Decorating on the cheap

This dresser was about 70 years old and belonged to my husband's mother.I used the old hardware that was on it.I only needed to clean the handles.

Almost any piece of wooden furniture will do,if it's painted white.I collect pieces from flea markets,garage sales,and the attic.

Here's how I've refinished this dresser.


Prepare your workspace.Lay the furniture in the middle of a drop cloth or just news paper.If the furniture has drawers, remove the drawer and place the drawers on the drop cloth. Make sure there's room to move around the furniture as you paint.I put my dresser on of an old table.


One of the most important steps to refinish furniture is to lightly sand the piece before painting so the paint will adhere better. Don't worry about sanding out imperfections in the furniture - they will actually contribute to the shabby chic look.You could use a sander,but it works out much better if you sand it by hand.


Apply the first coat of white or off white paint and allow it dry completely for a few hours before applying a second coat. If the piece of furniture is large, If you are working in hot, humid conditions you might need to allow for more drying time.

After the second coat of paint is completely dry, use the sandpaper and lightly sand the edges of the furniture.Stain and rub it off before it has time to dry.The stain will give the white paint a vintage look.The sanded spots will take on a distressed," shabby chic"
look.

Paint the drawer/cabinet pulls (if your furniture has them) buy something vintage looking or unique from a hardware to store.