Repurposed: Drawer to Craft Paint Storage Shelf
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I’ve made a vow to try to use materials that I have on-hand or to find items that I can repurpose before I purchase anything new this year. My previous craft paint storage wasn’t working for me, and I had to pull out and dig through a triple stack of plastic bins every time I wanted to paint something. I needed a new solution ASAP.
My husband mentioned that he was working on a kitchen remodel for a client, so I asked him to save anything from the old kitchen that might be useful or fun. When he brought me home a few old drawers, I knew right away that I wanted to turn one of them into a shelf to store my paints.
He removed the guide rails from the drawer for me and cut the bottom of the drawer face so that the shelf would sit flush against the wall. A piece of scrap wood cut to size made for perfect shelving. I removed the drawer pull because I have future plans for it, but I left the ornate decorative metal piece behind for a little flair.
I still haven’t decided if I want to paint the shelf or not. Half of me loves that it still looks exactly like a repurposed wooden drawer, but the other half thinks that the paint colors would really “pop” against a white background. We’ll see…
Either way, I’ve got a cute and functional new storage shelf, and I saved something useful from going into the landfill. Win-win!



Heidi Kundin has captivated the hearts of millions with her colorful and inspiring approach to crafting, celebrations, and family fun. With over 15 years of experience, Heidi’s website has become a must-visit destination for those seeking quick and easy creative ideas and last-minute solutions. Her warm personality shines through her posts, inviting readers to join her on a creative journey that’s fun, rewarding, and achievable.
I loved this great idea to store paints. I have WAY to many for my current storage.
I liked your idea so much that I linked it in a post that I wrote about 15 DIY Craft Supply Organization ideas. Here’s the link to check it out!
http://homecraftsbyali.blogspot.com/2015/04/15-diy-craft-supply-organization-ideas.html
Fantastic!! How is it mounted to the wall…wait type of hangers?
Hi Elaine! Our shelf is actually screwed directly through the back wall of the shelf and into a stud in the wall. 🙂
get out of town..you are so smart! Smart I tell you! Great job girl!
Super great idea!
Great idea! I’d love it if you linked up at Thrifty to Nifty Thursdays this week!
This is a great idea – good thinking! Actually, I like it as it is now-maybe just a little stain or paint on the fronts of the shelves, or maybe not!! But it looks very cool!!!!