Samantha had been wanting a filing cabinet for a long time. She wasn’t after a typical metal file box — she wanted something with personality. Inspired by the popular “Thank You” restaurant trash cans seen on Pinterest, we decided to create a compact, cheerful version: a pink “Thank You” file cabinet. It’s a fun, easy project that can turn an ordinary storage piece into a decorative accent for a home office or craft room.
If you already own a plain filing cabinet, this makeover is a great way to refresh it. The project uses simple supplies — paint and letter stickers — and can be completed in about 90 minutes plus drying time. The finished result is playful and stylish, and you can adapt colors and lettering to match your space.
DIY “Thank You” File Cabinet
Total Time: 90 Minutes + Dry Time
Supplies
2-drawer white file cabinet (or any small cabinet)
Shellac-based primer
Paint (we used a pink shade similar to Behr’s “Gumball”)
Paint brush
Two-inch letter stickers
Painter’s tape
Ruler
Directions
1. Measure and mark where you want the letters to sit on each drawer. Use a ruler and painter’s tape to create a straight guide line for the top edge of the letters. Adhere the letter stickers along the line, spacing them evenly. Repeat for the second drawer.
2. Apply painter’s tape around the cabinet just under the top drawer to protect the lower section from paint.
3. Prime the area above the tape and directly over the letter stickers. Allow the primer to dry according to product instructions.
4. Paint one coat of your chosen color and let it dry for a couple of hours. Apply a second coat and let it dry completely.
5. When the paint is fully dry, remove the tape and gently peel off the letter stickers. Use a pin or sewing needle if needed to lift an edge without scratching the paint. Your “Thank You” cabinet is finished.
Photos by Jeff Mindell | Craft Production and Styling by Annie Steward | Creative Direction by Kelly Mindell
This simple makeover proves that even a utilitarian piece like a filing cabinet can become a design focal point. If you don’t need a filing cabinet, try the same technique on a nightstand or small dresser—an inexpensive piece from a store like Ikea can be transformed with minimal effort.
If Studio DIY ever opens a restaurant, at least we know what the trash cans will look like.
p.s. A Taco Letter Holder is another fun project to try!