-

Transforming Sliding Closet Doors into French Open Doors: A Stylish DIY Upgrade



Are your sliding closet doors feeling outdated, cumbersome, or just not fitting your design aesthetic anymore? Converting them into French-style open doors is a fantastic way to refresh your space while improving functionality. Whether you’re looking for a modern farmhouse touch, a classic aesthetic, or simply a more accessible closet, this DIY project is achievable with a bit of time and effort.


THE BEFORE



Why Convert Sliding Doors to French Open Doors?

Sliding closet doors can often be limiting. They restrict access to half of your closet at a time, can come off the tracks easily, and may not complement the overall look of your room. French doors, on the other hand, provide full access to your closet, create an elegant and timeless look, and allow for more design customization, from paint colors to hardware choices.



Materials & Tools Needed:

  • Repurpose your sliding doors if they’re suitable
  • Hinges (3 per door)
  • Door handles or knobs (still deciding on mine)
  • Wood filler , Silicone and sandpaper
  • Paint or stain
  • Screws and drill
  • Measuring tape and level
  • Saw to cut down current doors
  • Revolution Plywood 
  • Doorstop (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Remove the Sliding Doors and Tracks

Start by carefully removing the existing sliding doors from the tracks. Unscrew and remove the top and bottom tracks to create a clean doorway opening. If there are any gaps or holes left behind, fill them with wood filler, let it dry, then sand for a smooth finish.


2. Remove the molding if there is a lip

I repurposed mine but you can always purchase to fit the style you're going for. 



3. Measure and Prep the Doors

If you’re repurposing your sliding doors, measure their width and height to ensure they fit properly when hinged. If they’re too wide, you may need to trim them slightly. Using your Table Saw, trim down the doors to size. 



4. Filling the gaps

Here I used MDF (had it on-hand) but I prefer Revolution wood. I nailed them in and added silicone. Sand down rough edges to prepare for painting or staining.



5. Install Hinges

Mark where the hinges will be placed on both doors and the door frame. Typically, you’ll need two hinges per door, but heavier doors may require three. Attach the hinges securely using a drill and screws.


6. Mount the Doors

With the hinges attached to the doors, position them against the closet opening and screw the hinges into the door frame. Ensure the doors are level and open smoothly without obstruction.


to be continued ....

7. Add Handles and Finishing Touches

Install door handles or knobs at a comfortable height. If you’d like the doors to stay closed when not in use, consider adding a doorstop or magnetic closure. Finally, paint or stain your doors to match your room’s aesthetic.

Final Thoughts

Converting sliding closet doors into French open doors is a relatively simple yet impactful home upgrade. It enhances both form and function, making your closet more accessible and stylish. Whether you choose a crisp white paint, a bold color, or a natural wood stain, this transformation is bound to elevate your space.

Would you try this DIY project? Let me know in the comments!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Creating a faux stove Range with Storage

-
Image
Creating a faux stove range over your cabinets is a great way to maximize storage while adding a stylish touch to your kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide: Materials Needed: Wood or plywood for the faux range ( I used Revolutionply ) because its flexible Paint or wood stain (used Ebony ) Shelf brackets (I used (2) 2x4 cut down) pine board for spice rack Measuring tape Level Drill and screws Sandpaper Finish (optional, like polyurethane) Steps: Measure the Space: Measure the area above your cabinets where the faux stove will go. Note the height, width, and depth. Design Your Faux Range: Sketch out the design, including the size and placement of the spice rack. Decide if you want any additional features like a faux backsplash. Cut the Wood: Cut your wood or plywood to size for the main surface of the faux range and any additional pieces for the spice rack. Sand the Edges: Smooth all edges and surfaces with sandpaper to avoid splinters. Paint or Stain: Apply your chosen paint or wood st...
Read more

DIY - NUTCRACKER ORNAMENTS

-
Image
 NUTCRACKER ORNAMENTS  I saw a few of these circling the internet and decided to make my own! :)  Here are the steps to make a Nutcracker ornament out of paper based on your instructions: Materials Needed: Printed Nutcracker images on yardstick (you can find printable templates or use the ones below) Scissors Hole punch Elmer's glue Glitter Ribbon (for hanging) Optional: Pencil, ruler, and colored markers (for any additional decorating) Instructions: Step 1: Print Your Nutcracker Find and print a Nutcracker image on cardstock or heavy paper. You can search for printable Nutcracker templates online, or you can draw one yourself. (i've included mine below) Step 2: Cut Out the Nutcracker Shape Cut out the Nutcracker shape, leaving a small border around the edges. The border gives the ornament a nice framed look and adds durability. Step 3: Hole Punch Use a hole puncher to create a small hole at the top of the ornament, where you'll later attach the ribbon. Make sure it’s cen...
Read more

DIY Faux Marble Tutorial

-
Image
  DIY Faux Marble Tutorial Transforming a simple piece of plywood into a stunning faux marble surface is easier than you think! Follow these steps to create your own marble masterpiece with a sleek, high-end finish. Materials You’ll Need: Plywood or any canvas of your choice Sandpaper White porch paint Grey paint (any) I used acrylic Paintbrushes Spray marble paint Water (for feathering) Epoxy resin (for sealing)  Gianni Step 1: Prepare Your Canvas Start by selecting your plywood or another suitable surface. Sand it down to remove any bumps or rough spots. Don’t worry about achieving a perfectly smooth surface—this method is self-leveling, so a light sanding will do the trick. Step 2: Apply a Base Coat Paint your prepared surface with a coat of white porch paint. This will serve as the base color, giving your faux marble a clean, crisp foundation. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step. I did two coats Step 3: Create Your Marble Veins (Optiona...
Read more