Dresser Projects

Create Open Shelving

• Remove the front of your bottom dresser drawer to create an open sliding shelf for shoes. Or remove the top two dresser drawers entirely, and rest wood shelves over the rails to create open, modern shelves.

Change the Finish

• Prime your old dresser's finish using a water-based primer. Prime over wood to avoid sanding or over plastic or metal to help paint adhere to the surface. Once the primer is dry, use a sea sponge to dab three shades of the same color onto the dresser to create a faux finish. Use stencils to create a design or pattern that complements your wallpaper or furniture. Or use metallic spray paint for a modern finish.

Change the Height

• If your dresser has distinct feet, saw them off to lower the dresser's height. Alternatively, remove the top panel of the dresser and completely saw off one or two drawers. Sand the sawed areas with a palm sander, and then glue the dresser top back on using heavy-duty liquid nails.

Optimize the Drawers

• The more organized your dresser drawers are, the more stuff they can hold. Buy ready-made drawer organizers to fit the dimensions of your dresser drawers. Buy plastic containers to create compartments for smaller items. Or build your own drawer dividers from empty tissue boxes, shoe boxes, heavy-duty cardboard or a similar material.