Do you know what time it is? It's
Furniture Fixer Uppers time! What fun it is to not only get to work on another project for you, but to be able to do it alongside some of the most awesome DIY gals I know. This vintage Art Deco buffet is my subject for this month's fun. You'll see the rest of the awesome projects in a bit.
The functional use of a buffet can't be denied. They fit easily into almost any room of your home as either a server as intended, or entertainment center, or even retrofitted into a bathroom vanity. This particular one appealed to me for the simple lines it showcased.
However, like all my projects, it needed some TLC. It has a few large damaged spots to the top, deep gouges, and missing veneer.
In addition, the doors and drawers had their own issues as I couldn't get some of them open. Nothing I couldn't remedy with elbow grease. Take a close look at those center doors...the veneer is waving hello to you. tee hee.
DIY TIME
With all that in mind, I have my work cut out for me, so I dive right in. First, I took off those warped doors and used wood glue to tack down all the warping hoping it would take.
Then, while the glue was curing, I had at the entire piece with my orbital sander and Corner Cat. My hope was to salvage as much of the wood as possible. In order to get a good feel for it, I needed to see it in the raw.
Even though t took me a few hours to get most of it done, it really did help me with my vision.
Disappointing to see that the gouges went all the way through the veneer and that the center doors weren't going to pass muster. BUT...there's still plenty of wood on this piece. Once I finished up sanding, it was time to bring on the paint.
TIME FOR PAINT
Yes, not only paint on some parts because of the damage, but also because I counted over 5 different types of wood and wanted to bring a cohesive feel to it.
First, before I even begin to paint, I add a clear coat to the pieces I want to have wood showing. Why? Because I can't tell you how many times I accidentally dripped paint on my raw wood only having to sand it all over again. No fun.
Next, I use my Kilz primer to not only prep the raw wood, but also block out any stains and bleed through. Notice I'm using the same brush I just used to apply the clear coat. The interior was worn and needed a refresh. Last, I did one coat of primer and two topcoats allowing two hours cure time in between to get the finished look I was after.
THE REVEAL
Are you ready to see this vintage Art Deco buffet made new? I am!
This piece is now updated and looks brand new. Without a doubt, my favorite is how the wood grain came to life with just a clear coat - no stain needed. Plus the flat black bar pulls really updated the entire feel of it. Likewise, the original pulls weren't brass or anything fancy, except the Bakelite, and they will find new life soon.
Half the fun was being able to bring in so many goodies from my shop to stage it. Also, most everything you see here is available, including the shadow boxes that can be custom finished. Stop by to see!
Oh, and we can't forget the interior. For a pop of fun, I decided to add a bit of color. Isn't this soft gray/green pretty? It's also a seconds paint that I have used on a few projects and love to see it inside this space.
In addition, the drawers got a refresh too. Don't you just love all the little surprises you can add to a worn out piece of furniture? Makes what I do fun!
Finally, there you have it, a refreshed vintage Art Deco buffet with a whole lot more to offer for many years to come. If you'd like to own this buffet, it's available for purchase too -
HEAD HERE.
SHARE
In addition, pin and share this vintage Art Deco buffet makeover. I'm sure there are many out there ready to give up on a piece because of damage and need inspired to keep going. Plus, it's fun to share!
Up next, my dad brought me this falling apart shelf to see if I wanted to tackle it. Needless to say, I felt sorry for it and wanted to see it made new. Stay tuned!
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MORE FUN
Additionally, Let's check out what the Furniture Fixer Upper ladies have for you!
- Just the Woods
- Girl in the Garage
- Confessions of a Serial DIYer
- Interior Frugalista
- Petticoat Junktion
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