DIY Plastic Drawer Makeover: A Quick & Easy Weekend Project
Plastic drawers are super handy for storage, but they don’t always look the best. That’s why this DIY Plastic Drawer Makeover is a game-changer!
Instead of settling for a basic plastic storage bin, you can easily build a wooden frame around it for a more polished and sturdy look.
This simple project uses pallet wood, making it an affordable way to add a rustic touch to your home.
This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.
Tools and Materials:
- Circular saw or handsaw
- Nail gun with brad nails
- Claw hammer
- Crowbar
- Measuring tape
- Plastic storage drawers
- Free pallet boards
- 1x3 wood boards for the frame
- Wood trim for finishing touches
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1. Preparing the Pallet Boards
Start by cutting the sides of the pallet wood to remove them from the center support.
This makes it easier to take them apart without breaking the boards.
Wiggle the boards to loosen the sides from the center support once the sides are cut.
Use a crowbar to pry them off carefully.
Then, flip the boards over and use a claw hammer to remove any leftover nails.
2. Measuring and Cutting the Frame
Measure the plastic storage bin to determine the width, height, and depth.
These measurements will guide the cuts for the frame.
Cut two pieces of 1x3 boards to 32 inches each for the side supports.
Repeat this for the other side.
Next, measure and cut multiple pallet wood pieces to 15 inches for the depth.
3. Assembling the Sides
Lay out the pallet wood pieces evenly along the 1x3 side supports.
Space them out to create a uniform look.
Using a nail gun, secure the boards by placing brad nails along the edges.
Once the side panels are done, place them next to the storage bin to ensure the width is correct before moving on.
To keep everything evenly spaced, install a middle and end board before securing the final pieces.
4. Adding the Top and Bottom
For the top, use three wider pallet wood boards. Attach them securely with brad nails on both sides.
A bottom board will add extra stability, so attach it firmly to make the frame even stronger.
5. Installing the Storage Bin and Adding Trim
Slide the plastic storage bin inside the wood frame to ensure a perfect fit.
Then, put the drawers back in and check that they slide smoothly.
Add trim pieces to cover any rough edges and give the project a finished look.
Once everything is in place, do a final test to make sure the drawers open and close easily.
Looking for more plastic drawer ideas?
DIY Plastic Drawer Makeover – A Budget-Friendly Storage Solution!
This DIY Plastic Drawer Makeover is a great way to repurpose old pallet wood while creating a functional and stylish storage solution.
It’s sturdy, customizable, and blends perfectly into any room.
Comments
Join the conversation
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i LOVE THIS IDEA! I always find that these plastic drawers are not sturdy and difficult to open/close. If I am reading it correctly, you have the front and sides holding the frame of the plastic drawers, which should give them all the support they need. Nice instructions and great project.
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This looks so cool!! you could also put wood looking contact paper in front of the drawers.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Mitch, I like the idea and you explain the process well, but wood pallets are known for having highly toxic chemicals such as pesticides in them. Can you explain what types of pallets are safe/ dangerous? I believe you shouldn’t sand the ones with MB stamped on the original pallets. A warning should be placed at the beginning of your article.
Does it make them more sturdy? Those plastic drawers are not sturdy at all when you try and pull out the drawers.