One thing’s for sure, I definitely have a soft spot for the broken and damaged. When I was in the thrift store just looking around, I found 3 “tables” that decidedly jump in my car begging for a makeover. What’s funny is that this little guy is actually a Mid Century modern bench seat. Part 2 of my trio of makeovers is for today.
You can see Part 1 in this post last week (it’s a fun one!) and then Part 3 in this post. For today, I’m working on the little bench on top. Yes, it’s in rough shape, especially once you start taking a closer look.
DIY TIME
At first glance, you can see it has paint and stains, but also the top is starting to split from being so parched. However, there are also several joints where the dowel pins are broken making it unsafe. It comes apart easily and I’m better able to see what I need to do.
Also, I sand down the seat top to see what I’m up against there too. The wear is enough that I set it up with glue and figure it will be getting a paint job.
Then, the legs and skirt also get a sanding along with new dowel pins. After that I glue and assemble it too.
THE REVEAL
Finally, after stain and paint and a bit of patience, my Mid Century modern bench is now ready for many more years. I’d say it looks much better than the before, don’t you?
I have no doubt that it originally came from a lovely desk or dressing table set, which I’d love to see. However, for now it’s looking good even if I do say so myself. I will always have a sweet spot for Mid Century modern furniture. The lines are crisp and clean with a sleek appeal. In addition, you can see my past furniture makeovers of that era in these past posts HERE.
As with most of the makeovers that I would love to keep, this one is also available in my online shop.
Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130
In addition, do pin and share this mini makeover to inspire others to see past the paint, damage, and brokenness. There is always something waiting for revival!
UP NEXT
Up next, I’m sharing how to deal with buyer’s remorse…ahem. See the three new projects HERE.
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Also, similar bench makeovers like my Mid Century modern bench:
How sweet!! It looks so good next to your entryway that I would be hard pressed to want to part with it! ?
Thanks! My barn beam bench usually resides there or else I would. 😉 Have a great day!
Loving this sweet bench! Can you explain how you used glue in the top? Im having a similar issue in a dresser. It’s got a slight split on the top but the split doesn’t go all the way through. It’s a surface split. How did you repair yours?
Thank you, Rose. My splits were such that I could pry it apart an get my glue in (a syringe helps). Then, I just clamped together and sanded smooth. Hope that helps!
You too!! ☀️
Cannot believe that is the same bench! TLC sure goes a long way 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Hooray! That just made my day, Carroll. Thank you!
Larrisa you did a fab job with that next bench – it is a perfect sturdy beautiful little bench. Well done.
MIchele, you are so sweet to say so. Thank you for that.
Nice save, Larissa! If only the previous owner could see their bench now. Pinned 🙂
I’ve always thought it would be fun to reconnect pieces with their last owners. Thanks, girl!
Oh wow! She is a stately again!.Wonderful transformation Larissa! I didn’t know one could fix the dowels or the split; so appreciated that you shared that. Thank you for saving another gorgeous, real wood furniture piece from the landfill 🙂
How fun to hear, Mary. Thank you! Yes, I use a forstner bit to drill out the broken nubs and then just replace the pins. It’s one of those things I like to have on hand just in case.