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).
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.
Another bonus is that it was a nice Lane cedar chest. Right? The top is damaged, but nothing I can’t handle.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Our end result is a like-new vintage blanket chest with cedar lining ready to get a whole new lease on life.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Once the second coat cured, I started my hand-painted design.
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.
THE REVEAL
Finally, are you ready to see how my crazy adventure came together with this vintage blanket chest? You bet I am!
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.
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?
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.
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.
MORE FUN
Up next, this thrifted cart is about to get a modern update HERE.
Before you go, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Now, it’s time to see what my gal friends have for you.
Susan Moon says
Thanks so much for showing how you repaired the base! You did an awesome job!
Larissa says
Thank you, Susan.
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!
Larissa says
Thank you for the sweet words, Kim. 🙂
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
Larissa says
Thank you, Colleen. My pleasure. 😉
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!
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.
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”. 😀
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.
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!
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. 😉
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.
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.
Lori Sawyer says
Love folk art!
Larissa says
It’s one of my favorite things to create. Thank you, Lori.
dianne anderson says
Wow, I love that chest!
Larissa says
Wahoo!! Thank you, Dianne!
Melanie Brooks says
I love this makeover! And it’s so nice to hear about your family as well. What a great tribute!
Larissa says
I’m delighted on both accounts, Melanie. Thank you!
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!
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!
Larissa says
Sounds like fun awaits!
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. 😉
Marcie Lovett says
So much fresher now!
Larissa says
I’m so happy you think so!
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!!
Larissa says
Happy dance! Thank you!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
Carrie says
You knocked it out of the ballpark with this makeover!
Larissa says
yahooo!!! Thank you, Carrie!
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.
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.
Larissa says
woot, woot! Thank you, Ellen!
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.
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.
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. 😀
Peggy says
Great Job!!! So colorful, love it.
Larissa says
Thank you so much, Peggy. 🙂
Bryan Patterson says
great save!!! and that green is phenomenal!!! 🙂
Larissa says
Had to make it fun! Thank you, Bryan.
Bryan Patterson says
just an excellent piece!! you should be proud!!
Larissa says
I’m so proud of my family both past and present. Thank you, Bryan.
Ann Boyd Briggs says
You provide me with so much inspiration to transform junk into usable furniture and decor!
Larissa says
I’m delighted to hear it! Thank you, Ann.
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!
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.
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.
Kathy Owen says
I love your Folk Art piece Larissa. You know all those bold colors have me swooning. Eyebrow things…..too funny.
Larissa says
I thought of you! Hugs, Kathy.
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. 😉
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!
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.
Sara says
I’d love to win those brushes. I have so many craft projects that I could use these on.
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!
Mary says
What a breath of fresh air this makeover turned out to be Larissa. Love that green!
Larissa says
Thank you, Mary! 😀
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.
Carolyn J Kiser says
I am always looking for new and different ideas; this is great!
Larissa says
Awesome!
Melissa Anglin says
What a fun piece.
Larissa says
Thanks!
Deidra says
Amazing as always. Love the pop of colo.
Larissa says
You’re so fun, Deidra. Thank you!
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.
Larissa says
How absolutely awesome to hear, Melissa. Thank you!
Robin says
I always love seeing your trashformations!
Larissa says
Thank you so much, Robin. 😀
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.
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!
Larissa says
High five and thank you so much for the love, Kaycee!
Cheryl says
I still haven’t painted our unfinished new side tables.
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!
Larissa says
Thank you, Emily. Sounds like fun!
Jessica says
I would have given up on it. You are so tenacious!
Larissa says
I wanted to, trust me! 😀 Thank you, Jessica.
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!
Larissa says
Thanks so much!
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.
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.
Larissa says
That’s the spirit!! How fun!
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!!! ?
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)
Marietta says
You nailed it lady! FOlk Art it is and it looks just wonderful.
Larissa says
You just made my day, Marietta. Thank you!