Creative Ideas for Old Doors
- One creative use for an old door would be to make a table out of it. For this type of design, a door without glass works best if the table will be used for eating or holding heavy objects. If the door will be transformed into a decorative table, glass inserts on the door can be allowed. The areas around the glass can hold heavier objects and the glass can hold votive candles to create reflections of light. Doors that are solid and it least three to four inches thick should have legs and cross support for equal balance. To construct the table---legs that are sturdy should be used to reinforce the four corners---a fifth center leg can be added for additional support if desired. All that is needed is a drill, screws and drill bit to screw the legs to the corners. The door handle and hardware can be left on to add character and style. Old wood doors with beveled wood insets work best and add appeal. Old doors can also be sawed in half and made into end tables or corner tables for a living room or outdoor garden area.
- One way to utilize old doors is to use them for displays. This is an easy option for craft shows or parties. For a craft show display---the door can sit up on another door table or large table so it is lying lengthwise. Fabric can be tacked on to provide a background. Items such as wreaths, folk art prints, dried flowers and herbs can hang from the door. This provides a great way to show off items for sale and as a backdrop for smaller craft items such as candles and wood handicrafts. The door can also be used "stand alone" style and propped up against a wall lengthwise. This is a great way to display floral arrangements, cross stitch work and other hanging craft items.
For a graduation party or reunion, an old door can serve as a backdrop for hanging pictures and memorabilia. Old glass and wood doors with large panes work great for sectioning off different family members and age groups. The photos can be applied by using scrapbooking photo tapers or a light dab of glue. - Corner cabinets are hot sellers at craft shows, antique shops and specialty decor boutiques. Many artisans scour salvage yards, auctions and thrift stores for old doors and hardware. Sometimes old doors can even be found in the trash or are free for the taking from those who are remodeling an old home. Quite simply, one solid wood 4x6 or larger door is sawed completely in half---straight down the middle. Then the middle is re-attached to the other half at an angle to create a corner---or L shape. Scrap wood can be used to add shelves all the way down the center of the door. The cabinet can be repainted or left alone to add personality. Original hardware can be showcased on the cabinet---adding an eccentric sense of charm.
