diy picture frame storage cabinet: stylish storage with a creative twist
Hey there! Just a heads up—some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. It doesn’t cost you anything extra (promise!), but it helps me keep this blog up and running so I can continue sharing budget-friendly decor tips with you. I only recommend products and services I genuinely love and think you will too. Thanks for supporting Nesting Nook—you’re the best!
Who says storage has to be boring? Imagine combining the functionality of a storage cabinet with the creativity of a picture frame—resulting in a hidden storage space that doubles as a piece of art. Sounds awesome, right? Well, today, we’re diving into a DIY project that does just that: a picture frame storage cabinet that’s perfect for stashing away those little odds and ends while adding a personal touch to your decor. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this fun, functional, and fabulously crafty project!
What You’ll Need:
- Molding (available at Home Depot)
- Wood for the Cabinet (plywood or any wood of your choice - I used 1x3” poplar wood)
- Miter Saw (for those precise 45-degree angles)
- Wood Glue
- Pocket Hole Jig and Screws
- Stain or Paint (pick a color that makes your heart sing)
- Small Hinges (to attach the frame to the cabinet)
- Hardboard (for the frame backing)
- Craft Paper, Natural Plants, Crafts, etc. (for your creative masterpiece)
- Sander (optional but recommended for a smooth finish)
- Measuring Tape
- Pencil
- Clamps (to hold things together while the glue dries)
Step 1: Crafting the Frame
First up, we’re going to create the picture frame that’ll sit proudly on the front of your storage cabinet. Head to Home Depot and pick out some molding that speaks to you—whether you’re going for sleek and modern or ornate and classic, there’s something for every style.
Once you’ve got your molding, it’s time to cut it down to size. Measure and mark the length you need for each side of the frame. Remember, you’ll be cutting the ends at a 45-degree angle with a miter saw so they fit together perfectly. This is the part where you get to feel like a true woodworking pro!
Tip: If you’re new to miter cuts, practice on some scrap wood first to get the hang of it. It’s all about precision! You might even be able to get someone from the hardware store to cut these for you.
Step 2: Gluing the Frame Together
Now that your molding pieces are cut and ready, it’s time to assemble the frame. Apply wood glue to the mitered edges where the pieces will join. Carefully align each corner, making sure the edges meet perfectly. This step is crucial for a seamless, professional-looking frame.
Once the corners are glued, use clamps to hold the frame together tightly while the glue dries. Wipe away any excess glue that seeps out with a damp cloth before it dries. Let the glue set according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually a few hours) to ensure a strong bond.
Tip: If you have corner clamps, they can be incredibly helpful in keeping the angles tight and aligned while the glue dries.
Step 3: Building the Cabinet
Now that your frame is ready to go, let’s move on to the cabinet itself. You’ll need to cut your wood to size based on how big you want the cabinet to be. Measure twice, cut once—that’s the golden rule!
Cut out four pieces for the sides of the cabinet and one for the back. Next, you’ll use your pocket hole jig to drill holes in the edges of the wood pieces. This is where you’ll screw the pieces together, creating a sturdy, seamless box. Don’t forget to apply wood glue along the edges before screwing it all together—this helps hold everything in place.
Clamp it all together while the glue dries, and voila, you’ve got yourself a nifty little box! Give it a quick sanding to smooth out any rough edges.
Step 4: Staining and Finishing
Time to give your project some personality! Grab your stain or paint and start transforming that raw wood into a stylish piece that matches your home decor. Stain brings out the natural beauty of the wood grain, while paint can add a pop of color or sleek finish—choose whatever floats your boat.
Apply the stain or paint with a brush or rag, and don’t forget to get into all the nooks and crannies. Let it dry completely before moving on to the next step. If you’re using stain, consider adding a coat of polyurethane for extra durability and shine. I used a spray polyurethane for this one.
Step 5: Attaching the Frame to the Cabinet
Here comes the fun part—putting it all together! Position the picture frame you made earlier over the front of the cabinet. Using small hinges, attach the frame to one side of the cabinet so it swings open like a door. This is where the magic happens: you’ve just turned a regular storage cabinet into a sneaky, art-covered hideaway.
Tip: You can add a magnetic latch so this stays closed in a more secure way.
Step 6: Adding the Frame Backing and Crafting Your Art
The frame needs a backing, so cut your hardboard to fit snugly into the frame or cut it so that it overlaps with the back of the frame and drill small screw through the hardboard into the frame.
This will serve as the canvas for your creative masterpiece. Whether you’re into pressed flowers, botanical prints, or abstract designs, this is your moment to get artsy.
Lay out your craft paper, natural plants, or whatever you want to display, and arrange them on the hardboard until you’re happy with the look. Use glue to secure everything in place. Once it’s dry, pop the backing into the frame—it should fit like a glove.
Tip: You can change out the artwork whenever you feel like a refresh, making this cabinet as versatile as it is functional.
Step 7: Mounting and Enjoying Your New Masterpiece
All that’s left is to find the perfect spot for your new DIY picture frame storage cabinet. Mount it on the wall or place it on a shelf, and admire your handiwork. Not only does it add a unique touch to your space, but it also provides a sneaky spot to stash away those little items you need out of sight but within reach.
————
Who knew storage could be so stylish? This DIY picture frame storage cabinet is the perfect blend of form and function, allowing you to express your creativity while keeping your space organized. Plus, it’s a conversation starter—your guests will never guess that gorgeous frame is actually a hidden cabinet! So grab your tools, unleash your inner artist, and get crafting. You’ll have a piece that’s not just storage, but a statement!
xo
