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Creative DIY Closet Door Alternatives
Published: September 8, 2024
Discover innovative and stylish DIY closet door alternatives to transform your space. From curtains to sliding panels, find creative solutions that fit your decor and budget.
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Tired of your boring old closet doors? Looking for a fun way to spice up your space without spending a fortune? Creative DIY closet door alternatives can add style and personality to any room. Whether you want a sleek, modern look or a cozy, rustic vibe, there are plenty of options to choose from. Plus, many of these ideas use materials you might already have at home, making them budget-friendly and eco-conscious. Get ready to transform those plain closet doors into a unique feature that reflects your personal taste and creativity.
Getting Ready for Your Project
Measure the Space: Use a tape measure to get the exact height and width of the closet opening. Write these measurements down.
Choose Materials: Decide what materials you want to use. Options include curtains, sliding panels, or repurposed doors. Make sure they fit your measurements.
Gather Tools: Collect necessary tools like a drill, screws, a saw, and a level. Having everything ready will save time.
Clear the Area: Remove any items from the closet and the surrounding area. This gives you a clean workspace.
Safety Gear: Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and hands. If using power tools, ear protection is also a good idea.
Prepare the Surface: Clean the closet frame and surrounding walls. This ensures materials adhere properly and look neat.
Mark Drill Points: Use a pencil to mark where you will drill holes for mounting brackets or tracks. Double-check measurements to avoid mistakes.
Test Fit: Before final installation, do a test fit of your chosen materials. This helps identify any adjustments needed.
Secure Materials: Follow the instructions for your chosen materials to secure them in place. Use a level to ensure everything is straight.
Final Touches: Add any finishing touches like paint, trim, or decorative elements. This personalizes your project and makes it unique.
What You Need to Get Started
- Sliding Barn Door Kit: Includes tracks, rollers, and mounting hardware. Perfect for a rustic look.
- Bi-Fold Door Hardware: Hinges, pivot brackets, and track. Ideal for saving space.
- Curtain Rods: Used to hang curtains as doors. Easy to install and change.
- Fabric or Curtains: Choose heavy fabric for privacy or light fabric for a breezy feel.
- Beads or Strings: For a bohemian touch. Hang from a rod or track.
- Wood Panels: Can be painted or stained. Attach with hinges or sliding hardware.
- Paint and Brushes: Customize wood panels or existing doors.
- Screws and Anchors: Secure hardware to walls or ceilings.
- Measuring Tape: Ensure accurate measurements for materials and installation.
- Drill and Bits: Create holes for screws and hardware.
- Screwdriver: Tighten screws and assemble hardware.
- Level: Ensure doors or curtains hang straight.
- Saw: Cut wood panels or trim to size.
- Sandpaper: Smooth rough edges on wood panels.
- Stud Finder: Locate wall studs for secure mounting.
Each tool and material serves a specific purpose, ensuring your DIY project is both functional and stylish.
How Much Time and Skill You Need
Skill Level: Intermediate
Time Required: 4-6 hours
Sliding Barn Doors
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Time Required: 5-6 hours
Curtains
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
Beaded Curtains
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Time Required: 2-3 hours
Bi-Fold Doors
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Time Required: 4-5 hours
Accordion Doors
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
Follow These Steps
Curtains
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase a curtain rod and curtains that fit.
- Install the curtain rod above the closet.
- Hang the curtains.
Sliding Barn Doors
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase or build barn doors.
- Install a sliding door track above the closet.
- Attach the doors to the track.
Beaded Curtains
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase beaded curtains.
- Install a curtain rod or hooks above the closet.
- Hang the beaded curtains.
Room Divider Screens
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase a room divider screen.
- Place the screen in front of the closet.
Fabric Panels
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase fabric and curtain clips.
- Install a curtain rod above the closet.
- Attach fabric panels to the rod using clips.
Accordion Doors
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase accordion doors.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the doors.
Bookshelf Doors
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase or build bookshelves that fit.
- Install hinges on one side of each bookshelf.
- Attach the bookshelves to the closet frame as doors.
Mirror Panels
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase mirror panels.
- Install a track system above and below the closet.
- Attach mirror panels to the track system.
Pegboard Panels
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase pegboard panels.
- Install hinges on one side of each panel.
- Attach the panels to the closet frame as doors.
Rope Curtains
- Measure the closet opening.
- Purchase thick rope and curtain rings.
- Install a curtain rod above the closet.
- Attach the rope to the rings and hang them on the rod.
Helpful Hints and Tips
Sliding Barn Doors: Use reclaimed wood or even an old door. Attach it to a sliding track for a rustic look. Tip: Ensure the track is level to avoid jamming.
Curtains: Hang a curtain rod above the closet and use heavy fabric for a chic, soft look. Tip: Choose a fabric that matches your room decor.
Beaded Curtains: For a boho vibe, hang beaded curtains. Tip: Measure the height and width of the closet opening to get the right size.
Bi-Fold Doors: Paint or wallpaper old bi-fold doors to give them new life. Tip: Use a primer before painting to ensure the paint sticks well.
Shoji Screens: These Japanese-style screens add elegance. Tip: Ensure they are lightweight for easy movement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Incorrect Measurements: Always measure twice to avoid buying the wrong size.
- Ignoring Weight Limits: Ensure the track or rod can support the weight of the door or curtain.
- Skipping Primer: When painting, always use primer to avoid peeling paint.
Alternatives for Materials or Methods:
- Instead of Wood: Use PVC panels for a lightweight, water-resistant option.
- Instead of Curtains: Use fabric panels with Velcro for easy removal and washing.
- Instead of Beads: Try macramé hangings for a different texture and look.
How Much Will It Cost?
Sliding Barn Doors:
- Materials: Wood planks ($50-$100), sliding door hardware kit ($50-$100), paint or stain ($20-$30)
- Tools: Drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, level
- Total Cost: $120-$230
Curtains:
- Materials: Curtain rod ($10-$30), curtains ($20-$50)
- Tools: Drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, level
- Total Cost: $30-$80
Beaded Curtains:
- Materials: Beaded curtain ($20-$50), curtain rod ($10-$30)
- Tools: Drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, level
- Total Cost: $30-$80
Bi-Fold Doors:
- Materials: Bi-fold door kit ($40-$100), paint or stain ($20-$30)
- Tools: Drill, screwdriver, measuring tape, level
- Total Cost: $60-$130
Budget-Friendly Alternatives:
- Fabric Panels: Use fabric and tension rods. Total cost: $20-$40
- Repurposed Shutters: Find old shutters at thrift stores. Total cost: $20-$50
Different Ways to Customize
Sliding Barn Doors: Use reclaimed wood for a rustic look or paint them bright colors for a modern twist.
Curtains: Choose heavy fabric for a luxurious feel or light, airy material for a breezy vibe.
Beaded Curtains: Opt for colorful beads for a bohemian style or clear beads for a minimalist approach.
Folding Screens: Decorate with wallpaper or fabric to match your room's theme.
Chalkboard Doors: Paint closet doors with chalkboard paint for a fun, interactive surface.
Mirrored Panels: Use full-length mirrors to make the room appear larger and brighter.
Shutter Doors: Repurpose old window shutters and paint them to match your decor.
Macramé Hangings: Create a boho look with handmade macramé pieces.
Fabric Panels: Stretch fabric over a wooden frame for a soft, customizable door.
Pegboard Doors: Attach pegboards for a functional, industrial look that can hold accessories.
Japanese Shoji Screens: Use rice paper and wooden frames for an elegant, minimalist design.
Sliding Glass Doors: Frosted or clear glass can add a modern touch while maintaining openness.
Repurposed Doors: Use old doors from other parts of the house or vintage finds for a unique look.
String Curtains: Create a playful, casual feel with colorful string curtains.
Wallpapered Doors: Apply wallpaper to plain doors for a quick, stylish update.
Eco-Friendly Ideas
Reclaimed Wood Panels: Use old wooden pallets or barn wood. Sand and paint them for a rustic look.
Fabric Curtains: Hang a curtain rod and use old sheets or fabric scraps. This adds a soft touch to your room.
Sliding Barn Doors: Repurpose old doors or large wooden panels. Attach them to a sliding track for a farmhouse feel.
Beaded Curtains: String together old beads or even bottle caps. This creates a fun, bohemian vibe.
Shoji Screens: Use recycled paper and thin wooden frames. These screens offer a minimalist, Japanese-inspired look.
Chalkboard Doors: Paint old doors with chalkboard paint. This gives you a space to write notes or draw.
Mirror Panels: Use old mirrors or mirrored tiles. This can make your room look bigger and brighter.
Macramé Hangings: Create a macramé curtain using recycled yarn or rope. This adds a handmade, artistic touch.
Louvered Doors: Find old louvered doors at thrift stores. Paint them to match your decor for a classic look.
Repurposed Windows: Use old window frames as doors. This adds a unique, vintage charm to your closet.
Time to Get Crafty
Choosing DIY closet door alternatives can be a fun way to add personality to your space. From curtains to barn doors, each option has its own charm. Sliding panels save space, while beaded curtains bring a retro vibe. Room dividers can double as art pieces. Repurposed materials like old windows or shutters add a rustic touch. Chalkboard doors offer a creative outlet for notes and doodles. Fabric panels can match your room's decor perfectly. Accordion doors are practical for tight spaces. String curtains add a whimsical feel. Mirror doors make rooms look bigger. Macramé hangings bring a boho vibe. Japanese shoji screens offer elegance and privacy. Saloon doors add a playful touch. Repurposed pallets can be a budget-friendly option. Each choice lets you express your style while keeping your closet functional. Time to get crafty and transform your space!
What are some cheap alternatives to traditional closet doors?
You can use curtains, beaded strings, or even a tapestry. These options are budget-friendly and add a unique touch to your room.
How can I make my own sliding barn door for a closet?
To make a sliding barn door, you'll need wood planks, a barn door hardware kit, and some basic tools like a drill and screws. Measure your closet opening, cut the wood to size, assemble the door, and install the hardware.
Are bifold doors easy to install?
Yes, bifold doors are relatively easy to install. You'll need a track kit, hinges, and a screwdriver. Follow the instructions that come with the kit, and you should have your doors up in no time.
Can I use room dividers as closet doors?
Absolutely! Room dividers can be a stylish and functional alternative. Just place the divider in front of your closet opening. They come in various designs, so you can pick one that matches your decor.
What about using mirrors as closet doors?
Mirrors can make a room look bigger and brighter. You can either buy mirrored closet doors or attach mirror panels to existing doors. It's a great way to add some glam to your space.
How do I install accordion doors?
Accordion doors are easy to install and perfect for small spaces. You'll need an accordion door kit, a measuring tape, and a screwdriver. Measure your closet opening, cut the track to size, and follow the kit instructions.
Can I use bookshelves as closet doors?
Yes, bookshelves can double as closet doors. Use rolling casters to make them easy to move. This way, you get extra storage and a unique look for your closet.
