Using Fluted Trim On Old Dresser
Before
I found this dresser for FREE on Facebook Marketplace, and I can’t ever pass up a free, solid wood dresser. So off I went to pick it up! Once I brought it home, I realized that it was extremely damaged: the drawers were a mess, a chunk was missing out of the side as well as one of the drawers, and the bottom was very dated. But I had a vision in mind, and was so excited to get started on this!
Someone once asked me if I ever look at a project and think “It’s not worth my time”, and the answer is almost always NO. After some self-reflecting, I found that I love a challenge so the more broken and disgusting, the better! Here is how I gave it a super dramatic makeover!
Products Used:
Surf Prep 3x4 Electric Ray Sander | Save 10% by using code ADASH10 at https://surfprepsanding.com/product/3x4-electric-ray-sanders/?aff=126
Step 1: Trim Base & Add Structure
I used a Jigsaw to trim off the curved trim, and make it a straight line. This makes the piece more modern. I then cut off the equal amount off the sides of the dresser so that it would sit flush on the ground.
I then flipped it over and applied some supports using a keg pocket hole jig, so that I would have a place to put new legs on the piece.
Step 2: Clean
This step is so important, especially with old furniture. I just used a bucket of hot water and dish dawn soap; cleaning inside and out.
Step 3: Repair and sand
For the chunks of missing wood, I used Bondo All-Purpose Putty. It is such a great filler that stands the test of time. It’s 2-parts, that when mixed together starts the chemical reaction where it hardens. So make sure to only mix small amounts at a time!
After it dries, I sand it with 120 until it is nice and smooth. I ended up having to do 2 rounds of Bondo in some sections.
I then scuff sanded the rest of the dresser to prep for my primer.
Step 4: Prime
I used a water based primer and sprayed it using my paint sprayer. Afterwards, I used wood filler to fill in any additional small imperfections.
Step 5: Apply Trim Feature
I then cut to size the fluted trim, and glued them on the top row of drawers. I clamped them, and let them dry for 2-3 hours before moving on to painting.
Step 6: Paint
I then used my furniture paint and painted the full piece of furniture, using my favorite paint sprayer.
Step 7: Added legs & hardware
I added the legs to the dresser, and flipped it back over.
Watch step-by-step how I gave this outdated dresser a huge makeover using fluted trim!
