DIY POPSICLE STICK CABINET

In recent years I have become aware of furniture waste and the toll it takes on our environment, and have committed to (1) using vintage furniture when I can, (2) not getting rid of any furniture unless it is 100% unusable, (3) upcycling the furniture I already have before considering a new acquisition.

This cabinet came with our house and it was looking ROUGH. I took a chance and love how it turned out. I've easily given this cabinet at least five more years of life.

TIP: Instagram and Pinterest are great places to get upcycling ideas for your old furniture.

WHAT I USED:

Old IKEA (?) cabinet
IKEA HACKAS handles, Large (2)
2 packages of popsicle sticks
Wood glue
Wood filler
Sand paper
Scissors
Plastic spatula
Painter's tape
45° Triangle ruler

STEP 1

Add handles to doors and measure openings.

STEP 2

Cut popsicle sticks and arrange in openings in a herringbone pattern. Use the 45° triangle to get crisp angles.

STEP 3

Once you are happy with the pattern cover with painter's tape and remove in one piece. This will make gluing it on much easier.

STEP 4

Apply wood glue and use the spatula to create a smooth, thin layer. I added wood glue to the glass as well and it worked fine.

STEP 5

Place the pattern over the glue and remove the masking tape. You will probably need to adjust a few sticks.

Let dry.

STEP 6

Once the glue is dry, apply wood filler. I watered a small amount of wood glue and applied with a plastic spoon. Use a sponge or damp cloth to remove excess wood filler (kind of like how you apply grout on tiles).

Let dry and repeat where you see gaps.