Alexei Volkov
Plastic drawers are a great storage solution, but they can be an eyesore. There are many ways to attach plastic drawers together to create more storage space, or to upgrade their aesthetic. This can be done by reinforcing the drawers with duct tape, or by stacking them together using cable ties. Plastic drawers can also be decorated with wrapping paper, scrapbooking paper, or wallpaper, and spray-painted.
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What You'll Learn
Using cable ties
Cable ties, also known as zip ties, are a versatile tool that can be used to attach plastic drawers together. They are available in a variety of materials, including nylon and stainless steel, and can be purchased from home centres or online retailers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use cable ties to attach plastic drawers together:
Before beginning, ensure that you have the appropriate length and strength of cable ties for your specific application. Cable ties come in various sizes and strengths, so choosing the right one is important for a secure hold.
Now, place the plastic drawers in the desired configuration. For example, you may want to stack them vertically or horizontally, depending on your storage needs and available space. Once you have arranged the drawers, identify the points where you want to secure them together. This could be along the sides, at the top and bottom, or through pre-drilled holes, if available.
Next, take a cable tie and wrap it around the two drawers at the desired attachment point. Ensure that the teeth of the cable tie are facing the right direction, as this will impact the tightening process. Insert the pointed end of the cable tie into the receptacle at the other end. If inserted correctly, you should hear a clicking sound as the teeth engage and the tie tightens securely.
If the tie does not tighten and the end slides out freely, do not worry. Simply remove the pointed end, turn the tie over, and reinsert it. Pull it tight, and move the head as far as it will go to secure the connection. You can trim off any excess length from the cable tie if desired, leaving a neat finish.
By following these steps, you can securely attach plastic drawers together using cable ties. This method provides a strong and tamper-proof hold, ensuring your plastic drawers remain attached during use. Cable ties are a simple and cost-effective solution for organising and connecting various items, including plastic storage solutions.
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With duct tape
Duct tape is a versatile tool that can be used to attach plastic drawers together. While it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing solution, it is effective and can even be used to decorate your drawers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use duct tape to attach your plastic drawers together:
- Choose a duct tape colour or pattern that suits your taste and the style of your drawers. Duct tape comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including bold fluorescent hues, animal prints, and monochromatic designs. You can even find duct tape with glitter or sparkles for a unique look.
- Cut a piece of duct tape to the desired length. Ensure the piece is long enough to securely attach the two drawers together.
- Position the drawers side by side or on top of each other, depending on your preferred configuration.
- Apply the duct tape to the seam where the two drawers meet. Smooth out any air bubbles or creases to ensure a strong bond.
- Press the drawers firmly together, applying pressure to the duct tape to activate its adhesive properties.
- For added security, you can cut notches into the edges of the drawers and apply duct tape over them. This will create a grid-like structure that further reinforces the connection between the drawers.
- Repeat the process for any additional drawers you wish to attach.
By following these steps, you can use duct tape to securely attach your plastic drawers together. Remember to cut and apply the duct tape neatly for a more polished appearance. With the right colour or pattern choice, you can even make your storage solution stand out and reflect your personal style.
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Drilling and screwing
When drilling through plastic, it is generally advisable to pre-drill a hole to avoid deformation or breakage. The hole should be slightly smaller in diameter than the screw. For instance, a 2mm hole is suitable for a 3mm wood screw. A combination of a metal drill bit and a high-speed setting on the machine is the best way to drill through plastic. It is important to be cautious when working with brittle plastics like PS, as one of the sides may chip. If you are using bolts, you may want to consider threading the inside of the hole. However, this technique may not be necessary for tough materials like HDPE and PP, as simply screwing in the bolt often provides sufficient hold.
When working with rigid plastic, it is essential to pre-drill a hole before driving in a screw. However, if you are installing hinges or other hardware, you may opt to forgo drilling and allow the end of the screw to embed directly into the plastic. To do this, mark the desired position with the point of the screw or an awl. Then, heat the tip of the screw with a lighter for about 5 seconds before driving it into the plastic. This will cause the plastic to melt rather than crack.
Additionally, it is recommended to use a drill bit that is slightly larger in diameter than the screw shanks when drilling through rigid plastic. This allows for thermal expansion. It is suggested to use round- or oval-headed wood screws and avoid countersinking, as it can weaken the plastic and lead to potential breakage.
In the context of attaching plastic drawers, you can drill holes in the desired locations and use cable ties to thread through the holes, connecting the drawers securely. This method allows for stacking multiple storage bins together.
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Using cardboard and paper
While there are no explicit instructions for attaching plastic drawers together using cardboard and paper, there are a few methods that can be inferred and adapted.
One method is to use cardboard to create dividers for the drawers. First, measure the height, width, and depth of the drawers. Then, cut sturdy cardboard or foam core to the correct dimensions. You can cover the cardboard dividers with decorative contact paper, shelf liner, or peel-and-stick wallpaper for a cleaner and more cohesive look. Finally, use multipurpose cable clips to hold the dividers in place inside the drawers. This method will not attach the plastic drawers together, but it will help organize and secure items within the drawers, preventing them from shifting or sagging.
Another approach is to create a structure or housing for the plastic drawers using cardboard and paper. Measure the space you intend to put the drawers. Cut out pieces of cardboard and glue them together to form an outer structure. You can then slide the plastic drawers into this structure, effectively grouping them together. Alternatively, you can create an inner structure by gluing cardboard pieces inside the drawers to provide support and stability. This method can be enhanced by covering the cardboard structure and drawers with decorative paper, such as wrapping paper or wallpaper, to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look.
Additionally, you can use cardboard and paper to reinforce and decorate plastic drawers. Measure the inside of the drawers and cut cardboard pieces to fit. Cover these cardboard pieces with decorative paper and secure them inside the drawers using tape or glue. This method will not attach the drawers together but will enhance their appearance and provide some additional stability.
When using cardboard and paper, consider the thickness of the materials to ensure proper assembly and sliding of the drawers. Additionally, you can use tape, glue, and other adhesives to secure the cardboard and paper in place.
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Interlocking parts
Plastic drawers can be attached together using cable ties. To do this, first, drill four holes in both sets of drawers where you plan to attach them. Thread the cable ties through the holes in the top drawer and then place the top drawer on the bottom drawer. Next, thread the cable ties through the holes in the bottom drawer and tighten to secure the two together. Finally, cut off any excess cable ties.
Another option is to use interlocking parts. Sterilite manufactures plastic storage units with pull-out drawers that snap together with interlocking parts. These drawers can be assembled and disassembled quickly and without any tools. To dismantle Sterilite drawers, pull out the drawers from the frame and press the tab on each inside top corner of the drawers and the frame to unlock the parts.
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Frequently asked questions
You can attach multiple plastic drawers together by drilling holes in the drawers and threading cable ties through them.
You can reinforce plastic drawers by building drawer organisers out of craft foam board and duct tape.
You can decorate plastic drawers with wrapping paper, scrapbooking paper, wallpaper, or paint.
After painting your drawers, drill two small holes into each drawer to attach cabinet handles.
You can attach legs to plastic drawers by screwing metal furniture legs into the bottom corners of the dresser frame.
