Totally free closet re-do

I hadn't planned on tackling my son's closet, but after he pulled the bar down for the third time, I knew I had to work on it sooner, rather than later.

In the last year or so I added some shelves to one side of his closet, but they never really worked out, so I knew that everything was going to come out.

Here is his closet before I started work...

I took everything out, and started from scratch.  I wanted to keep the shelves, but move them to the back wall.  I did need to cut them down and I reconfigured them slightly.

I also wanted to use the drawers from under his bed.

He never used these drawers and told me he would prefer having it open underneath so he could have a fort, and since we did need drawers in the closet, I figured I could relocate them.  Before I could do that I needed to cut out the center section.

Here is a shot of the closet in progress...

I placed the shelves on top of the drawers, filled in all the edges and sanded everything smooth.  From here I used some paint I had left over form a previous project.  I also added a low rod, so my son can reach and hang up his own clothes.

And finally with his clothes and things all put away.

A big improvement indeed, and as I was able to reuse things I already had it was free, if you are not including my hourly fee.

-Laurie

Dresser to Kitchen Island

After removing the kitchen peninsula, we needed an island to make the kitchen work.  Our budget was $100, which is the price for the FORHOJA island/cart from IKEA

The cart is fine, but it seemed like it belonged in an apartment rather than a home, so I wanted to see what I could do.

I started with a craigslist dresser that I picked up for $25.

I removed the 2 center drawers, added shelves, a pine wood top, paint and new handles.  It cost just under $100.  I didn't save any money, but it looks more like a proper island.

I have added baskets for additional storage.

Next on my list is to paint the cabinets white.  I am anxious to try Ben Moore Advance paint, but am struggling on which white is best.  If you have a favorite Ben Moore white, I would love to hear your suggestion.

-Laurie