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Give Your Dishwasher A Fresh Look With This Stunning Copper Sheet Transformation

Moving into a furnished place can be beneficial since you don't have to buy new appliances. However, once you start decorating, your appliances might not fit your chosen interior style, so you'll make some changes. For example, if you decorate your kitchen with an industrial or Scandinavian design, you'll likely include copper finishes. Stainless steel appliances are a common metal most homeowners have, but purchasing a copper dishwasher is pricey. Instead, you can DIY your stainless dishwasher with copper materials. TikTok user @lonefoxhome, also known as Drew, DIYed his stainless steel dishwasher with copper sheets to match the interior of his kitchen, and the results were immaculate. The dishwasher looked like one you'd buy from your home improvement store but at a more affordable price.

Copper dishwashers are more expensive than stainless steel styles because their material has a higher manufacturing demand. Moreover, they vary in price due to the brands they're made by, their model type, and their size. Although you can find more affordable options from second-hand outlets, some home improvement stores will have discounts on appliances, like Lowe's or Home Depot. But if you're a DIYer, you can follow Drew's dishwasher transformation project. Here's how.

Materials and tips before you get started

One thing to remember during this DIY dishwasher transformation is to be patient. Take your time to prevent making mistakes you might be unable to fix. Drew claims it took him about four hours to complete the project; you can finish it in one day. You'll need Restorers Rustic Aged Copper Sheet, a boxcutter, a measuring tape, a drill, a J-B Weld quickset, a towel, a plastic putty scraper, scissors, a wooden spoon or flat edge smoother, epoxy, paper towels, clamps, pliers, and new door handle.

Drew bought his copper sheet from Van Dyke's Restorers for $369.99 but replied to a comment stating that he had a large piece of the copper sheet left over, so he could've bought a smaller size that was cheaper. The price will depend on the size of your dishwasher; the lowest price Van Dyke offers is $92.49 for a door size of 18 x 24 inches. Measuring your dishwasher door before purchasing the copper sheet is vital to saving money. However, if you buy a slightly larger size, cut it to the size of the door.

On the other hand, when you cut the copper, be careful where you accidentally brush your hand or arm because the material has sharp edges and corners. You don't want to injure yourself.

Steps to refresh your dishwasher door

Start by removing the dishwasher door with the drill. The door will encase the rest of the dishwasher, so it should be easy to remove. After removing the door, unscrew the handle from the back and set it aside. Then, lay your dishwasher door on a table and measure the copper sheet to its size. Ensure the sheet is slightly larger than the door to wrap along the sides. Once you have the dimensions, set it aside, and apply the J-B Weld quickset to the door's surface, spreading it evenly with the putty scraper. The setting takes six minutes, so you'll want to move quickly when lining up the copper sheet. After placing the copper sheet on top of the door, use the towel to smooth it out.

Next, slightly bend the sides of the sheet to create an indent along the edges and corners. Cut the corners so you can bend the copper sheet entirely along the border as if you were wrapping a present. Press it down over the side using the wooden spoon to get an even, smooth surface. Glue the sheet to the sides with epoxy and clamp down the sides to secure the sheet. Place a few pieces of paper towels under the clamps to prevent the clamps from indenting the sheet. Using the pliers, pinch the corners to secure them in place. Finally, attach your choice of the door handle and re-install the door.

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