HGTV's Leanne Ford Shares An Inexpensive Trick To Refresh Cabinets Without Paint

If you've seen some of Leanne Ford's jaw-dropping transformations on HGTV shows "Restored by the Fords" and "Home Again With the Fords," you may have been inspired to incorporate the interior designer's cabinet design choices into your own home. However, if you don't have the budget for it, this can seem impossible. Thankfully, Ford shared an inexpensive trick you can use to refresh cabinets without paint. Just wrap rope or suede around the handles. This will allow you to add a touch of Ford's interior design style to your living space for a low cost.

If you've been looking for a way to bring texture into your cabinets without having to repaint them, this might be the perfect design tip for you. Wrapping suede or rope around cabinet handles is also a convenient renter-friendly DIY option for those who cannot make permanent changes but still want to switch up their living space. Ford shared her own thoughts on the hack during an interview with Domino. According to the interior designer, you do not have to use any special technique to apply the material. "In all honesty, the more you think about it, the worse it will turn out, so just go for it!," Ford said. Since this trick is inexpensive and doesn't require Leanne Ford-level professional design skills, why not give it a try?

If you aren't a fan of your cabinet handles but cannot change them out, consider transforming them with either suede or rope using Ford's tip. Those interested in using rope should make sure to purchase cotton braided rope. This will be a lot softer to the touch than nylon rope. Consider purchasing TECEUM Cotton Rope to use for this trick. It is thin enough to wrap right around your cabinet handles and comes in a variety of different colors. You can pick the shade that best suits your existing bathroom or kitchen color combination.

Those who prefer suede may want to check out XHT Store Colored Faux Suede. You could cut this material into thick strips to easily wrap around your cabinet handles. Alternatively, the PAMIR TONG Suede Leather Cords provide the look of thinner suede string. You can also put your own twist on this hack by using jute cord instead. This is the perfect choice for anyone looking to create a rusting kitchen that's warm and inviting.

If you want to take things to the next level, consider combining both rope and suede around your cabinet handles. This is something Ford does herself as well. "It just adds a little extra visual interest and is soft to the touch," she said of the design tip during an interview with Real Simple. Since cabinet handles can get messy, you might be wondering what to do when the material becomes dirty. Just remove and wash as needed, then wrap it right back around your cabinet handles.