Having friends & family that get you is the best thing! They know your way of thinking, your quirks, and what floats your boat. Then, when they see something they know would make you smile and they grab it for you. Or, as in this case, give you a cherished item they have taken care of for years. Isn’t this Art Deco sewing desk set adorable?
My friend, Mandy, has used this vintage beauty for many years enjoying it for the obvious use…a sewing desk. She’s handy at the machine and decided to entrust me with this retro gem for a makeover. Thankfully, it’s in great shape with the typical wear for a piece of this age.
Inside the sewing desk, you can see how it all sets up. Plus, inside the drawers you can find some original pieces and secrets I’ll share in a bit.
DIY TIME
It’s time to get this party started. If you’re new to my Art Deco jaunts, you can see how I enjoy making them over in these posts. First, I take assess what needs to be done. There’s surface wear and small bits of missing veneer. However, all the original pulls, and everything is functional. Then, I use wood filler to tackle all the bits on the veneer surfaces that need fixin’.
Next, my handy sander comes out to help me tackle the finishing work. Gotta love them tools, eh? Now that the refinish is underway, I’m able to decide how to run with this project. After really deliberating over what way to go with this, I finally decide on adding some drama. First, I use a charcoal reactive stain that works with the tannins in the wood to naturally age it. In addition, you can see how I’ve used these stains in my past projects HERE.
I’m choosing the charcoal because I aim to make this set reminiscent of an antique sewing machine. Sounds fun, right? Then, after I stain the surfaces I could keep wood grain showing, I paint the surfaces that have been repaired. And, true to my self, I also want to add typography and some fine details with hand-painting.
Finally, I dress up the original pulls by giving them a polishing using Bar Keepers Friend (my favorite go-to cleaning agent). Amazing what a little elbow grease can do.
THE REVEAL
Here is this Art Deco sewing desk in it’s new look ready to go for many more years.
My goal was to give a nod to days gone by with respect to the era. Essentially, I hope you see what I was after in making the set really take shape while repairing and refinishing. Likewise, the best part is the inside with all these original parts. First, check out this sweet accessories’ drawer with original ink well.
eep! And then the little tote is removable! I just love finding novel ideas like this. Don’t you? Even better is the bench has a built-in bookshelf for added storage of books and patterns.
Last, you know I had to add some typography. What can I say…I’m addicted! tee hee!
However, while I had a blast making over this desk set, I’m also excited to say you can make it a part of your home story. You can find it available in my online shop.
SHARE
In addition, if this inspires you, do pin and share so others can get the inspiration too! You know there are more out there waiting revival.
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Also, more furniture makeovers like this Art Deco sewing desk:
If this won’t inspire would be seamstresses, I don’t think anything will! Your artwork is stunning!! Another amazing retro update! ?
I literally LOVE sewing, so I sure hope so! Plus, this kinda thing is fun for me. Thanks so much, Rebecca.
Larissa,
The sewing desk is absolutely Beautiful.
You’ve made my day, Nancy. Thank you!
I love this!
happy dance!! 😀 Thank you, Deb!
That is so beautiful!! I love it. What an amazing improvement. I love to sew too. I have several old sewing machines, they are the best. I think that is the nicest redo I have ever seen.
How wonderful to hear, Sarah! Thank you. Sewing is one of my favorite pastimes. Very therapeutic and fun! Thank you for the love.
Wow! I opened up your email newsletter and went “Oh, my goodness, I have one just like that waiting to be redone. Let’s see what Larissa did with it!” I LOVE how you changed up the look by hinting to the lovely scrollwork on the old machine. My father used this cabinet for years, but with a different sewing machine. He was an upholsterer/cabinet maker and filled the drawers with spools of upholstery thread, cording, the large t-pins, and other notions he needed. He must have acquired the cabinet without the stool. I now have the cabinet in my sewing room, awaiting a revival! Thanks once again for your vision and inspiration! Hugs!
Awesome!! That is such a wonderful memory. My uncle was quite the well-known upholsterer. My grandpa would help him. Oh to be a chick under his wing. I hope you have fun with it!
Hi Larissa, I love this cabinet- and I don’t even sew! The lettering makes it so special. FYI you disappeared from my email and Instagram. I had to refollow on both. I didn’t want you to think I dumped you ?
awww…I’m so glad you are hanging with me. I’m not on Instagram any more after they allowed my account to be hacked and stolen. I’m focusing my attention here. Thanks!
Oh my WOWZA! Larissa, you have outdone yourself on this one! It is beyond beautiful and your love for your friend and for the piece come shining through.
How wonderful to hear, Marietta. It took me forever to hand-paint, but it’s so fun for me. Thank you!
WOW!!! What an amazing transformation! Some lucky person will be so glad to have that beautifully re-done sewing desk!
And you are so right about the drawers – sure wish they made things as they once did – very cleverly designed, wasn’t it?
Well done. Just love it – so unique!
I’m delighted to hear it, Michele. It truly is fun to do what I do and share it with you. Yes, they don’t make them like this anymore. So much spunk in this little desk!
What great bones to work with! The transformation is stunning Larissa!
Right? It’s such a sweet little set. Thanks, Kim!
Oh my, this is just stunning! This is your best update yet, IMHO. Someone gave me a cheap little desk that I’m using in my sewing space and I am so inspired to dress it up now!
How fun to hear, Miranda! I do hope you dress it up. It makes sitting at it so much more fun! 😀
I love what you did with this sewing table, Larissa, especially the inside of the arm. Love how you echoed the detail on the old Singer onto the table. So so pretty! These old sewing machines tug at my heartstrings as my Mamare had one and many a garment AND even shoes were made on that machine.
It makes my heart happy to know such memories are cherished. I also have a soft spot for them…such a workhorse and a staple for many families. Thanks, Marie!
WOW, the sewing desk is absolutely beautiful. You do such good work!!!!
How wonderful to hear, Terri. Thank you so much.