Renewing an old piece of furniture

My style of furniture is a little different than most, but this can be applied to any style. I was in need of a dresser for my bedroom that we were redoing. With my style being Romantic Country, I was looking for something antique, not in perfect condition, as I was planning on painting it white. While visiting one of my favorite thrift stores, I found the perfect dresser!!! Small enough to fit in my bedroom, but yet big enough for what I needed!! It even had all the original hardware which is a huge plus.

The best part is, it was only $9.00!!! I couldn't turn it down!!! I purchased it and took it home to be cleaned with murphys oil soap, and given a couple of coats of white paint. I always use a white kitchen & bath paint that is good for woodwork and cabinets. This allows for the furniture to be wiped down with a damp cloth, and it doesn't scratch easily.

I wanted a large shelf to hang above the dresser to make it look more like a hutch. Scouring through my decorator magazines, I found a shelf that I liked, so took it to my husband, who in turn made the shelf for me using scrap wood from his job!! (free wood) The back of the shelf is rough boards to make it look old. He added the bar to hang jewelry or whatever I wanted. The shelf was made within a couple of days and turned out beautifully!! And the best part, cost $0. It now proudly hangs above the thrift store dresser and holds my collection of goodies also purchased from the thrift stores!!

You can do this with any piece of furniture. Don't look at the piece the way it is. Imagine in your mind what you can do with it. Paint is cheap! Upholstery can be changed on seats of chairs easily, using nothing more than scissors and a staple gun. Look for fabrics in the linen department of the thrift stores. Heavy draperies make great upholstery!

Use your imagination next time you see that piece of furniture that catches your eye! Remember, you don't have to use it for the purpose it was built. Be creative!