Photo is Miele panel, not DIY

I recently purchased a dishwasher that wasn’t exactly my taste. I couldn’t afford the one that was. In researching this, I learned that panel kits cost about $400. But that’s not all. They will only work with high end models. So you can’t buy an inexpensive dishwasher and expect to change the look.

Or can you?

I found this DIY tip in “HGTV’s Before and After Decorating” book but could not find an online link to the article. I hope I won’t get sued for copyright for posting it here. I made a few changes.

Here’s the HGTV’s how-to:

Tools:

Tape measure
Hammer
Miter saw
Saw
Scissors

Materials:

1/2″ Plywood
1″ Lathing strips
1.5″ Molding that matches cabinets
Wood glue
Sandpaper
Tack cloth
Finishing Nails
Primer
Paint
Velcro

1. Measure length and width of dishwasher front. Cut plywood to these measurements

2. Measure length and depth of dishwasher sides, top and bottom. Note: This measurement is usually about 1″ deep by the same length (sides) or width (top and bottom) as the front. Cut lathing strips to match each measurement.

3. Glue lathing strips to each side of plywood front piece. Secure with finishing nails on sides.

4. Using measurements from Step 1, miter four pieces of molding to fit panel. Glue them to panel and let dry.

5. Sand panel. Remove dust particles with tack cloth. Prime and paint to match cabinets.

6. Attach Velcro to the back of panel and front of dishwasher so the tape aligns. Press the panel to front. If you really don’t care about destroying your dishwasher, glue for stronger results.