Custom furnishings are perfect (obviously) but pricey and unless you're a buzz saw pro, they don't exactly fit into the DIY category. Fortunately Homepolish designers are clever, innovative and really good at using power tools. For this project, our designer Casey DeBois transformed her regular ol' dresser with paint, stain and some cute drawer pulls.
What you'll need:
1. Plain dresser (or similar): We used the Tarva 3-drawer dresser from Ikea
2. Wood Stain Finish. We used one from Minwax in Dark Walnut
3. Benjamin Moore Super Spec Paint in White (semi-gloss finish)
3. Sandpaper
4. Decorative knobs or pulls: Anthropologie and this Etsy seller has some great options
5. Minwax Water-Based Wipe-On Poly (matte)
6. Small brush and paint roller
5 easy steps!
1. So hopefully you've already assembled your dresser (we know how hard this is and fully recommend hiring a TaskRabbit! They are furniture assembly wizards. Wizard rabbits). So, once assembled, give the whole thing a light sanding and then wipe down with a damp cloth.
2. Apply stain to the housing with a cloth and rub on evenly -- two to three coats should do it, but if you want a darker color, add another coat. Make sure to do this in a pretty well ventilated area so you don't get a headache/start hallucinating magical rabbits.
3. Now it's time to paint the drawer fronts! This color is Benjamin Moore's Super White Semi-Gloss. It has a built-in primer, which makes application much easier. Use a brush for details and corners and then a roller for even coverage. Wait for it to dry (actually dry!) and apply a second coat.
4. Once the stain on the housing is dry (actually dry!) apply 2 or 3 coats of Minwax Water Based Wipe-On Poly to protect the stained wood. Let dry for several hours. Watch a movie, take a walk, eat something.
5. When the paint is dry, assemble and attach your chosen hardware. These knobs were a little too shiny so we sanded the front of the knobs to create a slightly distressed, "brushed" effect.
Homepolish is an interior design startup bringing custom, affordable design to clients across the country (with 285 designers in 11 cities, and a virtual design offering, all bases are covered). Homepolish is the go-to brand for home and office inspiration, learn more on homepolish.com.
Also on HuffPost:
