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Ikat Mid Century Modern Dresser

My heart and eye are always drawn to the cast-offs. I think I even do the same people. I was always befriending the kids in school that no one wanted to play with. Yes, I was made fun of and assumptions were made, but I didn’t care. That’s how I felt about this worn out Mid Century Modern dresser I found online.  At first, it needs some attention, but that’s easy-peasy. Check out how I’m going to turn this into an Ikat Mid Century Modern dresser. Let’s have some fun!

Vintage Mid Century Harmony House Dresser Before Makeover

What’s Ikat you say? Ikat is a fabric made from an Indonesian decorative technique where the threads are tie-dyed before weaving. Some say ee-kat, while others say eye-kat. I go with the latter for today, but say it both ways. You can see an antique rocking chair I rebuilt and upholstered in that kind of fabric in this post HERE.

POTENTIAL

From the front, you wouldn’t see to many issues with it. There are some obvious scribbles and chipped veneer. In addition, if you ran your hand across the drawers, the finish would flake right off.

The top, however, was a a little more complicated.

Damaged Mid Century Modern Dresser Top | prodigalpieces.com

Loads of wear, staining, and plenty of chipped veneer. The entire thing was so dry and brittle. Boy, it makes you wonder what people do to their furniture that makes it end up like this. Sad.

DIY TIME

First, to get this looking like the Ikat Mid Century Modern dresser I’m after, I filled the holes with wood filler.

Dresser Top Repaired with Wood Filler | prodigalpieces.com

Right Side of Damaged Vintage Dresser | prodigalpieces.com

See Lily eyeing the skylight above? She was watching a large moth that got trapped in the window. I’m assuming it rode in on our firewood. No worries though. She couldn’t reach it, but I did with a ladder and my kids butterfly net and took it outside. haha.

Okay, so my leopard looking dresser is ready for the next steps of sanding with my sander.

Left Side of Damaged Dresser | prodigalpieces.com

I was kinda hoping that the staining would come out of the top and I might be able to get away with staining, but that was no use. However, the stains were too bad, so we are on to painting. As a result, I did have to use a bit of Kilz primer to block the stains on top.

Sanding Dresser Top | prodigalpieces.com

PAINT TIME

Next, it’s time to add a pretty soft peach color paint to get the job started. You can see how I’ve used this color before on this Mid Century piece HERE.

Painting on Mid Century Dresser by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

After two coats and letting cure in between, I move on to the faces of the drawer fronts. Notice I used the Apricot on the drawer pulls, but on the face I’m going for a fun color contrast of blue.

Painting Dresser Drawers Blue | prodigalpieces.com

Since I will be adding a stencil to this to create the Ikat Mid Century Modern dresser I’m after, this blue is the perfect backdrop. Again, I applied two coats of the blue letting it cure in between coats.

STENCIL FUN

Here is the Ikat stencil I’ll be using. Are you ready for some more color fun? I am!

DecoArt Ikat Stencil used by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Stenciling is fun, and so easy to do with practice. I chose to use 4 different colors to create my pattern: Apricot, Vintage Duck Egg, Bleached Linen, and a Blue (yet to be named by me). A stencil brush or blunt stiff brush is key to getting it right, and the “less is more” mentality as well.

Place your stencil into position and use painter’s tape to hold it in place. Dip a bit of paint on your brush and tamp it off on a piece of scrap newspaper. Then, working in circular motions, fill the spaces. I used smaller brushes for the smaller designs.

Stenciling Mid Century Modern Dresser with DecoArt Ikat Stencil by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Notice I’m working the pattern across the top and then down the fronts. Also, you could work down and then across as well. Either way is fine, just be sure to make your patterns line up.

DecoArt Ikat Stencil Being Applied to Mid Century Modern Dresser by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Next, it’s time for the topcoat. In order to create a bit more dimension, I decided to use my gray wax.

THE REVEAL

Last, I buffed the wax with a soft cloth, and left to cure. Done! {{happy dance}} Take a peek at my video tutorial below. In it I share more tips & tricks used in my decision to paint.

DIY Video Tutorial for an Ikat Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Vintage Ikat Mid Century Modern Dresser in Boho Style | Design by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Blue and Blush Pink Boho Style Dresser with Ikat Design by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Aren’t those colors so pretty? I just love the way the blush color softened this piece right up. The blue made for the perfect backdrop for my stencil and showcases that beautiful bow front on this dresser.

Side View of Mid Century Modern Ikat Dresser by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | Boho Style Bedroom Decor | prodigalpieces.com

Top View of Ikat Mid Century Modern Dresser in Blush Pink and Blue by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Now those stains and damage on the top are gone. Yahoo!! It feels so good to see a piece made new. It makes what I do worth doing. I’m sure you know what I mean.

Blush Pink Boho Style Mid Century Modern Dresser with Ikat Design by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Boho Style Vignette Created with Thrifted Finds by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

VINTAGE VIGNETTE

I created my entire vignette for staging with thrifted finds. Staging is supremely fun in my line of work. Incidentally, I shopped my home and had a blast bringing it all together.

Blush Pink Bohemian Style Decor from Thrifted Finds by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

This Ikat Mid Century Modern dresser is now available in my online shop if you’d like to make it your own. In addition, some of the staging pieces are available too. Stop by to see.

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

 

Mid Century Modern Dresser with Boho Style by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Vintage Blush Pink Boho Style Decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

And…just for fun…

Before and After of Ikat Mid Century Modern Dresser Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Also, pin and share this Ikat Mid Century Modern dresser makeover. So many potential furniture projects just waiting for some fun!

From damaged to Boho beauty, this vintage Ikat Mid Century Modern Dresser Makeover is one you need to see. Full step-by-step video tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #furniture #home #homedecor #homedecorideas #bedroom #boho #midcenturymodern #vintage

Up next, my six kids are taking center stage to show you what they do with these cupboard doors. Also, you can see where they came from HERE. Take a peek at what they all became in this post. Woot!

Salvaged Cupboard Doors Before Makeover by Kids | prodigalpieces.com

To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, 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!

blog signatureIn addition, more like this Ikat Mid Century Modern dresser:

A thrifted vintage Mid Century Modern bar cart got a fresh new Boho chic style with paper and paint by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces. Plus, get the DIY tutorial for this ombre macrame wall art at prodigalpieces.comCheck out how this vintage Art Deco buffet was given a modern feel. Makeover at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. Kim says

    Wow! I love the colors! Really love the bold design too! I’m so jealous of how you are able to come up with a design and make it look so beautiful, then stage it perfectly on top of that! Keep inspiring us, Larissa!

    • Larissa says

      I had to go bold with such a boring dresser…haha! Thank you so much, Kim.

  2. Carol S says

    I really like this piece, Larissa! Unique and stylish. Very creative. Thank you!!!

    • Larissa says

      I couldn’t resist the urge to do something fun with it since it was damaged. I’m glad you like it!

  3. Rebecca - Knoxville, TN says

    Nice rescue, it looks happy now!

    Your cat /moth story reminded me of when my kids were little. We arrived at my parents home very late after a ten + hour drive and my almost 3 year old looked up at the moths circling the porch light and said, “I like your Night Butterflies, Nanna.” Such a sweet perspective.

  4. Melanie Brooks says

    What a fun makeover! I love the colors, and you’re right, no brushstrokes in sight!

  5. Tammy Scott says

    Larissa, your visions are awesome! I so enjoy your blog.

  6. Alison S says

    I would paint some chairs!

  7. Susan says

    Wasn’t sure I’d like Ikat, but I love the look on the dresser. And, I gave had a single dresser in various sheds for 25 years. It’s time to get at it!!!!

  8. Ginny Lerch says

    I would have one of my kids use these brushes to paint a stool that is in need of a redo.
    I love the colors on the dresser! It is such a unique piece and you gave it life again!

  9. Sandra says

    Wishing your and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving.

  10. Jolina says

    I love the colors. I love stenciling too and it adds so much. Amazing work as always.

  11. Deb T says

    So beautiful! I have a buffet in Dire need of paint!

  12. Patty Soriano says

    I’m not a pink….er…Apricot… lover, but this combo is WOW! Love it, Larissa!! I’d love to try these brushes because I’m getting arthritis in my hands and they sound easier to hold. I’d probably start on a table that is half painted. Need to finish it so I can use it ! thank you !

    • Larissa says

      Woot, woot!! It is a bold, but soft statement. I hope you win, Patty. 😀

  13. Gail Bigelow says

    With my new paint brushes I’m gonna paint a small mahogany nightstand or side table with drawers. It’s in dire need of a new look since it’s pretty scared by the previous owner. The dresser in this article is unusual and for me, pink and blue just don’t do it. I do love the stencil update for the front and have a used a raised stencil technique on a set of kitchen cabinets. They turned out great!

  14. Kimberly says

    This color combo is awesome!

  15. Tracy says

    I really love how you turn a piece someone was willing to throw out into a charming treasure.
    I have an old vanity someone gave me, I’d like to try to restore it like you do.

  16. Maria Howard says

    This is beautiful!!!!

  17. Eva Weeks says

    I love how you take something drab and make it gorgeous!!

  18. janet a phillips says

    I would love to win these brushes . If it makes my projects look as well as yours look i’m all in ! I’m such a fan of all of your work – keep on keeping on

    • Larissa says

      You’re too cute, Janet! Thank you for those kind words.

  19. Rosie says

    Pick me….. most unusual colors together

  20. Mary says

    Larissa this beauty has left me breathless. I was expecting it to come out great but not this great!! Wow, the color choices are spot on!!

    • Larissa says

      Mary, you sure know how to make my day and then some. Thank you!!

  21. Kaycee says

    What a gorgeous dresser Larissa! The colors and IKAT stencil you choose really made this lady shine!!

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! We’ve had dreary days here and I needed some color. Woot!

  22. Amy Giannini says

    Lovely, as always! It’s a feast for the eyes.

  23. JANET SCHEN says

    Oh my goodness, what beautiful colors and the stencil is awesome! Gorgeous!

  24. Lisa Wilson says

    Such a unique piece, love it! Wishing you and your family a very blessed thanksgiving!

  25. Jana Bendawald says

    Love what you have done with this!

  26. Edie Smoak says

    For myself I’d paint the unmatched table and hutch I’m planning to use together for a work surface in the sewimg/ craft room I’m working on creating on a very slim budget. For my church bazaar I’d paint a rocking chair that was donated to be upcycled.

  27. Hanna says

    Another amazing transformation! I didn’t think I was going to like the stencil but I love it! Great job!

  28. WENDY A OLGINE says

    Outstanding use of color and design. Really love that!

  29. Brandy says

    These brushes are the best ever. The finish is unsurpassed. As an artist I have a box full of brushes but the zibra ones are my favorites, using the flat sash right now. I am wearing them out.

    • Larissa says

      I totally agree with you, as an artist, I know a good brush when I see one and have tried dozens for my furniture. Zibra brushes surpass them all.

  30. Sara says

    This is so much fun! I’ll be on the lookout for a piece I can do this too 🙂

  31. Dale Cundy says

    You can really perform magic with a stencil and brushes!

  32. Lindsay A. says

    WOW – what an amazing transformation! I love it!! 😀 We’re planning a project soon of laundry basket shelving based on a photo I saw online – basically a set of shelving that has three large laundry baskets arranged vertically, and each one is able to be slid in/out individually. The Zibra brushes would be great for this!!

  33. Laurie Mooney says

    Beautiful! Looks like it came straight out of an interior design magazine!

  34. Cheryl Atkinson says

    Hi Larissa,
    I love this piece! I want to recreate what you did someday when i find a sad and lonely piece. Thank you for this. I just purchased my brushes from you and I cant wait to try them.

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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!

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

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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!

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