Repurposed Door into Bookshelf
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Old doors always catch my eye. They hold so much history and possibility. This one had just the right amount of wear to give it character, so I decided to turn it into something useful again. With a few simple cuts and some imagination, it became a charming bookshelf that adds personality to any space.
How to Repurpose a Vintage Wooden Door
I have made several things from doors. Did you see my toddler bed and my bookshelf?
The inspiration for this repurposed door project comes from Brittany @ Pretty Handy Girl.
Add Sides to Reclaimed Door Bookshelf
I opted for small screened pieces since I didn’t have picket fence pieces.
Clamps Are Helpful When Working Alone
Holding the small cupboard doors with clamps to see if they would work is an excellent way to do a dry fit on a repurposed furniture project when working alone.
Pocket Holes Make Connecting Small Doors Easy
I used my Kreg Jig to make pocket holes for joining the cupboard doors to the old door. Being very portable, this jig is handy for all sorts of projects.
Need more details on using a Kreg Jig? See my article How to use a Kreg Jig Pocket Hole System.
How to Add Shelves to Repurposed Door Project
The 1x6s were connected using pocket holes, as I did for the kitchen island top. They were secured to the side of the small cabinet doors using pocket hole screws.
I notched out the shelves with a jigsaw to compensate for the mesh screen. The pocket holes are located where the shelf connects to the small cupboard door.
The door had some fabulous chippy paint on it. However, getting the new wood and the white cupboard doors to match the chippy door was a little tricky.
Prepare Repurposed Furniture Project for Painting
Luckily, I had some paint near the same color as the door.
Although taping the window panes is time-consuming, I won’t have to scrape off the paint on the numerous window panes.
This is the back side of the door. That’s a pretty wild paint job, huh? I’m sure you know by now the easiest way to paint a project like this is by using a paint sprayer. My favorite is the Super Finish Max Extra.
I love the new color. In fact, I love everything about the repurposed door bookshelf.
You can see that the paint sprayer is the only way to paint a project like this. Using a paintbrush would leave you with lots of runs and drips.
You can see that the paint sprayer is the only way to paint a project like this. Using a paintbrush would leave you with lots of runs and drips.
Dry-brush Furniture Projects
I used a light cream-colored paint to do a dry brush effect. This was done to give the project some definition.
In addition, the holes from the pocket screws were filled with spackling.
A light sanding helped everything blend well together.
I wasn’t sure if I should put the glass knob on.
I felt like it needed a little something where the small doors meet the large door. What do you think?
Add Finishing Touches to Repurposed Door Nightstand
I added the finishing touches . . . door latch, door knob, and brackets in the corner.
gail
Check out other door projects here or this fun Cupboard Door Bookshelf
See More Hall Tree Project Ideas Here
It’s so neat to hear about my door/nightstand! LOL!
The cat’s name is MewMew! Kinda a dumb name, but it’s what he comes to.
I love to read all of these comments.
Hasn’t Gail done a great job. You should see what else she has done with my junk!
Jan
I can see the need to add something to make it crazy-unique but it really isn’t necessary. It’s functional with a simple design. I love the chicken wire on the cupboard doors! MAybe that’s statement enough. Very cool project!
-Bethanie
That is such a great door and I love it with the shutters on the sides and shelves.
You did a great job on this one! I do agree with Suzanne that simple corbels would be a nice transition from the door to shutters if you wanted to add a little something. But it definitely isn’t necessary! Looks great as is!
As always: Love it! Right now I’m only doing tiny project, can’t wait for it to be warmer (and dry) to get going with the big stuff outside.
Hugs,
Sue
I simply cannot go a day without reading your blog. You are an inspiration!
We just picked up a great old door at St. Vincent this past weekend. My husband had no idea what I was thinking when I said I had to have it. Now I’m even more excited to create something with it.
I’m debating on a shelf like this or a table like Rose potting table.
Thank you so much for blogging!
that looks awesome!!! it would be so cool to replace the windows with with mirrors, too!
that looks awesome!!! it would be so cool to replace the windows with with mirrors, too!
It’s looking terrific! I’m really liking it!
I have so much I’m wanting to get done but it has been so windy and today it is POURING DOWN! Ugh.
looks good Gail..love the color.
It is so ironic that you mentioned getting my moneys worth on the U Haul..after I saw my couch-I knew I would have to get a U Haul-so in my mind I am calulating the cost, plus extra gas for hauling a trailer, plus the stress of driving home ALONE for 16 hours and not being able to back it up!! The cost of the couch was such a good deal i could not pass it up–plus I found my PERFECT wash stand that I could put in the U Haul also.so after some mental gymnastics I decided to go for it..and so glad I did…wait till you see how the wash stand is turning out…I am loving it!
hugs,
chris
Very Cool! This turned out great! I need one of those Kreg Jig Jr thingys. You should do a give away for that that only I can enter. 😉 You are so talented!
I love your blog, you are always making the coolest stuff! What a creative mind ou have!