# DIY Modular Bookcase
Things You'll Need
- Old drawers
- Screwdriver
- All-purpose wood cleaner
- Lint-free cloth
- Electric sander
- 100-grit sandpaper
- 220-grit sandpaper
- 360-grit sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- 3-inch paintbrush
- Oil-based primer
- Oil-based paint, 2 colors
- Stencil
- Stencil brushes (optional)
- Painter's tape
- Oil-based spray paint
- Hammer
- Nails
- Drill (optional)
- Wood screws (optional)
Instructions
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1
Remove all drawer handles and knobs with a screwdriver. Fill holes with wood putty if desired.
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2
Spray the drawers with an all-purpose wood cleaner. Wipe them down with a lint-free cloth. Allow them to air dry.
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3
Attach a piece of 100-grit sandpaper to the bottom of an electric sander. Run the sander across the surface area of the drawers. Repeat with 220- and 360-grit sandpaper. Wipe them down with a tack cloth to remove the dust from sanding.
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4
Prime the drawers with an oil-based primer and cover each one with a light coat. Give them four hours to dry.
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5
Dip the 3-inch paintbrush in the paint color of your choice and paint the sides of the drawers -- all surfaces except for the inside bottom panel. Allow the paint to dry overnight and then apply a second coat.
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6
Dip your paintbrush in a second color of oil-based paint. The color should complement or gracefully contrast with the first color. Paint only the inner bottom panels of each drawer. Allow the paint to dry overnight.
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7
Tape a stencil of your choice against the inner bottom portion of each drawer with painter's tape. The stencil can be of any decorative image or pattern you like. Spray paint the image on with oil-based spray paint, or use stencil brushes for greater control. Allow it to dry.
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8
Arrange the drawers against the walls with the stenciled sides facing forward. Stack them so the protruding front edges stick out from the arrangement; otherwise the drawer/shelves will be tilted. Nail them in place with a hammer and nails, or screw them together with wood screws for a more removable method.
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