Add a Designer Look to Your Cabinets That You Can DIY

Using wire mesh as a design element is a popular trend that adds a refined look to your kitchen, library, den, entertainment center, bathroom, or bedroom. You can add this stylish detail to replace a wood cabinet facing or decorative glass panel.

Wire mesh, also referred to as a decorative wire grille, is durable and attractive. Select the wire mesh design and finish for a glamorous contemporary or classic vintage style in any space. The most frequently used materials for wire mesh are brass, stainless steel, bronze, and nickel. There are various finish options within those materials too, like antique, satin, and bright, to complement your home’s design style.

Brass is versatile and adds an upscale look to cabinets and furniture. With its shiny, golden hue, it’s ideal for darker woods and paint colors but it looks stylish against white and lighter wood too, it’s hard to go wrong with brass. Keep in mind that, when exposed to water, the patina of brass can change to green or blue.

Stainless steel has a modern look, is strong, and resists heat damage and discoloration from rust or corrosion. These traits make it a practical choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor use – high touch areas are no problem. Add stainless steel wire mesh to bathroom vanities, kitchen cabinets, outdoor kitchens, and media consoles.

Bronze is a classic metal used on cupolas, roofing accents, and kitchen vent hoods. The list is emblematic of its versatility. Bronze ages with a patina that some like and appreciate, and others easily polish away. A bronze finish elevates décor and heightens your homes' design aesthetic. Exceedingly popular, bronze wire mesh is ideal in kitchens and bathrooms due to its resistance to rust.

Nickel is silver in color, like its namesake. In home décor, it can have a chrome or antique finish that is perfect anywhere you’d like to warm up a room with a calming silvery hue. Use wire mesh made from nickel in your office, laundry room, or bedroom to boost the look of storage areas and cupboards.

SHOP FOR WIRE MESH & DECORATIVE WIRE GRILLES

Ready to add decorative wire grilles to your cabinets? Here are 5 steps to complete the installation.

5 Steps to Install Wire Mesh

Step 1: Measure the Cabinet Facing

The first step is to measure the dimensions of your cabinet facing. This will help you determine the size of the wire mesh you need. Measure the height and width of the cabinet facing, and then add an additional inch to each dimension to ensure a good fit.

Step 2: Cut the Wire Mesh

Using a wire cutter, cut the wire mesh to the appropriate size. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the sharp edges of the wire mesh. Use a ruler or straight edge to ensure clean, straight cuts.

Step 3: Attach the Wire Mesh to the Cabinet Facing

Before attaching the wire mesh to the cabinet facing, remove any hardware or knobs that might get in the way. Place the wire mesh over the cabinet facing and secure it in place with small nails or staples. Be sure to place the nails or staples in inconspicuous areas so they don't detract from the look of the wire mesh.

Step 4: Finish the Edges

To finish the edges of the wire mesh, use a pair of pliers to bend the edges of the wire mesh around the back of the cabinet facing. This will create a clean, finished look and help to secure the wire mesh in place.

Step 5: Reattach the Hardware

Once the wire mesh is securely in place, reattach any hardware or knobs that you removed in step 3. This will give your cabinets a polished, finished look.

Wire mesh is a versatile and stylish material that can be used to add a touch of charm and character to your cabinets. By following these simple steps, you can easily install wire mesh facings and enjoy the timeless beauty of this classic material.