How To Update An Old China Cabinet: A Personal Experience
Recently, I inherited an old china cabinet from my grandmother. While I was thrilled to have a family heirloom, the piece was outdated and didn’t quite fit my style. I decided to take on the challenge of updating the china cabinet and turning it into a statement piece in my home. Here’s how I did it.
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Clean and Prep
The first step in updating an old china cabinet is to thoroughly clean it and remove any old hardware. I used a solution of warm water and dish soap to clean the cabinet, and then let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Sand and Prime
Next, I sanded the entire cabinet to remove any old finish and create a smooth surface. I then applied a coat of primer to help the paint adhere and prevent any stains or discoloration from bleeding through.
Step 3: Paint
Once the primer was dry, I applied two coats of paint to the cabinet. I chose a bold, modern color to update the piece and make it stand out in my home.
Step 4: Replace Hardware
To complete the new look of the china cabinet, I replaced the old hardware with modern, sleek pieces that complemented the new color and style of the piece.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
- Choose a bold, modern color to update the piece and make it stand out in your home.
- Consider adding wallpaper or fabric to the back of the cabinet for a pop of pattern and color.
- Replace old, outdated hardware with modern, sleek pieces.
- Consider removing cabinet doors for an open, airy feel.
- Use glass cleaner to give glass doors a streak-free shine.
- Add lighting inside the cabinet to highlight your favorite pieces.
- Use contact paper to line the shelves and protect them from scratches and stains.
- Consider adding decorative trim to the edges of the cabinet for a custom look.
- Use decorative knobs or pulls to add personality and style to the piece.
- Repurpose the cabinet as a bar or display case, depending on your needs.
Pros and Cons
Updating an old china cabinet can be a fun and rewarding project, but it’s important to consider the pros and cons before getting started.
Pros:
- You can update an outdated piece and make it fit your personal style.
- You can save money by repurposing an old piece instead of buying new furniture.
- You can create a one-of-a-kind statement piece that’s unique to your home.
Cons:
- Updating an old china cabinet can be time-consuming and require a lot of work.
- You may need to purchase new hardware and supplies, which can add to the cost of the project.
- If you’re not experienced with DIY projects, you may make mistakes or encounter challenges along the way.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I’m thrilled with how my updated china cabinet turned out. It’s now a statement piece in my home that adds a pop of color and personality to the space. My suggestion for anyone looking to update an old china cabinet is to take your time and be patient. The process can be challenging at times, but the end result is definitely worth it.
Question & Answer
Q: Can I update an old china cabinet without painting it?
A: Yes! There are plenty of ways to update an old china cabinet without painting it. You can replace the hardware, add wallpaper or fabric to the back, or even just clean and polish the piece to give it a fresh look.
Q: What’s the best way to remove old hardware from a china cabinet?
A: The best way to remove old hardware from a china cabinet is to use a screwdriver or drill to unscrew the screws. If the hardware is stuck or difficult to remove, you can use a lubricant like WD-40 to help loosen it before attempting to remove it.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to update an old china cabinet?
A: The amount of time it takes to update an old china cabinet depends on the condition of the piece and the extent of the updates you’re making. It can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more to complete the project.
Q: What supplies do I need to update an old china cabinet?
A: The supplies you’ll need to update an old china cabinet include sandpaper, primer, paint, new hardware, and any other decorative elements you want to add to the piece.