Project Recap: Writing Desk 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’ll wipe back the piece again with water and a clean microfiber cloth.
2. Repair work. The biggest issue with this piece was the failing veneer on the top. I chipped off as much as I could using this multipurpose tool until the areas looked like this:

3. Then I mixed up the two-part All Purpose Bondo and filled these areas, working quickly in sections before the Bondo dried. These plastic spreaders are my favorite for applying Bondo. Once dry, I sanded the areas smooth and repeated this process to completely fill any missing spots. More details on Bondo can be found in this post.
4. Scuff sanding. I scuff 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.
5. Prime. Because I was going with a light paint color, I wanted to use a white primer I used a shellac-based primer, BIN, to prime and seal this piece, doing 2 coats and letting the primer cure overnight before painting. This primer will also help prevent any bleed-through of tannins or stains into your final finish.
6. Paint. I painted this dresser in the color Ginger Apricot by Melange Paints with my favorite brush. It is a beautiful warm neutral!
7. Topcoat. I sealed this piece with one of my favorite topcoats, General Finished HPTC in flat. I find this the easiest water-based topcoat to apply if you use a brush. It has a good work time and doesn’t appear cloudy (even on darker colors). I use this 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 brass hardware, so I cleaned it by boiling it in a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water for 10 minutes, then scrubbed it with 0000 grade steel wool and Brasso.

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