Transforming a worn-out dresser into a brand new masterpiece is a feat that’s achievable by anyone, including DIY beginners! One such story is the rescue of this vintage dresser on my back porch, which was ravaged by the elements but ultimately received a stunning makeover. This tutorial will guide you through the step-by-step process of revamping this remarkable piece using MacKenzie Childs napkins and Java Gel Stain.
Interestingly, this dresser was part of another DIY project we completed earlier – creating a functional DRY SINK SHELF.
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Where To Buy An Old Dresser
When searching for affordable furniture, I always start by scouring local thrift shops, consignment stores, and estate sales. The condition of the piece often directly correlates with the price – the worse it is, the more likely you’ll score a bargain! Estate sales and auctions are particularly great sources for finding unique pieces at rock-bottom prices. On the other hand, I’d advise against relying on online marketplaces like Craigslist, as meeting strangers in person can be risky.
Instead, focus on in-person shopping experiences that allow you to inspect items before making a purchase.
DIY Dresser Makeover Tutorial
To overhaul an outdated dresser, follow these steps and breathe new life into your furniture without breaking the bank. I’ve documented every stage of the transformation with plenty of visuals to guide you through the process.
supplies for a dresser makeover
When it comes to refinishing furniture, having the right tools and materials can make all the difference. For this particular project, I relied on a combination of traditional and modern methods. The TSP cleaner proved effective in preparing the surface for staining, while an old t-shirt came in handy as a makeshift rag. To smooth out any rough edges, I used sandpaper and a screwdriver.
The General Finishes java gel stain added a rich, warm tone to the piece, which I then paired with Sherwin Williams’ Gauntlet Gray paint for a unique color combination. An orbital sander helped to create a smooth finish, and MacKenzie Childs courtly check napkins provided a touch of elegance as decorative accents. For more intricate cuts, I reached for scissors, while Mod Podge offered a reliable adhesive solution.
A sponge roller and paintbrush allowed me to apply the stain and paint with precision, and finally, gold paste wax added a subtle shine to the finished piece.
step by step instructions
To breathe new life into an outdated dresser, follow this step-by-step guide to transform it into a stunning piece of furniture.
Begin by removing the top veneer using a hand or orbital sander and sanding down the surface to create a smooth foundation. Thoroughly clean the piece with an old t-shirt and TSP cleaner for optimal results.
Next, decoupage your preferred napkins – I chose MacKenzie Childs’ courtly check pattern – onto the front of desired drawers using Mod Podge and a foam brush. Work in small sections, applying a thin coat of Mod Podge followed by a single layer of napkin, repeating until the drawer is fully covered. Finish with another thin coat of Mod Podge and allow it to dry completely.
To add depth and dimension, apply Java Gel Stain from General Finishes using a foam roller in small sections.
Follow up by gently rubbing the stained wood top with an old t-shirt to reveal the underlying finish.
Once the napkined drawers are dry, use sandpaper to lightly distress the edges if desired. Be sure to subtly sand over keyhole areas to reveal the opening.
Finally, paint the trim of the dresser with Sherwin Williams paint using a chip brush or similar paintbrush.
To add a touch of luxury, rub Gilder’s paste wax in gold across all hardware, napkined drawer fronts, and trim areas for a subtle ‘shimmery’ effect.
Dresser Makeover Ideas
Embark on a transformative journey with your old dresser by embracing creativity and experimentation. While my tutorial serves as one inspiring approach, feel free to push the boundaries by painting unique shapes and incorporating a diverse palette of colors and themes. For added inspiration, explore these innovative dresser makeover ideas that can be adapted to revitalize other bedroom furniture pieces, breathing new life into your sleeping sanctuary.
Add New Drawer Knobs
The transformative power of hardware upgrades is truly remarkable. A simple reimagining of existing components, such as repainting or replacing knobs with unique and quirky alternatives, can breathe new life into a space. Some individuals take it to the next level by crafting their own one-of-a-kind knobs from repurposed materials like vintage rope, adding an extra layer of personality and creativity to their design.
Paint With Stencils
Painting furniture with stencils can be a thrilling experience! One approach is to add floral designs to the drawer fronts or opt for trendy patterns like chevron on the top and sides. While working with stencils does require a bit of time and technique, mastering this skill can lead to breathtaking results. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to create stunning designs that elevate your furniture pieces.
Use bright-colored Paint
Embrace boldness by repainting the dresser in vibrant hues like emerald green or rich purple. Take inspiration from online sources and discover palettes that harmonize with your decor’s overall aesthetic. For instance, if you’ve opted for a nautical theme in your bedroom, consider painting the dresser a striking combination of navy blue and green, which will add a pop of personality to the space.
Wallpaper the drawers
While some individuals opt for traditional napkin coverage, others take it up a notch by using wallpaper on their drawer fronts. This unconventional approach can lead to truly eye-catching results, as the vast array of designs and patterns available in the market can add a touch of personality to one’s home decor. For instance, a watercolor-inspired wallpaper can evoke a whimsical, bohemian ambiance that sets the tone for a unique living space.
Paint Bold Stripes
Transform your dresser into a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture by using painter’s tape to create unique sections. Apply bold, multi-colored stripes that can flow from top to bottom or side to side, adding a pop of color to any room. The versatility of this design allows you to choose vibrant hues that match the playful vibe of a child’s bedroom, or opt for more muted tones that will complement a more subdued decor.
Make It Ombre
Consider adding a pop of color with an ombre dresser effect. Begin by applying a bold, vibrant shade at the bottom, gradually blending it into a lighter hue as you move upwards towards the top. This technique is not only visually striking but also provides a simple way to inject some personality into a space dominated by muted tones, such as grey and white.
Give the Dresser a New Purpose
When you’ve exhausted all other options, consider repurposing your dresser entirely. For instance, you can remove the drawers and transform it into a bookshelf or a unique display case. Alternatively, think outside the box and turn an old dresser like this one into a bench with built-in storage – a clever solution for an entryway, mudroom, or even a bedroom. The possibilities are endless when you give new life to an old piece of furniture!
This creative project not only breathes new purpose into a discarded item but also saves it from the landfill, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly option.
Final Thoughts
I’m thoroughly impressed by the transformation’s outcome. My curiosity is piqued – how do you feel about this makeover? The subtle yet striking courtly check design on the napkins, paired with the luxurious gold Gilder’s paste wax, lends an air of sophistication to this piece, elevating its overall appearance beyond its initial simplicity.
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More DIY Ideas
If you found our tutorial engaging and informative, we invite you to explore more DIY projects that spark your creativity. For instance, consider transforming your laundry room with a unique DIY idea. Alternatively, give new life to discarded Starbucks bottles by upcycling them into something useful. Or, tackle the challenge of storing pool essentials with a clever storage box DIY project.
With these innovative ideas, you’ll be well on your way to unleashing your inner DIY enthusiast and creating functional masterpieces.
DIY Dresser Makeover
Elevate your home’s aesthetic by upcycling an antique dresser into a stunning centerpiece, infused with the rustic charm of farmhouse style. Discover the step-by-step process to breathe new life into an old piece of furniture and create a unique conversation starter in your living space.
Materials
When it comes to refinishing an old dresser, having the right tools and materials can make all the difference. In this particular project, I relied on a combination of trusted favorites, including TSP cleaner for effectively removing dirt and grime, an old t-shirt for gentle sanding, and sandpaper for more aggressive smoothing. A screwdriver came in handy for scraping off any stubborn debris, while General Finishes’ java gel stain provided the perfect color transformation.
To add some extra protection, I applied Sherwin Williams’ Gauntlet Gray paint, carefully selected to complement the stained wood. For the finishing touches, an orbital sander helped to achieve a smooth surface, and Mod Podge was used to seal in any cracks or crevices. Finally, paintbrushes and sponge rollers allowed for even application of the gold paste wax, giving the dresser a warm, radiant glow.
Instructions
To give your dresser a unique makeover, start by removing any veneer tops (if applicable) and sanding down the surface with an orbital sander. Next, thoroughly clean the dresser using a t-shirt and TSP cleaner to ensure a smooth finish. For added visual interest, decoupage your favorite napkins onto the front of the drawers using mod podge, applying thin coats to prevent pooling. Once the napkin design is complete, apply gel stain in small sections with a foam roller brush.
To add some distressed charm, rub an old t-shirt over the stain to subtly reveal the underlying surface. You can also distress the drawers themselves for a more rustic look. Finally, paint the sides of the dresser and finish by lightly applying Gilder’s paste wax in gold to hardware, napkin-covered drawers, and trim areas, creating a subtle ‘shimmery’ effect.