Transform your furniture and give a fresh new look to a set of drawers by wallpapering the fronts. This simple DIY project can dramatically update a piece without extensive work.
Preparing Drawer Fronts for Wallpaper
Before you apply any wallpaper, proper preparation is key to ensure a smooth, lasting finish.
- Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the drawer fronts. Remove any dirt, grime, or residue. A mild cleaner and water work well. Ensure the surface is completely dry.
- Remove Hardware: Take off all knobs, pulls, or handles. This allows for seamless wallpaper application across the entire face.
- Sand (Optional): If the surface is glossy or uneven, a light sanding can help the adhesive grip better. Wipe away all dust afterward.
- Measure and Cut: Measure each drawer front precisely. Cut the wallpaper to fit, leaving a small margin (about 1/2 inch) around the edges for trimming. Numbering the back of the cut pieces to match the drawers can prevent confusion.
Applying the Wallpaper
This is where your drawer fronts get their new look. The method can vary slightly depending on whether you use traditional paste wallpaper or peel-and-stick. Given the reference, we will focus on the common peel-and-stick approach often used for smaller projects like furniture.
According to the provided information: Remove the backing from the wallpaper and apply each piece to its designated drawer front. You can start from one side (left or right) and work your way across. As you apply the paper, smooth it down with your hands (or a smoothing tool) to push out air bubbles and ensure full contact with the drawer face.
- Peel Slowly: Work from one edge, peeling back only a few inches of the backing at a time.
- Align Carefully: Position the wallpaper correctly on the drawer front before pressing it down firmly.
- Smooth as You Go: Use your hand, a plastic scraper, or a specific wallpaper smoothing tool to press the paper onto the surface, working from the center outwards or from your starting edge across. This helps prevent bubbles.
- Reposition if Needed: Most peel-and-stick wallpapers allow for some repositioning if you don't get it right the first time.
Finishing Touches
Once the wallpaper is applied smoothly, complete the transformation.
- Trim Excess: Use a craft knife or sharp blade to carefully trim any excess wallpaper from the edges, creating a clean, crisp line. Cut along the edges of the drawer front.
- Cut Holes for Hardware: Locate the original holes for the knobs or pulls. Use a craft knife or a punch to carefully cut out the wallpaper covering these holes.
- Reinstall Hardware: Attach the knobs or pulls back onto the drawers.
- Optional Sealant: For added durability, especially on surfaces that might see heavy use, you can apply a clear sealant over the wallpaper once it's fully adhered. Test the sealant on a scrap piece of wallpaper first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration.
Wallpapering drawer fronts is a rewarding project that can give new life to furniture pieces. By carefully preparing the surface and smoothly applying the chosen paper, you can achieve a professional-looking finish.
Find beautiful options for your project at resources like decorative wallpaper stores online.
