In case you missed it, I recently transformed an unused section of our upstairs landing into what I call the Shabby Glam closet… Shabby Glam closet post
After using the space for several months, I find it even more useful and enjoyable. It’s become a practical, pretty area for getting ready — organized and pleasant to use every day.
When I set up the vanity (the furniture piece on the right), I knew I wanted drawer liners to protect surfaces and keep things tidy. From previous experience, I decided to avoid two particular types:
- Peel-and-stick liners — they often become difficult to remove cleanly after long use.
- Loose liners that slide around and end up bunched in the back of the drawer.
I came across some gift wrap at a store (Winners) made from a thin, smooth recycled material that felt a bit like soft plastic. It seemed perfect: durable, attractive, and unlikely to shift once secured in place.
Before lining the drawers, I gave them a thorough vacuuming and wiped them clean. Then I cut pieces of cardboard to fit each drawer precisely, using the cardboard as a rigid base that would keep the liner flat and stable:
I wrapped each cardboard insert with the decorative wrap like a flat gift and secured the edges underneath with tape so the top surface stayed smooth and neat:
Once wrapped, the pieces slipped neatly into the drawers and laid flat without sliding or rolling up. The cardboard gives structure and makes it very easy to lift the whole liner out if I want to change the look or clean underneath:
Benefits of this approach:
- Removable and replaceable: The entire insert can be popped out and swapped for a different pattern or cleaned as needed.
- Stable surface: The rigid cardboard prevents liner movement, so small items like makeup, brushes, or jewelry stay in place.
- Protects drawer bottoms: The wrapped cardboard shields the drawer finish from spills, scratches, and makeup stains.
- Customizable: You can choose any decorative paper or thin fabric that suits your style, then swap it seasonally or whenever you want a fresh look.
Practical tips if you try this yourself:
- Measure each drawer carefully and cut the cardboard slightly smaller than the interior dimensions so it slides in easily.
- Use a thin, wipeable material for the top layer if you expect makeup or liquids to be stored — it makes cleanup simple.
- Secure the wrap or fabric to the underside of the cardboard with tape or glue dots so the top stays smooth; avoid permanent adhesives that could damage the drawer if removed.
- For extra stability, place a small piece of non-slip material under the cardboard insert or add low-tack strips to the drawer bottom.
If you ever want a new look, it’s simple: remove the insert, replace the covering, and slide it back in. The flexibility makes this a low-cost, low-effort way to revamp drawers without damaging the furniture.
Have you found a reliable method for lining drawers that’s worked well over time? I’d love to hear your ideas and any tricks you’ve learned—please share them in the comments!
Wishing you an organized and beautiful day!
Rita Joy