Easy Diy Medicine Cabinet

Repurposing Existing Materials for an Easy DIY Medicine Cabinet

Creating a medicine cabinet doesn’t require a trip to the hardware store. Many household items can be repurposed into stylish and functional storage solutions. This section explores how to transform readily available materials into a safe and convenient medicine cabinet, minimizing waste and maximizing creativity.

Repurposing Drawers and Wooden Crates

This project uses readily available materials to create a charming and functional medicine cabinet. The process is straightforward, requiring basic tools and a bit of patience.

Materials List:

• One sturdy wooden drawer (from an old dresser or similar) or a well-constructed wooden crate.
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood stain or paint (optional)
• Wood sealant (optional)
• Small hinges (two)
• Screws (appropriate size for hinges and wood type)
• Small cup hooks (optional, for hanging smaller items)
• Drill with appropriate drill bits
• Measuring tape
• Pencil

Steps:

1. Preparation: Clean the drawer or crate thoroughly, removing any dust or debris. Sand down any rough surfaces using sandpaper, starting with a coarser grit and moving to a finer grit for a smooth finish.

2. Finishing (Optional): Apply wood stain or paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow to dry completely. If desired, apply a sealant for added protection.

3. Hinge Installation: Measure and mark the locations for the hinges on the back of the drawer/crate and on the wall where you want to install the cabinet. Attach the hinges to the drawer/crate using screws.

4. Wall Mounting: Attach the other half of the hinges to the wall using screws. Carefully align the drawer/crate with the hinges on the wall and secure it in place.

5. Finishing Touches (Optional): Install cup hooks inside the drawer/crate for hanging small items like nail clippers or tweezers.

Adapting an Old Cabinet or Bookshelf

An old cabinet or bookshelf can be easily transformed into a medicine cabinet with a few modifications. This approach requires more significant alterations but yields a substantial and personalized storage solution.

Necessary Modifications:

• Shelving Adjustment/Addition: Adjust or add shelves to create compartments of appropriate size for your medicines. Ensure shelves are sturdy enough to support the weight.
• Door Installation/Modification: If the cabinet lacks a door, consider adding one for safety and dust protection. Existing doors might need adjustments for a proper fit and secure closure.
• Cleaning and Refinishing: Thoroughly clean the cabinet. Sand down any rough surfaces and refinish with paint or stain to match your decor.
• Mirror Addition (Optional): A mirror can be added to the door or inside the cabinet for convenience.

Safety Considerations:

Always ensure the cabinet is securely mounted to the wall, especially if it will hold heavier items. Use appropriate wall anchors depending on the wall type. Keep medicines out of reach of children.

Wall Mounting Methods

Choosing the right mounting method is crucial for the cabinet’s stability and safety. Here are three common methods:

• Screws and Wall Anchors: This is a common and generally reliable method. Choose appropriate wall anchors based on your wall type (drywall, plaster, brick, etc.). This method offers good stability, especially with heavier cabinets.
• Heavy-Duty Adhesive Strips: These are a simpler option, requiring no drilling. However, their load-bearing capacity is limited, making them suitable only for lightweight cabinets. Ensure the adhesive is rated for the weight of the cabinet and the type of wall surface.
• French Cleats: This method provides exceptional stability. A cleat is attached to the back of the cabinet and a corresponding cleat is mounted to the wall. The cabinet then hangs securely on the wall cleat. It’s a bit more complex to install but offers superior strength and adjustability.

Simple Construction Techniques for an Easy DIY Medicine Cabinet

Building a simple medicine cabinet is a straightforward project, perfect for beginners. This section details the construction process using readily available materials like plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), focusing on ease and practicality. We’ll cover cutting, assembly, door options, and finishing techniques to guide you through creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing cabinet.

Cutting List and Assembly, Easy diy medicine cabinet

Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitting cabinet. The following cutting list assumes a simple rectangular cabinet. Adjust dimensions to your desired size. Remember to account for the thickness of the material when calculating the lengths of the pieces. For example, if your cabinet is 12 inches wide and the plywood is ½ inch thick, you will need two side pieces that are 11.5 inches high (assuming a 12-inch high cabinet).

1. Two side pieces: Cut to the desired height and depth of your cabinet.
2. Two shelf pieces: Cut to the desired width and depth of your cabinet. You can adjust the number of shelves based on your needs.
3. One back piece: Cut to the width and height of the cabinet’s interior.
4. One top piece: Cut to the desired width and depth of the cabinet.
5. One bottom piece: Cut to the desired width and depth of the cabinet.

Assembly involves using wood glue and screws to join the pieces. Start by attaching the side pieces to the top and bottom pieces, ensuring square corners. Then, add the back piece and shelves, securing them with screws and glue. Pre-drilling pilot holes will prevent the wood from splitting. For extra strength, consider using wood dowels or corner braces.

Medicine Cabinet Door Options

Several door options offer varying aesthetics and functionality.

1. Hinged Door: This classic option provides easy access. Use sturdy hinges designed for the weight of the door and cabinet material. A simple, flush-mounted hinge provides a clean, modern look. Ensure the hinges are properly aligned for smooth opening and closing.
2. Magnetic Closure: For a minimalist look, consider magnetic catches. These require precise placement and strong magnets to ensure a secure closure. This option eliminates the need for handles, resulting in a sleek design. However, you need to ensure the magnets are powerful enough to hold the door securely.
3. Sliding Door: Sliding doors save space and offer a unique aesthetic. This requires installing a track system along the top and bottom of the cabinet. Ensure the track is level and the rollers move smoothly. This option requires more precise measurements and installation.

Finishing Techniques

Proper finishing protects the cabinet and enhances its appearance.

1. Sanding: Start with coarser grit sandpaper (e.g., 80-grit) to smooth out any imperfections, gradually moving to finer grits (e.g., 120-grit, then 220-grit) for a super smooth finish. Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches.
2. Priming: Apply a coat of wood primer to create a uniform surface for the paint or stain. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
3. Painting: For a durable finish, apply two or three coats of high-quality paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Use a brush, roller, or spray gun for an even application.
4. Staining: For a natural wood look, apply a wood stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can apply a clear coat sealant afterward to protect the stain and enhance its durability.