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Antique Dresser Makeover

Making changes can cause some to react differently. Some may have a fear reaction, whereas others may have an excitement response. A change is in the air and it’s time this antique dresser makeover happens. This has occupied the master bedroom for about ten years. I loved how the dark wood contrasts to the soft white walls. However, today, it’s due for a new home and a new look.

Antique Dresser Makeover "Before" | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Simple Farmhouse Bedroom with Flea Market Style Decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #fleamarket #diy #home #homedecor #farmhouse

As you can see, it has much wear that I just lived with for ten years. I love the story it tells, even with the damage and missing pieces.

Antique Dresser Top Before | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Damaged Dresser Veneer for Antique Dresser Makeover | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

It’s not only missing veneer in various spots, but also a piece of the boxed trim on the front of the drawers. Plus, Ivan has made endless scratches on it. grrr…

Dresser Front with Damage | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

BACKSTORY

First, as you can imagine, I’m eager (and a bit nervous) to get this DIY party started. Before that, here’s a bit of backstory. When I used to be heavy into furniture makeovers shipping all over the US and beyond, and I would grab pieces for the potential. This one caught my eye for ME. It was located an hour away and on arrival, the couple was drunk. This was her great aunt’s dresser, and she just wanted it gone. My furniture-lovin’ self said, “No problem.”

To begin this makeover, I fill all spots with wood filler, let cure, and then sand it down. Additionally, I make the decision to remove the remaining trim pieces from the drawers’ fronts.

Removing Drawer Trim for Antique Dresser Makeover | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Then, once I have all things repaired and ready to go, it’s time for the next step.

COLOR FUN

Next, to bring some life to this antique dresser makeover, I use this Winchester Sage to start.

Winchester Sage Paint for Antique Dresser | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

First, I use a foam roller to coat most of the cabinet, drawers, and mirror frame. Then, I use my artist’s brush to cut in the fine details.

Painting Drawer Details | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

After two coats cure, I take loads of time to highlight all those glorious carvings.

Larissa of Prodigal Pieces Painting Antique Dresser Makeover Details | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Last, but not least, I take Bar Keepers friend and polish up the brass pulls and knobs. I’m so thankful I still have the originals!

Polished Brass Hardware from 1920's dresser | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

And… I paint the inside of the drawers this super fun color I used on an antique tilt-top table HERE.

Painting Dresser Drawer Interior | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

By the way, that brush went to the trash after I was done using it… it kept shedding!

DONE AND DONE

Finally, after three days of work, my antique dresser makeover is complete.

1920's Antique Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Hand-Painted Mirrored Antique Dresser by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

The entire piece has a new look while accenting the features is has already in play. Not only is there the original rose inlay on the top drawer, but I also add rose transfers to the inset panels on the bottom two drawers.

DIY Rose Transfer on Antique Dresser Drawers | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Top View of Green Antique Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Pink Painted Interior Drawers | Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Say aaaahhhh!! This color fun pop really adds drama to the inside of this antique dresser makeover. My favorite part of the drawers is not only how large they are, but that it still has the sliding ring tray in the top middle.

Open Painted Drawers for Antique Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Side View of Mirrored Dresser by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

It’s still crazy to me to think what life was like when this dresser was first created. I’d love to shake hands with the craftsperson who worked on it. It’s totally built to last.

Beautiful Green 1920's Antique Dresser Makeover Completed by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

If you’d like to make this piece a part of your home story, you can find it and more in my online store.

Shop Prodigal Pieces | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

SHARE

As always, my goal is to inspire you to give DIY a try. Leave some comment below and additionally pin and share to inspire others too. Here’s to change!

Larissa of Prodigal Pieces shares her antique dresser with you at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

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While you’re at it, here are more DIY furniture projects like this antique dresser makeover:

Damaged and mistreated, this vintage farmhouse bench makeover is one to see. Head to Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpiecesA damaged antique dresser gets a revival into Boho style by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #boho #diy #furniture #vintage

Comments

  1. Rebecca - NC says

    This old gal LOVES the makeover!!! Inspiring on so many levels!!! 😍

    • Larissa says

      You are the sweetest, Rebecca! I needed a smile and that did the trick.

  2. Gina Wickard says

    Absolutely gorgeous!!!

  3. Hélène says

    Very elegant yet fun !
    Well done, once again, Larissa !

  4. Jill says

    What a bright colorful change! I was reminded of summer AND watermelon- what a fun piece!

    • Larissa says

      Funny! That’s exactly what I said. haha. Thank you, Jill.

  5. Bonnie says

    Oh my gosh that is gorgeous, why why would you get rid of it? I love the color combination and the artistic painting you always do. Thank You for sharing!

    • Larissa says

      It’s time for a change. My pleasure to share, Bonnie. 😀

  6. JANET SCHEN says

    At the beginning I was kind of sad that you were going to paint this beauty, but oh my goodness she is beautiful! I LOVE this shade of green – very close to the walls in my kitchen! The wood details are extraordinary and the paint you added makes them pop. Gorgeous! Great job, Larissa!

    • Larissa says

      Trust me, I only painted it because of re-sell. I kept it as-is for those ten years because I loved it so. Thank you so very much for bringing a smile to my face, Janet. 😀

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~ Laurel

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:34:13-04:00

~ Laurel

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2020-03-21T21:39:34-04:00

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2020-03-21T21:43:16-04:00

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2020-03-21T21:52:00-04:00

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Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!
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