How to Decorate Folding Closet Doors

Folding closet doors are four-paneled doors that fold opposite ways to open and reveal the closet. Because of this folding and the width of each panel, they are a common decorating dilemma; however, leaving the doors plain isn't necessary. No matter what the overall décor of the room is, it's possible to decorate the folding closet doors to add to the theme. No more boring closet doors to detract from an otherwise perfectly decorated room.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Think small. Folding closet doors are thin, so whatever goes on them has to be thin, too. Otherwise, every time the door opens, the decoration will stretch or scrunch. Choose something that has a width smaller than the individual closet door's width.

2. Hang it over. For an interesting effect, suspend decorations by a ribbon hung over the top of the closet door. This works best for items hung close to the top of the doors; otherwise, there's a lot of swinging involved. Mix and match ribbon colors, combining several ribbons to hang one item for an interesting effect.

3. Go light. Heavy items are more likely to fall off with the movement of the closet doors. Because opening the closet is necessary to get items from within, it's best to choose something that won't be easy to knock off with repeated movement.

4. Paint it. If painting is an option, consider painting the folding doors to add interest. Paint the inside of the folding door to match the walls. For some variety, add a splash of color by painting the closet doors a different color. Paint polka dots, stripes or shapes onto the doors for an eccentric look.

5. Choose paper. Small posters or pictures centered on the folding closet doors are a nonpermanent decorating choice. It's easy to do with tape or sticky putty and removes easily, leaving no permanent damage. This is important if the room is a rental, and the rental contract specifies no nail holes.