(2 of 3) Ready to do something about that unusable space?

Then we’re going to rip that shelf and single bar out and get started designing you a new closet from scratch….and at about a ¼ of the price a contractor would charge you. (And even ¼ of the price of places that sell closet organizers.) If you have the basic tools and can get your hands on and a miter saw, (or at worst case scenario, a good circular saw) then you’re in business.

First we’re going to sit down with a piece of paper and a pencil (Grab a ruler if you want to feel extra fancy.) and start to design your lay out. Think of different things that you would like to store in the closet that might otherwise be crammed in a drawer. (Swim suits, belts, hats, pants, long johns, your terrible towels.)

(Figure out an affordable way to get your hands on bins or baskets that match. A big reason I love IKEA)

Now start drawing....

I’m currently working on my master bedroom closet, and this is what my general design looks like so far:




I decided that we would have 6 cubes that run down the center with 3 clothes bars. Because we have a large mudroom downstairs, I have decided that what works best for OUR family is to have all of the shoes downstairs near the door. (It's just so much easier) so I decided that shoe shelves weren't necessary in our closet. We also have a lot of pants so I decided that instead of a fourth clothes bar that I would build more cubes, to the left of the center cubes, to house sweaters and pants.

I also figured that if we were to ever sell the house, that the extra cubes could be used for shoe storage if someone preferred them upstairs.)

(And don’t assume that you can’t do this if you have an oddly shaped closet. You just have to get extra creative.)

Now to start removing your existing closet….

Depending on what you have in there, find a place to house whatever you currently have in your closet. And get it completely empty.



**Removing existing rack:

(If you have a wire rack) Careful removing your wire rack system as it is installed with anchors and will destroy your walls if you’re not careful. Most other types of shelving or bars are most likely installed with just screws or nails. Just be sure to do it gently as to not destroy your walls.)

Fill holes with a dry wall compound. Wait for it to dry. It will shrink so a second coat is almost always a must. After second coat use a block sander and sand it until smooth. (or if you have textured walls, sand accordingly.)**



*Prime any spot that has new drywall compound.*

*Paint closet the color of your choice. (Most of the time I suggest a neutral paint color just because it isn’t often that you are painting and repainting your closet. I also ALWAYS suggest a semi-gloss in the closet as well. Much more durable and easier to clean.)*

And now you have your blank slate.


TO BE CONTINUED......