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Damaged Dresser Makeover

The second Tuesday of the months is here! That means it’s Trash to Treasure time. woot, woot! You’re here today to join me and four other bloggers as we share new inspiration for you. While you’ll see their projects in a bit, take a peek at this damaged dresser.

Antique Dresser Before Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

I got it from a local (and awesome) couple that live on a farm. Apparently, it belonged to the wife since she was growing up and decided to give it a new home. That made my heart soar! I lovea good story like that.

As with any project I take on, this damaged dresser needs some TLC. Not only is the top showing much wear, but also the drawers. Let’s take a peek.

Damaged Dress top Before Repair | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Damaged Dresser Original Label | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

First, the top has a crackled and mottled lacquer that’s gotten kinda gummy. Second, there is plenty of missing veneer that needs addressed. I can either remove it all like I’ve done in these past posts, or I can patch it up. For me, it looks like the rest of the veneer is on tight and I don’t need another hot mess like THIS ONE. With that, I being to repair the damaged veneer on the top, the side panels, and the drawers.

Applying Wood Filler to Damaged Dresser Top | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Also, right when I went to pick up the damaged dresser, I checked the drawers and found that one drawer was more a hot mess than the others. The face was pulled off, the bottom was cracked, but still stable, and it was out of joint generally.

Damaged Dovetail Drawers in Dresser | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

This may scare some away, but I’ve had MUCH WORSE! haha.

GET ‘ER DONE

Next, once I fill all the missing spots, repair holes, repair drawers, etc. I sand and sand some more. That took the finish down enough that I can move on to the next part. PAINT.

Yes, with all the fixes, the best thing for this ol’ gal is paint (I’m speaking of the dresser, ahem). Some have often asked why I don’t just repair the veneer with veneer. I reply by telling them how much veneer costs alone. It’s far above the value of a piece like this unless it has sentimental value to you.

As a true DIYer, I want to mix my own color for this project, so I fill a quart with half of blues and the other half yellow. I begin to shake it up…mind you, I’m running around like a nut on this day because I have so very much to do. While shaking it up, someone pushed past me and the can ERRUPTED all over my laundry room cabinets, my sink, counters, down my neck, all over my clothes, and covers the floor. Apparently this ol’ gal needed paint after all.

I would have had a picture if I wasn’t so upset with myself. After I got out of the shower, I find my older girls cleaning it up for me. Have I ever told you how awesome my kids are? Now, I’m frazzled, trying to clean up, but need to be working instead. Then, out of the blue, lil’ Loula looks at me sadly and says, “Oops” with her buttons. (see how she talks HERE or in the video below)

Blog Video of Loula the Talking Dog Video Story by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #dog #pets

That made me bust out laughing! She drops her head and her tail wags, and we cuddle. Yes, Loula…oops. God knew I needed her, and she needed me.

PAINT WHERE IT BELONGS

Finally, I’m able to get the custom color on using my microfoam roller.

Painting Damaged Dresser Top Blue Green | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

The color is a sort of blue/green that is very similar to my favorite color, but with a deeper tone. I love it! At least I mixed it right…ahem. Between each coat, I also paint the drawers in another custom color…a light beige. I have all of it prepped for the next day and I get nailed with a stomach issue. Folks, I feel like I just can’t win sometimes, but am glad to be able. So, I hunker down and get done what I can when I can.

On a side note, I use old candles to rub drawers, runners, and all over the places that touch that allow the drawers to glide in freely.

Waxing Dresser Drawer Guides | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

DAMAGED ANYMORE?

Here, at last, is the reveal of the damaged dresser revival. It’s refreshed and ready to go!

 

Antique Serpentine Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Right Side of Damaged Dresser Reveal by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

I’m tellin’ ya, those curves get me every time. While I could have done most any color and even added a design to the front, I really wanted the craftsmanship of this piece to shine. As I mention, I lined the drawers with this blue ticking for added peek-a-boo fun.

Side View Open Dresser Drawer with Paper Lining by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Ticking Stripe Paper-Lined Dresser Drawer by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Additionally, did you notice I used antique faceted glass knobs mixed with Hepplewhite brass drawer pulls?

Damaged Dresser Makeover Closeup by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Farmhouse Style Dresser Makeover from Damaged Dresser by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Soft Blue Serpentine Dresser by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Not only can I see this in a bedroom, but also in an entry, living room, and even as a sideboard in a dining or bathroom even. Where would you use it?

Antique Serpentine Dresser in Blue/Green Color by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

If you’d like to make this part of your home story, you can find it and more in my online store along with many other goodies.

Shop Prodigal Pieces Furniture, Vintage Finds, Handmade Goods, & Supplies for your home | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

SHARE

Does this type of project inspire you? I sure hope so! There are so many ways we can create our own home story. After leaving some comment love below, please pin and share to inspire others too.

Damaged Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #diy #upcycled

I’m sharing a new #trashure find with you next, so be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter. Now, it’s time to see what my Trash to Treasure girls have for you!
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Trash to Treasure Tuesday | prodigalpieces.com

Trash to Treasure August 2023 | prodigalpieces.com

  1. Salvaged Inspirations
  2. Artsy Chicks Rule
  3. Confessions of a Serial DIYer
  4. Girl in the Garage

While you’re at it, check out these other furniture transformations like this damaged dresser:

Doomed for the trash, Larissa of Prodigal Pieces rescues this vintage gossip chair and gives it new life. Head to prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #vintage #furniture #diy

Curbed Antique Settee Rescue | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. Sherri says

    Another beautiful piece ready for a new life! You have amazing talent and vision Larissa. Have a very blessed day!

    • Larissa says

      You sure know how to make a gal smile. Sherri. I am glad to have found it and had a chance to work on it. Thanks!!

  2. Christy James says

    This turned out so beautifully, Larissa! I am well aware of the work that goes into these older pieces! Well done, my friend! XOXO

  3. Niki says

    The custom color is great Larissa. I like the mix match pulls and knobs as well, it makes it a little playful especially with the ticking in the drawers. How fun….well maybe not the paint exploding part. But, how sweet is little Loula to be there to snuggle when needed. Yes God certainly did know you needed each other. Have a blessed week my friend.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! It turned out differently than the one I threw all over the place. haha. But I like this better.

  4. Denise Zdziennicki says

    Night and day transformation my friend, it’s gorgeous! I love the custom color and ugghhhh re your paint spill. Been there done that.😆 Have a super day! XOXO

  5. Trudy Eby says

    Why do her curves look better than mine?! 😉 Another beautiful save!

  6. Elle says

    A beautiful piece of furniture! The curved façade is so attractive. Lovely, friend!

    • Larissa says

      That is what I miss about modern-day furniture…an essence of style.

  7. Megan says

    Gorgeous piece and Thank You so much for your efforts for our soldiers 💕 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🙌🏻❣️

    • Larissa says

      Thank you! I had fun with this. As for the soldiers, it’s the least I can do.

  8. Denise Loeb says

    Turned that into a real stunner!!!! I would love to spend a day on a project with you! If only we lived closer! Just picked up two cheese boxes this summer for $2 each! Going to try to channel your creative designs!!!
    Best always!

    • Larissa says

      Hooray!! That would be SO FUN. Congrats on the sweet finds. I’d love to see what you do with them, Denise!

  9. susan says

    Absolutely beautiful! Wish you could bottle that color and your “favorite “ one 😉

    • Larissa says

      Back a few years ago, I was gung-ho to have my own line and colors. Now, I just want to move. haha.

  10. Judy B says

    So beautiful! The color is so pretty…unusual mixing technique! hee hee. I love the curves of that beautiful piece, and you’ve definitely made them stand out. Thank you for always inspiring me. Hopefully the rest of your week will be less hectic!

    • Larissa says

      bwahahaha! I daresay I’ll never use that technique again. 😀 Thank you for your affirming words. Yes, me too. Thanks so much, Judy.

  11. Christina says

    Wow! From trash heap to treasure! It’s beautiful and love, love, love the color! I love your spirit. Been there, done that many times over and God does have a sense of humor. It’s wonderful that you got shown love by your girls, Loula included. Btw, I know how you feel about moving. Prayers for you and your family.

    • Larissa says

      I think you just made my day, Chrstina. 😉 Yes, they are the best support ever. Hugs!

  12. Cheryl Atkinson says

    Hi Larissa! I hope you are feeling better. The color of the dresser is so pretty. Your furniture makeovers are my favorite. Thank you for sharing

    • Larissa says

      Slow and steady – thanks! I’m so glad to hear my furniture work brings joy. I’ve had to scale back on them because we ship and not only are freight prices ridiculous, but they’ve been damaging things as well. Sad.

  13. Becky says

    Oh my goodness! Your paint mess … you either cry or laugh! Crazy! And when even the dog understands…!!! 😆😆😆 But the end result is beautiful! I wish I had room for it in my house!

    • Larissa says

      haha…right! I did both for sure. It was such a rollercoaster day and I’d had enough. Loula is the best! Thank you for the smiles, Becky.

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Client Love

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

~ Laurel

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

~ Laurel

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

~ Stephanie

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

~ Stephanie

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

~ Mikki

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

~ Mikki

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

~ Sharon

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:45:37-04:00

~ Sharon

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

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!

~ Deanna

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

~ Deanna

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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