There are times when I feel like I’m so busy that I can’t see straight. I can’t say that I complain because it means I have people to care for and I am able. However, sometimes I just need a brain break, and I think you can all relate to that. This past week was one of those highly busy times. After I barely get my last project finished in time, I stand up to look into my workshop window and am asking God…what is next? It is then I turn around and look out my front window to see this dated vintage nightstand in my neighbor’s trash pile.
Talk about blowing my mind. Since I am in my jammies, I ask my son to run and grab it for me. He happily obliges because he too hates to see good things head to the dump. God is so good. Do you see God winks like that? Sometimes we just need to open our eyes to Him. Here’s what it looks like put together.
Too good for trash, right? I say it’s #trashure. {{fist pump}} However, it’s definitely dated and needs a bit of a makeover. Shall we?
DIY TIME
First order of business is to take off these plastic hooks on the side. We won’t be needing those anymore.
Then, I can’t wait to pop off that front skirt that really dates this piece. BAM!
Next, I whip out my sander and take off the dark finish on the solid wood drawer fronts. So much better!
Before I can call it quits, I need to address the cabinet. It’s made of a mix of fabricated woods and real wood. In order for paint to stick, I use a primer to prepare it. Even in primer it looks so much better!
Finally, the original brass pulls get a good rubbing of Bar Keepers Friend to show them off. You can see how I’ve used it in the past HERE. Real brass needs to be center stage for sure!
THE REVEAL
Finally, after my DIY stent, I have a refreshed and updated vintage nightstand. It’s kinda hard to believe it’s the same piece, isn’t it?
I’m delighted with the outcome, especially with just removing that bottom front skirt. Plus, I had fun lining the drawer with this removable wallpaper I used in this bookcase HERE.
If you’d like to make the nightstand a part of your home story, you can find it available in my online shop with all my other finds and creations.
In addition to leaving a comment below, do pin and share to inspire others to grab neighbor’s trash. hee hee! So much good things going to waste.
Up next, my autumn blooms will be making their way into my home. Stay tuned!
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Also, more dated vintage nightstand projects I’ve found curbside:
Totally amazing!! From “meh-diterranean” to classic contemporary…. You definitely “nailed” this one!!! ???
So crazy the timing of it all. Thanks so much for the love, Rebecca!
I love the transformation. And your vision.
So awesome to hear from you, Debra. Thank you!
Never thought about simply removing the apron! It does look totally different! Wish I had “trashy” neighbors like you ??
bwahahaha! You are a hoot, Susan! Yes, so much life left in pieces like this. Glad it found me! 😀
Hi Larissa! I’ve followed you so long I feel like I know you. Love your projects, your family and your faith. I know how busy this time of year is but I’d love just a minute for prayer. At 62 everything has fallen into place and I’m taking the big jump and just opened an Etsy shop. It’s all been fun, exciting and scary! Please pray for Gods blessing on my little creations. If you care to take a peek it’s “A Bit of Pretty Shop.”.
Tammie Housley
Tammie, I wish I could hug you and give you a high five! Yes, it is SO MUCH work to start a shop and keep it running. I’m so very excited for you!! Headed to take a peek and lift a prayer. Hugs!!
I shake my head at what people will throw in the trash. I mean the hardware alone on this nightstand was worth a save. If only your neighbor could see the potential of what they deemed trash. Hopefully, they read your blog and will find out. Nice save my friend! xo
So absolutely true!! Yes, the hardware is amaaaazing. I was raining on it that day too, so I was like…hurry! 😀 Thanks so much, Marie. Here’s to us trash-saving gals. {{hugs}}
Yep…. God winks all the time ❤️
He is pretty funny too.
I’m always saying to my husband,
Wow, do you see that? Gods a funny guy?
Always love to see your work and imagination.
Beautifully done again.
Blessings to you,?
Minnie
Indeed! I’m always amazed at His miraculous ways. Thanks so much for the love, Minnie!
Wow! you really did give that a big facelift. I am going to keep that in mind with some pieces I have with the same problem. Congratulations on seeing what was waiting for you. Do your neighbors know that if they put it out, you will find your way to use it?
Such fun for me. 😀 Thank you, Sonja! Funny thing is they know I work on things and told them about the ministry I donate to so if they ever had items needed picked up to let me know. They were eager to offer before, but I couldn’t accept. Ah well. Saved by the rain and DIY!
Wow, totally different now! Do your neighbors NOT know what you do? I would think they would love having someplace close to home to “dump” their unwanteds. Or maybe it’s easier for them to set it out curbside and see what happens…..lol perhaps they were hoping to catch you in your jammies! Great transformation, Larissa.
bwahahaha!! I thought that too. Is this a trick? They do know what I do on a small scale. I truly think they have no idea. However, it’s more fun for me this way anyway. Thanks, Sharon!
What a beauty she is now.
Thank you for saying so, Bonnie. I actually had a lady give me flack for how I redid it. Sigh…