Do you have a bucket list? Ya know. A list that holds either coveted events, or places you’d like to go? In all the years I have been working on furniture, there are a few different types or styles of furniture that I haven’t had a chance to work on. Today, I’m taking one of them off my bucket list and showing with you how easily I refreshed this Broyhill hutch desk with my favorite sprayer and removable wallpaper. Yes, I did say removable.
You might be wondering why a hutch desk would be on my bucket list. Well, they are versatile, functional, and are typically kinda boring like this one. I wanted to take a sort of ugly duckling and make it shine. This one in particular caught my eye because it had nice form and was a Broyhill hutch desk, however, it was dated. Don’t you just love the pressed acorns? I half expected a squirrel to scamper by as I was taking these pics. hee hee hee.
*post sponsored by HomeRight (see full disclosure)
The fact that it’s made by Broyhill means it would be made well, however it’s still made of fabricated and real wood materials. This is the kind of stuff that many of us have in our home and aren’t sure what to do with it. So, this was my subject for my makeover. Time to give it new life!
DIY TIME
First, I grab my tub of wood filler and not only fill all those acorns on the hutch and drawers, but also the pull holes. Those are going buh-bye too.
While the wood filler is curing, I use my staple puller (talk about handy!) to remove the back of the hutch. I’ll get back to what I’m going to do with that in a bit.
Once all the wood filler has cured, I take it down with my sander, and then added a different wood applique to give the hutch a whole new feel. It’s easy-peasy with my nailer and wood glue.
NEXT STEPS
The rest of the hutch and desk get a light sanding and now I’m ready to have a blast…literally! This is when all the fun really starts with my paint sprayer.
Since this set has a whole lotta slick surfaces with the veneer, I chose to use Gripper primer. Also, that stuff will make your paint stick and last much longer than without it.
With my surfaces prepped and ready to go, I give it a nice even coat of primer.
MORE PAINT
Next, once the primer has cured, I give the hutch desk two coats of Dove White – one of my favorite colors I’ve used throughout my home. Then, while the paint is curing between and after coats, I also give a chair I found at a barn sale a couple coats of primer and paint. That’s what’s so nice about this sprayer, I can switch from job to job and create the finish I’m after.
When I’m done, I just hook it up to my Rapid Clean Kit and cleanup is done faster than you can blink. I love it.
Additionally, since there’s some wait-time for the paint to cure, that’s the best time to take tackle the hutch backing. One of the best inventions ever in recent years is peel-n-stick removable wallpaper. We used it in our boys’ bedroom a few years ago and absolutely love how easy it is to hang and reposition if need be. Yes, no paste, no water, no worries!
For this project, I chose this reclaimed wood paper to add some color and texture to the desk. The best part is that if I ever want to change it up, I just peel it off and go on my merry way. Isn’t it awesome?!
Since my hutch backing is a faux wood panel, I wanted to give the paper a bit of tooth to stick to with my sander. I don’t think I really had to since it sticks to walls perfectly, but old habits are hard to break. tsk. Better to be safe than sorry, right?
APPLY PAPER
To apply the paper, I just did a dry fit and cut to length. Peeled back the top edge of the paper to line up and gently pulled the backing off as I worked down. I didn’t have any major issues with bubbles, and I was so pleased with how easy it was. Plus, it only took two sheets side-by-side.
Then, to stick the backing back on the hutch top, I just laid it face down and stapled the backing on with my stapler. (another favorite tool and why my motto has always been #toolsoverjewels)
And we’re done!
THE REVEAL
What a huge difference the simple steps I made gave this vintage Broyhill hutch desk. First, it has such a refreshed feeling. Then, the pop of color from the new pulls and the added chair make the set complete. You can see how that green color has been used in these posts HERE. Likewise, the woodsy acorns are gone, and the desk has a whole new vibe. It was easy to do with the right tools and fun too! I couldn’t be happier with the finish.
Last, for an added touch I even gave the drawers a coat of gray like I did my farmhouse blanket chest and entertainment armoire.
THE AFTER
Many have asked about this paper, and I think it has endless uses. Furthermore, think of all the accent walls you could create. Or how about for a person who rents or has a shop or stages furniture (ME) this is PERFECT. There are other woods, bricks, prints…so many to choose from.
What is more, you can purchase this Broyhill hutch desk and more in my online shop.
SHARE
Additionally, pin and share this Broyhill hutch desk transformation to inspire others to give DIY a try. They may have some ho-hum furniture needing some love too!
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Also, more makeovers like my Broyhill hutch desk:
Another brilliant transformation Larissa! LOVE the paper background. So farmhouse! 🙂 and the FinishMax is ah-MAZ-ing!
OH, I am moving so I have several storage towers that need a new finish. 🙂 Oh and a couple of chairs too! The FinishMax would make short work of them. 🙂
Sounds like the perfect project.
I had such a blast! Thank you for the love, Christina. 🙂
What a difference in this piece of furniture. I love the contrast of the chair and the desk. It is a wonderful looking set now.
I’m so glad I gave this style a try. Thank you, Debra!
You are just amazing how simple you make everything look. Such a talent and inspiration to me. Thanks for the chance to win the HomeRight sprayer AND shelter – what a treat!
Barbara in TN
You made me smile from ear to ear, Barbara. Thank you!
What a Beautiful transformation.
That staple puller seems like a great little tool to have. I need to get me one of those.
Sprayer sure would come in handy when it comes time for me to do this 9 drawer chest that needs to be done.
Thank U 4 this wonderful giveaway opportunity
Thanks! They are so handy and cost less than $7 – a steal for sure.
Your work is always amazing and inspirational. I love, love, love this “new” look to a classic piece! I have so many projects that need painting…my wrist is aching just thinking about them. I’m sure the HomeRight sprayer and shelter would make my work go faster. 🙂
Thanks for sharing your work with us and giving the chances to win your favorite products.
Your words mean much, Becky, Thank you! I hear the wrist thing. Oy!
Love this piece – need to check out the wall paper.
Awesome! There are so many options I love.
Wow what a transformation Larissa! The wall paper makes the desk come alive. The home right sprayer sure seems it would make projects go fast. I have always brushed furniture but the thought of doing that on a large buffet I have is daunting. If I won, that would be the first piece I would do! Lovely work!
What fun to hear. I truly loved seeing it come to life. Thank you!
I need to paint a bookcase and a table and a small buffet and a China cabinet. I am downsizing and needing to put pieces to new uses.
Perfect.
Gorgeous!!! Just awesome what work and paint can do:)
Have a blessed rest of the week!
Amazing, isn’t it? I love my sprayer!
I have a table and some chairs I’d like to paint.
Sounds good.
This looks so good! I love that manatee gray….yummy
One of my favorites! So soothing.
Beautiful, as always.
Thank you!
I actually bought four hutches for our wedding reception in a barn to give height to our decor, I’d love to refinish them all since I did them a few years ago and kinda quickly.
That is a great idea! And this would be perfect and quick to get it done. Yay!
OK, you’ve converted me. I swore I’d never use anything remotely resembling wallpaper again, but I definitely want to use this somewhere.
Bwahahaha!! Hugs to you, Donna! I’m seriously hooked.
Larissa, I love how you used that wallpaper, it works perfectly on that hutch backing!! A friend of my mine used this wallpaper on a small accent wall in her family room. It looks great there too! The HomeRight prize package is awesome too!! THank you for the opportunity to enter..
Great minds paper alike! haha… Thanks, Kaycee. 😀
Love the hutch! Beautiful! The Home Right sprayer would be awesome to use on my furniture projects.
Thanks so much, Robin!
Why is it that wood detail is often lost on a stained piece and comes alive when painted? I didn’t even notice the rounded trim on the bottom of the desk on either side of the drawers until the after photo. And the drawers themselves came alive with paint and new pulls! Really, really good job, Larissa. Thank you again for the inspiration.
I think it has to do with brighter makes the shadows more prominent and showcases carvings. Yes, paint does wonders for me too. My pleasure!
I got some bookcases (BOOK HOARDER HERE) at a restore late summer I have been meaning to refinish but the thought of doing by hand has pushed it to the someday list …I should stop buying books until I get it done but working at an elementary school there is always new ones coming out !!
Right there with ya! Sounds like the perfect project.
Beautiful! You are so creative and such an inspiration. Love the wallpaper too. Thanks for the opportunity to win the HomeRight sprayer and shelter. It would definitely be a relief to my hands to have a sprayer.
Thank you for showing love, Debra. It means much. 🙂
For some reason I am surprised that Broyhill does not use all wood in their furniture. I had an old bedroom set from them that I thought was all solid wood but I guess times have changed.I absolutely love this makeover
They used to. The newer stuff is not as high quality, but still holds up well compared to most modern day brands. Thanks!
Wow! I love how fresh and updated the hutch desk is! I just recently borrowed a paint sprayer from a friend to paint some louvered swinging doors. It was fun to use, and I think after a little practice I could get pretty good at it. I have two free-standing corner cabinets that are in need of updating….mmm…would be fun to tackle with a spray gun!!
Sweet! It’s amazing how easy they are to use, isn’t it? You will rock it!
Love the distressed wallpaper on this piece. If I win, I’ll try the same on an old dresser.
Thanks! It made it even more fun.
#toolsoverjewels
Yeah, baby! 😀
BE STILL MY HEART!!!!! I have got to get some of that wallpaper! Another amazing piece by the equally amazing Larissa!!!
Happy dance!! You are so fun, Deidre.
WOW! That turned out great! The next tool I want is the Home Right sprayer. ?
Woot, woot! You will love it!
You absolutely nailed it on this hutch/desk. The wallpaper really changed the hold look and of course for the better. Love the white with turquoise knobs. I just don’t know how you think of these wonderful ideas.
You are so sweet to say so, Jolinda. Thank you!
oops forgot to leave my other comment (too excited about the hutch). What I like most about the Home Right sprayer is how easy it is to use and clean. My husband has paint sprayers but they are not so easy to use and clean-up. Thanks for sharing these wonderful tools.
No worries!
Wow, what a makeover! I love the wallpaper you used in the back!
With the sprayer and paper it was so fun to do. Thanks, Alicia!
I am so glad you filled in those acorns! ?? It looked 100x better afterwards and that wallpaper works great.
bwahahaha…I’m a nut! 😀 Thanks so much for the giggle, Julie.
This turned out amazing! I have a French Provincial chest and hutch that I think I will do similar. Love the peel and stick paper, on the backing…so much more interesting than just painting. I still have to decide on color, though! Whatever I choose, having a new Home Right sprayer would sure help! ?
There are so many papers to choose from and the sprayer makes those nooks and crannies a breeze. It would have taken me twice as long or more by brush.
This is amazing! Great job.
Thanks for saying so, Linda!
That “redo” is fantastic. You always seem to think outside the box and challenges us to do so as well. Beautiful job…and thank you for the cjhance to win some “helpers”. 🙂
How wonderful to hear is that is how I am to be…I want to empower others to do the same. Thank you!
Love your talent! Your ability to use all your treasure finds in such unique ways. Love when I get your blogs newest additions! Would love the sprayer, being older hard to get down and back up again, a sprayer would make this so much easier. Thank you,again! Liz
Yes, even I get the getting up and down…I’m not getting any younger! 😉
This has got to be my favorite transformation that I’ve seen of yours! My daughter recently updated her Ikea bed with that same paper. The transformation was also amazing. If I had this HomeRight sprayer, what wouldn’t I paint?! I’m actually dying to makeover an old dresser in my son’s room that used to be in a hospital.
So awesome that great minds paper alike! ahahaha… Thanks so much for the love, Pam.
I would spray my kitchen cabinets. Great project as usual and inspiration . I just love your style and tips. Thanks for the giveaway.
Thanks!
I love the knobs on it now. Thanks for the giveaway!
They are so fun!
Better than the original! Love the new piece added to the top for dimension.
Fantastic to hear! Thank you, Debbie.
Amazing! I need that wallpaper for my bedroom as it will be so much easier than trying to shiplap the wall behind the headboard. And that sprayer!! Sometime soon, I plan to take an old bookcase with cabinet at the bottom and transform it into a hall tree. I figure the space with doors at the bottom will be great for hiding the boots/garden shoes when not needed or dry. Going to remove the shelves, cut one to make a hanging board(s) and install hooks for jackets. Plus use removable wallpaper of some sort on the backing! It’s a big project for me so a paint sprayer will be needed!
It sure is! That sounds perfect for this fun tool.
I love all the wonderful things you do! They really give me different ideas!
Yeehaw! That’s what it’s all about, Donna. Thank you!
I just was given a solid pine grand father clock and I want to update it. a power sprayer would be great making the paint nice and smooth minus brush strokes..
That would be sweet. 😀
Beautiful! You always do such GREAT WORK – as well as your kiddos! 🙂
What a treat to hear, Angie. Thanks for saying so.
You can make anything look fresh, Larissa! What would I do ? probably an old two drawer chest I received at a plant swap in trade for some of my plants. Can’t WAIT to see what it becomes ! Thank you for this chance to win!
High five for saying so! 😀 Sounds like fun, Patty.
This is incredible! The wallpaper makes such a huge difference and the blue/green chair and knobs are perfect! I have a china cabinet with a hutch I need to paint and would love to have the sprayer and shelter would be so helpful.
awww…so awesome to hear! Thank you, Leisa. 😀
Wow you are super talented!! where do you find time to finish these projects?
thank you so much for the chance to win the sprayer — I have a ton of uses for it.
Thanks! I work all the time as do the rest of my family so we can keep up. It’s crazy, but we have each other and love it.
I would restore some old furniture.
Great idea. 🙂
I would paint a Costco ladder stool I picked up at the World’s Longest Yard Sale a year ago.
Those are so fun to do.
Very pretty ! I have so many things I need to get done, so new tools of any kind would be great !
I hear that. 😉 Hope you win!
I love the makeover, I had to re read that you used wallpaper and not re purposed wood.
I would use the sprayer on some porch furniture.
It’s so cool, isn’t it? I love these kinds of easy fixes.
Love the hutch/desk makeover. I would redo a nightstand for my guest room as my first project if I would win! Fingers crossed!
Thanks!
Of course, I love this makeover! It’s fresh, bright and updated! I would use my sprayer on an old entertainment center that I literally picked up at the curb. It needs some lovin’ so I can use it in my sewing room.
So cool to hear! 🙂 Thanks, Kathy.
I really like the soft simplicity of this piece. I have several ideas for projects from your tutorial, including the removable wallpaper. My first paint job will be my mother’s/great grandmother’s Singer treadle. I have it prepped and ready.
That’s what it’s all about…thanks!
I love the change you made to the piece. It’s beautiful!
Happy to hear it, Robin. Thank you!
WOW……the hutch turned out beautiful. Love it!
Yippee! I’m happy to hear you like it, Terri. Thanks!
My next project is a large French provincial China hutch!
Sweet!
Love the wallpaper and great colors on the desk/hutch!
Thanks! Fun to update and refresh.
Oh my gosh you blew us away with this. Such a beautiful transformation. I look forward to your stories, your faith, your inspiration. God has truly blessed you with an awesome talent.
God Bless you girl…… Bonnie
Woot, woot! You just made my day, Bonnie. Thank you and hugs!
Great transformation! My stockpile of furniture is begging for a sprayer.
Thanks! You sound like me.
LOVE! Great update, can’t wait to try the wallpaper. I would love to have the Home right tools.
Thanks! You will love them for sure!
Gorgeous as always! I have so much furniture from my parents house dating back from the 1960’s that need a re-fresh! That paint sprayer would be a life saver!!!
That would be awesome!
Love it. I would use it to paint my Moms inside doors, she’s never gotten around to it.
Thanks, Amy. This would be such a help for those.
Larissa, as always, beautiful and inspiring work! The Finish Max sprayer would be a dream for me as our home doesn’t have a basement or garage where I can paint. I have several sad pieces needing some love but I’ll start with the vintage dresser that holds towels and toiletries in my bathroom.
God Bless you and have a beautiful day!
Thank you, Kim. These sure are a blessing to me too.
Your projects are so beautiful!!!
That makes me smile, Kaitlyn. Thank you! 😀
It’s beautiful piece and love the wall paper.
Thank you for saying so, Vanessa. I had fun!
Ohh what a great upcycle Larissa. Love the use of the background!! And that pretty chair is just perfect!
beautiful re do love it
I’ve used the paintable beadboard wallpaper on my projects and now you’ve inspired me to try the peel and stick. Love this little desk and hutch. I’ve wanted a Homerite sprayer and tent forever and asked Santa for one for the lat two years. Wonder where my letters are going?? 🙂
Yes, I love the paintable punched tin…so fun! And Santa is being bad. hahaha…
I would tackle a changing table I bought for our babies nursery.
I like all of your make-overs but this one is simply adorable! This particular one is really informative too. I have a small barrister-style bookcase I want to paint and store my quilts in and I think I will do it exactly as you’ve shown here. Thanks.
I have two old wooden night stand tAbles that I would love to repaint!
Perfect!
Beautiful. I’m not a big fan of distressing but that wallpaper is great on this.
Thanks.
I would love to try this sprayer on a desk that I just got at a garage sale. P.s. I just love your project that you completed..I never knew they made removable wallpaper.
It’s so easy and fun to use. Hope you try it!
I want to make some magic on an armoir that’s been in our garage for a few years.
Sounds good!
I love that finished project!! I would use the paint sprayer on my garage.
Awesome!
Such a beautiful piece and so tastefully done. I have a old antique fireplace surround that I’ve been kinda putting off. I also just found an old door with glass window that’s goung to be our laundry door. I’ve already finished the two old window paned doors for the pantry using a box rail system, but I sure could have used it then. So many possibilities….so exciting!!!!!
You sound like a gal after my own heart. Woot!
Always beautiful work. You are a great inspiration. Thanks
You deserve a hug!
Turned out BEAUTIFUL!!!
Thank you, Sandra.
I would tackle my old night stand first!
This looks amazing!!!! I would love to tackle my dining room table.
Thanks!
LOVE the redo! Soooo…..I got excited about the removeable wall paper, followed the link to the Amazon page thinking to purchase some (another pattern, though) and SO SO SO many people said it only sticks for about 3 days then starts to come off. 🙁 How’s yours holding up? Same results from many uses for application on many different areas from bedrooms to bathrooms to kitchens. I was thinking of using for kitchen backsplash area….now, I’m not so sure. Would love to hear your own review.
Thanks, Anna! I have had it on for a few weeks with no movement. I think the key is to not stretch the paper during application. The instructions say if you stretch it, it will shrink down over time. That may be what is happening. We put a brick design paper in my boy’s bedroom over 2 years ago and it’s fine. Application is key. See the bedroom here:http://wp.me/p5GE1w-2nJ
Did you water down the gripper in order to spray it?
I just followed manufacturer instructions for thinning. 🙂
Wow. Just…Wow.
My daughter has an almost identical Broyhill hutch desk, and it makes her already small room seem even smaller. I have been thinking about simply removing the hutch part, but it would still need an update even with that bulky piece gone. So in searching for inspiration, I came across this blog post, and I’m so glad I did! I love the wallpaper idea. There’s another ugly-duckling piece of furniture in our home–a dated corner hutch–that has the same kind of potential as the Broyhill desk. I think a coat of white paint and some pretty peel-on wallpaper would do the same trick. So thank you for the double inspiration! Thanks for taking the time to do this project and to record both your process and results!
How fun to hear, Jackie! 😀 That just made my day. I’d love to see what you do with it. Have fun!