The subtitle of this post could be, "What To Do With Junk Your Departing Children Have Left Behind," but that's a bit lengthy. Putting that aside for a moment--many armoires are being replaced because of so many of us switching over to flat screen TVs. There seems to be quite a few of these on CL, as well, for pretty good prices. So, for the benefit of everyone, let's think about repurposing them, shall we?
I've been
Figure out a Use
What storage problem would you like to solve? Do you need it for games and DVD overflow? For linens? It will all depend on your space and the size of the armoire. In my case, I needed a place to store fabric. Mine has been housed in the laundry room, which isn't that big to begin with. I had a large-sized laundry basket, double heaped with fabric. So it essentially looked like a big, fat, fabric waste basket.
Make Sure Your Stuff Won't Fall Out
This armoire had a large opening in the back for the TV hookup. I used a piece of foamcore that was around from another project. You could use plywood or whatever you have around. I didn't want any fabric hanging out. I doubt you'll want any of your stuff hanging out, either!
Plan For Doors
Don't place your items too close to the sides. Leave some clearance for the doors. You don't want to get your armoire packed then find you can't get your doors out of the way.
Organize
Figure out your organization method. My smaller stashes went where the components were housed. (For some of you, this will be easy. Since I'm a packrat, stacker, this was more challenging!)
Touch Up (Or Makeover)
Okay, you could go crazy at this point. The options are almost limitless. I'm keeping it simple this time around-- my anti-distressing secret: (I know, I know, everyone is DIstressing... Sometimes one just has to buck the trend!)
Figure Out a Space
Where will you put your armoire? If you're tight on space, it's always nice to have an open bottom unit, so even if the dimensions are big, the piece still feels a bit airy. Plus, you can house an entire family of dust bunnies down there.
Will it fit in the foyer (I'd love one in the foyer!), bathroom? Lucky for me...
The sewing area is just behind the wall where the armoire is sitting, and it's just a hop, skip, and a jump from the dining area where I do all of my cutting. Well, in full-discloser, Fun-Sized Chick does most of the hopping, skipping, etc., in the house. (Photo taken from dining area.) All of my fabric fit in here with lots of room to spare. Time to
I have one I'm using for all my sewing stuff, some fabric and trims and some of my interior decorating business stuff. I have the hole in the back, which I plan on fixing as this particular armoire will be reinvented for use in our guest bedroom instead of a dresser. It has two drawers on the bottom and we had kept the original shelves that came with it. Once the huge TV came out the shelves went back in, but I've got to fix that hole still!
ReplyDeleteFabric is a great re-use of the armoire. I have one I picked up on CL and recently painted a fun blue colour (it was too orangey.) We use it to store office and school supplies in the top, and canning jars and tupperware in the bottom. I love the extra hidden storage it provides and it makes a great statement on a cathedral wall.
ReplyDeleteI loved this post. I, too, have hoards of fabric that always need organization. Baskets that fit on the shelves would perhpas be handy (take them out for easier perusing - is that even a word?) Odds and ends that need to be hidden, but stil need to be stored, what a great place to put them in. How about those tax records that never seem to be filed?
ReplyDeleteI have one that was built from some 1970's oak church pews I got at the auction of our old church. It is in storage since it won't fit in the RV. When we decide to quit traveling I don't have a clue what I will do with it but it is one of about 6 furniture pieces that I couldn't bear to part with.
ReplyDeleteOld English is GREAT isn't it? Also, a product called Kramers Furniture Improver is awesome on older pieces! It is basically turpentine and beeswax and is the BEST! http://www.kramerize.com/using_on_wood.htm
Great idea! I have so much fabric and stuff that needs a good home~ Love Old English and have used it for years! xo Diana
ReplyDeleteHello! I have a armoire that needs painting but not repurposing. At least not at the moment. :) Love how you put this to work for your fabric. Great repurpose idea!
ReplyDeleteI don't have an armoire but I have lots of fabric. Want some to fill your shelves.
ReplyDeleteThe armoire is a great idea. I will keep an eye out for one in the thrift store.
Great ideas! I have an armoire that is currently being used as a bar...I need to figure out something to do with the finish. So many choices out there! liz
ReplyDeleteI have one we bought for our bathroom, when we moved the new bathroom didn't have space for it. So it's in my craft cottage now, I use it for my scrapbook supplies. It would look better in there if it was painted, but I can't bring myself to do that yet.
ReplyDeleteLooks fantastic in that last photo!
ReplyDeleteKim that is a terrific tip. Ever so important in an age where so many have a disposable mentality. Armoires can be found at thriftstores and repurposed for just about anything!
ReplyDelete