Bring New Life To An Old Wardrobe

Have you ever stumbled across an old wardrobe and been tempted to take it home? Maybe you’ve found one at a flea market or a thrift store, or inherited one from a family member. You may have thought you could do something with it, or just liked the look of it. If you’ve been considering reviving an old wardrobe, you’ll be glad to know it’s an enjoyable and rewarding project.

As you get started, it’s important to remember that there are many different types of wardrobes, and they can be made from a variety of materials. Some are simple and built of plywood, while others are more elaborate, made of hardwoods and handcrafted. Before getting started, make sure you understand the construction of your wardrobe and the materials it’s made of.

1. Cleaning and Repairing the Wardrobe

The first step in restoring an old wardrobe is to clean it. Use a damp cloth and dust off the surfaces, including the drawers and doors. If there are any broken or loose parts, like shelves, handles or hinges, make sure to repair or replace them. If the wardrobe is made of wood, you may want to use a wood cleaner and polish.

2. Sanding and Stripping

If the wardrobe is made of wood, you may need to sand and strip it before painting or refinishing. You can use a power sander for this step, but if the wardrobe is delicate or has detailed carvings, you may want to use a hand sander. Once you’ve finished sanding, you can use a chemical stripper to remove any old paint, varnish or stains. Remember to wear protective clothing and a face mask throughout this process.

3. Painting or Refinishing the Wardrobe

Once the wardrobe is clean and stripped, you’re ready to paint or refinish it. If you’re painting, start by applying a primer to seal the wood. This will help the paint stick and also help prevent any stains from bleeding through. Next, apply two coats of paint, allowing the first coat to dry before applying the second. If you’re refinishing the wardrobe, you’ll need to apply a stain and then a protective finish. Again, allow each coat to dry before applying the next.

4. Adding Decorative Touches

Once the wardrobe is painted or refinished, you can add decorative touches to give it extra character. This can include stencils, transfers, fabric, wallpaper and even decoupage. You can also add new hardware, like knobs and handles, to give the wardrobe a fresh look. If you like, you can even change the color of the hardware to tie it into the rest of the wardrobe.

5. Storing Your Items

Once your wardrobe is fully restored, you can start storing your items in it. Make sure to organize your wardrobe well, so you can easily find what you’re looking for. If you like, you can even use dividers or baskets to help keep everything tidy. You may also want to add a few scented sachets or lavender bags to keep your clothes smelling fresh.

6. Enjoying Your Creation

Once you’ve completed your wardrobe restoration project, you can sit back and enjoy your creation! You may be surprised at how different it looks and how much you’ve improved it. Restoring an old wardrobe is a great way to give an item a new life and create something beautiful. Plus, you can take pride in knowing you’ve done it yourself.