Light Green Dresser Makeover with a Driftwood Look Stained Wood Top
About this Dresser
This dresser needed quite a bit of work before I got to the painting stage. The old veneer on the drawer fronts was damaged, and the top actually had two layers of veneer that needed to be removed.
Once everything was stripped back and repaired, I decided to give the dresser a soft, earthy green finish while creating a driftwood look finish on the top.
The Finish
For the body of the dresser, I used Melange Paints Limberlost, which is a soft sage-gray green that works beautifully with warm wood tones.
After removing the veneer from the top, I applied a tan wash using Fusion Mineral Paint in Putty mixed with water. This helped create a warmer, more even base.
Once that dried, I applied a water based stain from General Finishes in the color Walnut. I then brushed on a clear topcoat for protection.
I added simple brass knobs and new drawer liners to finish the piece.
Products Used
Paint:
Wood Top:
Fusion Mineral Paint in Putty mixed with water
General Finishes in the color Walnut.
Varathane water based top coat, satin sheen
Hardware:
Drawer Liners:
Boho Green Floral vinyl peel and stick wallpaper
The Process
Remove the damaged veneer
I removed the old veneer from the drawer fronts as well as two layers of veneer from the dresser top.
Prep and repair
After removing the veneer, I cleaned, sanded and repaired the dresser to prepare it for its new finish.
Paint the dresser
The dresser body was painted in Melange Paints Limberlost. Primer and a topcoat were not required with this all-in-one paint.
Create the wood finish
I applied a wash of Fusion Mineral Paint Putty and water to the top, followed by General Finishes Walnut brown stain.
Protect & finish
The top was sealed with a clear topcoat, and I finished the dresser with new brass hardware and drawer liners.
You can watch a quick recap of this dresser makeover on my YouTube video:
Have a piece of furniture that could use a new look?
I offer custom furniture refinishing for clients in the southern New Hampshire area. Have a dresser, buffet, desk or other piece you've been holding onto? I'd love to help you give it a new look.
Want to refinish it yourself?
My Furniture Painting Guide walks you through my process for creating a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
If you're inspired by this transformation or have any questions about the process, let’s chat in the comments below! Whether you're planning a DIY project or just love seeing old furniture get a new lease on life, I would love to hear from you!
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