I don’t know about you, but I run across unfinished primitive pieces of furniture all the time and as much as I like the rustic look, sometimes it needs revitalized because of damage or wear. Today, I want to show you how easy it is to update old wood with a simple treatment using stain.

My candidate for this makeover is a primitive chicken wire cupboard I got off of Craigslist.

A lady was moving and unloading all sort of furniture that was not her style anymore and she was done with Americana decor. This cupboard is in great shape structurally, but has marker drawings, and had plenty of water rings on the top.

Thankfully, most of the stains are not chemical related and will be an easy fix to hide. Of course, you can always paint something like this, but that would require a few coats and a whole lot more work.

DIY TIME

To save me on steps, and because I love to keep wood that is in good shape in its wood state, I chose to update this cupboard with stain. I left the doors on, but removed the latches, knobs, and beadboard backing to make staining easier.

At first, I was going to use a dark stain, but the more I looked at it, the more I wanted to lighten the color of the cupboard. However, my choice was this Sunbleached stain we used on our bedroom floor and also on this coffee table makeover.

Then, using a foam brush, I let one coat of stain soak in and then wiped off the excess with an old sock. (you know I have plenty of those hanging around!)

NEXT STEPS

For the beadboard, I wanted to lighten it up as well, so I gave it a coat of flat white paint. I can certainly use another finish like eggshell or satin, but I want this to be a sort of wash and keep with the primitive scheme.

After all cures, we are ready to reassemble. First, I use my nailer to put the beadboard back on. Then, I replace the pulls and latches.

THE FINISH

This whole process only took me a couple of hours, but the after was soooo worth it. It’s simple to update old wood.

Now this once sad-looking cupboard showcases a rustic touch. It’s a perfect spot for displaying your wares. If you love it, you can find it available in my online shop.

I think sometimes we tire of our decor because it is tired looking. So, why not refresh your home and be budget conscious at the same time? No need to break the bank to update your decor. For example, that screen sifter is an easy repurposing decorative item with magnets and botanical prints.

While those vintage green water jars are from Curb le Chic via my friend. tsk. Gotta love good friends.

SHARE

The next time you see a piece that has a good skeleton with raw wood, give stain a try. Why not for a quick fix to update old wood, right? I’d love it if you would pin and share to inspire others to do the same. ♥

Next up, I have this thrifted set ready for a makevoer. Come on over to see what I did with these HERE.

Also, more makeovers for you like how to update old wood: