Make Inexpensive Drawer Slides from Old Mini Blinds
Drawer slides can add up quickly when you're building a cabinet with several drawers. But if you're working on a tight budget, there's a simple alternative that might already be sitting in your garage — old vinyl mini blinds.
The smooth plastic slats make surprisingly effective DIY drawer glides. With a little preparation, you can attach them inside a cabinet to help wooden drawers slide more easily without expensive hardware.
Turn Mini Blind Slats into Drawer Glides
Start by removing a few vinyl slats from an old set of mini blinds. Cut them to the length needed using a sharp utility knife.
The slats have a slight curve that prevents them from lying flat against the cabinet. To flatten them, carefully warm the plastic with a clothes iron set to low heat, using a protective sheet between the iron and the vinyl.
Test on a scrap first and avoid overheating the material. Vinyl can warp or release irritating fumes when heated excessively.
Once the slats are flat and cool, apply contact cement to the back of each slat and the corresponding surface inside the cabinet. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's directions, then press the pieces firmly into place.
The smooth vinyl surface reduces friction, allowing the drawers to slide more easily. And if a glide eventually wears out, you can replace it with another slat from the same set of blinds.
It's an inexpensive way to give old materials a second life while improving the operation of your drawers.
How to Choose Drawer Slides: Types, Sizes & Mounting Styles
From side-mount and undermount slides to full-extension and soft-close options, choosing the right drawer hardware makes a big difference. Learn about the different types of drawer slides, how to select the proper size, and which mounting style works best for your next cabinet or furniture project.
LEARN HOW TO CHOOSE DRAWER SLIDES → Find the Right Drawer Slides for Your Project
