Open cupboards offer a modern twist to traditional kitchen storage, blending functionality with an aesthetic appeal that showcases your beautiful dinnerware and decorative items. However, the trend of open shelving isn’t without its challenges; dust accumulation, visual clutter, and the need for constant tidiness can make homeowners ponder how to cover cupboard without doors. Whether it’s

to maintain a cleaner look, minimize the need for frequent dusting, or simply update the kitchen’s style, there are several creative solutions for covering cupboards without doors. From fabric curtains and bead curtains to vinyl decals, contact paper, woven panels, and decorative screens, this guide explores various methods to enhance your kitchen’s beauty and ensure practicality. Each solution offers a unique blend of style and function, allowing you to customize your space while addressing the practical aspects of kitchen storage.
Fabric Curtains
Fabric curtains offer an easy and stylish way to cover cupboards without doors. They blend seamlessly with your kitchen’s existing decor and hide clutter, adding a soft touch to the kitchen’s overall look.
A. Choosing Fabric: Selecting Fabric That Complements Your Kitchen Decor and Style
When considering how to cover cupboard without doors using fabric curtains, the choice of fabric plays a crucial role. Opt for materials that harmonize with your kitchen’s theme and color palette. Lightweight fabrics, such as cotton or linen, can add a breezy, casual feel, while heavier materials, like velvet or brocade, can lend a touch of elegance. Patterned fabrics can introduce visual interest or a pop of color, but be sure to choose a design that doesn’t overwhelm the space. Additionally, consider the fabric’s maintenance—washable materials are ideal for easy care.

B. Installing Rods or Tension Rods: Installing Rods Inside the Cupboard Frame for Hanging Curtains
You’ll first need to install a rod within the cupboard frame to hang fabric curtains. Tension rods offer a no-drill option, ideal for renters or those looking to minimize damage to cabinetry. Measure the interior width of your cupboard to ensure a snug fit for the tension rod. Alternatively, for a more permanent solution, you can install standard curtain rods with brackets screwed into the inside edges of the cupboard frame.
C. Hanging Fabric Curtains: Hanging Fabric Curtains to Cover the Cupboard Opening, Allowing Easy Access to Contents
Once your rod is in place, you can hang the fabric curtains. Consider using clip rings for an easy way to hang and slide curtains aside for access to cupboard contents. You might sew a rod pocket into the fabric for a tailored look, ensuring a snug fit around the rod. Fabric curtains can be easily drawn to one side or tied back to access items inside the cupboard, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Remember, the goal is to balance easy access and stylish coverage that complements your kitchen’s design.
How to Cover Cupboard without Doors: Bead Curtains
Bead curtains present a whimsical and decorative alternative for covering cupboards without doors. They offer both aesthetic appeal and practicality. These curtains can serve as a playful yet functional solution, adding texture and movement to your kitchen space.

A. Selecting Bead Curtains: Choosing Bead Curtains Made of Wood, Plastic, or Metal for Aesthetic Appeal
When considering how to cover cupboard without doors using bead curtains, the material is a significant factor. Wooden beads can add a natural, rustic charm to your kitchen, complementing bohemian or country-style themes. Plastic beads offer a wide range of colors and shapes, allowing for customization that can match any decor. On the other hand, metal beads can introduce a sleek, modern touch or a vintage flair, depending on the design. The choice of material affects the curtain’s look, sound, and movement, making it important to select one that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and lifestyle.
B. Mounting Bead Curtains: Installing Hooks or Tracks Inside the Cupboard Frame for Mounting Bead Curtains
You’ll need to secure hooks or tracks inside the cupboard frame from which the curtains will hang to mount bead curtains. This involves measuring the width of the cupboard opening and choosing an appropriate mounting solution. Adhesive hooks might suffice for lighter curtains, representing an easy, damage-free option. Heavier bead curtains may require more robust support, such as screw-in hooks or ceiling-mounted tracks, to ensure stability and ease of use. It’s crucial to ensure that the chosen mounting method can support the weight of the bead curtain without risking damage to the cupboard or the curtain itself.
C. Installing Bead Curtains: Hanging Bead Curtains to Create a Decorative and Functional Covering for Cupboards
You can hang the bead curtain once hooks or tracks are in place. This step is typically straightforward—usually as simple as draping the curtain over the hooks or attaching it to the track system. Bead curtains can be selected or adjusted to fit the exact measurements of your cupboard, ensuring a seamless fit that effectively covers the contents while still allowing easy access. These curtains can gently sway with movement, adding a dynamic element to your kitchen’s ambiance. Additionally, the sound of beads gently clinking together can add a soothing auditory component to the environment, enhancing the sensory experience of your space.

How to Cover Cupboard without Doors: Vinyl Decals
Vinyl decals offer a modern, sleek solution for covering cupboards without doors, allowing for many customization options. These self-adhesive designs can transform a mundane cupboard into a piece of art, adding personality and style to your kitchen space without permanent changes.
A. Choosing Decal Designs: Selecting Vinyl Decals in Patterns, Designs, or Solid Colors to Suit Your Preference
The selection of vinyl decal designs is nearly limitless, ranging from intricate patterns and bold designs to simple, solid colors. When choosing decals for your cupboard, consider your kitchen’s overall theme and color scheme. Solid colors or subtle patterns can complement the space without overwhelming it for a minimalist look. Alternatively, vibrant designs or even photorealistic decals can create a focal point and inject a burst of personality. The key is to align the decal choice with your personal taste and the ambiance you wish to achieve in your kitchen.
B. Applying Decals: Applying Vinyl Decals Directly onto the Cupboard Surface to Create a Decorative Covering
Applying vinyl decals is a straightforward process that requires no specialized tools or skills. First, ensure that the cupboard surface is clean, dry, and free of dust or grease. This will ensure optimal adhesion and a smooth finish. Carefully peel the decal from its backing and position it on the cupboard surface. Use a squeegee or a soft cloth to smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles, working from the center outward. For larger decals, having an extra set of hands may help with positioning and application. The beauty of vinyl decals lies in their versatility—should you decide to alter the design, they can be easily removed without damaging the cupboard surface.
C. Customizing Decals: Customizing Vinyl Decals to Personalize Cupboard Coverings with Names, Quotes, or Images
Custom vinyl decals offer the perfect opportunity for those looking to add a personal touch to their kitchen. Many suppliers provide the option to customize decals with names, quotes, or images, turning cupboard coverings into personalized statements. Whether it’s a favorite recipe, a memorable quote, or a family photo, these customizations can add a unique and personal flair to your kitchen. When customizing decals, consider the text or image size to ensure it is legible and proportionate to the cupboard space. This approach allows for a truly bespoke kitchen design that reflects your personality and style.
Contact Paper

Contact paper serves as a versatile and cost-effective option for revitalizing cupboards without doors. It provides an easy way to add color, texture, or patterns, significantly transforming the look of your kitchen with minimal effort and expense.
A. Selecting Contact Paper: Choosing Contact Paper in Patterns, Textures, or Colors That Complement Your Kitchen Decor
Consider the existing decor and color scheme when selecting contact paper for your kitchen cupboards. With an extensive range of options available, from subtle textures and solid colors to bold patterns, it’s easy to find something that enhances the aesthetic of your space. Choose geometric patterns or solid, glossy finishes for a sleek, modern kitchen. A rustic or vintage kitchen might benefit from contact paper that mimics natural wood or stone. It’s not just about the looks; texture can also play a significant role in the overall feel of the kitchen, adding a tactile dimension to the design.
B. Applying Contact Paper: Applying Contact Paper Directly onto Cupboard Surfaces to Create a Smooth and Protective Covering
Applying contact paper is a relatively straightforward DIY project that can yield significant visual impact. Clean the cupboard surface thoroughly to remove dust, grease, and debris. Measure the area carefully, and cut the contact paper slightly larger than needed to allow room for error. Peel off a small section of the backing and align the contact paper with the edge of the cupboard. Gradually peel and stick, smoothing out bubbles and wrinkles with a squeegee or a credit card. Use a hairdryer to softly heat the contact paper for corners and edges, making it more pliable for a snug fit.
C. Sealing Edges: Sealing Edges of Contact Paper with Adhesive or Sealant to Ensure Longevity and Durability
To ensure the contact paper remains intact and looks great over time, it’s important to properly seal the edges. This can be done using a clear adhesive or a silicone sealant. Carefully apply the adhesive along the edges where the contact paper meets the cupboard surface. This will prevent peeling and curling, especially in areas susceptible to moisture or frequent handling. Use a small paintbrush or a syringe to apply the adhesive without overflowing onto the contact paper’s
surface for a more precise application. Allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This extra step enhances the durability of your newly covered cupboards, ensuring they withstand daily use and cleaning.

Woven Panels
Woven panels provide an eco-friendly and textured alternative for updating the appearance of cupboards without doors. Crafted from natural materials like bamboo, rattan, or even seagrass, they add a warm, organic element to kitchen spaces. This section explores woven panels’ selection, mounting, and styling to achieve a distinct look for your cupboard coverings.
A. Choosing Woven Panels: Selecting Woven Panels Made of Natural Materials Such as Bamboo or Rattan
When choosing woven panels, consider the material’s durability, appearance, and compatibility with your kitchen’s theme. Bamboo offers a sturdy, lightweight option with a clean, minimalistic appeal, while rattan provides a more textured, intricate look. The natural tones of these materials blend seamlessly with various decor styles, from modern to rustic. It’s important to select high-quality, sustainably sourced panels to ensure durability and minimize environmental impact. Additionally, consider the weave pattern — tighter weaves offer more privacy and a subtler aesthetic, whereas looser weaves create interesting visual dynamics with the play of light and shadow.

B. Mounting Panels: Attaching Woven Panels to Cupboard Frames Using Nails, Screws, or Adhesive
Mounting woven panels to cupboard frames can be achieved through various methods, depending on the desired permanency and the nature of the panel and cupboard material. Strong double-sided tape or special adhesives designed for the chosen material can be effective for a non-permanent, damage-free option. This method is ideal for renters or those who frequently update their decor. For a more permanent solution, using small nails or screws can securely affix the panels to wooden frames. It’s crucial to measure accurately and choose the appropriate size of nails or screws to avoid damaging the panels. Pre-drilling small holes can prevent the splitting or cracking of the woven material.
C. Styling Options: Experimenting with Different Arrangements and Patterns of Woven Panels for Unique Cupboard Coverings
Woven panels offer the flexibility to experiment with various styling options to create unique and personalized cupboard coverings. Arranging panels in a herringbone or chevron pattern can add dynamism and movement to the space, while a simple, vertical, or horizontal alignment provides a calm, orderly look. Mixing different types of woven materials in one space can add depth and contrast,
elevating the overall design. Consider playing with the natural color variations of the materials to create subtle or bold patterns. Additionally, incorporating lighting behind or around the panels can enhance the textures and shadows, creating a warm and inviting ambiance in the kitchen.
Decorative Screens
Decorative screens offer an innovative and artistic approach to cupboard refurbishment and kitchen decor. With options ranging from polished wood to ornate metal and versatile fabric, these screens serve as practical solutions for storage and privacy and as stunning design elements that can dramatically transform the space. This section will guide you through selecting materials, installation techniques, and personalized accents to fully leverage the aesthetic potential of decorative screens.
A. Selecting Screens: Choosing Decorative Screens in Various Materials, Such as Wood, Metal, or Fabric
When selecting decorative screens, consider the material’s impact on your kitchen’s overall mood and functionality. Wood screens add warmth and natural beauty, with grains and colors that vary from subtle to bold. Whether intricately laser-cut or fashioned with traditional patterns, metal screens introduce a sleek, contemporary edge or classic elegance. Fabric screens, on the other hand, offer versatility and softness, with endless pattern and color options to match any decor theme. The choice of material should align not just with your aesthetic preference but also with practical considerations such as durability, maintenance, and ease of modification.

B. Installing Screens: Mounting Decorative Screens onto Cupboard Frames Using Hinges or Hooks
Installing decorative screens can be straightforward, with hinges and hooks being popular for their simplicity and flexibility. Hinges allow the screens to function as doors, offering easy access with a stylish touch. This method also enables screens to be changed or updated with minimal effort, accommodating evolving tastes or seasonal decorations. Hooks, offering a less permanent option, can hang lightweight screens, allowing for simple and quick changes. Regardless of the method, ensure that the chosen hardware is suitable for the screen’s weight and material and that it complements the overall design.
C. Adding Accents: Enhancing Decorative Screens with Additional Elements Such as Paint, Stencils, or Embellishments
Consider adding paint, stencils, or embellishments to personalize your decorative screens further. Painting wooden or metal screens can tie them into your kitchen’s color scheme or make a bold contrasting statement. Stencils offer a way to introduce patterns and motifs without requiring wallpaper or extensive artwork. Embellishments, such as beads, metalwork, or even repurposed jewelry, can add unique flair and texture, creating a truly customized look. When adding accents, it’s essential to balance the screen’s inherent beauty and the added decorations to achieve a cohesive and appealing result.
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve explored a variety of creative solutions on how to cover cupboard without doors, showcasing options ranging from fabric curtains and adhesive vinyl to woven panels and decorative screens. Each method offers its unique blend of aesthetic appeal and practicality, emphasizing the versatility and personalization options available for transforming your kitchen storage spaces. Whether you’re drawn to the softness of fabric, the sleekness of vinyl, the natural touch of bamboo or rattan, or the artistic flair of decorative screens, there’s a wealth of possibilities to customize your cupboards to your taste and requirements. We encourage you to experiment with these techniques, blending and adapting them to achieve your desired look and functionality. The beauty of these solutions lies in their adaptability, allowing you to refresh your space as often as you wish. Explore, create, and enjoy the process of making your kitchen uniquely yours.
About
Jennifer Branett is a distinguished figure in the world of indoor design, with a decade of expertise creating innovative and sustainable indoor solutions. His professional focus lies in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, fostering designs that are both practical and environmentally conscious. As the author of indoor, Jennifer delves into the art and science of furniture-making, inspiring artisans and industry professionals alike.
Education
RMIT University
(Melbourne, Australia) Associate Degree in Design (Jennifer Branett)
Focus on sustainable design, industry-driven projects, and practical craftsmanship.
Gained hands-on experience with traditional and digital manufacturing tools, such as CAD and CNC software.
Nottingham Trent University
(United Kingdom) Bachelor’s in Furniture and Product Design (Honors)
Specialized in product design with a focus on blending creativity with production techniques.
Participated in industry projects, working with companies like John Lewis and Vitsoe to gain real-world insights.
Publications and Impact
In indoor, Jennifer Branett his insights on indoor design processes, materials, and strategies for efficient production. His writing bridges the gap between artisan knowledge and modern industry needs, making it a must-read for both budding designers and seasoned professionals.


