How can I makeover a 2-drawer metal filing cabinet?

Carol Gallo
by Carol Gallo

I have a small, 2 drawer metal file cabinet. It's in the garage and it's a mess and ugly. Want to bring inside and use it again. Any suggestions on how to cover it, paint it, help it look presentable in my pretty kitchen?

  4 answers
  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jan 07, 2019

    Hello!


    I recommend considering a spray painting rehab. Newer formulations have exciting finishes and sheens. Theres so much to chose from. Its my favorite product to refurbish thrift store and second hand items with.


    https://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/universal


    Helpful Rust-Oleum recommendations include:


    PREPARE:

    Always work in a well-ventilated area. Cover the floor and nearby items with a drop cloth. Lightly scuff any glossy surfaces and wipe clean with a lint-free cloth. Use Painter’s tape to hide any surfaces you don’t want to paint.


    PAINT:

    Using slow, back-and-forth motions, spray paint each item with several light coats of spray paint, making sure to overlap each stroke slightly. Apply 2-3 coats of spray paint, waiting a few minutes in between each coat.


    FINISH:

    Let spray paint dry for approximately 1 hour before handling.

  • William William on Jan 07, 2019

    I go for the Rustoleum 2X spray paint. Lightly sand the cabinet. Several light coats of spray paint will give you a smooth finish.

  • Mona Blake Mona Blake on Jan 07, 2019

    Remove as much rust as possible by sanding. Rough up the exterior so the paint will adhere. Eipe down with a soft cloth psint whatever base color you want. Use stencils or a whatever to place a contrasting design on it. Put 3 to 4 coats of clear over it all.

    One time we used leaves and oversprayed the outline. It turned out fabulous!

  • Cindy Cindy on Jan 08, 2019

    Hi Carol. I'm Cindy. Begin by sanding it down. Then use a damp cloth to wipe all rust and paint off. Then paint it with a color that will go with your kitchen. If any of the handles or drawer pulls, or hinges need cleaning, put them in a crock pot set on low, and let it go overnight. Next day use an old toothbrush to clean them. They will come out like new. Good luck.