Top
Subscribe for free and never miss a post

Upcycled Entertainment Center into Child’s Wardrobe

This is what happens when I head into the thrift store looking for a small project to work on. I didn’t find anything but pressed wood junk, and then there’s this big beast. I stop, I stare, I talk to myself. Do you do that? Well, after much discussion with me, myself, and I, I decided to haul this bad boy home. Meet my latest project…an upcycled entertainment center.

Vintage Entertainment Center Before Upcycle by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

The funny thing is that I have seriously backed off my furniture projects for more reason than one. However, I needed to fulfill a requirement and this would fit the bill. It has damage, but has potential. Also, it would help me fulfill one of my bucket list pieces of creating a child’s wardrobe.

Entertainment Interior | prodigalpieces.com

Side of Vintage Entertainment Center | prodigalpieces.com

I’m usually pretty anal about checking things over before I bring them home. I saw the damaged veneer, the messed up hardware, and need to retrofit it for my needs. However, what I completely missed was the odor.

Damage to Veneer on Entertainment Center | prodigalpieces.com

The weird thing is it didn’t stink from the outside, but only inside the upper portion. Well, that pretty much deemed this unusable for my requirement. But…I’m not a quitter and feel you would benefit from me showing you how to tackle a smoky piece. Plus, it seems cast-off entertainment centers are now a dime a dozen. Grab the next one you see!

START AT THE BEGINNING

One other thing I found was that the drawer, at some point, had these adhesive pieces added to store CD’s inside. They were easy enough to pop out and I passed them on to a someone who could use them. Not a thing gets wasted around here!

Entertainment Center Drawer Before | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

American Masterpiece Collection Furniture by Hickory Entertainment Center | prodigalpieces.com

Next, I began to remove damaged veneer and fill all those ginormous gouges with wood filler. See the mud on the feet left to dry? Geesh. Someone really didn’t care for this thing.

Wood Filler Spots on Upcycled Entertainment Center | prodigalpieces.com

In addition to making repairs, I also took out the built-in electrical outlets (saved for later), and added piece to cover the holes for cords. Round dowel cut into discs filled some of the holes, while scrap wood pieces covered others. My little man had fun helping me make the pieces needed.

Boy Sawing Scrap Wood to Help with Upcycled Entertainment Center | prodigalpieces.com

NEXT STEP

Of course, I also need to do some building in order to make this upcycled entertainment center into a child’s wardrobe. The only other thing missing is a clothing rack. Thankfully, that’s a simple fix with a few blocks of wood and a dowel.

I used my Kreg Jig to add pocket screw holes. Then, I used my drill and forstner bit to make a spot for the dowel to rest. Doesn’t this look like a surprised face that I’m doing so awesome?!? hee hee.

Wood Block with Pocket Joint Holes | prodigalpieces.com

UP NEXT

Then, after all the prep is done, it’s time for mission “smoke-free” to begin. I will be straight-up honest and say that over the years I have tried everything there is to cover, remove, alleviate smoke from pieces I’ve inherited. While, soaking it in sunshine is always a great option, but unless you have months at your disposal, there’s not any other way to treat it naturally.

However, if you really want to kick the smoke fest in the fanny, here’s what I do. You need to cover the ENTIRE THING, even underneath all parts, with this shellac primer.

Actually, this particular primer not only blocks stains that I encounter with this mahogany piece bleeding through, but also odors. It is nasty stuff to work with, but it WORKS. When I say nasty, I’m referring to the chemicals in it. I purchased the version in the white base to provide color block too. However, you can purchase it in a clear version if you prefer the wood to peek through.

The onliest way to use it efficiently, productively, and safely is in a sprayer. With my HomeRight Super Finish Max, I had the entire entertainment center covered in less than 30 minutes from setup to finish. What is more, just make sure you wear a respirator with organic filters, work outside (or well-ventilated area), and safety gear. The best part? It only takes one coat and the odor is GONE. I’m doing the happiest of happy dances over here!!

HomeRight Super Finish Max to Help Take Care of Smoky Furniture as demonstrated by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

You can view it in action below.

How to Use the HomeRight Super Finish Max Sprayer for Home and More by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

AFTER PAINT

When my primer is dry, I apply two coats of a basic white paint and call that part done. Yahoo! The only thing next is to add a bit of whimsy with wallpaper and add the hardware. My little guy chipped in to help again. Sniff…he’s getting so big!

Young Son Helping Mama in Upcycle DIY | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #furniture #kids

Here is my upcycled entertainment center turned child’s wardrobe. I LOVE IT!

Vintage White Wardrobe DIY from Upcycled Entertainment Center by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #diy #home #baby #nursery #homedecor

Vintage White Wardrobe from Upcycled Entertainment Center for Baby Girl by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #furniture #home #baby #girl #nursery #homedecor

However, I wanted to keep the outside neutral, but let the fun happen on the inside. That way, you could leave the pocket doors open on a daily grind basis and have a clean finished piece for guests.

Adorable Upcycled Entertainment Center turned into Wardrobe for Baby by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #baby #nursery #furniture #homedecor #diy

Baby Girl Clothing Wardrobe made from Upcycled Entertainment Center by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #baby #nursery #diy #furniture

Upcycled Entertainment Center turned Child's Wardrobe for Baby Nursery by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #furniture #home #homedecor #nursery #baby

Now, this provides storage, whimsy, and an heirloom piece that can be handed down from generation to generation.  I even include these cute wooden hangers to make it handy. Do you love it too?

Side View of Upcycled Entertainment Center Turned Baby Girl Wardrobe by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #baby #furniture #homedecor #nursery

Antique Child's Rocking Chair with Handmade Doll by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #antique #handmade #doll #baby #home #homedecor

I don’t know about you, but kids grow up way too fast. I feel as if I blink I’ll miss it all. sniff… This child’s wardrobe idea can even function for adults too. It’s a handy space for extra storage within a piece of furniture if closet space is limited.

AVAILABLE IN SHOP

If you’d like to own this newly created piece, you can find it available in my online shop. (SOLD) We do deliver to your door for half the cost of most. Stop by to see what else is available for your home and gift ideas too.

  • Magic Linen Beige Waffle Blanket available at Prodigal Pieces | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #bedding
    Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130

You can create this Upcycled Entertainment Center turned Child's Wardrobe too! | Details at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #furniture #homedecor #upcycle

Do pin and share my upcycled entertainment center to inspire others to recreate their found items.

Check out this upcycled entertainment center turned child's armoire for nursery decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | DIY details at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #furniture #baby #nursery #home #homedecor

Up next, it’s Trash to Treasure Tuesday time! I am sharing what I create with my stash of metal “junk” (aka. #trashure). Head HERE TO SEE.

Salvaged Metal Junk Before Upcycle | 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 signature

let's get socialMEWE | PINTEREST | GAB

Also, more fun projects like my upcycled entertainment center:

Say whaat?! This upcycled bookcase was turned into an adorable pretend play farmer's market stand. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces shared the DIY details on her blog prodigalpieces.com | #prodigalpieces #kids #toys #handmade #home #homedecor #furniture #diyRepurposed Radio Cabinet Turned into Whimsical Dollhouse by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

 

Comments

  1. Micah says

    This turned out very nice. I like the wallpaper in side!

    • Larissa says

      Thank you, Micah. It’s a paper leftover from a vintage radio cabinet I upcycled.

  2. Stephanie says

    It’s beautiful, you’re very creative❣️

  3. Linda C Johnston says

    Another outstanding transformation! Great job!

  4. Susie | Chelsea Project says

    Love this so much! I believe that old TV unit pieces are the unsung heroes of the refinishing world. It’s easy to refinish a piece to continue its original function, but to refinish and repurpose… that’s a new level. Super congrats. Some little girl is going to be thrilled with this little gem.

    • Larissa says

      You are so fun because you get it, Susie. Thank you! I sure would love to have room for a few to store my craft and fabric fun.

  5. Patty Soriano says

    SO sweet! You have such a great way of putting things to another use !!

    • Larissa says

      I’m tickled to hear it, Patty. I sure have fun trying and hope to inspire.

  6. Marie says

    Beautiful save and clever repurpose for this old entertainment center, Larissa! A little girl is going to be very happy with her pretty new wardrobe, thanks to you. Pinned

    • Larissa says

      Thanks, Marie! I kinda got suckered into two large pieces, but I had fun giving it a go. 😀

  7. Mary Loveland says

    How fun is this wardrobe! Love that wallpaper too….well done again Larissa!

  8. Jeanie-Q says

    Very cute! They use to make storage like this for children. I had one for my son when he was a baby 50 years ago. Yours is way cuter.

    • Larissa says

      aww…that’s awesome! I’m sure you had as much fun as I did.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks, Rena! Finally got around to getting this idea out of my head. 🙂

  9. Kaycee says

    Hi Larissa, what a sweet piece of furniture for a little (or big) girls room! I love the pretty paper you used too. Thank you for sharing all your helpful tips.

    • Larissa says

      Yay! Thanks so much. Yes, that’s my way of thinking – that’s it’s perfect for so many uses.

  10. Becky says

    Oh how pretty! This one is beautiful inside and out! Very nice job!

    • Larissa says

      You are so sweet to say that. Thank you very much, Becky! 😀

  11. Michelle says

    This is beautiful!! I had the same idea for a old armoire to use in my baby’s nursery! Can I ask where you got the little wooden hangers ? Thanks !

    • Larissa says

      Thanks so much, Michelle, and congratulations!! I found them at a local hardware store. They can often order if they don’t have it in stock and it comes in a couple days.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

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!

~ Sharon

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

~ Sharon

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!

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!

~ Deanna

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:52:00-04:00

~ Deanna

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!
0
0
Prodigal Pieces