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Vintage Blanket Chest with Folk Art Style

Are you ready for some furniture fun?! I am!! There’s nothing better than sharing your passion with like-minded folk. That’s why Furniture Fixer Uppers Day is one of my favorite times of the month. You’ll see my gal friends’ projects in a bit, but first I want to introduce you to my vintage blanket chest (aka. dog chew toy).

Vintage Blanket Chest Before Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

I’m going to be perfectly honest with you…I was mad I bought this. First, to defend myself, I did look at all the possible problems it may have: stink, damage (I was more concerned about the lid), functionality, etc. However, I somehow missed the one side and how badly chewed up it was. Eventually, the sting was softened by the fact I got to use my 35% off coupon at the thrift store. But…free and/or cheap almost always means WORK.

Dog Chewed Corner of Vintage Blanket Chest | prodigalpieces.com

Damaged Blanket Chest | prodigalpieces.com

Another bonus is that it was a nice Lane cedar chest. Right? The top is damaged, but nothing I can’t handle.

Vintage Blanket Chest Top | prodigalpieces.com

Vintage Cedar Lined Lane Blanket Chest | prodigalpieces.com

However, the positives quickly fell to the wayside once I got started. Even my kids knew I was in for it after I showed them the damage report. My initial make-myself-feel-better thought was…”just pop the trim off and put new on”. Yeah, whatever. meh.

Removing Damage from Vintage Blanket Chest | prodigalpieces.com

HOT MESS

Pop, nothing! First, this beast was not solid wood, but rather veneer over particle board in most places, so that wasn’t happening. Best answer to that problem? Bust the whole thing off. bwahahaha!!  aaaahhh…that felt SO good.

Blanket Chest Repair and Restoration by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Then, as you may notice, I also removed the pulls and filled the holes for new, plus took of those eyebrow looking pieces from the top two faux drawers. Looking better already!

Next comes the head-smacking part. I now had to rebuild the entire base from scratch. Here is my work after getting it cut with my jigsaw and miter saw.

New Built Blanket Chest Base by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

MORE WORK

So…here lies said victim with new appendages and is belly up for the process. Super thankful for my Kreg Jig and drill to speed the job along.

Adding New Blanket Chest Base | prodigalpieces.com

Our end result is a like-new vintage blanket chest with cedar lining ready to get a whole new lease on life.

Rebuilt Damaged Lane Cedar Chest by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

After that, I sand all the wood filler and damage with my sander and then prepped it for stain. My pick for stain was Java Gel, the same stain I used on my dining set in this post.

Staining Blanket Chest with General Finishes Java Gel by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

TIME FOR PAINT

That dark, rich color was perfect to give me the base color I was after. For the next step, it’s all about color. Its name is Emerald Forest in an eggshell finish.

Beautiful Green Paint for Vintage Blanket Chest by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Isn’t that a happy color? When I get a broken down piece that pretty much says to me, “Time to have some fun!” You can see what I mean with my Dumpster Diva or my BEEP.

Thankfully, the paint goes on beautifully. Last, I let the first coat cure for 2 hours.

Applying First Coat of Green Paint by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

In all my years of doing furniture, I’ve always wanted to try to create a folk-art piece that gave props to my Polish heritage. My goal was to try to create a piece that tells a story with my inspiration coming from the village of Zalipie.

Colorful House in Zalipie, Poland as photographed by Aga Kozmic of A Matter of Taste via prodigalpieces.com

photo courtesy of A Matter of Taste

Blue Flowers on House in Zalipie, Poland by Aga Kozmic of A Matter of Taste via prodigalpieces.com

photo courtesy of A Matter of Taste

Once the second coat cured, I started my hand-painted design.

Hand-painted Folk Art Design on Vintage Blanket Chest by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

That green base color was just the beginning of my color fun. Even though it took me many hours to paint each layer, it was such fun I didn’t even notice. Last, I lightly distressed once the paint cured. Likewise, after that I added a coat of black wax.

Shop Prodigal Pieces Furniture, Vintage Finds, Handmade Goods, & Supplies for your home | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

THE REVEAL

Finally, are you ready to see how my crazy adventure came together with this vintage blanket chest? You bet I am!

Green Polish Folk Art Blanket Chest with Hand-Painted Design by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Hand-Painted Polish Folk Art Blanket Chest by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Is it bold? Yes. Is it fun? Yes. It totally turned out how I envisioned. The vibrant colors are what reminded me of the little Polish doll my grandfather gave me. Sadly, he passed when I was a year old, and I didn’t get to know him. My grandmother (my babcia) also joined him in the heavenly realms not long ago. Top of Folk Art Painted Blanket Chest by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Vintage Lane Cedar Lined Blanket Chest by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Faux Key Escutcheon to Replace Blanket Chest Lock on Vintage Furniture by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Hand-Painted Blanket Chest, Hope Chest by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Additionally, they traveled to the U.S.A. when my mother was twelve and I can’t thank them enough for making that journey. Imagine if her and my dad never met?

Primitive Polish Folk Art Blanket Chest by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Polish Hand-Painted Furniture with Primitive Folk Art Style by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Antique Embossed Brass Bin Pulls on Vintage Blanket Chest by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Likewise, I hope I captured a bit of the feel of the culture and created a piece that will be cherished for years to come.

Vintage Style Bedroom Decor with Folk Art Influence by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Vintage Style Bedroom with Loads of Color and Folk Art Charm by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Floral Vignette with Sunflowers and Zinnias by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Likewise, pin and share my vintage blanket chest makeover to inspire others to see past the dog chewed mess and see the potential that lies instead.

Who knew a chewed up vintage blanket chest could look so good?! Rebuilt from the bottom up and given a folk art flair, this piece tells a story. DIY details by Larissa at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #homedecor #diy #farmhouse #handmade #furniture

Rebulit and Created by Hand, this Folk Art Blanket Chest tells a story by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #handmade #furniture #diy

MORE FUN

Up next, this thrifted cart is about to get a modern update HERE.

Vintage Mid Century Bar Cart Before Makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Now, it’s time to see what my gal friends have for you.

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Furniture Fixer Uppers ~ A Furniture Makeover Group | Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Furniture Fixer Uppers August 2018 | prodigalpieces.com

    1. Just the Woods
    2. The Interior Frugalista
    3. Confessions of a Serial DIYer
    4. Petticoat Junktion
    5. Girl in the Garage

In addition, more projects like my vintage blanket chest makeover:

From blucky paint to farmhouse chic, this blanket chest has new life. See the makeover by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.comWhat a difference! This vintage Lane cedar chest looks amazing with the new cottage style look. Come see how to get the crackle finish with tutorial by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. Susan Moon says

    Thanks so much for showing how you repaired the base! You did an awesome job!

  2. Kim says

    Larissa, you have such talent! I’d love to come intern with you for a year. This is not my style but I can still say it’s beautiful!

  3. ColleenB.~Texas says

    What an outstanding job on building of the new base. The chest is beautiful.
    our TV ientertainment center could really use a make-over and them brushes sure would be handy in doing so.
    Thank you for this wonderful giveaway opportunity

  4. Susan says

    I love this! I have Polish heritage as well and this is just stunning. So much hand painting and the colors are great. I always look forward to your posts, Larissa.

    • Larissa says

      It was fun for me in many ways. Thank you for seeing my vision, Susan. Hugs!

  5. Deirdre BReau says

    OH MY GOODNESS!!! You truly have a gift from God and amaze me more each time. I love seeing your transformations and always come away inspired. Keep up the great work.

    • Larissa says

      You made me tear up, Deirdre. Thank you as I needed a lift today. It is my pleasure to share.

  6. Rebecca - Knoxville, TN says

    Love this update and the story behind it. The “eyebrow things” description made me laugh!

    • Larissa says

      hee hee hee…that was the first thing out of my mouth… “those bushy eyebrows have got to go”. 😀

  7. Addison's Attic says

    oh my goodness Larissa.. So very cute! this Polish girl too love its new look. You knocked this one out of the park.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks so much! I would love to visit Poland some day. I have family there I’ve never met. Hugs to you for the love you’ve shown.

  8. Elaine says

    What a beautiful piece it is now! Your creativity never ceases to amaze, and inspire me!

    • Larissa says

      How absolutely wonderful to hear. It was so invigorating to do something for my own self. Thank you!

  9. Lee Oliverio says

    Just beautiful! You are an inspiration, I always stop whatever I’m doing and read your posts ?. I wonder if you have some traditional Polish recipes?

    • Larissa says

      How absolutely wonderful to hear, Lee. I was a bit nervous to share this – thank you! I do have some recipes. 😉

  10. Queen of Rods says

    I love your hand-painted chest. It is so bright and cheerful 🙂

    • Larissa says

      Thank you! It sure was a fun trip down memory lane for me.

  11. Kandice says

    How fun! Im loving the bold green! And I know those cheap bases are the worst I had the same thing happen and had to rebuild it too. Ahhh the things we do lol

    • Larissa says

      Green for the win! 😀 They are just awful and I learned my lesson, haha.

    • Larissa says

      It’s one of my favorite things to create. Thank you, Lori.

  12. dianne anderson says

    Wow, I love that chest!

  13. Melanie Brooks says

    I love this makeover! And it’s so nice to hear about your family as well. What a great tribute!

  14. Kathy E. says

    Larissa, you definitely captured the cultural essence on this piece! Knocked it out of the park even! I admire your hand work in painting flowers and designs without a stencil….so good!

    • Larissa says

      Really? I kept questioning myself. Thank you for that. I had fun!

  15. Melanie Brooks says

    I can’t comment”done” on the new group’s Facebook page since my membership isn’t approved yet, but I look forward to being a member!

  16. Suzie says

    Hi Larissa. I wasn’t sure when I saw that green paint in it’s can, but on the piece and with all your fabulous hand painted additions, it is perfect. Your Polish-inspired decorations kinda remind me of traditional English canal boat decor. The world may be huge, but the connections are so much closer than we think.
    I’d love a set of those Zibra brushes, you always give them such good reviews and the results you get more than back-up the praise you give. Sadly, I’m in the UK, so no widget clicking for me! (and so far no UK stockist identified – Amazon have them but it’s an import from the US and a frighteningly expensive delivery charge).

    • Larissa says

      It sure was bold in the can…haha! So fun to get that on and see it come to life. Yes, I know what you mean about the canal boats as well as Scandinavian, Russian and similar decor. All cut from the same cloth. So cool! If you’d like me to quote you a rate for shipping, just email me with your details. Ya never know. 😉

  17. Marcie Lovett says

    So much fresher now!

  18. Sherry Fram says

    Love the blanket chest!! So fun!! I have a chest of drawers that needs a facelift so the brushes would help me fix her right up!!

  19. Terry P says

    Great job on the chest…your hand painting added just the right touch!!!

    • Larissa says

      I couldn’t wait to work on it to see my vision come to life. Thank you, Terry!

  20. Kim C. says

    I love the individual personality you give to each of your pieces – especially this one! I thought you might just re-build with bondo or wood putty, but my goodness – that new base is fabulous (and now I know how to do it if I need to)! 🙂

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! Funny, as that is what I thought until I saw how bad it was. This took much work, but I’m glad because I learned along the way. Hugs!

  21. Jolinda says

    Wow, love all the colors. You are so talented to re-make that base. Amazing. PS love my Zibra brushes and thank you for introducing them to me.

    • Larissa says

      It sure was fun to paint! 😀 I couldn’t have done it without my husband’s help, especially because I needed it done quickly. I’m so excited you love these brushes too! They are the best.

  22. Marisa says

    WoW! You did it again! Cant believe the change in this chest! Although it was A LOT of work – it looks fabulous! Great Job!!

    • Larissa says

      Yippee!! Thank you so much, Marisa. This was a challenge I’m glad I stuck with.

  23. gwen says

    NOTHING stops you Larissa! and then when I saw the paint can open, I was more nervous, but what a wonderful cultural blanket chest you made – absolutely beautiful! especially love the hearts on the corners!

    • gwen says

      AND I was just looking at it again and the drawer pulls are gorgeous!

      • Larissa says

        I couldn’t believe I found them. I kept looking at reproductions and found these for cheaper. Score!!

    • Larissa says

      hahaha! I’m crazy like that for sure… 😉 Yes, green was so fun to break out and I’m glad you love it too. Fun all the way around!

  24. Maria Howard says

    You always make beautiful pieces!!!

    • Larissa says

      Now that made me tear up because sometimes I get slammed by some and I was a little nervous about this one, but at the same time didn’t care. haha. Thanks so much!

  25. Rebecca M says

    Oh my! That green is beautiful! Great job with terrific brushes! They seem ideal for about any project!

    • Larissa says

      It’s such a happy color. Thank you for that. Yes, they work for anything…really!

  26. Carrie says

    You knocked it out of the ballpark with this makeover!

  27. Kimberly says

    I love how you honored your heritage. Great job!

    • Larissa says

      I just love how we all have a story. I wish I knew more about my descendants.

  28. Ellen Shook says

    This redo is seriously well-done, not to mention cute! I have never tried these brushes so it would be wonderful to win them before I start another painting project.

  29. Marie Blackburn says

    How fun is this! Love the bright green and handpainted details. I bet this chest doesn’t last long in your shop!

    • Larissa says

      I truly adore the spirit instilled in my by my elders…a never die spirit always beaming. Thank you, Marie.

  30. Goedele François says

    Great job! I’m a fan of Scandinavian folk art, but it’s pretty similar to some Polish patterns.

    • Larissa says

      Yes, I am in love with it as well as I have a bit of that in me too. All so much to enjoy from our forefathers.

  31. Alicia H says

    love the green you picked! Another home run! congrats! 🙂

    • Larissa says

      It’s such a vibrant happy color. I just loved how it made me smile. Thank you, Alicia. 😀

  32. Peggy says

    Great Job!!! So colorful, love it.

    • Larissa says

      I’m so proud of my family both past and present. Thank you, Bryan.

  33. Ann Boyd Briggs says

    You provide me with so much inspiration to transform junk into usable furniture and decor!

  34. Debra Wise says

    You crack me up with busting off the base and the ‘eyebrows’. Beautiful makeover! Didn’t know what to expect when I saw the green paint but knew you would have a wonderful vision for it. I have an old armoire and a couple of chest of drawers that I need to paint and could use some good brushes! Thanks for the giveaway!

    • Larissa says

      Yeah, baby! It was the best therapy after my frustrations…hahaha!! Green was crazy cool and even I was like…wow. That’s the fun part!

  35. Phyllis Dunn Hartle says

    I am new to rehabbing furniture. It sure is a learning experience, but fun to reimagine pieces. I love your furniture remakes. Without a doubt, good brushes would make the projects easier. Thank You for your inspiration!

    • Larissa says

      Glad to “meet” another kindred spirit, Phyllis. Thanks for the love.

  36. Charlene Paugh says

    I wasn’t sure about the green, but, as usual, you did a beautiful job !!!!1
    I have several projects I’d like to do and new brushes would be much appreciated. Thanks for the giveaway.

  37. Kathy Owen says

    I love your Folk Art piece Larissa. You know all those bold colors have me swooning. Eyebrow things…..too funny.

  38. Kimberly H says

    Oh I love this so much! I only realized this last year that I have Polish heritage and you have inspired me to play with some folk art designs – even if just in my sketch book for this evening.

    • Larissa says

      High five! It’ sure is fun to do. Enjoy, Kimberly. 😉

  39. Becky says

    Oh wow! Those how-you-rebuilt-the-base pictures are like gold! Gotta pin that. The end result is amazing! So much color and vibrancy! You definitely lived up to your inspirations!
    I have all kinds of little projects going right now. A whole stack of trays wanting paint!
    Hey, by the way, one of my brushes I got from you just finished up a repaint-all-the-walls job at our church building! It was great! Miles (more or less, haha!) of ceiling cutting in!

    • Larissa says

      Yay! It sure was a crazy puzzle that would be easier if we were building it new rather than figuring out the old. But…we did it! 😀 Thank you for the giggle. Super glad to hear it went the milks with you. They work awesome!

  40. Dale Cundy says

    What an amazing transformation! You are incredibly gifted. When I first looked at the chest I thought that it would be a nightmare to fix……..you make it look so easy! ~ I would be so grateful to win the brushes. There are countless projects that I would use the brushes for. The first piece that I want to paint is a nice secretary that I picked up on the roadside. Thank you for the opportunity to win! ♡

    • Larissa says

      It was a nightmare…no foolin! hahaha! Thank you for the awesome words of encouragement, Dale. I learned so much and got time to reflect.

  41. Sara says

    I’d love to win those brushes. I have so many craft projects that I could use these on.

  42. Jen @ Girl in the Garage says

    Larissa, this piece is definitely fun but also beautiful! I can’t believe you guys rebuilt the entire base and then you hand painted all the designs – that is talent right there! xo Jen

    • Larissa says

      Thanks so much, Jen. Lesson learned to not be hasty when seeing damage. ugh. haha!

  43. Mary says

    What a breath of fresh air this makeover turned out to be Larissa. Love that green!

  44. Janet Kynerd says

    It was a lot of hard work for you, but the finished chest is lovely.

    • Larissa says

      It sure was, but glad I did it. The road less traveled teaches much. Thank you, Janet.

  45. Carolyn J Kiser says

    I am always looking for new and different ideas; this is great!

  46. Melissa Anglin says

    What a fun piece.

  47. Deidra says

    Amazing as always. Love the pop of colo.

  48. Melissa Storms says

    Oh wow, I love that chest so much. I think it is my favorite piece of yours so far. I love the vintage, folk art look in general but especially love the colors you chose and the freehand flowers are just amazing. I would paint my sons’ bedroom set if I won this brush set.

  49. Robin says

    I always love seeing your trashformations!

  50. Christy James says

    This may have been way more trouble than you bargained for, but what a beautiful piece of art it is now! XO

    • Larissa says

      It sure was and taught me many lessons as well as a fun trip down memory lane. Thank you, Christy.

  51. Kaycee says

    Larissa, What an amazing piece of art, this is just so beautiful. You would never know that a puppy or dog had it’s way with this first. I would have to say that you totally rocked (our) Polish heritage!!! Well done my friend!

  52. Cheryl says

    I still haven’t painted our unfinished new side tables.

  53. Emily Smith says

    Our kitchen table is in need of a makeover. I would love to stain the legs and paint a flower motif on the top. Your work is beautiful!

  54. Jessica says

    I would have given up on it. You are so tenacious!

  55. Shirley says

    This is totally not my style but I actually really love what you did with it. I’ve never been a fan of this particular shade of green but the idea behind it makes it perfect! What a huge difference from what it once was. Well done!

  56. Danelle says

    I think it’s wonderful that you created something connected to your heritage! I really enjoy your blog.

    • Larissa says

      It was a fun trip to refresh my memory. Thank you, Danelle.

  57. Michele says

    What a beautiful tribute to your heritage! I love the vivid green. I have my eye on a small wooden table at our local thrift. Maybe I’ll try a bright color instead of the usual ‘safe’ ones.

  58. Hanna Quana says

    Wow! Didn’t see that one coming …lol! So folk art not my thing but that is one of the most creative paint jobs I’ve ever seen. You are soooo talented!! I am continually inspired by your posts and wish I had the skills!! If I win those brushes, I hope they will make pieces look like yours!!! ?

  59. Angie Chavez says

    So fun & creative! I’ve missed seeing your projects at Talk of the Town (formerly Knick of Time Tuesday.) I hope you’ll start linking up every Tuesday at 18:00 ( 6 pm Central)

  60. Marietta says

    You nailed it lady! FOlk Art it is and it looks just wonderful.

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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

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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

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~ 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!

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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!

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~ Deanna

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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!
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