Upcycled Dresser to Stunning Plant & Kitchen Organizer

Updated at: 13/05/2025

Tired of that old dresser gathering dust in the attic or garage? Don't consign it to the landfill just yet! With a little creativity and elbow grease, that forgotten piece of furniture can be transformed into a stunning and functional addition to your home. This isn't about a simple coat of paint; we're talking a complete metamorphosis, turning a dated dresser into a practical and stylish organizer for your kitchen essentials and beloved plants. Imagine the possibilities: perfectly organized spices nestled in custom-sized drawers, thriving herbs flourishing on a repurposed top, and a touch of rustic charm adding character to your space.

This project is surprisingly easy to tackle, even for DIY beginners. We'll guide you through each step of this upcycling journey, from cleaning and prepping the dresser to creating custom inserts and adding a stylish finishing touch. Ready to turn your old dresser into a breathtaking plant and kitchen organizer? Let's dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Sandpaper
  • Hammer
  • Wood Glue
  • Wood Filler
  • Paintbrushes
  • Paint Roller
  • Electric Sander
  • Wood Stain
  • Polycrylic
  • Metallic Blue Paint
  • White Paint
  • Contact Paper
  • New Knobs
  • Respirator
  • Tape
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, when sanding, sawing, or using any power tools to modify the dresser.
  • Ensure the dresser is thoroughly cleaned and dried before applying any paint or sealant to prevent mold or mildew growth and ensure proper adhesion.
  • If using any chemicals (paint, stain, sealant), work in a well-ventilated area and follow all manufacturer's safety instructions and warnings carefully. Dispose of waste properly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Clean the dresser thoroughly.
    • Remove the knobs.
    • Disassemble the dresser drawers carefully, separating the wood components.
    • Assess usable wood and plan the shelf layout. Decide to make shelves instead of restoring the dresser.
    Assess usable wood and plan the shelf layout. Decide to make shelves instead of restoring the dresser.Assess usable wood and plan the shelf layout. Decide to make shelves instead of restoring the dresser.Assess usable wood and plan the shelf layout. Decide to make shelves instead of restoring the dresser.
    Preparation

  2. Wood Repair and Preparation

    • Fill holes and cracks in the wood using wood filler and glue. Allow to dry.
    • Sand down the wood to prepare for painting. Consider using an electric sander for efficiency.
    Sand down the wood to prepare for painting. Consider using an electric sander for efficiency.Sand down the wood to prepare for painting. Consider using an electric sander for efficiency.
    Wood Repair and Preparation

  3. Painting

    • Test paint adhesion on scrap wood before painting the shelves.
    • Apply a base coat of white paint (two coats).
    • Apply the metallic blue paint using a small roller and brush for hard-to-reach areas. Apply two coats.
    • Protect the top surface with tape during painting.
    Protect the top surface with tape during painting.Protect the top surface with tape during painting.Protect the top surface with tape during painting.Protect the top surface with tape during painting.
    Painting

  4. Finishing and Protection

    • Apply a clear topcoat (polycrylic) for protection. May require multiple layers.
    • Apply contact paper to the back and inside of the shelves for a finished look.
    Apply contact paper to the back and inside of the shelves for a finished look.Apply contact paper to the back and inside of the shelves for a finished look.
    Finishing and Protection

  5. Assembly

    • Attach new knobs to the drawers.
    Attach new knobs to the drawers.
    Assembly

Read more: DIY Upcycled Bed Frame: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Remove knobs before cleaning for easier access.
  • Use an electric sander for efficient sanding.
  • Test paint adhesion before painting the entire project.
  • Use a small roller to prevent brushstrokes in the paint application.
  • Wear a respirator for protection when sanding and painting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Prep Work

Reason: Not properly cleaning, sanding, and priming the dresser before painting or staining leads to uneven finishes and poor adhesion.
Solution: Thoroughly clean, sand (to remove imperfections and ensure paint adhesion), and prime the dresser before applying any finish.

2. Ignoring Drawer Functionality

Reason: Forgetting to consider drawer size and functionality for intended items (plants, kitchen supplies) leads to poor organization and wasted space.
Solution: Measure your plants and kitchen items before organizing drawers to ensure a proper fit and efficient use of space.

FAQs

What kind of paint is best for painting the dresser?
For best results, use a high-quality, durable paint designed for furniture. Chalk paint is popular for its matte finish and ease of application, but any good quality interior paint with a primer will work. Always apply a few thin coats, allowing each to dry completely before applying the next, for a smooth and even finish.