21 DIY Closet Ideas That Are Surprisingly Doable

DIY Closet Ideas are a perfect way to transform your wardrobe space without breaking the bank. These projects not only save money, but they also offer a fun and creative way to customize your closet to suit your specific needs and style. Whether you’re working with a small or large space, DIY closet projects allow you to maximize every inch while adding a personal touch. From better organization and decluttering to creating a visually appealing storage area, the benefits of taking on these projects are numerous. Plus, many DIY closet ideas are surprisingly simple to implement, making them an ideal option for both novice and experienced DIYers alike.

Best DIY Closet Ideas That Are Surprisingly Doable

1. Repurpose Old Furniture Into Closet Storage

One of the most creative DIY closet ideas is repurposing old furniture, such as dressers or bookshelves, into functional closet storage units. An old dresser can be given new life by refinishing or painting it to match your closet’s style, then using the drawers to organize folded clothes, shoes, or accessories. Bookshelves are another versatile option; their open shelves are perfect for displaying shoes, bags, or baskets for smaller items. This approach not only saves money but also adds a unique, personalized touch to your closet while reducing waste by upcycling old furniture.

2. DIY Open Wardrobe With Pipe Shelving

Building a DIY open wardrobe with pipe shelving is a simple yet stylish way to organize your clothes while adding an industrial touch to your space. Here’s how to do it:

Gather Materials: You’ll need metal pipes (galvanized or black for a modern, industrial look), pipe flanges, wood planks (cut to desired shelf sizes), screws, and wall anchors.
Install the Pipe Structure: Start by securing the flanges to the wall where you want the wardrobe to be placed. Attach the pipes vertically to the flanges to create the wardrobe’s framework. You can adjust the height depending on whether you’re making shelves for folded clothes or hanging rods for garments.
Add Shelves and Rods: For the shelves, place wooden planks on the horizontal pipes, securing them in place for stability. You can sand and stain the wood for a finished look. For hanging space, simply add horizontal pipes across the width of the wardrobe for clothing rods.
Finishing Touches: Once the pipes and shelves are installed, use the open space for hanging clothes, stacking shoes, or adding baskets for accessories. The exposed structure creates a functional yet visually appealing wardrobe that works well in small spaces or minimalist interiors.

This DIY open wardrobe is not only customizable to your needs but also adds a chic, industrial element to your room.

3. Create a Closet With Floating Shelves

Installing floating shelves is a simple yet effective DIY closet idea that offers a minimalist, space-saving storage solution. Here’s how to create a closet using floating shelves:

Choose Your Shelves: Select sturdy floating shelves that can support the weight of your clothes, shoes, and accessories. Wood or laminate shelves work well and can be customized to your preferred color or finish.
Measure and Plan: Measure the space where you’d like to install the shelves. Plan the spacing between each shelf based on what you intend to store. For instance, if you’re storing folded clothes or bins, the shelves should be spaced further apart.
Install the Shelves: Using a level, mark the wall where you want to place the shelves. Secure them with wall anchors and brackets to ensure they can handle the weight. Install them evenly for a sleek, symmetrical look.
Organize Your Closet: Once the shelves are in place, organize your belongings by placing folded clothes, shoes, and decorative baskets on each shelf. For a cleaner look, keep accessories like scarves and jewelry neatly arranged in smaller containers.

This floating shelf solution offers a minimalist and visually appealing way to create a functional closet without the bulk of traditional furniture, making it ideal for small spaces or those looking for a modern, streamlined design.

4. Turn an Empty Nook Into a Built-In Closet

Transforming an unused nook or alcove into a built-in closet is a great way to maximize space and create additional storage. Here’s how to do it:

Assess the Space: Measure the dimensions of the nook or alcove to determine the amount of available space. Consider the depth and width to decide on the size and layout of your built-in closet.
Design Your Closet: Plan the layout of your built-in closet, including shelves, hanging rods, and any additional features like drawers or bins. Sketch out a design that fits the nook and meets your storage needs.
Prepare the Area: Clear out the nook and ensure the wall is smooth and level. If necessary, patch up any holes or imperfections. You may also need to install drywall if the nook is not enclosed.
Install the Framework: Build a frame for your closet using wood or metal studs. Secure it to the wall to create a sturdy structure. This frame will support the shelves, rods, and any other storage components.
Add Shelves and Rods: Install shelves and hanging rods according to your design. Use brackets or shelf supports to secure the shelves, and ensure that the hanging rods are level and properly anchored.
Finish and Organize: Paint or finish the built-in closet to match your room’s decor. Add organizational tools like bins, baskets, and hangers to keep everything tidy.

This transformation not only makes use of an otherwise wasted space but also adds a custom touch to your home, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

5. Customizable Pegboard Closet Organizer

A customizable pegboard closet organizer is a versatile and flexible DIY solution for storing accessories and small clothing items. Here’s how to create one:

Select Your Pegboard: Choose a pegboard that fits your closet space. Pegboards come in various sizes and materials, such as wood or metal, so pick one that suits your style and needs.
Prepare the Area: Clean and measure the wall where you’ll install the pegboard. Ensure the surface is smooth and free from any obstructions. You might need to install a backer board if the wall is uneven or if you’re mounting the pegboard directly onto drywall.
Install the Pegboard: Mount the pegboard onto the wall using wall anchors or screws, depending on the weight of the items you plan to hang. Make sure it’s level and securely fastened.
Add Pegboard Accessories: Customize the pegboard with various hooks, shelves, and baskets. These accessories can hold everything from jewelry and scarves to small bags and folded clothes. Arrange them in a way that maximizes space and ensures everything is easily accessible.
Organize Your Items: Hang and arrange your accessories and small clothing items on the pegboard. Use bins or containers for smaller items to keep everything tidy. The pegboard’s customizable nature allows you to rearrange the accessories as needed, adapting to changing storage needs.

A pegboard closet organizer not only helps keep your closet neat and organized but also adds a touch of personal style with its flexible design.

6. Fabric-Covered Storage Boxes for Small Closets

Fabric-covered storage boxes are a stylish and practical way to maximize space in small closets. Here’s how to create your own custom boxes:

Gather Materials: You will need cardboard boxes or storage bins, fabric (cotton or linen works well), adhesive spray or fabric glue, a ruler, scissors, and a utility knife.
Measure and Cut: Measure the dimensions of your boxes or bins. Cut the fabric to size, leaving a bit of extra material to wrap around the edges. For a seamless look, measure carefully to ensure the fabric will cover the box entirely.
Prepare the Boxes: If you’re using cardboard boxes, reinforce them with additional layers of cardboard or tape to ensure they hold their shape. For plastic bins, clean them thoroughly before covering.
Apply the Fabric: Use adhesive spray or fabric glue to coat one side of the box or bin. Carefully place the fabric on the adhesive, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles. Wrap the fabric around the edges, securing it with additional glue if necessary. Trim any excess fabric with scissors or a utility knife for a clean finish.
Finish and Organize: Allow the glue to dry completely before using the boxes. Once dry, arrange your fabric-covered boxes in the closet, labeling them if desired. Use them to store clothing, accessories, or other small items, maximizing your closet space while adding a decorative touch.

Fabric-covered storage boxes not only enhance the appearance of your closet but also provide a functional solution for keeping everything organized and easily accessible.

7. DIY Shoe Rack With Wooden Crates

Creating a shoe rack with wooden crates is a DIY project that combines rustic charm with functionality. Here’s how to assemble your own:

Gather Materials: You will need wooden crates (available at craft stores or online), screws, a screwdriver or drill, and wood stain or paint if you wish to finish the crates. Optional: decorative hardware or labels.
Prepare the Crates: Sand the wooden crates to remove any rough edges or splinters. If desired, stain or paint the crates to match your decor. Allow them to dry completely before assembly.
Arrange the Crates: Decide on the layout for your shoe rack. You can stack the crates vertically or arrange them horizontally, depending on the available space and the number of crates you have. Ensure that the arrangement provides enough height and depth for your shoes.
Assemble the Rack: If stacking vertically, secure the crates together using screws. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the wood, then screw the crates together at the corners. For horizontal arrangements, you may need to secure the crates to the wall or to each other for stability.
Add Finishing Touches: If desired, add decorative hardware or labels to the crates for a personalized touch. You might also consider adding felt pads to the bottom of the crates to protect your flooring.
Organize Your Shoes: Place your shoes in the crates, arranging them by type or season for easy access. The open design of the crates makes it simple to see and retrieve your shoes while adding a rustic, handcrafted element to your space.

This DIY shoe rack with wooden crates is not only practical for organizing your footwear but also adds a stylish, rustic flair to your entryway, bedroom, or closet.

8. Closet Makeover With Curtain Rods

Transforming your closet with curtain rods is an easy and affordable way to enhance your storage area. Here’s how to do it:

Gather Materials: You’ll need tension rods or curtain rods, curtain panels (choose fabric that complements your room), and curtain rings if using standard rods. Optional: adhesive hooks or brackets for extra stability.
Plan Your Layout: Decide where you want to place the curtain rods. You can use them to create separate sections within the closet, such as a hanging area for clothes, or to cover open shelves. Measure the width and height to ensure the rods fit perfectly.
Install the Rods: For tension rods, simply adjust the length and place them between the walls or inside the closet at the desired height. If using curtain rods, secure them with adhesive hooks or brackets, ensuring they are level and properly anchored.
Hang the Curtains: Attach the curtain panels to the rods. If using tension rods, the curtains should slide easily on the rod. For standard rods, use curtain rings to hang the panels. Choose curtains that fit the style of your room and the functionality you need, such as blackout curtains for privacy or lightweight fabric for a breezy look.
Organize Your Closet: With the curtain rods and panels in place, organize your closet by using the newly created sections for different types of clothing, accessories, or storage bins. The curtains can be drawn to hide clutter or to provide a neat, cohesive look.

This closet makeover with curtain rods adds both functionality and a touch of style, creating a flexible and visually pleasing storage solution that is both easy to install and budget-friendly.

9. Create a Custom Closet Door With Mirrors

Adding mirrors to closet doors is a great way to enhance the space and functionality of your closet. Here’s how to create a custom closet door with mirrors:

Gather Materials: You will need mirrors (either mirror tiles or a large mirror cut to size), adhesive glue or mirror mounting tape, a utility knife or glass cutter (if trimming mirrors), a measuring tape, and a clean cloth.
Measure and Cut: Measure the dimensions of your closet doors and the mirrors to ensure a proper fit. If you’re using large mirrors, you may need to cut them to size. For safety, it’s often best to have mirrors cut professionally at a glass shop.
Prepare the Doors: Clean the surface of the closet doors thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. Ensure the doors are dry before applying any adhesive.
Apply Adhesive: For mirror tiles, apply adhesive glue or mirror mounting tape to the back of each tile. If using a large mirror, apply adhesive to the back or use mounting clips designed for mirrors.
Attach the Mirrors: Carefully place the mirrors onto the closet doors, starting from one edge and working your way across. Press firmly to ensure a good bond. If using mirror tiles, align them neatly with no gaps between them.
Finishing Touches: Allow the adhesive to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the mirrors with a glass cleaner to remove any fingerprints or smudges.
Organize Your Space: Once the mirrors are installed, the reflective surface will enhance the sense of space in your room and provide a functional full-length mirror for getting dressed.

This custom closet door with mirrors not only makes your closet look more spacious and modern but also adds a practical feature for everyday use.

10. DIY Drawer Organizers Using Cardboard

Creating custom drawer organizers from cardboard is an affordable and easy way to keep your accessories and small items neatly arranged. Here’s a quick guide to making your own:

Gather Materials: You will need sturdy cardboard (recycled cereal boxes work well), a ruler, a pencil, scissors or a utility knife, and adhesive tape or glue. Optional: decorative paper or fabric for a finished look.
Measure and Cut: Measure the dimensions of your drawer to determine the size of your organizers. Using the ruler and pencil, mark out the dimensions on the cardboard. Cut the cardboard into strips for the sides and bases of the dividers.
Assemble the Dividers: Create a base for each divider by cutting a piece of cardboard to fit the bottom of the drawer. For the sides, cut additional strips to the height of the drawer. Assemble the dividers by attaching the side strips to the base using adhesive tape or glue. Arrange the dividers in a grid pattern to create compartments for different items.
Install the Organizers: Place the assembled dividers into the drawer. Adjust the layout as needed to fit your storage needs. For a neater appearance, you can cover the cardboard with decorative paper or fabric before placing them in the drawer.
Organize Your Drawer: Use the new dividers to organize accessories, office supplies, or small clothing items. The compartments will help keep everything in its place and make it easy to find what you need.

This DIY project not only helps keep your drawers organized but also allows you to customize the compartments to fit your specific needs, all while being budget-friendly and easy to implement.

FAQ

Q: What are some beginner-friendly DIY closet ideas?

A: Some beginner-friendly DIY closet ideas include installing tension rods for extra hanging space, using adjustable shelving units, or adding stick-on hooks for accessories. These projects require minimal tools and can be done in a few hours.

Q: How can I maximize space in a small closet?

A: To maximize space in a small closet, use vertical storage solutions like hanging organizers, add shelf dividers to create separate compartments, and install pull-out drawers or bins to keep items tidy.

Q: What materials do I need for most DIY closet projects?

A: Common materials include wood or wire shelving, brackets, tension rods, closet rods, hooks, adhesive organizers, and storage baskets. You may also need basic tools like a drill, level, measuring tape, and screwdriver.

Q: Can I DIY a closet organizer without using power tools?

A: Yes, several closet organizer projects don’t require power tools. You can use modular shelving units, stick-on hooks, or adjustable hanging rods that simply clip or stick into place.

Q: How do I add lighting to my DIY closet?

A: You can easily add lighting to your closet by using battery-powered LED lights, stick-on strip lighting, or motion-sensor lights. These options don’t require wiring and can be installed in minutes.

Q: What are some DIY ideas for organizing shoes in my closet?

A: Consider installing over-the-door shoe racks, using stackable shoe bins, or adding a low shelf or cubbies at the bottom of your closet to keep shoes off the floor and organized.

Q: How can I make my DIY closet look more stylish?

A: You can enhance the aesthetic by using matching hangers, adding decorative storage boxes or baskets, applying peel-and-stick wallpaper to the back wall, or installing a statement light fixture.

Q: How much time do DIY closet projects typically take?

A: Most DIY closet projects can be completed in a few hours or over a weekend. Simpler projects like adding hooks or shelving might only take an hour, while more complex builds like custom shelving could take longer.

Q: Can I repurpose items for my DIY closet?

A:Absolutely! Repurpose items like old bookshelves, baskets, or wooden crates to create unique storage solutions. These DIY Closet Ideas add a personal touch while keeping the project budget-friendly.

Q: How can I create more hanging space in my closet?

A: You can add a second hanging rod below the existing one, use tension rods in unused spaces, or install hooks for hanging bags, scarves, or belts to free up rod space for clothes. These are great DIY closet ideas that help maximize your closet’s functionality and organization.