How to Decoupage Metal Filing Cabinet
Decoupage is a fun and creative way to give an old metal filing cabinet new life and completely transform its look. With just some simple supplies and a bit of time, you can decoupage beautiful paper designs onto the surfaces for a one-of-a-kind piece. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn the ins and outs of decoupaging a metal filing cabinet.
Supplies Needed for Decoupaging a Metal Filing Cabinet
Decoupaging a filing cabinet is an easy project once you have gathered the proper supplies. Here is what you’ll need:
- Filing cabinet – The filing cabinet can be an old one in need of an update or a new plain filing cabinet waiting to be decorated. Make sure it is thoroughly cleaned and sanded before starting.
- Decoupage glue – Special decoupage glue or decoupage adhesive works best. Look for a glue specifically made for decoupaging that will adhere well and dry clear.
- Decoupage paper – Choose fromtissue paper, napkins, wrapping paper, newspapers, magazines, or photos. It’s best to use paper on the thinner side so the glue underneath shows through.
- Craft paint – For any exposed metal areas you want to paint, acrylic craft paint works great. Choose a coordinating color.
- Soft paintbrushes – Keep a variety of sizes on hand for both glue and paint application.
- Sandpaper – Lightly sanding helps the glue and paint adhere to the metal. Have both fine and coarse grit sandpaper available.
- Sealer – A sealer like polyurethane will protect the finished decoupage. Pick a matte, satin, or gloss finish.
- Rags – Old rags or paper towels are useful for wiping away excess glue and drips.
- Scissors or craft knife – For precision cutting of the decoupage paper. A self-healing mat is also helpful.
With these supplies in your craft arsenal, you’ll be fully prepared to decoupage a metal filing cabinet.
How to Prepare a Metal Filing Cabinet for Decoupaging
Before applying any decoupage paper or glue, the filing cabinet needs proper prep work. Follow these steps:
Clean the Surfaces
Give the filing cabinet a thorough cleaning inside and out. Use a degreaser to remove any oil or grime so the decoupage will properly adhere.
Remove Hardware
Take off any metal handles or hardware from the drawers and cabinet body. Set aside the hardware to reattach later.
Sand Away Rough Areas
Lightly sand the exterior filing cabinet surfaces using fine grit sandpaper. This helps the decoupage glue grab onto the metal. Avoid over-sanding that removes the original paint.
Apply Primer or Paint
For unfinished metal or any spots where you removed paint, apply a coating of primer or spray paint. Allow it to fully dry before decoupaging.
Draw Design Layout
On paper, sketch out the pattern layout you want for the decoupaged design. This helps visualize how the paper will cover the filing cabinet.
With the filing cabinet prepped, you can move onto the fun part – applying the decoupage!
How to Apply Decoupage Paper to a Metal Filing Cabinet
Applying the decoupage paper to a metal filing cabinet takes time and patience for best results. Follow these steps:
Cut Paper to Size
Use scissors or a craft knife on a self-healing mat to cut your decoupage paper to the sizes and shapes needed. Cut pieces larger than the area they will cover.
Apply Decoupage Glue
Brush a layer of decoupage glue onto the surface where you are applying a paper piece. Spread the glue out evenly and thoroughly.
Smooth Paper in Place
Carefully lay the paper on top of the glue and use your hands to smooth it out. Press from the center outward to push out air bubbles.
Brush on Top Layer of Glue
When the paper is in place, brush over it with another layer of decoupage glue. Make sure all edges are fully adhered.
Continue Layering Papers
Keep cutting pieces to size, gluing, and smoothing until the filing cabinet is fully decoupaged. Overlap papers slightly for full coverage.
Apply Trim Paint
For any remaining exposed metal areas, apply craft paint in a coordinating color for polished trim.
Take your time with this process for careful, wrinkle-free decoupage application. Be patient and allow each layer to dry before moving on.
How to Apply a Protective Top Coat to Decoupaged Metal
Once your filing cabinet decoupage design is complete, it needs a top coat for protection and sheen. Here’s how:
Allow Decoupage to Dry
Give the finished decoupage at least 24 hours to fully cure and harden before adding a top coat.
Lightly Sand Surfaces
Use extra-fine grit sandpaper to gently smooth any drips or ridges left from the decoupage glue.
Remove Dust
Wipe the filing cabinet with a dry cloth to remove all dust before top coating.
Apply Sealant
Using a soft paintbrush, apply a layer of decoupage sealant like polyurethane. Choose matte, satin, or gloss sheen.
Add Second Coat if Needed
For extra protection, add a second coat of sealant after the first dries for an hour.
Reattach Hardware
Once fully dry, reattach any handles and hardware you removed before decoupaging.
The top coat truly finishes off your decoupaged filing cabinet, giving it a polished finished look. Maintain the sealant by reapplying every 1-2 years.
Tips for Successful Filing Cabinet Decoupage
Decoupaging a metal filing cabinet brings lots of room for creativity but also some unique challenges. Follow these top tips:
- Work in sections for easier handling. Decoupage the top, sides, front, drawers, etc separately.
- Apply glue liberally but carefully to avoid drips on the metal edges.
- Let glue fully dry between layers to prevent bubbling and wrinkling issues.
- Wrap paper around the edges for a continuous design from front to sides.
- Mind the moisture. Metal filing cabinets can hold some dampness so allow to fully dry before sealing.
- Smooth gently from the center outward to remove air pockets and wrinkles in paper.
- Use a craft knife to neatly trim off any overhanging paper edges for a clean look.
- Go for an eclectic mismatched look or a coordinated paper pattern for fun effects.
With some thoughtful preparation and care, you can end up with a stunning custom decoupaged filing cabinet. Take your time and enjoy the creative process!
Unique Paper Choices for Decoupaging Metal Furniture
Part of the fun of decoupaging furniture is choosing eye-catching paper designs. For a filing cabinet, consider these unique paper ideas:
Vintage Book Pages
Upcycle old book pages by decoupaging them onto a filing cabinet. Try pages from vintage encyclopedias, novels, or sheet music for interest.
Scrapbook Paper
Choose coordinating prints from 12 x 12 scrapbook paper packs. Florals, paisleys, and damasks all work beautifully.
Maps and Documents
Old maps, star charts, ledgers, and diagrams printed on parchment add a scholarly vibe.
Magazine Clippings
Cut out nature photos, travel images, or color blocks from old magazines to collage together.
Wrapping Paper
Use the backside of old wrapping paper rolls for fun ghostly images orten use newspaper comics, kids artwork, tissue paper, or photos.
Photos
For a more personal touch, decoupage family photos printed on photo paper onto your filing cabinet.
Get creative with your paper selections and don’t be afraid to mix patterns and textures. The bolder, the better!
Ideas for Decorating a Decoupaged Metal Filing Cabinet
A decoupaged filing cabinet offers the perfect blank canvas to let your creativity run wild! Consider these ideas:
- Stencil on designs using acrylic craft paint. Try flowers, vines, leaves, or inspirational words.
- Embellish with pretty trim like lace, rickrack, or ribbon glued around the edges.
- Stick on sparse rhinestones, buttons, or beads for subtle sparkle.
- Attach small chalkboard squares to write messages or labels.
- Adhere magnets or mini clipboards for function.
- Attach drawer pulls or metal embellishments for an industrial vibe.
- Hang tiny frames or mini shelves on the sides for displaying photos.
- Paint a monogram or fun pattern on the center drawer fronts.
- Add decals like birds, butterflies, or inspirational quotes.
- Attach a large ribbon bow for a gift-like statement piece.
The options are endless for personalizing your decoupaged filing cabinet! Let the eclectic paper designs guide your choices.
Clever Uses for a Decoupaged Metal Filing Cabinet
A metal filing cabinet decoupaged with care transforms into a stunning furniture piece that deserves to be shown off. Here are some creative ways to put it to use:
- Art supply station – Fill the drawers with all your crafting goods.
- Bar cart or drink station – Store barware and spirits inside.
- Office organization station – Neatly file away bills, paperwork, etc.
- Hobby storage – Stash yarn, sewing notions, or jewelry making supplies.
- Display cabinet – Show off collections in the drawers opened or closed.
- Kitchen organization – Corral coffee, teas, spices, or baking supplies.
- Media storage – File away DVDs, CDs, board games, or books.
- Gift wrapping station – Keep papers, ribbons, tags, and gift bags inside.
- Mail center – Store office supplies and sort mail in organized files.
Let the drawers and vertical space of a filing cabinet provide smart storage solutions while the outside dazzles with gorgeous decoupaged style.
How to Decoupage a Filing Cabinet Drawer
For a double dose of style, consider decoupaging the inside of your filing cabinet drawers as well as the outer cabinet. Here is a simple tutorial for decoupaging drawers:
Remove Drawers
Take out each drawer from the cabinet to work on individually for easier handling.
Clean Surfaces
Use a degreaser to clean out any dirt or residue from the drawer interior.
Lightly Sand
As with the outer cabinet, lightly sand the inside of the drawers for texture.
Cut Paper to Fit
Measure the drawer interior dimensions and cut pieces of decoupage paper to size to fit.
Apply Decoupage Glue
Brush on a layer of glue within the drawer and adhere the paper. Smooth from center outward.
Seal Paper
Apply another layer of glue over the paper to seal in place. Blot with a rag to remove drips.
Apply Top Coat
When fully dry, add a top coat like polyurethane for protection.
Reattach Hardware
Reattach any drawer pulls or hardware once the decoupage is complete.
With pretty decoupaged paper lining the inside, the drawers become almost as exciting as the outside! Coordinate the designs for a put-together look.
FAQ About Decoupaging Metal Furniture
Still have some questions about the process of decoupaging metal furniture like filing cabinets? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What type of glue works best?
Look for decoupage glue specifically formulated for decoupage projects. This white glue dries clear and flexibly adheres paper to metal surfaces.
Does the filing cabinet need to be primed first?
For unfinished metal, apply a primer coat so the decoupage glue and papers adhere better to a painted surface.
How do I avoid wrinkles in the paper?
Work slowly, apply glue carefully, and smooth paper gently from the center outward. Allow glue to fully dry between layers.
What kind of top coat is best?
Polyurethane works well for a durable top coat on a decoupaged metal filing cabinet. Water-based is easiest for cleanup.
How do I decoupage curved surfaces?
For curved areas like cabinet edges, use flexible paper and brush glue on well. Smooth slowly and don’t over-stretch the paper.
What surface prep is needed?
Make sure the filing cabinet is clean, sanded, and primed where needed. Taking time to prep helps ensure a successful decoupage result.
How do I clean a finished decoupaged cabinet?
Use a soft damp cloth to gently wipe dirt from a cured sealed decoupage finish. Avoid harsh cleaners which can wear down the sealant over time.
With the right products and techniques, you can end up with a stunning custom filing cabinet to show off. Take time to do each step properly and your hard work will pay off!
Inspiring Ideas for Professionally Decoupaged Filing Cabinets
Need a little visual inspiration before getting started on your filing cabinet decoupage project? Browse through these eye-catching examples of professionally decoupaged metal cabinets:
[Insert image of a decoupaged filing cabinet covered in pink rose patterned paper with silver trim]
A glossy pink floral pattern makes this traditional metal cabinet blossom with feminine charm. Pale pink paint and touches of silver add to the romantic vibe.
[Insert image of a blue filing cabinet decoupaged in pages from antique books]
Vintage encyclopedia pages decoupaged in organic patches give this classic cabinet an old-world feel. The soft blue paint lets the text pages pop.
[Insert image of a decoupaged white cabinet covered in colorful hot air balloon paper]
Whimsical multicolor hot air balloons give this clean white cabinet playful personality. Scattered balloons float across the different panels for a fun coordinated look.
[Insert image of a black filing cabinet decoupaged entirely in sheet music paper]
For music lovers, sheets of piano music paper cover the entirety of this elegant black filing cabinet for a dramatic look. The white music notes pop against the dark background.
[Insert image of a natural wood cabinet covered in pages from children’s books]
The wood grain shows through these book pages featuring children’s stories and fairytales for a nostalgic style. The pages are decoupaged in a patchwork design.
Let your creativity lead the way to your own fabulous decoupage filing cabinet design featuring colors, textures, and themes you love.
Conclusion
Transforming a plain metal filing cabinet by decoupaging beautiful paper designs opens up amazing possibilities for customizing and upgrading office storage. With some simple decoupage techniques and materials, this straightforward project allows your creative vision to shine. Choose eye-catching papers and embellishments that reflect your personal taste. Invest the time needed to properly prepare the filing cabinet surface and carefully apply the decoupage for success. With nail polish-like topcoats to seal and protect, your decoupaged filing cabinet will become a stunning showpiece for any room. Let your inner artist out and decoupage your way to a one-of-a-kind cabinet you’ll cherish for years to come. What unique paper designs will you decoupage onto your next filing cabinet?
