This Mid Century Modern dresser (or credenza) was made by Dixie back in the Brady Bunch days. The Dixie line of furniture has stood the test of time and and still a coveted piece of furniture. This isn't my first makeover of a Dixie piece, you see my French provincial set in this post.
FURNITURE
I found this piece for today in almost mint condition, but somewhere along the line, the veneer on the cabinet had been damaged. It was missing chunks on the side and had deep gouges that went through the veneer on top.
This sat in my garage for quite some time as I worked on other projects, but I couldn't wait to have a go at it. I simply wanted to show you how easy it can be to take a piece to a new level. While I normally prefer to save the original wood, I decided to paint. eep! That's a girl's prerogative, right?
DIY TIME
Now, in order to achieve the factory finish we're after, the prep work is key. Since this dresser had the damaged I mentioned, I repaired the holes and scratches with wood filler. Once the filler was cured, I sanded it smooth with my sander and 150 grit sandpaper.
While this dresser could have easily been painted using a brush, it just wasn't going to give me the factory finish I was after. You know I love my HomeRight Finish Max. It truly is your best friend when it comes to getting into crevices and details, and for painting chairs (my least favorite thing to paint - ugh). Who like to mess with drips and runs in ornate carvings?
First, I prep the dresser by wiping it down after sanding, and taping off the parts that I want to remain original wood.
In order to achieve that solid factory finish, I used a base coat of Kilz, thinned to directions, to prevent stains from coming through and to help give the paint tooth. Always start your sprayer off your project and then continue the spray flow off of the other side. Check your tip occasionally for build up and wipe clean with a damp cloth.
PAINTING
Once the base coat of Kilz had cured, I sprayed two coats of this gorgeous blue called Deep Arctic Night by Glidden, also slightly thinned. It is best to slightly overlap spray layers to get a solid coating.
I would normally have used spray shelter to keep debris off my project piece, but this credenza is HUGE (over 72" long) and wouldn't fit. Once done painting, I let the paint cure. At this point, you could add a topcoat for added protection, like a satin or semi-gloss poly, if you desire. If you're after an aged finish with distressing, you could also use a furniture wax.
Notice the lack of overspray. See how much of the paint hit the cardboard after 3 coats?
THE REVEAL
How about this for a gorgeous factory finish look?
I wanted to modernize this piece while repairing the damage and give it new life. The lines of Mid Century Modern furniture always draw me in. Do you blame me?
I had fun gathering some of these hydrangeas and mixing it up with some thrifted art. A collected vignette is always fun to see.
My oldest daughter also just finished another Mid Century Modern dresser, but she used my other method of a foam roller. Her finish is perfect, but it definitely took longer for her to achieve the look. The paint sprayer makes it quick and easy. If you're in love with this dresser, or are interested in any of the other pieces available, you can find them in my shop.
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Got questions? Please feel free to ask!SHARE
I would love it if you would pin and share to inspire others to give this method a try. ♥
Next up is DIY Furniture Girls and the theme is OUTDOOR. This funky little table got a new look to go along with the newest addition to my backyard decor. AND there is going to be a fun giveaway...HEAD HERE!
MORE STORY
Oh, one more thing...in case you missed it. I am so excited to have been asked to contribute to a special series of books call Unforgettable Faces & Stories by Eileen Doyon. Her latest book focuses on The Second My Life Changed Forever. I have shared a story of my life that truly was life-altering and would love for you to read it too.
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