This floral filing cabinet makeover is proof that even the most basic office furniture can be turned into something beautiful. Painted in matte navy and decorated with floral transfers, the design blends function and charm seamlessly.
Also, the cabinet’s structure stays sturdy for storage, while the makeover adds style that feels at home in a study, craft room, or even a living space.
Adding legs and updating the hardware give it a fresh, modern edge. Specially, it’s affordable, beginner-friendly, and makes a lasting impression in any room.
Materials Needed
- 1 metal filing cabinet, 2-3 drawers (standard size approx. 28-36″ tall)
- 1 sheet 120-grit + 1 sheet 220-grit sandpaper
- 1 quart primer
- 1 quart navy blue chalk paint or spray paint (matte finish recommended)
- Floral decals or transfers (approx. 18–24″ sheet, rose or peony design)
- Clear topcoat sealer (matte or satin, spray or brush-on)
- Painter’s tape + drop cloth
- Replacement handles and label holders (brass or gold tone, 2-3 sets)
- 4 wooden legs with mounting plates (6-8″ tall)
- Screwdriver, drill, and screws
- Clean cloth and mild soap
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove the cabinet’s hardware (handles and label holders) and clean the entire surface with warm soapy water. Let dry completely. Then lightly sand the surface with 120-grit sandpaper to help paint adhere.
Step 2: Apply a thin coat of metal primer to the entire cabinet. You can use painter’s tape to cover drawer edges so they don’t stick later. Let primer dry 2-4 hours.
Step 3: Paint the cabinet using navy chalk paint or spray paint. You next apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each to dry for at least an hour. Also, use smooth strokes or spray evenly to avoid drips.
Step 4: Once dry, carefully apply floral decals to the front of the drawers. Start from the center and work outward, smoothing air bubbles with a cloth. You can create a cascading diagonal effect for a dynamic look.
Step 5: Seal the entire cabinet with a matte clear topcoat to protect the paint and decals from scratches. Allow at least 24 hours of curing before reassembling.
Step 6: Replace the old handles and label holders with new brass or gold-tone hardware. Then attach wooden legs using mounting plates for added style and height.
Step 7: Slide the drawers back in and admire your transformed floral filing cabinet, t’s now both elegant and functional.
Notes: Decals are easier to apply on flat drawer fronts, so measure carefully before cutting.