You know I love a good challenge, right? It seems I often undertake the most hot mess of projects at times and find myself scratching my head as to the why. ahem. Well, today is one of those days, and I know why. Meet this dilapidated sewing desk that is going to become a Mid Century Modern desk set with a cause.
We have: (1) water damage (2) fun carvings into the wood (3) missing veneer (4) legs removed (5) missing knobs (6) and a top that has taken a beating. Oy!
Even smiley face stickers cover the back. I love it. If you haven’t seen my other Mid Century makeovers before, be sure to take a peek HERE.
The story behind this piece is an exciting one. Why? Because I have been hoping to do something like this for some time now, and I think this is my starting point.
Also, just to give a true start, here is what Mandy first sent me to see if I was interested…would it scare you?
THE BACK STORY
If you’re not familiar with my Finding Home program, I’ll do a quick breakdown. Over the last year and half, I’ve been taking applications for folks that nominate someone who deserves a hug. I want to bless someone who is in need of a special reward for a service they have done or are doing, or are dealing with hardships physically and/or financially by sending them a custom-finished piece of furniture.
When selected, the nominee receives, for FREE, one of my custom furniture pieces delivered to their door. In my past Finding Home posts, you can see the projects from start to finish with delivery to recipients. Unfortunately, after the first episode of my program launch I was finding it hard to get anyone to nominate anybody. How sad! I can’t wrap my brain around folks will jump all over a giveaway that’s for them, but not get involved in demonstrating love for others. It has happened every time I offer a giveaway where the goal is to nominate a recipient for this program or other offers.
PRESENT DAY
However, for today’s instance, this Mid Century Modern desk is going to be finding a new home locally through the Paid in Full ministry run by my friend, Mandy. Though, keep in mind, I am still taking applications for my Finding Home program that can reach anywhere in the continental U.S.
In case you missed last month’s post, my Finding Home program presented a custom makeover to a buffet used in the Paid in Full new church location. Take a peek at the story and makeover HERE.
When I reached out to Mandy with my idea, she was interested and excited. Our hope is to inspire folks to love their home no matter what the circumstances, and to put a little DIY spirit into it. She had this desk donated and I told her would be a perfect candidate for a facelift. Don’t you agree?
TIME TO DIY
First, to get this makeover started, I removed that awfully damaged desk top. However, keep in mind the top still could have a use being upcycled for another purpose – it’s wood isn’t it? {{wink, wink}}
Then, once I had the top removed, I reattached the legs and took a better assessment of what I was facing. The drawer pulls were present and made of brass, but the knobs are missing. No problem. I removed the drawers and set them aside. Also, the capped feet are brass too and just need some TLC.
TIP: to check for brass, use a magnet. If magnetic, it’s not brass. You can also use this for checking silver vs. silver plate. All bonafide junkers must carry a magnet with them at all times! hee hee.
As for the rest of the cabinet, I knew it would need to meet Mr. Wood Filler and Mr. Sander. ugh. Look at that hot mess-ness! Someone had a hay-day carving into the surfaces.
SEATS ANYONE?
Of course, every desk is going to need a chair. I say it all the time that when I need one I can’t find one, and when I don’t need one, I have five waiting in my stash. ugh. After a couple of trips to various stores, I finally found this set of Heywood Wakefield chairs.
They are as genuine MCM as you can get and the perfect pairing for my project. Thank you to Revivals 2 Thrift Store for giving me a deal to help this ministry project come to fruition.
My sander and I had a job to do and we got ‘er done. The wood looks so refreshed now.
Not only did I sand this chair down, but the drawer fronts too so I could give them a fresh stain. However, the desk cabinet was going to get a stain-blocking primer layer to hide the bleed-through as well as the water damage.
Meanwhile, I applied a Hickory Gel Stain to the drawer fronts, let cure, then added two coats of a satin poly with my same brush.
NEXT
Then, while those cure, I set about to polish all the brass hardware with my Bar Keepers Friend. Talk about amazing stuff!
This is my must-have product for my enameled cast iron sinks, tub, and my stainless cooktop. It is cheap and works wonders.
In addition to the polishing, I also began my work making a new top for the desk. I’ve saved the old top for another new life, but the sewing machine hole would deem useless for this makeover.
I purchased a project piece of ¾” birch plywood, cut it to size, and then prepared to add edgebanding. This hides the ply sides and gives a beautiful finish.
I simply iron it on, trim, and sand smooth. Easy-peasy!
Once done, I give the desk top and the chair a new stain called Summer Oak. Then, they receive a few coats of a satin poly as well. Notice my furry photo-bomber?
THE REVEAL
After all is said and done, it’s finally time to see it all put together.
How about that new top? I am so excited with the outcome of it all. It has the rich tones I love that accent the wood. Whereas the paint also adds the needed contrast that stays true to the Mid Century style. No brush strokes here thanks to the awesome brushes. Yay!
I even lined the drawers with a vintage roll of drawer liner I found at the thrift store and used on this luggage turned stand HERE in this post. Just so fun!
Thankfully, I was able to find some coordinating brass knobs to compliment the original pulls. Aren’t they sweet?
Also, the upholstery is a remnant piece I had from an Art Deco vanity that I refinished in a weathered copper patina. You have to take a peek for yourself to see it – glam! And it went to a studio in California. So fun!
Well, my Mid Century Modern desk makeover is complete and I’m excited to see whose home it will become a part of. I’ll add an update here when applicable. Keep reading for more details!
GIVEAWAY
As I mentioned before, this desk makeover is done to support the Paid in Full Ministry by my friend, Mandy. Not only and I hoping to really bless someone with a custom piece of furniture, but inspire folks to see the potential in what they already own.
If you know someone in our local Paid in Full community that could use that hand up from my Finding Home program I described earlier, please use the orange button below to complete the nomination. However, do note that the nomination is for someone other than yourself. This program deadline will be until NOON EST on October 17th, 2019. Recipient will be announced on Tuesday October 22nd, 2019. Sign up for my free email newsletter for updates.
In addition, for folks outside of the local Paid in Full community and know of a deserving recipient, I am always taking applications for my regular program for upcoming furniture rehab projects. Please submit using the gray box below.
UPDATE
We have selected a nominee!! I can’t say enough how excited we are to deliver this Mid Century Modern desk in person to Morgan.
She was nominated by her mother to be celebrated as a person who has undergone life trials that could have overtaken her. However, she is persevering and making the best of all that life gives her.
The desk is finally home! {{applause and happy dance all in one!)
And even more good news…we are working on the next steps of the Finding Home program for the other 7 nominees via Paid in Full. More news to come!
Do pin and share my Mid Century Modern Desk makeover. I’m sure there are many more sewing desks out there needing new life.
Up next, I have this entertainment center that was a custom client request for a makeover. Head here to see the fun new look!
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!
Also, more projects like my Mid Century Modern desk set:
1st; Thank U 4 this wonderful giveaway opportunity.
At the moment I have a couple of old swivel bar stools that need to have something done to them but just haven’t decided what I’m going to do as yet.
Enjoy your day; ‘Today Is A Good Day To Have A Good Day.’
Have a great week end as well.
My pleasure, as always. 🙂 Those sound like a perfect project piece. Good day to you too!
Awesome awesome awesome….
Thank you, Nancy. 😀
Love the desk!
Thanks! This was a fun learning experience for me. It felt good to restore it.
Love the makeover! MCM is my favorite style for makeovers. I have a louvered door wardrobe that needs updating & the brushes would make quick work of it.
Thanks! I just love the lines of the era. Sounds like a good work piece.
Good brushes are the key to a professional finish versus what I get when I redo pieces. I need these brushes in my life! Great job on the desk and what a wonderful cause. You have me thinking about the many people that do wonderful things for others.
I couldn’t agree more in more ways than one. You will love them! I’m eager to see how this all unfolds. Thank you.
You have the most beautiful heart! Great job on the desk and i love the mushroom pictures on wall??
aww…thank you, Lori. Aren’t those fun? If you look close, a hired plumber made a mess all over my vintage prints…I could have cried! But…I love them alas.
You really are one of a kind. Six kids, ,a pup, homeschooled kids and all of this. I don’t know how you do it all, but you do with such ease.
Thank you, Amy. I have the best crew that help me and work hard too.
You vision for restoration is truly a gift, and what a worthwhile cause! The desk is lovely!
Thank you for saying so, Amanda. I’m so excited to see the ending of this story.
Love this piece! You’re so talented!
Yours words are such a blessing, Kaitlyn. Thank you!
This piece turned out beautifully! I always appreciate your vision!
Thank you for the kind words, Stacy. I so enjoyed it.
I have one of these sewing desks in blond laminate. Maybe a makeover is in its future.
Ooh…sounds like fun is on the horizon! 😀
Your work is beautiful and well thought out (as always)
Thank you, Janina. I’m delighted to hear it.
Wow! That is quite a makeover! Awesome of you to do these furniture blessings!
Fwiw, I would use the brushes on a buffet in my dining room.
Hooray! Thank you so much. That sounds like the perfect project piece.
I have never been a fan of MCM, but I always find that I love the pieces after you finish them. Love the desk! So are you still giving away the refinished products to someone deserving? I have someone in mind.
That’s fantastic! Music to my ears. Yes, I am still doing the regular FH program. I have the button in my post for you to submit a nominee. One button is for this project, the one below it (in gray) is for my regular program.
I love the idea of both of these programs. It takes a huge heart to do so much for others. I have so many projects I don’t know where to start lol. I have a room full of pieces and I know these brushes would be a blessing…..thank you for the opportunity.
I know the feeling, Lynn! 😀 It can be overwhelming at times…trust me. haha. I know you’ll love Zibra brushes as much as I do.
Beautiful piece from something that looked like it was headed to the dump. I especially like the brass on the legs. I have an old wooden file cabinet with legs like that and I kept them when I refinished the piece 30 years ago. I am ready to re-do it again. Thanks for sharing all of your fun ideas.
The brass accents makes my hear pitter-pat for sure. I’m so glad they were there! I love that you’re willing to rework a piece instead of dumping it. Good for you!
I can’t wait for your posts to see what you have been up to! Here’s another winner (all your projects are winners!). I love that you give so much back. Awesome desk!
awww…how fun that is that?! It makes my day. Thank you! I just love sharing.
LOVE Mid-Century Modern! You do great work. Very creative!!
Me too! The lines get me every time. tee hee. Thanks!
Desk looks amazing!!
Thank you so much, Julie!
Larissa, this is one of my favorites of yours! Thanks for the giveaway!
Awesome! I wish I had brushes for everyone. Thank you, Judy. 😉
Very nice makeover! I would give these brushes to my husband for his many projects. Next up might be the inside of our buffet and hutch. Finges crossed
Thank you. I’m sure he’ll love them, Mary.
Cute!!
Thank you, Maria!
Well done Larissa! You are fantastic, love what you do!
Your words truly mean much, Darlene. Thank you!
Wow—an amazing transformation once again! Thanks for the tip on the iron-on wood edging tape. Have a wonderful day.
Yahoo!! I’m happy to share. That stuff is so cool and makes it look like solid wood.
I love the contrasting tones of the finished piece. You have such creativity and vision. Love your blog.
You’re a gal after my own heart, Μοnica. Thank you!
?? You do such beautiful work physically and from the heart. ?? I will share this in any way I can to get the word out. Lucky is the recipient of this beautiful desk makeover. Talk about trash to treasure!
You know I love it. Thank you, Marie. I really am hoping not only this, but my entire program for all areas reaches those who need it most. I so appreciate the love…really!
This turned out so lovely! Not my particular style, but beautiful! I have a desk that I need to makeover soon too. Thanks so much for the chance to win!
These brushes look amazing and I sure would like to win them to fine tune some of my projects. You always do an amazing job on yours
I truly can’t say enough good about them. Thanks!
Hi Larissa, What a difference is such an understatement, right? I mean look at that gorgeous birch desk top, the stain and paint colors, and the fabulous brass hardware (I swear by Bartenders Friend also). Your beautiful desk and chair set will surely bring countless smiles and hugs to it’s recipient.
Just a bit, me thinks. hee hee. It was a doozy, but so fun too. Thank you for the love, Kaycee.
Great makeover! A beautiful piece for a deserving recipient! And I don’t have any Zibra brushes but have heard so many good things about them. I’d love them in my painting chest!Thank you!
Thanks! I’m eager to see the outcome of our efforts. 😀 You will no doubt love the brushes like I do.
Always so creative! You bring furniture back from the dead and beautiful again! Amazing!
Wahoo!! It sure makes it fun for me to share. Thank you!!
Job well done! Personally that would scare me ?
tee hee! It’s these kind that really challenge me in my artistic side as well as my builder side. So fun!
Larissa, I love how you’re so often willing to tackle a piece most others would give up on. And once again, you did a great job.
I love this make over! MCM is one of my all-time favorites. I really like the two-toned wood colors
Thanks! Me too. The lines get me every time.
I have a dresser I would like to paint.
I recently bought some chairs and I would use the brushes to paint these.
What an amazing transformation! Clearly a “trash to treasure” project – wow!Most would have tossed I think. Love your projects/posts…learn SO much from you. I’ve never heard of this brand of brushes, but definitely need something different than what I use now so would appreciate them very much if I won….Thank you for your generosity!
What a wonderful compliment. Thank you! You will love the Zibra brushes. I’ve been using them for a few years now and still think they are the best.
This piece is beautiful! I have the exact same one. My husband also made a new top for mine. I need the polish the handles and didn’t even think of Bar Keepers Friend! Thanks for the tip. Also, can you tell me which white paint you used? I don’t think I saw that anywhere. I have a dresser that I’d like to do and I’m having a terrible time choosing a paint that isn’t too yellow or too blue. This one looks perfect!
Thank you, Cara! You have quite the treasure. Yes, BK is the best thing ever! 😀 The paint I used is a basic Glidden white off the shelf. I use it for all my standard white pieces.
Another Larissa masterpiece! You did an amazing job on this piece. ? Thank you for offering the chance to win this wonderful set of Zibra brushes. I have so many projects to paint…the brushes would be so helpful! ?
Thank you for the love, Dale! It was quite the challenge, but fun too. I know you’ll love the Zibra brushes too!
Great vision, as always!
Sweet thanks to you, Shelly. I had fun!
Larissa you know I have a soft spot for MCM. And this one is no exception!!
yahoo! You and me both, Mary. What a fun challenge this was. 🙂
I have only done 2 furniture pieces now, but each time I can just feel myself relax and settle in for the enjoyment of letting the creativity God has blessed me flow out. I loved the sewing machine makeover, and I watched a dresser rehab you did with the homerights sprayer. Thanks so much for sharing!!!
It’s surely my kinda therapy. Art is just that in any form. Good for you! I’m so glad you enjoy my work. Thank you!
Simply beautiful work.
Thank you for those sweet words, Gina.
MCM is usually not my style, but this is super cute. I actually have a very similar sewing desk sitting in my storage right now. It has been there for several years, but I have never been inspired to do anything to it. Thank you for the beautiful inspiration!
How wonderful to hear you are inspired. Thank you for the awesome feedback, Michele.
I just picked up a cabinet for a corner of my kitchen and I need to paint it to match the rest. I would use the brushes for that.
I’d paint an old nightstand I’ve been waiting to do something with.
My living room wall. Everything is ready and waiting, I just need to get to the start place.
What a fantastic save!! Beautiful work as always.
Thank you so much, Christie.
Both pieces are beautiful. I recently painted an old table, but someone set something on it soon after I finished painting. You know what happened, now I must do the top again. How long do you let paint “cure” before using?
Thank you so much, Kay. I’m sorry that happened to you. For my own home, I like to wait a week at minimum. My family is hard on things. 😉