Project Recap: Taking this Vintage Hepplewhite Buffet to the Next Level

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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. Repair work. Full disclosure – this is not usually my first step. I almost always clean first, but I broke one of the drawers just trying to remove it (I’ve never had a drawer this stuck). So I had to glue one of the dovetailed joints back together. I applied my favorite wood glue with a blunt-ended syringe, then clamped in both directions overnight. Now it’s time to move on to the rest of the piece.
  2. Cleaning. I cleaned the exterior of the piece with a degreaser, using these ScotchBrite pads to really 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.
  3. More repairs and Scuff Sanding: There were a few minor scratches on the top that I filled with Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty, using these plastic spreaders to apply. After allowing the putty to dry, I sanded the entire 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.
  4. 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 prior to paint.
  5. Paint. I painted this dresser in the color Restoration Bronze by Melange Paints with my favorite brush.
  6. 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.
  7. Interior Refresh. I decided not to paint the inside of the cabinets and used Restor-A-Finish in Dark Walnut, followed by Feed-N-Wax to give the wood a good refresh.
  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 and wiped it clean. Once clean I loved the vintage patina so I decided to leave it just the way it was!
  9. Drawers: I wanted to freshen up the drawers so I used Board and Boot Quenching Balm by Melange Paints on the drawer sides (inside and out) and lined the bottoms with a coordinating peel and stick wallpaper.

Want to learn more about each step? Check out the links below:

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