It is on a daily basis that I get asked questions either about a project that I have worked on in the past or a person has their own project they’d like some advice on. I’m eager to help and try to be informative. This time around, however, I am able to physically help out a local follower with this piece she had. Her second-hand find is about to become a painted entertainment stand. Check it out.
Kathryn contacted me about this entertainment stand via social media per suggestion through some friends of hers. Originally, she asked for advice on how she could paint this the easiest way. My first advice to her was to prime and paint using a Round Brush to get into all those nooks and crevices, since she didn’t own a sprayer.
Eventually, a few weeks went by and she mentioned she still hadn’t tackled the stand and wondered if I’d have a go at it. I’ll be honest, it’s not often I take on custom work because I’m always so busy. However, this time around I knew I had just the thing to get it done quickly with the best finish.
ASSESSMENT
The day that Kathryn dropped off the stand, I was eager to take a peek at this ornate piece. She mentioned that she had removed the doors and had two broken teardrop pulls. At first glance, I saw that this was basically a mix of manufactured wood and real wood. So, it’s not a high end piece, but who would know, right? It sure looks sweet, though that finish is…well…horrid.
*post sponsored by HomeRight(see full disclosure)
It has a super thick glossy poly on it that was kinda a hot mess, which can make it hard to get a smooth finish when concerned with all those details. You don’t want build-up and drips.
First, I used my sander to lightly sanded down the existing drips, and also the surfaces that would take the most wear. Then, once I had it prepped, it’s time to break out my sprayer! [it’s at this point I have hands on my hips with cape flying behind me and sprayer in hand with dramatic music playing! Think Super Mama…gotta have fun. tsk.]
Notice that I also have the stand set up in my spray shelter and also on my handy DIY Furniture Turn Table (tutorial HERE). Take a peek at all my past sprayer projects in these posts.
Tools certainly make the job easy and professional. I’m a tool lover and remember my motto: #TOOLSOVERJEWELS {{fist pump}}
GET ‘ER DONE
Okay, so we are now ready to go. First order of business is to get that Gripper primer on. Why Gripper? Well, like I mentioned, we have a super thick topcoat to go over. Plus, Kathryn will be using this daily and has small children too, so you know it will take on much wear. You can see other applications I’ve used it on HERE.
I simply fill my canister with primer and thin per manufacturer directions suggests. While spraying, I make sure to move with my elbow, not my wrist. It’s important to begin spray before you hit your surface and continue to spray until off. Also, I make sure my flow is set properly before beginning by practicing on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard.
Then, when done I let the primer cure, and clean my sprayer so it’s ready for the next round. The primer is already making this look so much better, don’t you think?
BRING ON THE PAINT
Now for the fun! Because this painted entertainment stand is a custom piece for Kathryn, she is choosing the color and I second the nomination. BLUE. Isn’t this a gorgeous color? It’s called Hale Navy and is custom mixed into a satin paint.
Again, just like before, I follow manufacturer instructions and fill my sprayer canister. The stand is getting two coats of paint, so I want to make sure my undercoat is as good as the finish coat.
Doesn’t this make you go oooh…?
THE REVEAL
Finally, after all is cured the painted entertainment stand is ready to take center stage.
Doesn’t that satin blue look perfect? The details of the wood really pop out now. Kathryn had picked out the replacement knobs in a soft silver – a beautiful contrast.
Also, for a bit of fun, I suggested that Kathryn pick a contrasting color for the interior of the cabinet. It would have been to dark to use the blue in there as well, so she decided on a soft green I custom mixed. It’s the same color I used on my upcycled chest into map cabinet.
I had to giggle at one point when going over colors and such with Kathryn. She said, “Wow, how long have you been doing this?” Well, let’s just say over 7 years in blog land, but color and design have always been my thing in every area in my life. Isn’t it fun to look back into our past to see our journey to today? Both the good and bad bring us right to where we are. I’m so glad to have worked with Kathryn.
SHARE
Do pin and share this painted entertainment stand to inspire others to get up and DIY.
Up next, my kids and I will be back with our Prodigal Pieces Kids CREATE making use of these old buttons. Come join our fun HERE!
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
MaryAnn Smith says
I would paint some small stands that I have collected.
Lori Sawyer says
Those details! I have several projects i need to make time to finish
Larissa says
Sounds good.
ColleenB.~ Tx. says
I still have a couple of wooden bar stools to do along with a full size bed frame.
The entertainment stand is absolutely gorgeous. Love the color
Thank You for this wonderful giveaway opportunity
Larissa says
Thank you. My pleasure to share. 🙂
Susie Wilcox says
I would love to win this sprayer. I am painting a crib for a friend right now. This giveaway would make this task so much easier!
Love your work. The blue is beautiful and has my brain spinning on where I could use that color.
Larissa says
It sure is handy. The giveaway is for a shelter this time around though. 🙂 Thank you for the love. Yes, that blue has me hooked!
Krystal says
I love it! That sprayer is the key to a great finish on that one.
Larissa says
Thanks! You are so right. Those details would have been hard with a brush for sure.
Sherry Riggs says
I am amazed at the difference that paint made to this piece of furniture. I would love to win. Thank you.
Larissa says
It was a huge improvement over that ambered poly. Thanks so much! 😀
Judy Burnside says
Wow! The blue is absolutely beautiful. I haven’t attempted much with spraying furniture, but I sure like the outcome. Part of the reason is that I don’t have a good way to do it without getting overspray on everything in my workshop! So the shelter would be “the cat’s meow” shall I say?! You make it look so easy Larissa! I am so inspired by all that you do. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of following your blog. 🙂
Larissa says
haha…meowwwww! You are so right. That is half the battle because, like you, I don’t have a spray booth in my workshop and these pop-ups are perfect. Thank you for the love, Judy!
Bonnie says
Can’t wait for my building to get finished and then I will be able to do fun stuff like this..
Larissa says
I’m excited for you!
Lorri Meyer says
Gorgeous!!!
Larissa says
Thank you for saying so, Lorri.
Linda L. says
It turned out beautifully! The colors are perfection ?! I wish I had a sprayer to do all my projects
Larissa says
aww…thanks! That means so much. Yes, the sprayers and shelters are a must for me for sure.
Valerie J. Ray says
Beautiful! Love the details on this piece that just needed someone with an eye to bring them out. Thank you for the inspiration. I have a dresser in need of a makeover I now feel inspired to tackle Thanks!
Larissa says
Your words mean so much. Thank you, Valerie. I truly aim to inspire and I’m delighted you are on that path. Hugs!
Angie says
I dabble in refinishing furniture myself, the spray tent would come in handy. I know my husband would appreciate it since I’m doing my projects in the garage (aka his domain!). Love the navy color ??
Larissa says
haha! I hear that! You will LOVE the shelter for so many things.
Megan says
I think I’m weird… I love the tear drop pulls!!! Actually Loved the shadowy look of it as it was sitting in the tent ready to be primed?!! Lol I’m crazy! But the after is beautiful as well!!?
Larissa says
Not at all. I love the pulls if they were there. haha. What you see is only the backplates – the pulls were missing. Thanks so much for the love and giggle, Megan.
Ginny says
Love the color of the tv stand! I can not image how long it would have taken to paint this project without this paint sprayer! Now that it is getting cooler in my neck of the woods a spray shelter would be great to use on my porch to paint the coffee table my son brought home last summer from a neighbor’s trash pile.
Larissa says
Thanks! Yes, by brush would have been brutal, but doable. I’m so glad you like it. It’s cooler here too so the garage for me! 😀
Janina says
As always your work is beautiful.l only wish l had your skills !
Larissa says
You are the sweetest, Janina. Thank you!
Nancy F Lambert says
It’s Beautiful
Larissa says
Thank you.
Trina says
This turned out to be so beautiful! Great job!
Larissa says
Awesome!! Thank you!!
Becky says
Oh, I really like that color! Nice job!!!
Micah says
I Love the details!
Beth Storrs says
What an amazing cabinet and your painting is so so good! With a very small yard and no workshop, I’ve been painting in my kitchen and would love to be able to do all of this outside! That tent is amazing!!!
Larissa says
How wonderful of you to say. Thank you, Beth! I wish I had a shelter to give to everyone. This size is my favorite.
Jo Ann says
We have an old dresser that is just crying out for some love! I love that blue color! I think sometimes I get in a rut by playing it safe.
Larissa says
I hear ya. Color makes life fun! Though I tend to neutrals, but that’s why I do what I do so I can create with color for others and still get my kicks. haha.
Jeanette says
What a gorgeous piece, Larissa! It turned out beautifully! And that color. …♥️♥️♥️
Larissa says
Thank you! The blue was just such a handsome color choice. I’m smitten! 😀
Judy Newell says
Kathryn is a lucky lady! This piece is beautiful. Now, if I had a spray tent, I promise that I would complete every single project that I have ever dreamed of!!
Larissa says
I’m so glad her friend suggested she reach out to me. That was fun! You will love the shelter, Judy.
Patricia Bates Martinez says
Absolutely beautiful! You have a gift for knowing what colors and finishes will bring out the beauty of a piece. That’s one reason I follow you! Thank you too for detailed tutorials. Makes life good for us who follow.
Larissa says
I could hug ya, Patricia. You are so sweet! Thank you.
Susan B says
I like the blue on this piece soo much better than the original finish. I love blue as an accent and I just need to find the right size piece to add to my decor. You did a great job-as usual! I enjoy your blog very much and look forward to each one. You inspire and encourage us all. Thank you for sharing your talents and for the chance to win the spray shelter. I already have the Home Right sprayer, but alas it is still in its box? waiting for its shelter “soul mate”! Hope I win!
Hugs, Susan
Larissa says
You are so wonderful to leave such a feel-good comment, Susan. Thank you! I wish I could help you get that out of the box and have at it! 😀 You will fast become addicted when you do. tee hee.
Lorene Dehl says
This turned out great! I wasn’t so sure with the before pic, but looks amazing.
Larissa says
Thanks! Looks can be deceiving…tee hee!
Kelly D says
This turned out great! I would paint my coffee table.
Larissa says
Thanks! That sounds perfect.
Kaycee says
Hi Larissa, I love all the details on this piece and those curvy legs!!! The Hale Navy paint color looks great on this piece and your custom mix paint looks great in the inside of this piece. Great teamwork ladies!!
Larissa says
High five on behalf of the two of us. woot! Thank you, Kaycee.
Cheryl Atkinson says
Great transformation. I have 10 pieces of furniture sitting in my garage and i desperately need this sprayer.
Larissa says
Thank you. The giveaway is or the shelter this time around. 😉 It’s handy for that too!
Patty Soriano says
What a gorgeous piece! At first that color looked like baby blue in the can, but I just adore the deep blue it became! Larissa….do you clean the spray tent after you use it ? if so, how ?
Larissa says
Thanks, Patty! 😀 The shelter mostly gets tainted, but it goes for years and years as mine has. The best part is they’re affordable enough to replace if need be.
Cate says
LOVE what you did with the piece! Kudos!! I got an idea from this project for a piece I wasn’t sure what color to paint. Your undercoat looked a silvery grey to me and that will be the color I use on an old cabinet. I’ll also use a glaze to highlight the trims. THANKS! Keep up the great work Larissa!
Larissa says
{{happy dance!!}} Thank you so much, Cate. That sounds like a fun project coming up. 😉
Lynn says
oh my stars! that blue is stunning! a paint sprayer and tent are on my wishlist. I am forever outside painting something. Endless spray cans are driving me nuts though.
Larissa says
You sound like me! Yes…cans can be a nemesis. haha.
Renee Pedersen says
Very nice! I would have never thought of that color but it totally works! I guess I stay pretty boring with off white, black or grey. Maybe it is time I get a little more daring! I have been eyeing a shelter for a while now. I just have a makeshift one that I use now that I use when I use spray paint. That one would be awesome to use with the sprayer! Love your stuff Larissa! You do great work!
TeresaSue says
Yes, I LOVE this project. It was definitely a diamond in the rough.
I have so many pieces I need to paint that I would have to be blind folded and throw a dart, lol.
I’m not a Facebook user so I can’t check in there and I’m already subscribed to your newsletter.
I especially love your PRACTICAL applications for real people. Keep up the great work.
Larissa says
bwahahaha! You crack me up! Thank you so much for the love, TeresaSue.
Laura says
The entertainment center is a beautiful piece of furniture. The blue paint accentuates the details and your eye is drawn to them. A spray shelter would be a great piece of equipment to have, no more painting in the garage with drop cloths everywhere! It tends to be breezy all the tame here in the desert!
Larissa says
Those details really are the showcased feature on this. I’m delighted you like it. Thank you. I totally here you about the breezes. Fall winds blowing out summer warmth right now here.
Audra says
Wow! So much better!!!!
Larissa says
Woot! Thank you!
Linda says
That TV stand looks absolutely gorgeous! I would love to win the Homeright shelter. I know I will never get one otherwise! Sure would allow more great projects.
Larissa says
Yahoo!! I’m tickled to have had the chance to work on it. Thank you! You will love the shelter for sure.
Betty says
Even though I have a barn to paint in, this would be a great motivation tool ♡ Your projects always turn out great !
Larissa says
Jelly over here! I’d love to have a place to paint. Thank you for the love, Betty. 🙂
Shelley S says
Normally it KILLS me to see wood items painted, but tis is GLORIOUS! That blue is fantastic!
Larissa says
Woot! Honestly, this is not all wood, with fake pressed pieces in it and most likely made in Thailand…seriously. But…it looks good and works so we are all about making our house our home. Thanks for the love, Shelley.
Deb Sparkle-Townley says
Such a beautiful piece! I would love to find something like this! Well done and I love the blue!!!
Larissa says
It sure is handy piece for fitting in most anywhere. I love the blue too! 😀
Charlene Paugh says
That looks soooooooo much better in blue !!! So nice of you to take on a project for someone else, cause I know how hectic and busy life can be !
Larissa says
I second that (blue lover here). 😉 Thanks so much. It was fun to do something on the fly from my norm.
Lisa Anne says
Absolutely love it! I have an ancient buffet that would look great in this color! Quick rookie question. I can imagine my sons and grandsons moving the TV on the stand in all different directions depending where they are sitting. When do you put a poly finish on? Only when staining or can it be done after priming and painting too?if I want to really protect my projects from the boys (their famous line is “Well, I didn’t know” when they scratch something. Trying to be Super Gramma but don’t want to do all that work only to have the boys scratch it up (inadvertently of course lol). Love your posts always!
Larissa says
Thanks! You most certainly can, though keep in mind most polys yellow over time (I’ve tried them all and not a one doesn’t amber). However, with darker colors it’s harder to tell. I hear ya as a mama to 8…gotta do whatcha gotta do! 😀
Kathy E. says
Loving this cabinet…you always have such perfect taste in color! My first project with the sprayer would be an old golden oak headboard that’s in our guest room…I’d paint it an almond color.
Larissa says
You just made my day, Kathy. Thank you! Although all props go to Kathryn on the color choice. I am totally in love with it too!
Amanda Pennington says
Ok, not gonna lie. I loved that yellow finish before! But I’ll take your word for it that it was nasty in real life. 🙂 I have some tables and such with lots of nooks and crannies that would be PERFECT for a sprayer! I love using spray paint and can’t imagine how much better customization would be!
Larissa says
No worries! Though, like you said, in person it wasn’t yellow. It was the poly that ambered over time which doesn’t look very pretty…like kinda tacky (in the sticky sense) 😉 This sprayer is the best!
Dale Cundy says
Such a wonderful color for such a detailed piece! I love It! Thanks for the opportunity to win a HomeRight Spray Shelter. ? I really need it to paint so many pieces of furniture that remain undone.
Larissa says
Thanks! And you bet. I’d send them to everyone if I could.
gwen says
THANK YOU for painting it! not sure what color scheme it went with before, but this blue is so much prettier! and i like the inside too!
Larissa says
I so wholeheartedly agree. Her new look to her room will fit it perfectly!
Donna Gonzalez says
I’ve been contemplating buying a shelter for spraying for all my upcycling goodies in my garage – but winning would be BETTER! I love the blue you painted this table.
Larissa says
It sure would! 😀 I’m so glad you like it. You’ll love the shelter for sure!
Kisti Huffman says
I’d love the shelter! I have an antique radio I want to paint!
Larissa says
Fun!
Alison S says
I have some chairs that I would spray inside of the shelter. Thank you for the opportunity to win!
Larissa says
You’re welcome. 🙂
SONJA H HANSEN says
Great color change. And, I am impressed with the size of this shelter. Big enough to do some nice pieces, but not too big to handle.
Larissa says
Yes! It is definitely my favorite of the 3 sizes I have to use.
SONJA H HANSEN says
I am hoping to get my mother’s via her grand-mother’s Singer treadle sewing machine cabinet painted. I have had it primed for a couple of years and life got in the way.
Larissa says
It would be a perfect candidate.
Stacye Hixson says
I have so many projects that need painting but it’s too hot for me outside. I could set this tent up in my basement and spray paint away.
Larissa says
That sounds perfect.
Terri Hughes says
The cabinet turned out so pretty. Love the hale blue color. I have several pieces of furniture that i need to paint. This sprayer would make the job so much faster.
Larissa says
Thank you, Terri. You will love the shelter for your projects.
JANET SCHEN says
Oh my goodness! It looks so beautiful dressed in that blue! It has so much detail and just looks great!
Larissa says
It was totally meant to be. I love the color she chose too!
Tanya says
Love this project! It is gorgeous. Being able to spray paint have it a beautiful finish. If I had a spray tent, i would first tackle a side 4able for living room.
Larissa says
Thanks, Tanya! Yes, the spray really makes the difference in a piece like this.
Babette says
This is an awesome piece!! Those wood details are so beautiful!! I would love to have a home right sprayer!! My first project would be spraying my kitchen cabinets!! I’ve always wanted to paint them.
Larissa says
You’re so fun, Babette. Thanks for the smile! 😀 The shelter and sprayer help me do a the best at my job.
Toni says
I love this piece. I have some yard sale chairs I would spray.
Larissa says
Me too! That sounds perfect.
N. MacGregor says
Another example of how a coat or 2 of paint can turn an ugly duckling into a “Thing” of beauty. I absolutely love how the cabinet was transformed into something the owner would be proud to use in their media room.
Larissa says
It sure is amazing what paint and the right tools/know-how can do. I’m excited too!
Cassandra D says
The vintage dresser in the garage.
N. MacGregor says
I forgot to mention in my first post that the first project(s) I would tackle with the spray booth would be a 2 piece wooden set for my family room which includes a corner shelf and coffee table.
Larissa says
Those both sound perfect for the spray fun. 😉
Cheryl B. says
That color is gorgeous ????
Larissa says
I couldn’t agree more. 😀
Elisabeth Becker says
I love how paint transforms things! I would spray this little toy chest we have that needs a good sanding and painting!
Larissa says
You and me both. I’m always amazed. 😀 That sounds like a sweet project to do.
jeremy mclaughlin says
Have an old dresser that needs an update.
Catherine Klose says
Gorgeous! I’m just curious as to your painting technique for the inside of the cabinet. Did you do that with a brush and you suggest painting the inside after the outside, correct?
And if I had one of these shelters, I would pretty much paint anything that was standing still!!! HAHA
Larissa says
Thanks! Normally I spray first the inside, then tape it off and do the outside. She decided on the inside after I had started the out side, so I did it with my favorite brushes. You sound like me…bwahaha!!:D
Cheryl says
I really love the color on this tv stand, what an improvement with just paint! I have a bunch of smalls I need to paint. I had no idea they had a medium size, just small and large. We have some much wind here that I am thinking of checking into something like this. Have a great day!
Larissa says
I’m stoked to hear it, Cheryl. Thanks! Yes, this is definitely one of my faves sized shelters for sure. You will love it!
Marie says
Those lovely details just pop now! I bet Kathryn was super excited when she saw it.
Larissa says
Yes! I loved how the shine makes the details pop. Thanks, Marie. She did love it which was the icing on the top.
Hollie Jahnke says
So beautiful!! I would start with my coffee table.
Larissa says
Thank you, Hollie. Perfect project piece. 🙂
Kenia says
I would tackle my media console!
Kathy says
Beautiful Workmanship as always! Question: You mentioned that when you paint the inside first, you tape off and then spray the outside. To “tape off,” do you put tape around the inside of the cabinet door frame and then close the door? If so, I’m wondering how much spray enters the cabinet since you can’t press the tape down on the inside against the doors after you close them?
Larissa says
When I paint the color inside a contrasting color, I paint the inside, then, depending on if I want the door sides the same as the exterior, I tape off for that when I do the exterior. I didn’t get any inside on this one, and if I did I can touch up with a brush too. Really super easy.
Stephanie Crane says
I have a light colored dresser that I want to repaint. This would work great for this!
Amanda Whitley says
i would use it to make holiday decor.
Sara says
I have a vintage Cosco stool that I picked up at the 127 Sale a few years back. I would love to have the spray shelter to freshen up this piece.
Jenny Ham says
I love what you have done the blue looks great. I would first start on some patio items that need some updates.
Larissa says
Thank you, Jenny.
Mary says
So much nicer now.
Larissa says
Thank you for saying so, Mary. Hugs!!