Top
Subscribe for free and never miss a post

Vintage Kroehler Buffet Makeover

What’s new, everybody? We’re in a brand-new month and I’m here to introduce you to a brand-new group… er… sort of. Normally, the second Tuesday of the month means it’s Trash to Treasure time. However, things are changing up slightly with a new look and new name. We’re still going to be talkin’ #trashure to you though! You’ll see what my three blogger friends have for you in a bit but check out this vintage Kroehler buffet I welcomed home the other day.

Trashy Treasures Tuesday by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Vintage Kroehler Buffet Before Makeover | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Don’t shoot me, but can you believe I only paid $15 for this? eep!

It’s a Kroehler buffet (server, sideboard, credenza… whatever you want to call it) and it’s in pretty good shape. It’s solid, but missing veneer, one of the doors is off hinges, and there is staining on the inside as well. In all honesty, all of that is nothing I can’t handle.

Damaged Vintage Kroehler Buffet Top | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Damaged Buffet Drawer | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

What to do? Well, you can see my other past buffet makeovers HERE to get an idea. Above all, my goal is to bring it new life while keeping to the breakfront style and era.

REPAIRS

First, I use a large amount of wood filler to patch up those gaps on the cabinet and drawers. Then, once sanded, I bring it inside and begin to remove all the hardware and just take inventory of what else needs done. Initially, I find that one the interior shelves are missing the rests. Thankfully, this stash mama saves bits like this for just such a time.

Vintage Shelf Rest for Kroehler Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

In addition, one of the hinges was stripped out, so I sunk in longer screws to remedy that. If that hadn’t worked, I could have filled the holes with dowel and then drilled into those.

For the drawers, two of them are silverware/flatware drawers that have seen heavy use on the velour.

Inside Vintage Kroehler Buffet Drawer with Stains | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

To my delight, I’m able to pull out the velour with ease. whew! I sanded out the remnant that left the scene looking like I just trimmed a floofy dog.

Sanding Buffet Drawers | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Then, because I want to make this more functional, I remove the slats that would have held section place holders to open up the use of the drawers.

Removing Drawer Separators from Vintage Kroehler Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

YES, PAINT

Do I always paint furniture? Nope. However, when the piece is damaged to the point where the cost of veneer is far more expensive than the item itself, then I paint to hide flaws so it can have many more years of life in beauty. However, I also believe I can paint whatever I want. haha.

Before I paint, though, I want to add texture to the cabinet doors. I’ve used my embossing technique on many items like this jewelry armoire and this farmhouse pediment.

DIY Farmhouse Pediment Tutorial Video by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Applying Spackling Stencil to Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Removing Stencil from Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

This time around I’m using a seconds color blue that reminds me of Wedgewood China. Do you know what I’m talking about? It’s such a beautiful blue.

Painting Vintage Kroehler Buffet Blue | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Next, while the blue cures, I set to make a faux wood finish to compliment the blue below. The color is nutmeg, and I apply it using a foam roller for a smooth finish.

Painting Kroehler Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Oh, and Ivan gives his approval for great spots to sneak in and take a nap.

Ivan the British Shorthair Tabby Cat in Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

FINISHING

Once the top cures, I use reactive stain to make grain streaks to replicate wood. You can see a similar technique I did to my garage door.

Staining Painted Buffet Top | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Likewise, I begin to add texture to the panels and other raised trims using the frottage technique I outline HERE.

Spraying Relief Design on Vintage Kroehler Buffet | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Whitewashing Furniture Relief Design by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

BLUE BEAUTY

Finally, here is this vintage Kroehler buffet in a new “old” look.

Blue Vintage Kroehler Buffet finished by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

DIY Vintage Buffet Makeover of a Classic Kroehler Piece by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Also, how about that top?

Top View Kroehler Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Faux Wood Furniture Top for Vintage Kroehler Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

It came out as I hoped and honestly looks even better in person. Likewise, on the base cabinet, the embossing looks like a relief and adds just the right touch.

Embossed Furniture Doors on Vintage Kroehler Buffet by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Painted Blue Buffet Interior by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Open Doors on Vintage Kroehler Sideboard by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Last, this ol’ gal and I are happy to say it’s ready for many more years of service in a new home. In addition, if you’d like to add this to your home story, you can find it and more in my online store.

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

Side View of Kroehler Server by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Buffet with Hydrangea Wreath by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

SHARE

As you can imagine, I love creating pieces to inspire you. It’s your turn to leave some comment love below and I also invite you to pin and share to inspire others too.

Gorgeous Vintage Kroehler Buffet Gets New Life with Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Before you go, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter to see how I solve my plastic bag storage problem.

Plastic Grocery Bag Mess | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

blog signature

let's get socialPINTEREST | EMAIL

Now it’s time for our Trashy Treasures gals to inspire you!

Collage for Trashy Treasure Tuesday | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

  1. Confessions of a Serial DIYer
  2. Salvaged Inspirations
  3. Artsy Chicks Rule

While you’re at it, here are more furniture makeovers like this vintage Kroehler buffet:

A tired and worn antique dresser gets the new look of a lifetime. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces tackles the damage to bring it new life. Read the story at prodigalpieces.comHow fun! A dilapidated antique empire chest of drawers is repurposed into an upholstered bench by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | See the DIY at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #furniture #homedecor #handmade #upholstery

Comments

  1. SUSAN L SKIDMORE says

    Love it! It’s so pretty.

    • Larissa says

      Thank you for making my day, Susan. I am happy to have the chance to work on it.

  2. Jennifer says

    I love what you did to this piece. I agree that using paint to prolong the life of a piece of good furniture is sometimes necessary. I also agree that I will paint whatever I want even if it doesn’t strictly need it to be saved. Sometimes I just see a piece of furniture that would look better painted. I have a vision and I want to see it come to life. I would never paint an heirloom quality piece of furniture-not that I can afford heirloom quality furniture. Haha. So, all this to say I’m glad you take broken down furniture and give it new life in any way you can. I’ll definitely be using your tips for making the top look like wood too. I often want to save or replace the veneer on the top of furniture, but now I know a new way to fake it to get the look. Thanks! And thanks for all of the inspiration you provide weekly. I don’t comment enough, but know I appreciate you.

    • Larissa says

      And I you, Jennifer, for taking the time to comment. It truly means so much to me (and other bloggers) as we work hard to create content to inspire others. You are a kindred spirit! 🙂

  3. Christy James says

    It’s gorgeous, Larissa! I know that was a ton of work, but what a beauty! XOXO

    • Larissa says

      You surely do know what it’s like with all your wonderful creations. Thank you, Christy!

  4. Rebecca - NC says

    Positively STUNNING!! I know this will get snapped up quickly. I think this is my new favorite!😍 Well done Maestro!! 🎼🎶🎵

  5. Sherry says

    I too will save an original finish, but sometimes it’s just not feasible. I love the blue on this cabinet. You did an outstanding job finishing the top with the wood grain look. I’d like to try that. I would love to see your embossing technique covering multi drawers. Is that possible? On this piece a large embossed area on the 3 drawers would look great…in my humble opinion. Love this piece!

    • Larissa says

      Good on ya. Thank you, Sherry. Feel free to try it on a piece of your own. Problem is finding that large of a stencil.

    • Larissa says

      You mean, Denise? haha. {{head smack}} Thank you so much. You and I love our blues. 😀

  6. Denise Zdziennicki says

    This turned out stunning and you did an amazing job… it’s gorgeous Larissa! I’m sure it will get nabbed up super fast! Pinned! XOXO

    • Larissa says

      Blue for the win for the both of us, eh? 😉 Thank you so much.

  7. Stephanie Harris says

    I know these are a lot of work, but these furniture makeovers are very inspiring!! I I find myself looking around my furniture and thinking what could I improve?

    • Larissa says

      They sure are! I’m so glad to hear you’re inspired, Stephanie. I love hearing from you and others. Also, I’d love to see what you do?

  8. Sue Carole McCombs says

    Very lovely. Really like the shade of blue. Stunning as always.

    • Larissa says

      Thank you, Sue! Blue has always been a favorite color of mine. It just seemed to suit this piece and the refresh I was after.

  9. Niki says

    Wowza! That sure turned out to be a looker. I really like that blue and the top looks so elegant. I have something similar I need to paint, I just need to find the time and I’m thinking dark, like black or a dark navy. Great Job Larissa!

    • Larissa says

      Oooh… I like that. I debated on black or navy, but I did one like this dark before too. The lack of sunshine around here helped me decide to go lighter. I hope you have fun with yours. 😀

  10. Janice Redden says

    Larissa,
    Just beautiful, as are all the works of the Trashy Treasures crew! What was the product you used on the top – was it paint first (nutmeg) and what was the “reactive” stain. Thanknyou.

    • Larissa says

      Thank you, Janice. The paint was a Rustoleum one coat product, followed by their reactive stain I mention HERE and then two poly topcoats in a matte finish.

  11. Jan says

    I love this buffet! My mom loved decorating in greens and blues, so your project gave me a pleasant reminder of her. I look forward to using your faux wood grain technique. We live in a log home and my husband thinks all furniture needs to be natural wood. I’m TRYING to introduce painted pieces, but it’s a slow process. Thanks for sharing this beauty!

    • Larissa says

      Awesome! And funny… only because my parents built a log home (5K sq ft) and my dad is a wood purist. haha. I hope you get to make your house your home too someday. 🙂

  12. Kim Banko says

    Wowzwers Larissa! That is a stunning transformation! Another one knocked out of the park!

    • Larissa says

      It’s been a while for me, so I’m happy to have it come out as I’d hoped. Thank you for the love, Kim.

  13. Anita says

    Unbelievable! Maybe my favourite piece yet. Seriously love what you’ve done! Thank you for saving this grand old timer and for sharing the transformation. Just fabulous!

    • Larissa says

      You have made my day. Even better is the couple that just got a new place and came to purchase it. It was a happy event!

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