Wednesday, February 25, 2015

All the Charm of an Antique Dresser, Minus the Spiderwebs!


Pictures can be deceiving.  The photo that drew me to this majestic dresser posted on Craigslist was somewhat dark and grainy.  After making a quick call to the seller, I was on my way to look at what I thought was an old oak dresser.  Yes, I should have asked more questions before I got too excited but was worried that taking the time to ask questions would give another buyer a chance to say, "sold!  I'll be there in 10 minutes!"  It happens, a lot!  Used furniture sales are very competitive these days!  

So, I was a little disappointed when I arrived to discover that the dresser I had driven across town to see was a reproduction.  However, the drawers were dove-tailed and the piece was solid and clean.  A pretty dresser with great bones and drawers that opened and closed without needing any TLC!  So what if it wasn't old, I decided it was a perfect candidate for paint.  What a treat to not have to do any repairs, vacuum away cobwebs or scrape finger nail polish out of drawers!  I just hauled this big heavy dresser home, did a quick wipe down and got to work!


The color is a custom mix of 1 part French Linen to 1 part Old White.


I painted out the wood carved accents in Old White.  After a coat of Clear Wax, I used Annie Sloan's Dark Wax to further age and bring out the details in the carvings.

I removed the hardware and painted it in the custom soft grey mix and then waxed it just as I had the entire piece.  I considered painting the hardware in Old White like the carvings but decided that it would be overkill.  Sometimes less is more, as they say.


I have a confession to make.  I absolutely despise waxing the insides of cupboards and drawers.  I am not a contortionist.  So, even when I've chosen to seal a piece of furniture with wax, I find Artisan Enhancements Clear Topcoat Sealer to be ideal for sealing any paint finish on the interior of the piece.  Just brush it on, let it dry for 24 hours and apply a second quick coat.  No more standing on my head to buff out wax on the top of a cupboard's interior!


I am really loving how this piece transformed.  It may not be antique but I think it now has just as much charm and character as any 100 year old piece pulled out of a decrepit farm house, minus the mold, mildew and spiderwebs!

Thank you for your sweet visit today!

Best Wishes and Blessings,
Amanda





Sharing With:
Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Home
Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home
Treasure Hunt Thursday at From My Front Porch To Yours
 Friday's Unfolded at Nancherrow
 Furniture Feature Friday at Miss Mustard Seed
What's it Wednesday at Ivy and Elephants