Do you ever find yourself fascinated with something and you don’t know why? Yeah, I’m like that too. haha. For today’s purpose, I am confessing my addiction to a particular style of furniture – secretaries. One piece of furniture I believe every home should have is a multi-purpose feature like this vintage secretary desk.
Why, you ask? Well, I realize that we are primarily in the digital age where our bills are paid electronically and we lack the paper trail we used to have in days gone by. However, who can deny the functionality of the cubbies, the fold-down desk, and all the drawers below to stash away things that may not have a permanent place.
Besides, it’s still useful for your laptop or tablet to tuck away and keep you organized. Or…better yet…pen a special letter to someone to make their day.
DETAILS
This particular desk is a sweet size because it can fit most anywhere. However, I wanted to give it an updated look and feel. It has a few issues: missing veneer, gouges, and wear here and there. Overall, it’s stout and well-built to last the test of time. Also, it has the original manufacturer stamp by Jasper Cabinet Co. Plus, it has all the original hardware which is a bonus. Don’t you just love this Chippendale style?
DIY TIME
First, I make any necessary repairs, like filling holes with wood filler and giving it light sanding with my sander. Once that is done, I use a vinegar/water mixture to wipe it down and remove any residue. While cleaning it up, I found a bit of dough in a secret compartment.
I reached out to the original owner offering to send it to them. Her response was,” Oh my word. Merry Christmas! Thanks for your honestly. May God multiply it for you.” How sweet!
I persisted to offer to send it back, but she also insisted I keep it. Funny thing is that right after I found it I also found this…
Oh how true it is. I had fun tucking the money back in and letting each of my children see if they could find it. They had a blast! In all honesty, what a blessing that God uses people to help us in our need.
NEXT STEP
As soon as my kids gave the clear that there were no more treasures to be found, I began to continue my makeover. Next, I apply one of my favorite colors to the exterior. It’s the same color as I use in my home called Slate Green by Glidden.
THE INTERIOR
Then, once the exterior is curing, I began the interior. For this I wanted to freshen it up with a soft antique white. However, because this vintage secretary desk is what it is, I knew those cubbies wouldn’t be fun to work on, but doable with the right tools.
At first, I thought I could just paint, but then found that at some point someone must have splattered ink all over because it instantly bled through my first coat. That being the case, I use my stain blocker as the second coat and then added the final third coat. Same stuff I used to block out smoke on this vintage entertainment center.
LAST STEP
Last, but not least, I wanted to add a bit of depth and dimension to this ol’ gal. I loved the painted look as-is, but wanted it to have a story. So, I add a brown wax shading to the various points.
THE REVEAL
After the love and care given to this vintage secretary desk, it’s time to see the reveal.
I’m so please with the outcome. If you notice, I didn’t do anything to the beautiful hardware outside of cleaning it up a bit. The brass suits the the style and look I was after.
Now for a peek at the inside…
And, for fun I had to stage with one of my favorite books – an antique etiquette book. It’s open to a chapter about breakfasts, luncheon and teas.
Notice the line just after the invitation sample. Isn’t that fun? I seriously love pouring over this book. Dare I say we could stand to reinstate some of these in our forlorn society?
SHARE
Is this inspiring to you? I hope so. My goal is to help you to consider taking those dated pieces that you may already own. Likewise, even update your home with found pieces with your own story written on them.
If you’d like to purchase this vintage secretary desk, you can find it, the silverplate pitcher, and so much more available in my online store.
Additionally, pin and share my vintage secretary makeover to inspire others. They may have furniture that just needs a refreshing.
Before you go, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
In addition, more projects like my vintage secretary desk makeover:
The money ,coin and original owner just made my morning. I love the makeover so beautiful!!
You and me both. I needed that lift. Thank you, Lori.
This is gorgeous! Perfectly updated!
Thank you for your sweet words, Carla. I had fun! 😀
I passed on getting a secretary desk just the other day; No room & more $$$ than I wanted to pay for it.
Has the manufacture stamp on it, plus finding the coin; what a bonus.
Nice to see that it still had all the original hardware and that you didn’t change them out. I love them hinges.
Don’t know right off hand on what I would paint next if I where to win the brushes; maybe the small 3 drawer night stand that I have had stored away.
Thank you for this wonderful giveaway opportunity.
God Bless and have a great day.
I actually waited to purchase this one and it ended up being reduced in price. I was a happy camper already and then to be gifted the cash was the cherry on top. You are most welcome, Colleen.
Love this makeover and story, God is good! Your talent is amazing, it’s so fun to see where your imagination takes you on each makeover.
The brush giveaway is awesome, I hope I entered correctly. The older I get the more confusing online things are! Oh! I have a dresser waiting for me in the basement, I hope to start it this month.
I am just so happy to share it with you. Thank you, Tammy. You did just fine! 😀 Sounds like a fun project piece.
This was posted just in time, as I’m about to do a secretary desk for my granddaughter! I’m happy to know what brushes to use. I’ll probably just paint it using very similar colors, but without the wax. Thanks for the tips!
Oh how fun, Denise! 😀 I hope you have a blast with it.
I would paint my dining table with the brush giveaway!
Love the desk and all your blogs!!
Yay! Sounds like the perfect project piece. Thank you, Susie.
Thank you for the giveaway opportunity! The secretary is so lovely! I especially love the keyhole hardware. It really is elegant.
I love that it still has the original skeleton key and locks up perfectly. Thanks, Patricia. 😀
Love how it turned out ,the color is so sooothing!
I’m so glad you think so, Joanie. Yay!
What a sweet gift from God! Always love seeing what you are up to Larissa! Happy New Year!
Yes! It really touched me. Thank you, Alicia.
I just got an old etiquette book for Christmas. I love it! It’s very entertaining to read.
Thanks for the giveaway!
Sweet git! They are such treasures to have and peruse. You are welcome, Micah.
This is wonderful. It turned out beautiful!!
You are so sweet to say so, Lisa. Thank you!
I love the choice of color and fabric you chose for both desks and the chair. I love color, but do some white on chosen pieces. Thank you so much!
Thank you for the kind words, Lisa. These are such fun pieces to do.
Larissa,
Beautiful makeover, as usual. What type/brand of brown wax did you use? I tried using dark wax only once before and I was not happy with the outcome. I really like the way your secretary came out so maybe I should give it another shot. Thanks
You are so sweet, Judy. Thank you. I use different ones for various things. One I prefer is this one HERE.
I love the triangle brush – how inventive! The right tool for the right job. Thanks for the give-away and your blog Larissa.
I seriously love that one for just that purpose. Nooks and crannies can be awful! 😀
Hi Larissa and Happy New Year! I think it is so awesome that you found that stash and the previous owners Blessed you with it. God works in mysterious ways. Ok, so let me tell you that i had this exact secretary desk and I too painted it in a Sage green and i sold it for the exact amount you are asking. I did put a transfer on mine of a map from Re-Design with Prima. I also have a silver tea pot like yours. Isn’t that cool? Now, i wish i had your ability to create. Thank you for sharing. I wish i had kept my secretary.
Woot! Great minds! 😀 You do have the ability if you did all that. 😉 Thank you for the love, Cheryl.
Such a beautiful piece! I have a secretary my father built as a teenager in woodshop. I would love to redo it….so many beautiful details just lost in the current finish….but I am afraid to try it. I hesitate to change it for purely sentimental reasons
ooh…I don’t blame you there. Props to your dad for building a secretary at that age! 😀 Sweet!
This came out gorgeous! I’m going to look for one for me to redo. I even like the color and I’m not a big fan of green. Keep up the great work!
Sweet words to hear, Jane. Thanks!!
I am scheduled to begin painting our kitchen cabinets next week. I will put the Zibra brushes to good use beginning withe the cabinets. When i am finished with those I will be painting some of our old furniture. Thanks so much for continuing to share your talents with us.
You have quite the fun scheduled, Sonja. tee hee. These brushes will help you knock them out in a jiffy.
I love the color of the desk!
Thank you so much! 😀
I really love the colors and the way this turned out!!!
I had such fun with it, Maria. Thank you!
I love the color and the dark waxed areas!
Thank you, Gwen. With the aged brass, it just needed something to add depth and warm it up.
This a beautiful piece and I love the colors. I have never seen a triangle brush and I’d love to win it. Thanks for sharing your amazing projects.
Thank you for the kind words, Lori. I have used it often and can’t say enough good about it.
This piece turned out beautiful! Great job! Love the added shading with the dark wax. I would love to give Zibra Paint brushes a try on our $9 Goodwill desk find. I originally painted it white, but I am thinking some pops of color would be even better! Thank you for the chance to win. Happy New Year!
Atta girl, Genevieve! 😀 You sound like me. Creating is half the fun! 😀
What a wonderful story! And of course, a beautiful makeover. I have so many projects waiting for their turn for a transformation, two nightstands are first in line!
It truly struck me, especially with my latest dealings in life. I know you’ll love these Zibra brushes.
Such a pretty makeover, Larissa, love the color. Finding the cash and the original owners response made me smile but finding the button…goose bumps!
Thank you, sweet Marie. Yes! That is what truly gave me goosebumps.
Its Beautiful…
God Blesses us every Day…
He truly does as I mention often. 🙂
Hi Larissa, what a beautiful secretary and awesome finds hidden within!!! I love her new look with fresh paint and wax, she is a stunner again!
It was definitely mean to be. 😀 Thank you!
A Media console for my daughter. We are just now working on her living room and that is our next project.
It’s gorgeous! I you are the exception, I think, but I’m not sure many of today’s parents are as concerned about good manners and etiquette as they were in my day. (I’m 70) I love old books though. I hope my grandchildren appreciate them too.
Thanks! Yes, I am a rare nut for sure. hahaha. I believe they will in their time.
What a fun piece and a gorgeous update!
You are a sweetie to say so, Lorene. Thank you. 🙂
This is gorgeous. I have a french provincial bedroom set that has similar drawers. I have been debating how to redo it for a long time. I love the touches with the darker wax and think it would look great on a whole set.
Sweet! The serpentine style is easily one of my favorite designs. You can’t beat the uniqueness it gives. Have fun!
I had a secratary style desk years ago! I don’t even remember what I did with it but somewhere in the last 50 years or so I got rid of it. I love the makeover and would find a place in my home to put it!
I think we all have those kinds of wonderings…haha. Thanks for the love, Nancy.
Beautiful secretary, the colors are lovely! A new set of brushes would help all my projects get done!
I’m tickled to hear you love it so. Thank you, Laura. I agree with you on the brushes! 😀
Terrific makeover! I still have a secretary to work on so this inspires me. What a blessing to have a story to go with your project! Thank you for the opportunity to win the Zibra brushes.?
Thanks, Dale! They are such handy pieces to have. I hope to find one with a hutch on top.
Oh, I have stockpile of projects! Probably a vintage wooden jewelry box.
I think I would repaint our den coffee table! It’s not looking so great!
I love how easy you make a paint job look. I don’t usually buy pieces like yours because I don’t want to refinish them. I need to get brave and try it. Your things look so lovely I always want everyone of them. LOL. Keep up the great work. I love your blog.
Aww…you are so sweet, Anita. Thank you for the compliment. And yes, you CAN DO IT! 😀
Another beautiful furniture makeover! ❤️
Thank you for making my day, Michele. 😉
Thanks for the tip on the triangle brush, it is just what I have been looking for. Also this is my favorite makeover!
You bet! It’s saved me oodles of work and given me a fine finish over and over again. Thanks!
That is just so heartwarming that the “Dough’s” owner responded that way, but also a bit sad that they would be surprised at your offer to return it. Definitely one of those wonderful teaching moments to your kiddo’s :).
This piece is just lovely Larissa, and I think my favorite is the pretty reveal when you open the top.
Thank you for being such a wonderful mentor in so many ways. xo
Thank you so much, Kim. I was going to send it back anyway since I had their address, but I know how I’ve felt when I’ve offered someone something and truly want them to have it. Yes, a teachable moment indeed. I love the inside too as it has all the fun going on.
Very beautiful makeover Larissa. You are a true inspiration in so many different ways, Thank you!
You are most welcome, Kristina. Thank you for the love.
I love all your projects!
You are so sweet, Michelle. Thank you!
I love the sweet story of the $ and the coin. And such a great example for your kids!
I, also, have antique etiquette book from the early 1900s that was written for teachers. My favorite parts are about keeping the classroom clean – ‘sweeping the woodstove ash and wiping the lanterns’ and ‘be sure to be mature, but cheerful when the superintendent comes to call’!
Oh my…I love it! I truly think at times I was born in the wrong era. haha. Thanks for the kind words, Michele.
Finding money in a secret compartment … WOW, what fun !! I think that desk turned out fantastic. You definitely give me courage to paint some pieces I have that could use some freshening up. I would love to paint my bedroom furniture and new brushes would be just the excuse I need. Thx.
Yes!! Totally a surprise and even better was the coin reminder. I know you can do it, Kelly! 😀
Another beautiful job Larissa. Thanks again for the inspiration.
Thank you for sending uplifting words, Kelly. 🙂
I love the secretary. I have a small child’s rocker that’s my next project needing the brushes.
Thank you. That sounds sweet, Toni.
What a beautiful job Larissa! I especially love the depth of the shading. Gail
yay! That part helped bring it all together as it was flat otherwise, and lacking the same aged appeal as the hardware. Thank you, Gail.
You do such an amazing job! Love to see your work xo
Thank you for the love, Lumi.
Hi Larissa,
The first thing I would paint with the brushes is my half moon console table. It needs a refresh and I’ve always wanted to try Zibra brushes! Thanks for the giveaway!
You are most welcome. 😀
Love it, turned out beautiful!
Thank you so much, Deb.
I love all your work but this piece really speaks to me! I’m just starting to dabble in up-cycling and you give me such great inspiration! Thank you!
How absolutely fun to hear, Cynthia. Thank you!
Love the colors you chose. What’s the name of the interior color used? Is it white or ivory?
Thanks! It’s called Antique White. Just soft enough…
A door to make into a shelf!
THAT IS A BEAUTIFUL PIECE. AND I WOULD LIKE TO DO AN OLD DRESSER FOR MY GUEST ROOM. I WOULD BE HAPPY IF IT COMES OUT HALF OF GOOD AS YOURS.
Thank you, Gloria. You are so sweet.
nice project, paint kitchen cart
The vintage dresser.
Such a beautiful story and desk! I have a nightstand that really needs help!
Thank you for the kind words, Deb. Fun for me to share.
Love the story . Also thanks for the inspiration. I have this piece from my mother in law who sadly passed away last year. I’ve been thinking of painting it to match my bedroom and you gave me the extra push and inspiration to try it myself . Thank you!
Thank you for stopping by and taking the time to leave love, Linda. My condolences to you and your family. You have quite a treasure to keep her memory. Enjoy. {{hugs}}
This is beautiful! It will be inspiration for the secretary I have just like it! I wanted a color that wasn’t too bold but also not black or white. I can’t seem to figure out what you used for painting inside the cubbies. You mention the perfect tool but I can’t figure it out! Also, what sheen is the Glidden paint you used? Thank you and fantastic work!!
Thank you, Amanda. You’ve made my day! I used an angled brush (triangle shape) that made the job easier.