What is more thrilling than filing?… Nothing am I right? *Please take note of my sarcasm* Well with today’s fun and easy DIY, filing just got a little more exciting!

Whether we like it or not we all have files, papers, or reports that need to be kept organized and tidy, hence the invention of the filing cabinet. Filing cabinets are very useful and keep your life in order and clutter free; the only con about them is that they can be an eye sore. This DIY provides an effective and affordable twist on a classic filing cabinet just in time for Spring cleaning!

 

Step 1: Gather Materials

First we need to get all the materials! For this project all you will need is…

1. A Filing Cabinet: I bought mine at Thrift Town for $6.99! I also got a small file holder for $1!!!
2. Spray Paint: Get whatever color you want! I chose 2 colors!
3. Tarp or Newspaper: To protect the ground
4. Gloves (optional)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 2: Remove the Hardware

Take off the handle and card holder on the front of the cabinet! That way when you spray paint the cabinet will have an even and smooth base coat!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 3: Wipe Down the Cabinet

You will want to wipe down the file cabinet and remove any pieces of tape or other debris so that you are working with a smooth surface.

 

Step 4: Spray Paint the Cabinet

This is super simple. Apply thin coats of paint to the cabinet and allow each coat to fully dry before starting the next coat! This will also help prevent dripping or uneven coating. One cute idea would be to use chalkboard paint and then you could write notes or draw on the surface.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 5: Spray Paint the Hardware

You can choose to leave the hardware unpainted, paint the hardware the same color as the cabinet or paint it a completely different color! I chose to do mine in a different color to add some contrast!

 

Step 6: Reassemble!

Once the paint is fully dry, put the hardware back together using care not to scratch your paint with the metal hardware. Another cute idea is to put brightly colored paper in the file window to add another contrasting color.

 

Step 7: USE IT!

You are now ready to put this baby in your office and start organizing in style!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

I also spray painted a small organization container using the same steps as above 🙂 This small and simple container easily got transformed into a cute and modern arranger!

 

Camilla Ahlquist is a third year Business Marketing college student who lives in San Luis Obispo, California. Camilla is enthusiastic about thrifting which allows her to affordably combine her unique sense of style and creativity with the latest fashion trends! Camilla also enjoys DIY projects, drawing, tennis and soccer.