traditional cabinet, but it still worked well for my needs.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I use any bookshelf for this project?
A: It’s best to use a sturdy bookshelf that can support the weight of your items. Make sure to take measurements before starting the project to ensure everything fits properly.
Q: Do I need any special tools for this project?
A: You’ll need a saw, hinges, and a knob or handle. Depending on the bookshelf, you may also need a drill to attach the hinges.
Q: How long does this project take?
A: It can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on your level of experience and the complexity of the design.