For some odd reason, I really like a challenge. Especially when it comes to getting my DIY kick. Take, for instance, this thrifted nightstand. A local gal is tired of cleaning unnecessary things, so she passes this along to me as her grandson doesn’t use it. It’s a Broyhill nightstand from the vintage days, but just needs some modern love.
Why do I want to change this? Well, it’s much like this twin nightstand my daughter, Miss E, redid a few years back. With that, I want to have a go at this myself and completely change the vibe. The original pulls are rusty and cruddy, and they’re on the sides, so I recycle those.
In addition, the top finish is mottled (I think due to water damage) and needs removal.
CHOPPING BLOCK
First, I remove all the hardware and fill the leftover holes with dowel and wood filler and sand smooth. Then, I drill new holes for knobs yet to come.
Likewise, the top gets a sanding with a sigh of relief.
Now for the fun part! I have nothing against the scalloped skirt on the bottom, but since I want to make this modern, I whip out my builder’s square. I mark a line across and also make an angle so that I am completely changing the style. However, before I can do that, I have to remove staples and things in the way when I saw.
Can you see the cut lines? Just so you know, this isn’t my first rodeo changing up a nightstand. When I did this one, a gal had the gall to tell me I ruined it. Not only does that no matter, but what does matter is the new owner loved it.
Here’s the end result after cutting all four sides of the skirt.
So much better for what I’m after! Do you love it too? Just wait until I’m done. tee hee.
PAINT
Next, I use a clear matte polycrylic to topcoat the top with three coats. Meanwhile that is curing, I mix up a custom color paint for the base, drawers, and skirt. mmm… just right.
THE FINISH
Last, here is my thrifted nightstand with a fresh, new look and ready for many more years.
I’m not only smitten with the color, but also the look. I think the wood top grounds it, and bottom has the updated look, and the function is improved as I take care of the drawer guides.
The metal hardware is from my stash of new knobs that were waiting for just a time as this.
As always, I’m eager to the hilt to inspire YOU. I hope you find this encouraging you to give DIY a try. If you’d like to own this nightstand, you can find it and more in my online store.
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It is definitely better with the modern touch. Your custom color mix is fun and the knobs way better than those over produced brass pulls that I swear are on almost every dresser I’ve ever had. You are encouraging/motivating, that’s for sure Larissa. Now I just need the energy.
happy dance! haha. You made me giggle and I get it with those swag pulls. 😀 I also hear you on the energy!
I don’t know how you have time to sleep, let alone type!!! You are amazing and so is this chest!!!! 😎
You should see me bleary-eyed at 3 or 4 am every day. haha! I’m glad I can. Hugs for the love, Rebecca.
Gorgeous! Looks great.
Thank you so much, Mary!
Oh, it looks so MUCH better now, Larissa! I love the color and the new knobs. Great job!!
Much love and energy to you!
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whew! I’m so happy with it, Caye. Thank you for making me smile! 😀
I love the make over! Beautiful blue and the simple base really changes up the feel of the piece.
I’m so glad you think so, Trudy. It felt good to change it up.
Ohhhh, SO, SO much better! You rocked it!
Yippee!! I’m delighted you love it, Joanne. Thank you!
STUNNING!!! BRINGS ME BACK TO MY CHILDHOOD WE HAD THE EXACT NIGHT TABLES. LOVE THE MAKEOVER AND LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR POSTS EVERY WEEK.
aww… Robin, I could hug ya. Thank you for the smile and virtual hug. Thank you!
So much better now!! I love everything you do : you are extremely clever and talented.
You are a dear to say so, Joan. Thank you!!