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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Oh, and Ivan gives his approval for great spots to sneak in and take a nap.
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.
Likewise, I begin to add texture to the panels and other raised trims using
the frottage technique I outline HERE.
BLUE BEAUTY
Finally, here is this vintage Kroehler buffet in a new "old" look.
Also, how about that top?
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.
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.
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.
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Now it's time for our Trashy Treasures gals to inspire you!
- Confessions of a Serial DIYer
- Salvaged Inspirations
- Artsy Chicks Rule
While you're at it, here are more furniture makeovers like this vintage Kroehler buffet:
Now it's time for our Trashy Treasures gals to inspire you!
