How To Hang Drawers As Shelves: A Personal Experience

Have you ever wondered what to do with an old dresser or chest of drawers that is no longer being used? Instead of throwing it away or letting it collect dust in the attic, you can transform it into a functional and stylish piece of furniture by hanging the drawers as shelves. I recently tried this DIY project and was surprised at how easy and affordable it was to create unique and useful storage solutions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Materials:

• Old dresser or chest of drawers
• Screwdriver or power drill
• Screws
• Wall anchors (if necessary)
• Level

Instructions:

1. Remove the drawers from the dresser or chest.
2. Remove any hardware or handles from the drawers and sand down any rough edges or surfaces.
3. Decide on the placement of the shelves and use a level to ensure they will be even.
4. Use a screwdriver or power drill to attach the drawers to the wall using screws and wall anchors if necessary.
5. Replace the hardware or handles on the drawers and decorate the shelves with your favorite decor and items.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Use different sizes and styles of drawers to create an eclectic look.
2. Paint or decorate the drawers before hanging them to add a pop of color or pattern.
3. Use the top of the dresser or chest as a fifth shelf for extra storage.
4. Add lighting or small plants to the shelves to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
5. Hang the shelves in a cluster or staggered pattern for a unique and eye-catching display.
6. Use the shelves to display books, photos, or other decorative accents.
7. Hang the shelves in a child’s room to display toys, stuffed animals, or books.
8. Use the shelves in a kitchen to display dishes, glasses, or cookbooks.
9. Hang the shelves in a bathroom to display toiletries, towels, or decorative items.
10. Experiment with different heights and arrangements to find the perfect look for your space.

Pros and Cons

Like any DIY project, hanging drawers as shelves has its pros and cons.

Pros:

• It’s an affordable and creative way to repurpose old furniture.
• It adds unique and functional storage to any room.
• It can be customized to fit any style or decor.
• It’s a fun and easy DIY project for beginners or experts.

Cons:

• It may require tools or equipment that you don’t already have.
• It may not be suitable for heavy or bulky items.
• It may damage the walls if not installed properly.
• It may not be as sturdy as traditional shelves.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I was very pleased with how my hanging drawers turned out. It was a fun and easy project that only took a few hours to complete. I used mismatched drawers that I found at a thrift store and painted them with leftover paint from another project. I hung them in my living room and used them to display books, photos, and plants. They have become a conversation starter and a unique focal point in the room.

My suggestion would be to use wall anchors if you are unsure about the sturdiness of your walls or the weight of the items you will be displaying. Also, make sure to use a level and measure carefully before hanging the shelves to ensure they will be even and balanced.

Question & Answer

Q: Can I hang the shelves without removing the hardware or handles?

A: It is possible, but it may be more difficult to attach the drawers to the wall and they may not be as secure. It is recommended to remove the hardware or handles before hanging the shelves.

Q: Can I hang the shelves on a brick or concrete wall?

A: Yes, but you will need a masonry drill bit and special screws or anchors designed for brick or concrete walls.

FAQs

Q: How much weight can the shelves hold?

A: It depends on the size and weight of the drawers and the strength of the wall anchors. It is recommended to use caution and not overload the shelves with heavy or bulky items.

Q: Can I hang the shelves in a rental property?

A: It depends on the rental agreement and the landlord’s permission. It is recommended to ask for permission before making any changes to the property.