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Antique Buffet Gets Metallic Makeover

It’s that time again when I get excited to join my fellow Furniture Fixer Upper gals to share a project to inspire YOU. I’ll be sharing what they have for you in a bit. Until then, take a peek at this leggy gem of an antique buffet. Those Queen Anne legs get me every time!

Antique Queen Anne Buffet Before Metallic Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

When I spied this antique buffet beauty in a local thrift store, I just knew it had to come home with me. Not only did it need some lovin’, but buffets (aka. sideboards) are some of my favorite pieces to work on because they’re so versatile. You can see my past buffet pieces HERE. They are obviously useful in the dining area, but also work as a console in your entry, and even sometimes refurbished into bathroom vanities.

THE BACKSTORY

This one has a story behind it from a local business and I’m happy to get to know her. (Yes, her, because she’s a Queen…right?) Somewhere along the line she received some damage to the top surface and someone thought it wise to cover the entire thing in a heavy coat of lacquer. Ugh.

Damaged Antique Buffet Top | prodigalpieces.com

It was a gloppy application at best too. Even the all hardware got coated with it.

Dirty Buffet Hardware | prodigalpieces.com

At least the hardware wasn’t anything to worry about as it was made of an aluminum, and not brass or some other quality material. Then, there is the sectioned top drawer…another mess!

Buffet Drawer Before | prodigalpieces.com

Contact Paper Removed from Antique Buffet Drawer | prodigalpieces.com

*post sponsored by Modern Masters. (see full disclosure)

Likewise, someone saw fit to line the drawers with contact paper on top of the velour lining. I have my work cut out for me to get that all out. (le sigh…)

DIY TIME

First order of business is to break out my sander and get the gunk OFF. I cannot tell you how liberating it is to see that stuff go buh-bye. Woot!

Sanding Buffet Drawers | prodigalpieces.com

Typically, when tackling this kind of project, I use a 150 grit sandpaper since the wood is usually brittle and I want to take it slow. After sanding, I apply plenty of wood filler to all the damaged veneer and gouges, then sand smooth again.

PAINT

Finally, it’s time to see some beauty coming out in this antique buffet. My end vision is to create a glamorous feel with this lovely lady with the beautiful Modern Masters metallic paint. I’ve used their paints in these past on these makeovers, and they are still my favorite. Now their products range from satin to matte sheen, and even have applications for outdoors. I’ve even used their patina paint in the past and love it!

First, I need to apply a primer coat that is similar in shade to the metallic color (they offer two choices) I’ll be applying since metallic paints can tend to be translucent. In most instances, I prefer to use my paint sprayer to apply the coats. However, the weather outside is not conducive to that at this point. No worries though as a special roller can be used to get a flawless finish as well.

Applying Primer Coat Before Metallic Paint | prodigalpieces.com

Once the first coat cures, I apply a second coat and we’re ready for the exciting part. eep! One of my first loves when it comes to metallic paint is Modern Masters color Warm Silver. It’s not a brassy, bold metallic, but rather a soft glow.

Modern Masters Metallic Paint Warm Silver and Sating Poly | prodigalpieces.com

METALLIC

Using the same technique as applying the primer, I put on three coats of the Warm Silver. Again, the paint tends to be translucent, but the extra coat doesn’t take much time and adds such depth to the shine. Isn’t that gorgeous? This is when my pulse quickens and I can’t wait to see the end result.

Painting Modern Masters Warm Silver Metallic Paint on Antique Buffet | prodigalpieces.com

Since not all of the buffet is getting the metallic colors, I apply a similar finish to the parts I want highlighted.

Brushing on Metallic Paints | prodigalpieces.com

The metallic coats need to cure, so in the meantime, I set about to add a pop of color to the interior of the antique buffet. You know I love me some aqua! I did a similar treatment to another antique buffet HERE and it got me hooked. Those dark, dingy recesses need to have some fun too!

Painting Buffet Interior with a Pop of Color | prodigalpieces.com

HOT MESS

Then, there’s my nemesis…the drawer. ugh. I really dreaded tackling removing that lining. I have done similar before and it’s never fun. However, knowing the end result is worth  the effort. I have at it with a vengeance! I used my putty knife, oodles of Goo Gone, and more elbow grease than I used on the rest of the buffet combined, just to get that junk out.

Cleaning Buffet Drawer with Goo Gone | prodigalpieces.com

In addition to the pops of color on the inside, I wanted to bring a bit of ooh, la, la to the rest of the buffet. With some low-tack tape, I created metallic stripes.

Taping off Antique Buffet Doors for French Chic Stripe by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Before top-coating the buffet, I added a brown wax to give the feel of an aged appeal. This helps to draw out features and really soften the look.

Finally, all my extra steps were complete and it’s time for the MasterClear Satin Poly finish. This will allow my metallic paint to shine as it should, but also give it a protective, durable finish. I applied two coats in the same method as the primer and paint.

THE REVEAL

And…we’re done.

Get the DIY tutorial on how to use metallic paint of furniture like this antique buffet by Larissa at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #furniture #antique #home #vintage #homedecor

Gorgeous Metallic Queen Anne Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #furniture #home #homedecor #antique

Just look at her shine! I just love that it came out as I’d hoped.

Antique Metallic Buffet Top by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #vintage #furniture

French Stripe Antique Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #furniture #homedecor #antique

Faceted Glass Pulls on Antique Queen Anne Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #home #diy #homedecor #shabbychic

Those faceted glass knobs I chose really made my whole project gleam with a time-worn feel. Now, don’t forget the party on the inside!

French Country Antique Buffet in Metallic Warm Silver by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #furniture #french #homedecor

Painted Interior of Antique Buffet Adds a Pop of Color | by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #furniture

Even the drawer got some much needed fun with color and fresh paper. No more grungy yuck.

Paper-Lined Drawer of Antique Buffet by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #home #homedecor #furniture

Blue Interior of Antique Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #diy #home #homedecor #antique

Metallic Antique Buffet Corner | by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #home #homedecor #diy

As much as I’d like to keep this beautiful antique buffet, alas, I have no room. It is now available in my online shop and can be shipped to your door.

  • Magic Linen Beige Waffle Blanket available at Prodigal Pieces | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #bedding
    Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130

Metallic Antique Buffet with French Stripe and Queen Anne Legs by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #diy #vintage #homedecor #home

Do pin and share this antique buffet makeover using Modern Masters products. I’m all about inspiring you to give DIY a try. Let’s inspire others too!

This once-tired antique buffet gets a much needed TLC treatment with Modern Masters Metallic Paints | See the DIY tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #furniture #home #homedecor

MORE FUN

Up next, this basic wooden vase is about to get a fantastic new look. See the new look HERE.

Thrifted Wooden Vase Before Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. It’s time to see what my blogger friends have for you below.

blog signatureFurniture Fixer Uppers ~ A Furniture Makeover Group | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Furniture Fixer Uppers March 2019 | prodigalpieces.com

  1. Confessions of a Serial DIYer
  2. The Interior Frugalista
  3. Just the Woods
  4. Petticoat Junktion
  5. Girl in the Garage

In addition, more furniture fun like this antique buffet makeover:

With NO PREP WORK, this French country armoire was given a new look in a day. Come see how easy it can be with the right tools and technique. Head to Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.comFrench Provincial Blue Dresser Set Makeover by Prodigal PIeces | prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. Cheryl Atkinson says

    Larissa,
    I love this color. I have never seen whole buffet painted in metallic paint. I like the fact that it is not shiny metallic. I love this color.

    • Larissa says

      It’s just the right subtle sheen and why these paints are my favorite. Thank you!

  2. Cindy says

    Larissa another beautiful piece you gave love too. She’s a beauty and 5he curves and details make her sing.

    Took alot of work and patience but you persevered.

    Cindy

    • Larissa says

      Thank you so much, Cindy. It was much work, but glad I tried.

  3. Christy says

    Such a stunning piece, Larissa! The gorgeous glass hardware might be my favorite!! xoxo

  4. Marie says

    Very pretty makeover, Larissa! Love how you gave the metallic finish a timeworn look.

    • Larissa says

      Thank you. That was the fun part for me – to give it a story.

  5. Cecilia from Georgia says

    OH MY! The stripes-two tone-metallic-with a burst of aqua is delightful! I love how you combined all these in one piece and it looks great. I have searched for a buffet like this without success but I won’t give up! Love your blog!! XOXO

    • Larissa says

      Sweet to hear, Cecilia. Thank you! This was fun for me and I’m delighted to hear you like it.

  6. kandice kullmann says

    wow this is so pretty, and what a mess those drawers were before. Love the cute liner and the pop of color inside.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! I wish you could see how blucky the surfaces were from the lacquer. It was a big mess! 😀

  7. Karolyn Love says

    Wow, Wow and WOW! She is definitely a grand beauty now. What a wonderful vision you had and made happen with that metallic paint…”She” truly turned out gorgeous and very regal looking! Your patience and hard work is to be admired!!

    • Larissa says

      You’ve made me blush, Karolyn. Thank you for that. 🙂

  8. Debra A Wise says

    Such a stunning beauty! Fit for a Queen! When you started out talking about metallic paint this wasn’t even close to what I was imaging. It turned out gorgeous. Another beautiful makeover! Thanks for sharing.

    • Larissa says

      Wahoo! Happy dance over here! Thank you, Debra. So fun for me to share.

  9. Kaycee says

    Wow, Larissa! You made this lady gorgeous! I love the colors you used and the extra oomph inside the cabinet and drawer!! She is ooh la la indeed!

    • Larissa says

      So wonderful to hear your compliment, Kayecee. Thank you!

  10. Deb Britton says

    Beautiful! I would love to know where you got the knobs from?

    • Larissa says

      Thank you, Deb. I have the link in my post to the knobs, but you can find them HERE too. They are one of my new faves. 😀

  11. Jen @ Girl in the Garage says

    What a gorgeous buffet, and a showstopper in metallic! I had the same problem with glued gunk in a buffet drawer for my book – why do people do bad things to good furniture?? We’ll never know.

  12. Mary says

    Larissa that is one sweet makeover. The stripes were a big surprise!

    • Larissa says

      Thank you, Mary. I love my stripes for sure as they make such an impact. 😉

  13. Kyle Klaver says

    Love this article! We are always looking for additional farmhouse style inspiration for our website. Happy I stumbled across your blog. Thanks again.

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