🖼️
The project:
Replacing every interior door would have cost thousands, so I decided to give my builder-grade doors a custom makeover instead. Using timber moulding, careful measuring and a fresh coat of paint, I transformed plain flush doors into timeless panelled feature doors that look custom made. Finishing them with new brushed brass hardware completely elevated the look, giving my home a much more premium feel for a fraction of the cost. It's proof that you don't always need a major renovation to make a big impact, sometimes the smallest DIY projects create the biggest transformation!
- Materials:
- Tools:
- Ryobi AirStrike Brad Nailer (or No More Nails if you don't have a brad nailer)
- Ryobi Drill Driver
- Ryobi Multi Tool or Chisel (for latch adjustments if required)
- Mitre Box & Fine-Tooth Saw (or Mitre Saw)
- Laser Level or Spirit Level
- Tape Measure
- Combination Square
- Pencil
- Caulking Gun
- Sanding Block or Orbital Sander
- Paint Roller (mini foam roller)
- Quality Angled Paint Brush
- Step 1:
Step 1: Plan, measure and prepare
Start by removing the existing door hardware and thoroughly cleaning each door with sugar soap or a degreaser to remove any dirt, oils and residue. Lightly sand the existing painted surface to create a key for the new paint and adhesive. Measure and mark out your panel design using a tape measure, pencil and laser level (or spirit level) to ensure all mouldings are perfectly symmetrical. Carefully cut each piece of moulding to size using a mitre box and fine-tooth saw, checking every mitre before installation for tight joins.
- Step 2:
Step 2: Install the mouldings
Working one panel at a time, secure each piece of moulding to the door using a Ryobi Brad Nailer, regularly checking alignment with a laser level or spirit level as you go. If you don't have a nailer, the mouldings can also be installed using a quality construction adhesive such as No More Nails. Take your time to ensure the spacing between each panel remains consistent and all mitred corners fit neatly together before moving on to the next section.
- Step 3:
Step 3: Fill, seal and sand for a seamless finish
Once all mouldings are installed, fill every nail hole and mitred joint using Timbermate Wood Filler. Apply Selleys No More Gaps along each side of the mouldings to eliminate visible joins and create the appearance of a single, custom-built door. Allow all fillers to dry completely before sanding the entire door. Begin with 80-grit sandpaper to level any imperfections, then finish with 240-grit sandpaper to create a perfectly smooth surface ready for painting. Wipe away all sanding dust before painting.
- Step 4:
Step 4: Prime and paint
Apply a coat of primer where required, particularly over filled areas or if changing paint systems. Once dry, paint the entire door, including the mouldings, using Dulux Aquanamel Semi Gloss in Whisper White. Use a quality brush to cut in around the mouldings and a mini foam roller on the flat surfaces to achieve a smooth, factory-like finish. Apply multiple light coats, allowing adequate drying time between coats for maximum durability and an even finish.
- Step 5:
Step 5: Install the finishing touches
Once the paint has fully cured, reinstall the doors and fit new brushed brass door hardware using a drill and chisel where required to suit the new latch or strike plate. Make any final adjustments to ensure the doors open and close smoothly. The new hardware completes the transformation, turning plain builder-grade flush doors into timeless custom panelled feature doors that dramatically elevate the look of the home.
