Convert an old chest of drawers into a bathroom vanity

Converting or repurposing an old chest of drawers or cabinet into a bathroom vanity not only saves you money on buying a new vanity, it's also a way to add a personal touch to a bathroom, or to create a bathroom with unique style and attention to detail.

 

 

This old chest of drawers was discovered in a secondhand store and cost around R100. Still in good condition, the chest of drawers only needed sanding down, a few modifications and touching up with paint to convert it into a vintage bathroom vanity.

 

 

The chest of drawers was a bit dinged and scratched, but perfect for converting into a single-sink bathroom vanity for a small guest bathroom. The drawers were removed and the drawer fronts put aside for re-attaching to the unit.

 

 

Sanding

If you are lucky enough to find a piece of furniture that is in reasonably good condition, it will only need sanding down to de-gloss any varnished or painting finish. While you are busy doing this you can fix up any minor damage and cracks with wood filler, or use Alcolin QuikWood to patch up any damaged areas, before sanding smooth to prepare for painting.

Primer

You should always apply wood primer to wood pieces before painting, as the primer prevents the wood from swelling, which happens when painted with a water-based paint. Grab a can of Plascon Wood Primer and apply with a paintbrush and foam roller. Using a brush and roller combination means that you can get the brush into nooks and  crannies and then smooth with the roller for a brush stroke-free finish.

 

Painting

Paint with Plascon Velvaglo oil-based enamel for a water-resistant finish. It's advisable that you paint the entire cabinet - inside and out - with two coats of Velvaglo for maximum protection. Although not shown here, I would also advise having a piece of glass cut to fit the top. You can make a paper template of the shape and have this custom cut at a glass and mirror supplier. This will ensure the top is protected and extend the life of the cabinet.

 

 

Attach fittings

Use spade bits and/or a hole saw to cut out for the sink drain and for mounting the taps. When mounting the sink and tap assembly apply sanitary silicone sealer, or a silicone sealer that inhibits mould growth, around the fittings.

 

 

Access to plumbing

In order to have access to the undersink plumbing, the original drawer fronts can be fitted with double-roller catch assemblies. This allows for easy removal should you need access to traps and water fittings.