When it comes to adoption (yes, I do see myself as adopting misfits), I have gotten kinda picky over the years. Can you blame me? I've had hot messes like the
Dumpster Diva, and even frustrating projects like
this chest. I now have a grand picture of what I want to deal with on a regular basis with an occasional headache. Take this antique filing cabinet drawer, for instance, it is unique, made of oak, and totally cool.
However, it isn't free of damage which is typical to something of this age from the 1930's. The fact that it has such potential is what rings my DIY bell. Here's a look from the bottom... It's appears to be missing the bottom slat of the actual drawer, but also the bottom panels of the cabinet. That's not the case, however, as its design is that way so it can stack and function.
While I could have sold it as-is as a decent value, I felt it also profitable to take it and make it into something new with a nod to its industrial past.
DIY TIME
First, I take into account what I have to work with. When the drawer is separate from the cabinet, I can see the potential to turn it into a stand with shelves.
My hammer and I had a time disassembling the antique filing cabinet drawer. Not only do the pieces show potential, but I see the original manufacturers mark too - by World Wide Brand.
RE-ASSEMBLY
Next, in order to create the stand with shelves, I add a few pieces of scrap for supports around the inside edge. Then, I cut a piece of ply to serve as a shelf.
I worked it quick, so I'm happy with it because my level shows this. woot!
Before calling it complete, I paint the interior with a milk paint called "parchment". It not only brightens it up, but also showcases that gorgeous oak grain.
When the painting is done, I move on to use a reactive charcoal stain to deepen the finish and give it an aged appeal as well.
You can see how I like to use the dark colors to create contrast in this
vintage sewing box I upcycled.
FINISHING UP
While I have fun re-imagining the pieces that come into my foster care, I'm all about inspiring you. Here's this antique filing cabinet drawer now turned stand.
It's perfect for living room, bedroom, bath, entry, office and so much more. What would you use it for? Not only have I tucked in my vintage locker baskets full of what-nots, but also sharing a couple of my vintage cameras.
I have about a dozen or so from different eras. Boy, do they tell a story of simpler times, eh? Meanwhile, I'm stoked with the outcome of this repurposed project.
In addition to the darker stain, the top looks like the original drawer face, except now it's attached to the cabinet as the stand top.
While the kids and I both agreed we should probably keep it, I just don't
need another stand. So, you can find it available in
my online store.
SHARE
After leaving me a comment below, please share and pin so others can see what can become of those orphaned pieces that many toss to the curb. DIY is fun!
Up next, this old ice cream churn bucket I found in the trash is next on the makeover list.
See what became of it HERE. Be sure to
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