How to Make a Metal Filing Cabinet Fabulous

A metal filing cabinet may seem like a purely utilitarian piece of office furniture, but with a little creativity, you can transform it into a stylish and fun statement piece. Making over a filing cabinet is an easy DIY project that allows you to add personality and pizazz to your home office or workspace. Follow these tips and tricks to make your metal filing cabinet fabulous!

Choose a Colorful Paint or Finish

One of the easiest ways to jazz up a boring metal filing cabinet is by painting or finishing it in a vibrant, eye-catching color. Steer clear of basic black or putty shades and go for bold hues like cherry red, sunflower yellow, robin’s egg blue or lime green. Not only will a colorful exterior make the filing cabinet pop, but it will also bring energy and life to your whole office.

Consider a two-tone look by pairing a bright color with classic black or white for striking contrast. Or opt for an ombre gradient effect by blending complementary tones from light to dark. Don’t forget the interior of the cabinet either – paint the inside a matching or complementary color for a cohesive look.

Add Creative Hardware

Swapping out the standard metal handles and knobs for more whimsical hardware is an easy upgrade for any filing cabinet makeover. Look for fun shapes like seashells, butterflies or geometric designs. Or go for hammered metal or crystal knobs for a touch of glam.

For a truly custom look, use decorative duct tape, washi tape or contact paper to cover the existing hardware. You can find these materials in every color and pattern under the sun to perfectly coordinate with your filing cabinet’s new color scheme.

Apply Vinyl Decals or Contact Paper

Another way to personalize a metal filing cabinet without much commitment is by applying vinyl stickers, decals or contact paper. Geometric shapes, floral designs and abstract patterns will all make your cabinet look chic and unique.

Try covering just the top drawer or doors for a subtle pop of pattern. Or go bold by covering the entire exterior surface for maximum visual impact. The possibilities are endless with the wide range of contact paper options available today.

Stencil or Freehand Paint a Design

Want to give your filing cabinet a one-of-a-kind look? Get creative by stenciling or freestyle painting a fun design directly onto the exterior. Botanical motifs, geometric patterns and irreverent doodles will all transform your filing cabinet into a work of art.

Use painter’s tape and stencils from a craft store to create crisp, clean lines. Or try your hand at freehand painting abstract shapes and squiggles for an organic, impromptu vibe. Just remember to properly prep and prime the surface first for best results.

Install Wallpaper on Cabinet Fronts

For a fab filing cabinet makeover, look no further than your favorite wallpaper sample book. Applying a vibrant wallpaper pattern to the front doors or drawers of a plain metal cabinet adds striking visual texture and depth.

Opt for a dynamic graphic print or floral motif that complements your office decor. Use a wallpaper adhesive to affix the paper to the filing cabinet surface, then seal and protect it with clear varnish or contact paper. Trim off any excess paper for a seamless look.

Add Mirrors or Marble Contact Paper

Want to add a glamorous touch to your filing cabinet revamp? Try covering the top and side surfaces with decorative mirror tiles, or go faux with marble-patterned contact paper. The mirrored or veined marble effects will instantly elevate the look from boring to luxe.

Foiled paper, faux crocodile textures and other exotic contact papers also work. For the mirror look, carefully align small square mirror tiles in a grid pattern using strong construction adhesive. Buff any glue seepage and protect the edges with trim. The results will dazzle!

Display Artwork or Photos on Cabinet Fronts

Turn your filing cabinet into a rotating art gallery by decorating the front with framed photos, art prints or original artwork. Use strong Velcro or double-sided tape to affix artwork to the flat cabinet doors and drawer fronts for easy switching out.

Opt for fun family snaps, inspiring quotes or colorful abstract prints – anything goes! You can also attach hooks to hang necklaces, scarves or other accessories for a whimsical jewelry store vibe. Get creative and make your filing cabinet a reflection of you!

Add Customizable Magnetic Spice Racks

File sorting made functional and fabulous! Install slim magnetic spice racks onto the top of drawer fronts to neatly organize office supplies in plain sight. Label each rack with its contents – pens & pencils, sticky notes, clamps, etc. – for quick access.

The racks keep essentials at your fingertips while adding a pop of color and a touch of retro kitchen flair. Choose racks in complementary colors to your filing cabinet makeover for a cohesive look. Bonus: frequent use items stay dust-free!

Incorporate Trendy Hairpin Legs

Swap out standard square metal legs for slim cylindrical hairpin legs to instantly glam up any filing cabinet. The curved legs will give it a light, airy feel while adding retro-chic style. Try powder-coated colors or metallics like copper and rose gold to complement your cabinet makeover.

Look for solid wood hairpin legs with a weight capacity that can support the heft of a loaded file cabinet. Attach them using brackets or an epoxy adhesive. Add tapered legs on just the front side for a playful angled effect. Stylish and practical storage!

So don’t relegate that old filing cabinet to a dark corner or cramped closet! With a little imagination and DIY spirit, you can upcycle it into a beautiful custom piece that expresses your personal style. Which fabulous filing cabinet makeover idea are you most excited to try?

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Metal Filing Cabinets Fabulous

What type of paint should I use to paint a metal filing cabinet?

The best paint for metal filing cabinets is a high-quality spray paint made specifically for metal and steel surfaces. Look for oil-based enamel spray paints that provide maximum durability and adhesion. Be sure to prep the surface properly before painting.

What if I don’t want to paint the filing cabinet?

You can give a metal filing cabinet a fabulous makeover without paint using contact paper, wallpaper, hardware upgrades, hairpin legs, and other non-paint decorative touches like adding mirrors or artwork.

What are some quick makeover ideas for filing cabinets?

Some easy ways to give a filing cabinet a fast makeover include swapping out hardware like knobs and handles, applying decorative contact paper to the exterior, attaching fun frames or art to the fronts, adding statement legs like hairpins, or simply decluttering and organizing the contents.

Should I remove drawers and doors before painting a filing cabinet?

Yes, it’s best to fully detach all drawers, doors, and hardware before painting or applying contact paper for the smoothest finish. Remove contents too. Work in a well-ventilated area.

How do I get a smooth painted finish on a metal filing cabinet?

Proper prep is key for a smooth painted metal filing cabinet. Clean and lightly sand the surface to rough it up before priming. Apply 2-3 thin coats of primer, sanding lightly between coats. Then use thin even coats of metal spray paint, allowing proper dry time between coats.

What are some cute hardware ideas for filing cabinets?

Some fun filing cabinet hardware ideas include hammered metal handles, crystal or bamboo knobs, seashell or butterfly-shaped pulls, and decorative duct tape or washi tape wrapped around plain metal handles. Get creative!

Revamping a metal filing cabinet is an easy and affordable way to add personality, style, and organization to your office or workspace. With a dash of paint or contact paper and some new hardware, you can customize it to suit your needs and preferences. Use these tips to make your metal filing cabinet the most fabulous file storage solution around!