There is nothing better than getting together with a few friends to do what you love, right? Today is Furniture Fixer Uppers Day and my blogging friends and I have some fun for you. This vintage Lane cedar chest is about to be given the help it needs along with some lovin’ too. Stick around to see my friend’s projects and enter to win the giveaway as well. Let’s get our DIY on!
One of my furniture addictions are blanket chests, also known as hope chests. The offer style and function since they serve as seats and storage. Who could ask for more? I was gifted one as a graduation/birthday gift and still fill it with my treasures. The ones that are cedar lined like this one makes it even more special.
This one not only had the original tags but was also filled with broken glass and all sorts of blucky stuff. It also had been a dog chew toy. The top is in awful shape as well. Dingy, stained, and just not pretty.
DIY TIME
My first order of business was to remove that cushion and take off that nasty upholstery. Nothing better than having the right tools to make the job easier. This staple puller has rescued me before when I did my hutch desk, and it does the job again.
If you’ve ever done upholstery, you know how tedious it can be to get all those staples out. In this instance, there’s not just one layer of upholstery, but TWO. Totally typical. ahem. How many of you remember that 1980’s fabric? hahaha.
The second layer had 3 times as many staples, but that puller made it a breeze. I did launder and keep the second fabric to donate to a needy cause . No sense to waste it. I’ll get back to the upholstery in a bit.
Now it’s time for base of this Lane cedar chest to get some lovin’ too. First, I removed the broken pulls, and replaced the missing wooden plugs. Then, I filled all the dog chewed marks with wood filler and sanded them down.
TIME FOR PAINT
Time for some paint! Since I’m going for a cottage style with crackle, I chose to do a base coat of dark gray so it would peek out my top layer. My paint brush made short order of that.
One coat done and let cure. I’m loving that gray already, don’t you?
The fun doesn’t stop here, however. To get the crackle finish I’m after, I use a crackle compound on top of my base coat. The trick is to apply it heavy enough that it will do what you want it to, but not so heavy it runs. Kinda like a thick jelly when applying. No problem to do.
BACK TO UPHOLSTERY
While the crackle dries, it’s time to get back to the upholstery. This all came together in such a blessed way. While online shopping I quickly picked out these knobs having no idea how I was going to finish this piece. Originally, I was just going to use some fabric from my stash, but decided to stop by the fabric section and found the perfect match made by Waverly. Isn’t that awesome?!
After replenishing the foam and adding more batting, I stapled it all on with my cordless stapler. My upholstery work time is cut in half by that thing. Woot!
FINISHING UP
It’s time for the topcoat. {{happy dance!}} When applying this coat it’s important to lay it on heavy and do crosshatch strokes if you want much crackling. Also, don’t back-brush over previously painted strokes as it will disturb the crackling process. See how it starts to crackle instantly? So fun!
If you know me, I like to draw attention to details, so I grabbed my artist’s brushes and gave this Lane cedar chest some dimension.
Let all cure and then add the upholstered top back on and attach the knobs. I also removed the lock for safety reasons.
To add even more dimension, I used dark wax to highlight the nooks and crevices. It helps all the details pop and stand out. Much more fun that way.
The cedar inside is in excellent shape and the fact that it has the original tags and paperwork is pretty cool too.
ALL DONE
The fact that this Lane cedar chest came together without much planning has me pretty stoked. So exciting when you see your project coming to life before your eyes. The crackle is what makes it for me. Gives it that time-worn appeal I love and I didn’t have to wait 100 years! haha.
And who doesn’t love some roses. They are the perpetual flower that swoons most anyone – especially in pink.
I must say it looks good in my bedroom too, don’t you agree? If I had the room I’d keep it for my girls. They love it! However, that won’t happen any time soon, so this newly created piece is now available in my online shop.
Pin and share Lane cedar chest makeover to inspire others to give DIY a try. You just may cause someone to have fun!
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!
Before you go, check out these awesome projects! Tap the names below to see the afters.
While you’re at it, here are more projects like my Lane cedar chest makeover:
Wow, that crackle finish is magnificent! You found the perfect knobs and fabric. Way to go!
I love how easy it is to work with. So fun!!
That chest is so pretty! I have an old 70’s style metal chest I am going to redo, thanks for the ideas!
Thanks!
Your cedar chest turned out great! I love looking at your transformation,so inspiring!
That means much to me, Terry. Thanks!
Actually the stand that our large screen is sitting on needs a good make-over so that is on the top of my list.
Always been wanting to try the Dixie Belle paints but just couldn’t afford it.
Thank U 4 this wonderful giveaway opportunity
You bet.
Lane Furniture was made just down the road from me in Altavista, Virginia. It was a sad day for many folks when that plant shut down.
I love what you did with this piece! The crackle finish makes the paint look old and the pulls combined with the fabric give it a romantic look, perfect for a girl’s room.
I started a makeover of a Lane chest that my husband had when we got married and never finished it. If I won, I’d finish that makeover!
Yes, so sad. I remember. 🙁 Thanks for the love, Paula! 😀
Good job! Love it! I would redo a dry sink with the crackle paint.
Thanks!
I would love to try Dixie bell paint . I can’t afford it so would be excited and grateful to win it!
It sure is awesome stuff.
Just gorgeous! I love that Haint Blue. 🙂
Me too!
I have a table and chairs I’d like to paint.
Fun!
Your project is perfect! I love the way that it works with the bedding in the photo. I would use the paint to upcycle some jewelry boxes that I’ve been collecting 🙂
Thank you. It’s fun to create new pieces.
The chest looks fabulous. I love crackle finishes on furniture. The fabric & knobs are the icing on the cake. Great job,
I do too and loved it when it was popular a few years ago. This method is easier.
Lovely! I would use the paint on some wooden jewelry boxes.
Fun!
Looks fantastic, too flowery for my taste, but definitely inspiring! And the crackle finish looks amazing!
Thank you.
Absolutely breathtaking! Love, love, love it. The crackle, color, and painted flower is so gorgeous. Amazing job as always. I wish I had your talent. You are such an inspiration!
Debra, you made my day! Thank you so much.
woah that came out amazing! love the soft blue and the crackle!
You are so fun, Kandice! Thank you.
Been wondering what to do with two old cedar chests. This finish might work for one of them. Thanks for the inspiration.
Awesome! That’s what it’s all about.
Your blanket chest turned out awesome! I’d paint my office desk.
Thanks! Sounds like a good piece.
What a great addition to a beautiful room. The entire room is just gorgeous.
If I had the paint I would paint my guest room headboard.
It sure is fun to share. Thank you!
Larissa this is just beautiful…love the crackle finish. So bummed I couldn’t join ya’ll this month! XO
We miss ya, Christy!!
This is beautiful!
You are so sweet!
Beautiful. Your color choices, fabric and hardware were perfect. I have several blanket chests waiting to be worked on. I may have to try the crackle finish.
I’m so happy with how it came out. Thank you!
Very pretty! I like the fabric and the way you painted the raised flowers on the front of the chest.
It was so fun for me to do. Thank you!
I love the handwork you did on the flowers. Gorgeous!
That was my therapy. Thanks, Rachel. 🙂
Larissa, this transformation is truly amazing! I have a “thing” for cedar chests and wish I could save all of them! I have not tried to crackle anything in over 20 years and I would love to try this product.
I’m right there with you! They are such wonderful pieces in so many ways. Yes, crackle is back in and even easier to do! yay!
What a great change! To me this piece, even if it had been pristine was very dated. I would have sort of pushed it off out of sight in my house. Now it is definitely worthy of pride of place.
Woot! My thoughts exactly, Kim. Thank you!
Oh Larissa, what you did with this cedar chest is absolutely beautiful! From the paint color to the pretty fabric (Wal-Mart of all places), the knob choice is perfection, and your personal touch just brings all these elements together. LOVE it!
I know…WalMart. (say whaaaat??) Thank you for the love, Marie!
!!!!!! Love that you gave some color to the florals! A beautiful piece and another fun project. Thanks! for the inspiration
Had to be, girl! Thank you for the awesome love.
Larissa that chest turned out gorgeous! I love coming here and seeing the beautiful things you create.
I’m so happy that you enjoy your visits here, Karen. Thank you!
I wasn’t sure about that floral fabric and knobs, but it all looks beautiful..as always!
Thanks!
I receive your daily emails and you put a smile on my face with every single one of them…You are such an inspiration…This chest is “AWESOME”…There again I would have never thought “Crackle” on this piece, but going back to my second sentence, “You are such an inspiration”…Thank you for sharing your ideas and techniques…I really need to try some Dixie Belle Paint…Beautiful Colors….Thank You So Much…
I could just hug you, Jana. Thank you for making my work worth sharing. Hugs!! {{big ones!!}}
I love crackle finishes. Seems like they were out of fashion for awhile. Glad to see you using them and making them look gorgeous!
They were and they’re back with a vengeance. haha!! Thank you, Donna!
Beautiful job giving that sad chest a new, vibrant life again!
Such fun to watch it age. Thanks, Jen!
Love your make-ove. I have a kichen hutch that would look awesome with this paint.
Beautiful job! We have in our family 3 lane chests. Now I know what to do with mine, thanks for the inspiration.
I didn’t think I was going to be a crackle fan on this piece, but it turned out great with the waxing!
Woot! It’s so fun to do. Thanks!
What a change. It is so sweet looking now.
Thank you, Jolinda.
Love the detail paint on the front motif!
It was my favorite part to do. Thanks, Carol!
Lovely job, as usual! I must try that paint. the colors look amazing.
You will love it, Mary. Really!
I have plenty of projects I’d like to try that paint on! 🙂
Sounds good!
I have a several things I would love to do,,,, I need to do with that paint and I love how the chest turned out..sweet love roses my bed room has roses to~~
Can’t go wrong with roses. 😀
The crackle finish is quite a bonus! And matching knobs and fabric is amazing! Love your project. I would paint a small shelf that would go into the guest room. Yellow.
Funny how things come around, isn’t it? Woot!
I would paint our entryway bench
Perfect.
We are in the middle of re-doing our great room, which is kitchen, dining room and family room. Everything has to be budget friendly so we pretty much doing one project at a time. We installed ship lap on one big wall in family room and are in the process of replacing old baseboards and crown molding to moldings that will look better with the ship lap. Our harvest table in kitchen/dining room desperately need paint, along with 8 chairs and china cabinet. Hope to at least get walls painted before Thanksgiving since we are having family over. New look is a more country/farmhouse look as we live in a rural area.
That sounds perfect. 😀
Beautiful I love your work. Crazy what some paint can do!
It sure is! Thanks!!
great giveaway ! ! !
I’m so excited for all of you!
That is really pretty. Do you have to sand before you use this paint? How would it hold up on kitchen cabinets?
Nope. You can see it in action on this piece too. click here. On the Dixie Belle website, you can see their blog posts of the many who have painted their kitchen cabinets and love it.
I would paint a coffee table with lots of detail.
Sounds wonderful.
Beautiful transformation with that paint!
What wonderful things paint can do.
Beautiful chest! Now I want to re-do mine!
hahaha…you go girl!
I have an old wooden trunk of my grandfathers that I woul dlove to redo, it must be about 75 yrs old but still solid he had it in WWII
Oh wow!! That’s a treasure.
WOW…….you turned a ugly duckling into a beautiful swan. I love the smell of cedar!
I love the smell too! Thank you, Terri.
Google Lane Chests and get a key to the lock………
There have been issues w/ kids getting into the chests
and not being able to get out ! Just a safety precaution.
The back of my chest has a slot in which to keep the key !
Love how your chest turned out 🙂
Yes, we have been trying to find one. It doesn’t lock, so we have done all we can.
Gorgeous, as usual! I would paint a table to go in my new store.
Congrats on the new store!
Wow, that is gorgeous! I definitely want to give this paint a try. I have an old armoire in my bedroom (little mirrored door, drawers beloe & large door to the right) that I am dying to paint, but I can’t decide on a color. On the large door, there is a panel missing (most of the door) & previous owner has a fabric “curtain” there. I was thinking of getting two pieces of wood, then painting & stenciling or painting a simple design for each season. I just have to figure out how to paint in the house without the 4 cats walking on fresh paint! lol
You will LOVE it!! Sounds like a fun project. I hear ya about the cats!!
ooooh, cute! cute! cute! I’m not a big fan of crackling, but I love what you did with this chest. Would love to try the paint, thank you for the chance — I need to paint an old pine fern stand.
Thanks!
OMG! I love this, I love how you detailed all the flowers. You need to do a tutorial. I would love to try Dixie Belle paint and the crackle, you should carry it in your store. Wish I had room also, love it.
So fun to hear, Pamela. Thank you! It was pretty easy, just layering colors.
I always love your projects!!! I would love to win!
Hugs from me, Angie!!
So pretty! I want to do a Craigslist armoire I just got and a friend was recommending this paint. I have zero experience, but I’m gonna try!
You can do it!! Feel free to email with questions. 🙂
I love a crackle finish and what an easy way to do it! Beautiful!
It’s baaaack!! I love crackle, and the new way of application makes it so easy.
That turned out beautiful, thanks for the chance to win me some of that paint. I have never used that paint so it would be fun to try it.
It will be fun and you’ll fall in love. Woot!
I have a blanket chest very similar to the one in your demonstration. You’ve provided me with inspiration to get moving on the project. I’m on my way to order Dixie Bell paint, now what color is my next conundrum………. Thanks for the inspiration!
That made my day, Gail! Thank you.
Larissa, I love how everything about this blanket chest came together, the crackle paint, fabric, knobs. and hand painting the accent applique it’s just gorgeous!
I’m so happy you love it too, Kaycee. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Thanks so much!
I love the color and the applique matches the fabric perfectly. Beautiful job!
Thanks for the love, Rebecca!
Wonderful redo! That chest is similar (but prettier) than one we have that was given to us. You’ve given me a few ideas on what’s i can do with it.
Wonderful! Glad to hear you like it. Thanks!
Larissa, I actually want to paint a chest in my bedroom that’s very similar to the one that you painted in your tutorial and I want to use mine to hold linens and blankets. I love yours and especially the way that you hand painted the flower design on the front! I also need to paint a display shelf and another small shelf in my bathroom which is due to be remodeled beginning next week. I would love to win the contest because I can certainly put the paints to good use!
Your project piece sounds like the perfect candidate for Dixie Belle. Hope you win!
So lovely! I love the soft colors on the floral carvings. Great job as always. I’d love to try Dixie Bell paints!
You are so nice to say so. Thanks!
Love the chest & all the colors. I have quite a few pieces of furniture that I would love to paint with Dixie Belle paint.
Thanks for the giveaway
You bet!
Fabulous makeover… it’s beautiful!! The color with the floral print is stunning!! I tried reupholstering over the summer and fell in love!! Though I saw a Dixie Belle Video about painting fabric …. I have 3 chairs (from like a dr. Office or something. Has the retro fish and everything!) and a foot rest I am dying to try that on!!!
I know what you mean! It’s an addictive hobby for sure. Challenging, but so fun!
I love the blue, and the knobs, and all the decorative details! 🙂
Thanks!
Absolutely beautiful !!!
Thanks so much!
Great job on the cedar chest, I love the color you selected to crackle. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, Anita. 🙂
I love the cedar chest! I am going to redo an armoire.
Fantastic!
It turned out so super cute better than it ever was in it’s entire life what a happy piece! One of the things I love about your blog post is that you always share your resources that means a lot to me when I’m trying to think about new products to use, and new equipment to make my fit easier. I trust you, and appreciate you!
I love your tenacity, Dee. Thank you!!
i love your makeover! i would paint a bookcase we got from the thrift store.
Thanks!
What a fun makeover! I love that crackled look, so chic and stylish! Thanks for sharing the details!
My pleasure to share. Thank you!
Thanks for using our staple puller, Larissa! Glad it could speed up the project for you!
You bet!
Love the blue chest. What products did you use to paint this? What were the colors? Thank you. It looks great and I have a chest that I got for my high school graduation and want to pain it for my daughter’s room.
Thank you, Christine. It was a color called a haint blue over a dark gray base. I hope you have fun with it. 😀