Sometimes people are all “Hey, want this? You can probably do something with it.” and I take it in like a stray animal and give it love and attention and it becomes part of the family. That’s what happened with this hand-me-down cabinet my neighbor gave me. My husband hated it. He said it was boring and sterile and wanted it out. I had to be like “Relaxxxxx it’ll be fine. Trust me!”, as per usual. We agreed that if I fixed it up well enough it could stay, as per usual. Here’s what I started with:
I debated on how I would add color or pattern to the sides of the cabinet and jumped on decoupage. Decoupage may sound fancy but it’s basically just gluing shit on to other shit and hoping for the best. Traditionally you cut out clippings and layer them with Mod Podge, but you can use this wall paper type of method too. A trip to Paper Source lead me to this lovely floral wrapping paper from Rifle Paper Co. It’s perfect. I measured the areas I wanted to cover and cut the pieces I needed.
I used satin finish Mod Podge to stick and seal the paper. First I slapped a layer of Mod Podge on. I always use a decent amount because it dries fast and you want to be able to smooth it out before it dries or you’re screwed.
Use a flat surface like a bone folder or credit card to smooth any wrinkles and air bubbles. Excess glue coming out the edges is fine. You’re going to cover it with more Mod Podge anyway.
Let it dry for a few minutes so it’s really stuck on there. Then seal it with another layer of Mod Podge.
It dries perfectly clear and really makes the colors pop. The texture of the Podge makes it look like it’s painted on. LOVE.
Then I added a cute new pull from Anthropologie.
Done!! This now sits in our hall/bathroom vanity area and holds a ton of toiletries and makeup. Cute right? In fact it’s so cute my neighbor wants it back. Nope.
Befores & Afters:
Melodrama 