How can I re-use an old file cabinet?

Ours have been repurposed in the shop/garage/basement: Labeled; plumbing supplies, electrical supplies, etc. Also remove the drawers, turn and lay it on its back and use as a rack for lawn tools, folding chairs, etc.

Here are 23 ideas: http://www.greenecoservices.com/23-ways-to-reuse-file-cabinets/

if it's metal ... clean it up, sand any rusty spots until smooth and use a RUSTOLEUM Spray paint product in the color of your choice, or use wood grain contact paper; remove all hardware before painting or using contact paper. and then use for storage of anything that will fit in the drawers; seasonal clothes, craft products ( paints, tools, tapes, brushes, glues, etc. ) you can get small storage bins with lids to fit the drawers. Old 33 rpm vinyl records ( should always be stored on 'edge' -- not flat), put it in the garage/basement/shed and store tools, gardening supplies -- fertilizers, spray bottles, hand tools ...

if it's a wooden cabinet and in good condition; clean, remove hardware, use a 'deglosser' (such as JASCO), paint with any semi gloss interior paint of your choice - replace hardware ... and again, store anything that will fit!

I personally would have removed this dish, which hangs on the wall and hung lockers on the wall and hid the dishes there. It would be much more beautiful.

Make a storage box.

Turn it on its side. Remove the drawers and castors if any. Clean and lightly sand if needed.

Spray paint with Rustoleum paint.

Then add a piece of wood the size of the top. Then add hinges to the longer side at the back. Add foam to the top and cover with fabric. Staple around the sides. Then glue braid or pompom trim on top of the staples.