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How to Convert a Cabinet Into a Sewing Center

The wonderful thing about converting a cabinet into a sewing center is that you can end up with something designed just for you. You can keep all of your supplies in one place and the top of the cabinet can become an actual work surface. Sewing projects tend to take longer than one session, so it is useful to have a dedicated space for supplies in order to come back to the work later.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper and pencil
  • Cabinet
  • Pre-cut timber
  • Electric drill
  • Screws
  • Blocks of wood
  • Plastic boxes on wheels
  • Boxes
  • Labels
  • Chair
  • Sand paper
  • Varnish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Attach a piece of timber to the top of the cabinet to increase the work surface area. The timber can be bought pre-cut from the hardware store. It should be big enough to fit your sewing machine on and have space to work on comfortably. It should also have an overhang at the front so there is adequate leg room when sitting in front of it. The cabinet itself takes on the role of table legs. Make sure the timber is thick enough to be properly supported by the cabinet so the overhanging wood won't bow under the weight of items placed on top. The timber should be placed over the top of the existing cabinet and screwed into place using an electric drill. If the wood is rough, sand it down with sandpaper and then apply a coat of varnish to protect it.

    • 2

      Place blocks of wood of equal height under the cabinet to increase its overall height, if necessary. You will need to be able to sit in front of the sewing station so it needs to be at desk or table height.

    • 3

      Purchase some large plastic boxes on wheels and place them beneath the work surface. These can be easily accessed and are perfect for filling with fabric, supplies and project materials.

    • 4

      Fill the cupboards and drawers of the cabinet with your sewing items. It is best to keep the same things together in labeled boxes. For example, you can have thread in one box, bobbins in another and measuring tapes and pin cushions in another.

    • 5

      Place a chair in front of the sewing center to complete the project.