Old Sewing Machine Drawers Make The Perfect Upcycled Storage Solution

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Vintage sewing tables give off a sense of elegance and charm, but unless you're using an old machine, they're not always practical for modern uses. The drawers are too small to hold many supplies, and the features made for the machines, like the pedal and fold-out leaf, can make repurposing difficult. Luckily, with some work, parts of these tables, like the drawers, can be remade into something more practical for your home. You can turn these drawers into an easy storage solution that you can use to organize your bathroom.

Repurposing these sewing table drawers can be done in an afternoon. All you need is your drawer, four knobs, and an electric screwdriver. This set of four knobs from Wealrit on Amazon has a nice walnut finish, ideal for mid-century modern styles. For more variety, Zorfeter's pack of 20 unfinished knobs allows you to choose the stain or paint that will match your space. Once you make your choice, take the drawer and flip it so the bottom side is up. Drill four holes into the four corners to attach your knobs. After you've attached them, flip the drawer over and use it to hold lotions and soaps on a bathroom counter or make the most of a small home office.

Turning the drawers into storage containers is just one way to make use of a sewing table. To make the most out of it, you'll want to remove the sewing machine if it's still attached. Unscrew each part holding the machine in place and carefully lift it out. Now, flip the table over and remove the remaining hardware attached to the underside of the table. You can either craft a top to fit over the empty space or keep it as is for other uses.

One easy way to repurpose your table is to turn it into a planter for a covered front porch or three-season room. Measure the empty space and then head to your favorite home goods or thrift store to find a planter or container that will fit. Then, fill it with your preferred plants and set it out for display. Remember, these tables were not meant to sit out in the rain, so make sure the planter is safe from the elements. 

You can also upgrade an old sewing table into a gorgeous bar or drink station. For this project, remove the sewing machine but keep the leaf. Measure the empty machine space and find a stainless steel steam pan for ice and drink cans that fits. Next, install a support beam underneath the pan that stretches across the space. Now you're ready to sand and paint or stain your new drink station. For paint, Sherwin-Williams' Moscow Midnight is dark and moody, while Espalier might fit a stylish lounge.