DIY Drawer Liner with Fabric

Sewing Intermediate ⏱️ 1-2 hours 📅 April 24, 2026
DIY Drawer Liner with Fabric

Project Overview

Freshen up your dresser drawers with fabric liners! This easy DIY project is budget-friendly, keeps clothes fresh, and protects drawer surfaces.

I finished this dresser a few days ago and am excited about it!

However, once I was done painting and finishing it, I threw up my mouth a little every time I opened the drawers.

It had this horrible drawer liner stuff stuck to the bottom, so I knew I needed to clean and cover that up!

I found some beautiful yellow fabric in my stash that coordinated perfectly, so I'm sharing how I covered these drawers with fabric and Mod Podge.

This is a straightforward project and can be done by anyone.

I wasn't super meticulous with the measurements because, well, let's be honest, I have two kids, and clothes will be piled in these drawers soon enough.

Measure the dimensions of your drawers, including four sides and the bottom.

Cut the fabric to those measurements, allowing for some extra length so the pieces overlap slightly.

Also, make sure to remove the drawer handles. We'll put them back on at the end.

Start with the sides of the drawer.

Brush on a layer of Mod Podge, then align the fabric piece using the top straight edge.

Press the fabric into the adhesive until it stays in place on its own.

Using my fingers, I pressed along the top of the fabric and worked down, pushing out any air bubbles and wrinkles as I went.

If the strip doesn't line up right, pull the fabric away from the drawer and start over, applying it to the drawer side.

Work around all 4 sides, and do the bottom of the drawer last.

After all of the fabric has been laid in place, apply another layer of Mod Podge on top of the fabric.

Let the Mod Podge dry completely.

Once dry, check the stability of the fabric sides. If the fabric doesn't feel secure, apply another coat of Mod Podge.

Use a screwdriver or an awl to punch a hole in the fabric where the drawer pulls are located, and then reinstall them.

Adding this fabric liner was the perfect way to add a pop of color to this refinished dresser. I love how it looks!

The best part is that the gross smell is gone! I can finally use the dresser I've spent so much time on.

Materials Needed

  • Fabric (cotton, linen, or specialty fabric)
  • Thread (matching or contrasting colors)
  • Sewing needles or sewing machine
  • Fabric scissors
  • Pins and pincushion
  • Measuring tape
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Pattern or template

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Prepare Your Materials

Gather all the required materials and tools. Make sure you have everything listed in the materials section before starting.

2

Set Up Your Workspace

Find a clean, well-lit area to work. Cover your surface with newspaper or a craft mat to protect it.

3

Follow the Main Steps

Carefully follow the instructions step by step. Take your time and don't rush through any part of the process.

4

Add Personal Touches

Once you've completed the basic project, feel free to add your own creative touches and personalization.

5

Final Assembly

Put all the pieces together according to the instructions. Double-check that everything is secure and properly attached.

Pro Tips

💡 Tip: Take your time and enjoy the creative process

💡 Tip: Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors or materials

💡 Tip: If you make a mistake, don't worry - it's all part of learning

💡 Tip: Share your finished project with friends and family

💡 Tip: Take photos of your progress to document your crafting journey