Easy DIY Open Cabinet Makeover with Plywood Panels

Upgrade those boring or ugly open cabinets and shelves with this easy DIY Plywood Panel Makeover!

Are you a fan of the open cabinet trend? They can look really gorgeous! Luckily, most cabinets look great without any help. But sometimes, cabinets can be a bit of an eyesore that need a pretty and easy upgrade before you can remove the doors. Try this easy DIY open cabinet makeover with plywood panels when you need a quick fix that will hide ugly cabinet walls.

I went with stained panels because they match the table I made for my Laundry Room. BUT you can customize the look to match any room and style. Go for paint, stain, wallpaper, or fabric. Anything works on a fresh, new smooth surface. 🙂

UPDATE: See the full reveal for this Modern Farmhouse Teal Laundry Room Makeover now.

Now, let’s get this build started!

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DIY Open Cabinet Makeover with Plywood Panels- Materials Needed

• Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive, I used this
• Brad Nailer with Brad Nails
• Circular Saw
• Saw Cutting Guide, I highly recommend using one to get the straightest possible cuts
• Paint or Stain, I used Watco’s Danish Oil in Medium Walnut (this finish is so easy and beautiful!)
• 1/4″ thick Plywood Panel, I used Maple

DIY Open Cabinet Makeover with Plywood Panels – Build Steps

Step 1

Plan the best layout for your panel design. I only added panels to the side walls of my cabinets. But you could do the ceiling, back wall, and bottom, if needed.

Step 2

Measure and cut your panels. I highly recommend using a cutting guide. I like perfectly straight cuts, but cannot make them straight enough on my own. Using a cutting guide clamped to your board makes straight cuts quick and easy!

Step 3

Apply your finish before attaching the panels. It just makes the job easier.

Step 4

Once dry, attach the panels using construction adhesive. Hold the board tightly in place with a few brad nails or clamps while it dries. I used my brad nailer. It’s one of my favorite tools. They make jobs like this so much faster!

Step 5

Fill any holes and touch up. Then enjoy your beautiful DIY Open Cabinet Makeover!

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Check out the original Mudroom Bench DIY to see how I converted our cabinets into a bench and hall tree for less than $100.

And be sure to check out the Kids Bedroom Reveal for lots of budget-friendly and fun DIY and decor ideas your kiddos will love!

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Feeling inspired? Get out there and do your own DIY Open Cabinet Makeover with Plywood Panels. Have fun and let me know if you have questions. Don’t forget to sign up for the Abbotts At Home email newsletter to get DIY, Remodeling, and Crafty ideas in your inbox.