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.
STEP 7
Sand until even and paint or stain if desired. I left mine as is.
