Home Office From Computer Armoire

After searching for a few weeks (patience is necessary), I found this computer cabinet on Craigslist for $150. It is a solid hardwood piece.

The inside of the computer armoire is ideal! There is a large shelf for the computer with a sliding keyboard tray underneath. Two drawers provide ample closed storage, while an open cubby on the bottom left is the perfect spot for my sewing machine. Lastly, a large shelf above can hold my craft books and other supplies.

If you plan to paint your computer cabinet like I did, the first step is to remove doors, drawers and shelves.

Then sand the pieces, wipe down, and apply a first coat of paint and/or primer.

Next, paint a second coat with your desired paint color. I used Marilyn's Dress by Benjamin Moore.

Let that coat dry, then seal the working surface and edges with polyurethane (or ideally, seal the whole piece).

Once all of the painted pieces have dried, re-install the doors, drawers, and any shelves.

Now comes the fun part - making your computer armoire functional!

I am using my piece as a home office and crafting space, so I set it up with my computer, sewing machine, and craft supplies.

The top shelf is also ideal for my craft books.

Don't forget to use the armoire doors for bonus storage! I hung hooks and clipboards (using screws in the door) to hold works in progress and important reminders.

The best part is, the doors can close when I'm not using my office space.

We have this piece in our dining room, so the doors get closed for dinner. My family appreciates that. :)

If you liked this idea, you may like  these DIY projects at my blog.

And be sure to visit my blog for  'A Year of Farmhouse Crafts' free guide!