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Farmhouse Bookcase Makeover

When you get that one text message saying…I need this gone asap, do you want any or all? Well, let’s take a look-see. I have limited space, so I have to be picky as well. I spy some good potential there and head over to inspect a little closer. Obviously there’s some furniture opportunities and a few small items as well. Today, I’m going to focus on that tall gal tucked in the corner for a farmhouse bookcase makeover.

Shed with Furniture | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

It’s a bookcase that’s missing a back, a few other parts, but is still functional and prime for some Prodigal Pieces lovin’.

Bookshelf Before Makeover | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

First, lemme just say a huge THANK YOU, to my friend, Mandy, and the Paid in Full Ministry. They are growing leaps and bounds in providing not only assistance to the community in basic needs, but also they have created a community garden, offer classes to give people a hand up (not a hand out). Since this article I wrote a couple of years ago, they’ve been able to purchase a building where God is blessing their efforts. With that, I’m excited each time I’m take on a new piece to dress up. Sometimes it’s broken or damaged items, and other times it’s things that no one wants. Leave it to me, right? haha!

In case you’re wondering, I also took the clock (repurposed HERE), the shelf, and the broken picnic basket for Trash to Treasure Tuesday. However, I left behind that repurposed sink where someone used a graniteware roaster pan as a sink, the caned chair, and a tippy table.

DIY TIME

To get this DIY party started, I need to get myself some bead-board. I normally skip the box stores because I believe in supporting local. I haven’t been to this particular box store in nearly two years because the local shop is so much better. However, I didn’t have time to make the half-hour trip one way, so I opt for this choice. MISTAKE.

When I go to the local supply store, they have me checked out in five minutes, then I head to a warehouse where they load me up with a smile and absolute care for my needs. In this store (with an orange square logo), it’s hard to find an associate and when I do, they’re usually rude because I’m interrupting their work. This time, the associate was smiling and quick to meet me. However, when I ask him to cut the 4′ x 8′ panel, he doesn’t cut it right…as in 7″ too short not right. AAAGGGHH!! I took it home, not checking quick because I thought the remnant was the good piece. I unload at home and get sick. I’m stuck with a damaged piece that is mostly likely going to just barely fit my needs if I can trim it exactly perfect.

Thankfully, my woodworking skills pay off and I’m able to trim it as I need. As soon as I have it sized right, I stain the bead-board with a color I’ve used often called Early American.

Staining Pine Beadboard | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

FIXIN’

Then, it’s time to make a few repairs to the farmhouse bookcase. If you look close at the bottom, you can see the drawer sits too far back and there’s a gap.

Farmhouse Bookcase Drawer Gap | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

In order to fix that, I cut a piece of scrap wood to length and use my pocket hole jig to make holes to attach. This causes the drawer to rest at the correct spot.

[board]

Also, before I can say that it’s fixed, I need to pull the drawer out as the bottom is sagging. Next, I cut another length of scrap wood to attach to the bottom of the drawer as support. Easy-peasy.

Repairing Farmhouse Bookcase Drawer Bottom | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

One last thing, I need to remove the bin pulls so I can paint the bookcase, but also because they are a hot mess. I sand down the mottled faux finish and paint them new.

Farmhouse Bookcase Bin Pulls Before | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Finally, I can put the finishing touches on this remake and makeover. I decide to use a Kensington Gray milk paint to cover the bookcase sides and shelves. My picture makes it look blue, but I’m working in my workshop where it’s kinda dark.

Painting Farmhouse Bookcase Milk Paint Gray | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

As a final finish, I apply a matte poly topcoat to seal it all in and protect it.

COMPLETE

Here is my farmhouse bookcase makeover complete and ready for many more years of showcasing your goods.

Blue Gray Farmhouse Bookcase with Beadboard Backing by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #homedecor

DIY Farmhouse Bookcase Top Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #farmhouse #diy

The color has a blue/gray tint while the dark backing sets the stage for decorating to your heart’s content. Not only is it more stable (totally wiggly before backing was added), but it also has more function too.

Beadboard Bookcase Makeover in Farmhouse Style by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #farmhouse #furniture

Side View of Farmhouse Bookcase by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #farmhouse #makeover #diy

Oh, and did you notice the drawer rests nice and opens easily now too? And how about those bin pulls ready to go with an aged copper appeal. Here’s to storage!

Open Farmhouse Bookcase Drawer with Bin Pulls by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #bookcase #furniture #storage

Okay, now it’s your turn…how would you have finished it off? I debated on a green with natural backing, but I did something similar on this bookcase recently. Also, I repurposed a gun cabinet with a blue color and aged wood back too. Likewise, a curio cabinet transformed with blue as well. In addition to leaving some comment love below, be sure to check this out and more available in my online shop.

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

DIY Farmhouse Bookcase Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #makeover #diy

SHARE

Finally, let’s inspire others to change up their own home story. You can create a unique space that is outside of box store decor and totally creates a welcoming atmosphere for those you love.

A misfit bookcase needs a lift and Larissa of Prodigal Pieces give it a farmhouse feel | Details at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #farmhouse #diy

Up next is Trash to Treasure Tuesday with oodles of new inspiration for you, including this damaged vintage picnic basket. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
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Broken Antique Picnic Basket Before Upcycle | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Also, more thrifty makeovers like this farmhouse bookcase:

Vintage Waterfall Dresser Gets Volkswagen Bus Makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.comCheck out how to paint ceramic easily and with bit of DIY fun. Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #crafts #paint #farmhouse #home

Comments

  1. Rebecca - NC says

    It looks brand new and ready to be filled with special books and keepsakes!! Another home run from our heavy hitter!!! ⚾️ ?

    • Larissa says

      You are such a fun gal, Rebecca! I surely enjoy taking what people have let go and making it new. Thank you for making what I do even more enjoyable. 😀

  2. Janette says

    I love it as it is, you did a brilliant job and brought it back to life.

    • Larissa says

      You have just made me smile from ear to ear, Janette. Thank you!!

  3. Niki says

    I like the moody blue-grey., and early American is a favorite stain color of mine. It really is the perfect shade- not too dark, not too light. This turned out very cool Larissa! I’m currently struggling with myself on how to store all my books. I have a very small mdf ? book shelf I need to makeover;l, but; what I really want is a big built in unit in my living room.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! I totally know what you mean and been there. I often go and put a wanted on Craigslist because there are many people who want those kinda of things gone yesterday, and give them away. I’ve received two sets for my use from that exact same thing. Happy hunting!

  4. Michele M. says

    WOW, Larissa!! You did a fabulous job making that awesome again. Well done, lady.

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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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