Project Recap: Vintage Cedar Chest Update

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In these quick guides, I walk through the steps I took and the products I used for a particular makeover. Interested in learning more about a particular step or process? Check out the links at the bottom of this post where I go into greater detail on each step.

Steps I used to achieve this look:

  1. Cleaning. I cleaned the exterior of the piece with a degreaser, using these ScotchBrite pads to scrub off any dirt and grime, then wiped it back with a microfiber cloth. Then I clean the interior, bottom, and back with a mixture of water and Dawn dish soap. Finally, I’ll wipe back the piece again with water and a clean microfiber cloth.
  2. Updating the Base: I started by scraping off the finish on the base and legs with my carbide scraper, and then I sanded off the rest. Once sanded and cleaned, I stain using this Dark Walnut stain.
  3. Repair work. Now it’s time to move on to the rest of the piece. The top had a failing finish with some water damage, so I had to sand all of the finish off. Because the grain was uneven due to the water damage, I had to fill the grain using Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty, using these plastic spreaders to apply. After allowing the putty to dry, I sanded the entire top with 220 grit.
  4. Scuff sanding. I scuff-sanded the rest of the piece with 220 grit sandpaper using my SurfPrep sander. However, you don’t need a fancy sander to do this step! Hand sanding works fine – you aren’t trying to remove the finish, just scuff up the existing finish to help with primer and paint adhesion.
  5. Prime. I was planning a dark color for this project, so I decided to use Melange’s stain blocking primer in gray to seal up the piece before painting.
  6. Paint. I painted this dresser in the fun color Classic Navy by Melange Paints with my favorite brush.
  7. Topcoat. I sealed this piece with one of my favorite topcoats, General Finishes High Performance Topcoat in Flat. I use this Zibra brush to apply. The combo of these products gives me a smooth and reliable finish.
  8. Update hardware. I wanted to keep this beautiful vintage hardware, so I cleaned it by boiling it in a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water for 10 minutes, then scrubbed with 0000 grade steel wool and Bar Keepers Friend. These were brass plated and some of the brass had come off over time, so I used Rub n’ Buff in European Gold to restore their brass look.
  9. Drawer Liner: The original drawer was lined with felt. I used my sander to sand off the felt and then applied this peel and stick wallpaper to give it a fresh look!

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH STEP? CHECK OUT THE LINKS BELOW:

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