Want to breathe new life into that eyesore of a metal filing cabinet that's been seemingly around forever? Give it a makeover with some paint, stencils and other decorative materials. Create a subdued, neutral look to keep it unobtrusive, or crank up the color for a piece that will pop. Touch up a few areas here and there, or give it an overhaul. The creative possibilities are limitless.

Basic Painting

Give an old metal filing cabinet a face-lift by applying a fresh coat of paint. For a smooth, seamless finish, use spray paint. It will take longer, because it will have to be applied in several thin coats and allowed to dry between applications, but it will provide the best result. Before you start, make sure to find a well-ventilated area, and spread drop cloths or newspapers on the floor and any surrounding structures. Remove the drawers of the cabinet to make it lighter and easier to move. It's also a good idea to lightly sand all of the surfaces to be painted, since it will help the paint to adhere. Wipe away or vacuum up all the dust before painting, and be sure to wear a respirator.

Covering Ugly Spots

If painting isn't for you but you still want to cover the worn, scratched, dented and sticker-covered spots of the filing cabinet, invest in some contact paper. There are many patterns from which to choose, whether you're seeking a quiet, dignified look to fit in with a business office or a fun, colorful accent for your home. Choose one overall pattern to avoid having to match motifs, and measure the areas you want to cover to determine how many rolls of contact paper you'll need. Cover the entire cabinet, including drawer fronts, or just add trim around the drawers and sides.

Other Decorating Ideas

Use stencils, a sponge brush and high-gloss acrylic paints to add flowers, vines, a checkerboard or any design that appeals to you. Paint one stenciled design repeatedly, or use a number of stencils with a related theme. You also can use stencils strategically to camouflage worn spots or scratches. To make your cabinet design complete, don't forget to decorate the top. For a home office, put a crocheted doily on top of the filing cabinet, and allow it to drape over the sides. Place a potted plant inside a pretty painted basket on the doily. For a business office, arrange a woven place mat diagonally on top of the cabinet. Set a plant in a ceramic pot on the place mat, and add a few family photos in small, matching frames.

Source:

CBS News

More Information:

Contact Papers

Suggestions for Refinishing Old Metal File Cabinets