A red refrigerator definitely makes a statement in a kitchen – whether it’s a bright cherry red refrigerator-freezer or a dark red compact fridge for wine… or something else in between.
However, because these custom designs are well, custom, they tend to be more expensive. Lots more expensive.
No, you don’t need to find an old vintage fridge or even get a new one. Use an old gross one. It won’t look gross when you’re done with it! (Talk about being smart with money.)
So why not “cut out the middleman” and create your own red fridge?
You probably know that you can, seeing that you’re already on this site. That said, let me give you a few tips while we’re here.
Step 1: Get Ideas for Red Refrigerators
If you’re not exactly sure what you want your fridge to look like (and maybe if you are), do a search in Google Images for “red refrigerators”. You’ll find a ton of cool images that can give you ideas of what your want your custom appliance to look like. There are more versions than you probably ever imagined.
Step 2: Choose a Color for Your Fridge
Did you know that you can tint your chalkboard paint any shade you want? That’s right. Simply buy tint-able chalkboard paint at your local home improvement store and have them tint it any color you like. (Don’t want a chalkboard fridge? Skip to Step 4).
Tip: Keep in mind that darker surfaces make it easier to read white chalk. Just saying.
On the flip side, you can make your own chalkboard paint. I’m not kidding. It’s easier than you may think. Start by getting a can of flat latex paint (in the color you want). Then watch this video on how to turn it into chalkboard paint.
Step 3: Prepare Your Fridge for Paint
Although painting a refrigerator can be a simple process, there a few preparation techniques that will make your finished project look more like a custom fridge than a… white appliance you painted over the weekend (ie lightly sanding the surface with a fine grit sandpaper prior to starting). Get project instructions here.
Note: Who says your refrigerator has to be a chalkboard? Use the same painting strategies laid out in Step 3 and swap out semi-gloss interior paint for your chalkboard paint.
You’ll get a glossier finish, which can fit in well if you are going for the art deco look in your kitchen. On the other hand, if you have a shiny red floor that you need to match… =)
The lovely piece of art in the photo on the right was done with a roller (I’m a fan of foam rollers for this job, FYI).
