How to Customize a Vanity

Remodeling your bathroom on a tight budget? Think outside the box when it comes to stock cabinetry, which can be trimmed to fit a tight space. Consider distressing the surface and choosing unusual inset materials.

Highlights:

Step 1: Prep Vanity
Step 2: Distressing
Step 3: Door Panels

Step 1: Prep Vanity

Dry-fit the vanity to make sure the height, depth and width work in the space. Make any cuts necessary to accommodate the space. Sand the vanity and apply a base coat of stain.

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Step 2: Distressing

Using sandpaper or rocks, distress areas that would get the most use, such as door handles and corners. Apply a layer of dark stain on top, focusing on the distressed areas.

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Step 3: Door Panels

Measure the inset opening and cut the poplar panels to fit. Attach the panels using wood glue, clamp them in place and tack them to the door using brads. Measure and cut a countertop for the vanity and coat it with three layers of polyurethane. Re-attach the doors and attach the countertop to the cabinet.