I have a hand me down furniture makeover for you today…one that you will love if you like pretty gift-wrap. I love anything and everything having to do with typefaces. So it is no surprise to me that I have had my eye on this vintage typographer gift-wrap ever since Emily over at Jones Design Company posted about it as well as many other pretty papers she uses.
I wanted to find a way I could use this gift-wrap where I could enjoy the pattern in my daily life instead of only wrapping gifts with it and giving it away. When I started to update my guest room I got an idea on how I could incorporate it into the room. The gift-wrap comes in 20” x 28” sheets that cost $4.00 each. I needed 3 to cover the top of my dresser and the drawer pulls. You can find it here at LuxPapeire.com
Before
This piece of hand me down furniture looks nice in this photo, but the top and left side have cracks in them. It would need too much work and expense to fix , so I am going to add my own style to it using the gift-wrap and paint.
supplies needed:
- Paint
- Kilz Stain Blocking Primer – Original Formula
- Glass Beads – I got mine at The Dollar Tree
- Mod Podge – Matte finish
- Sandpaper
- 2″ – angled Purdy paint brush
- Paint roller
- Clear Glue – I used Aleene’s Platinum Bond Glass and Bead
My color scheme for the room: white, beige, tan, black, and purple.
I painted the dresser white first. The paint is a mix of whites that I had a bit of each– Sherwin Williams Creamy and Alabaster. I added them together so I would have enough to cover the dresser. I roughed up the wood just a tiny bit with sandpaper. Cleaned it up with a tack cloth and then rolled on two coats of Original Kilz stain blocking primer. Kilz comes in a few different formulas, but the Original one is the best in my opinion. I let that dry and then I applied two light coats of the white paint I mixed together. I used the best roller I could afford and an angled 2″ Purdy brush to paint the edges of each drawer and the trim on the bottom.
I didn’t like the drawer pulls, but it was not in my budget to buy new ones, so I had to come up with a way to make them more interesting. I removed them from the dresser, washed and then spray painted them white.
Since the gift-wrap has a tan background, I wanted to add a bit of it into the pulls. They also needed a bit of contrast and I was inspired to add the flat glass beads after seeing glass number knobs at Anthropologie.
1. Cut letters out to the shape of flat glass beads. 2. Use clear glue to attach the cut-outs to the back of flat glass beads. 3. Glue beads on to center of drawer pulls and let dry. Rough up edges of pulls with a small piece of sandpaper. 4. Attach to the dresser.
Adhering the Gift wrap:
1. Use Mod Podge to attach the sheets of gift-wrap to the top of the dresser. I figured out the placement of the gift-wrap first and then spread a thick coat of Mod Podge on the top of the dresser where the first sheet would go.
2. Line up the paper and leave enough to turn over to the underside of the top. Lay the sheet on and then use your brush and spread more Mod Podge on top of the paper.
3. Make sure you press out all the air bubbles. If you get an air bubble and you can’t remove it. Carefully cut the paper with a mat knife and then use the tip of the knife to hold the paper up so you can get some Mod Podge under the section. Press it back down and smooth it over. Once it is dry you won’t notice. When using Mod Podge – especially on large pieces you are going to get a few wrinkles, but in this case – they look good – like leather. Use your brush or fingers to make sure that the gift-wrap is adhered to the underside of top.
4. Repeat the process for each sheet of gift-wrap. I had to piece the back section as the sheets were not as deep as my dresser. On the corners I left the excess hang over and then cut a diagonal line to the corner then turned the excess under and used more Mod Podge to make sure it adhered.
5. After the first coat of Mod Podge was dry, I added a second coat.
After
I am thrilled with the way it came out. The most expensive part was the gift-wrap that cost me just under $15 with the shipping.
The glass beads were $1.00 for a pouch filled with them that I found at The Dollar Tree.
To learn how I attached the mirrors above the dresser in a 3D effect. you You will find it:
How to Create a 3D Mirror Gallery Wall
***
More Furniture Makeovers:
Before and After Round Table with Woven Strips of Gift wrap
Trash to Dollar Store Treasure Dresser
Or see my Furniture Makeover Project Gallery
Dekorizyon says
08/23/2017 at 5:53 amI love it!!
Demet @evduzenleme says
01/03/2017 at 9:48 amAgain another great idea!
Carmen says
11/29/2016 at 12:49 pmGreat Job. Will you be able to put objects on top of dresser. What happens if someone spills water on it?
Diane Henkler says
11/29/2016 at 11:25 pmHi Carmen – You can put whatever you normally would put on the top of a dresser on the top. Right now I have it filled with Christmas decorations. If water spills, the sealer keeps the water from seeping into the paper. Just like a piece of wood furniture, you can’t let water sit, but it will not damage the top if you wipe it up as soon as possible.
Denise Hardy says
08/26/2016 at 5:53 pmHi – I absolutely love this dresser, the paper that you used and the glass pebbles with the idea of the letters and I also love your mirror arrangement.
Marnie says
06/25/2016 at 3:50 pmDid you primer the top of the dresser as well (for the wrapping paper to adhere to) or just scuff it up a bit?
Diane Henkler says
06/27/2016 at 11:41 pmHi Marnie – I did prime it first so it would be white. I didn’t want the paper to have a color cast from the wood tone of the dresser. Once the primer was dry, I scuffed it up to make sure the gift wrap would adhere well. I made over that dresser over 6 years ago. It still looks great and is used all the time. :-)
Janell S. says
02/13/2016 at 10:48 amLoved this re-do from the moment I saw it on Pinterest and am just finishing up my dresser re-do with the same wrapping paper top. Thank you for the inspiration!
Cathy Lawdanski says
02/08/2016 at 7:32 amClever & lovely!
Debbie How says
09/01/2015 at 12:23 amYour home is lovely and you should have no difficulty selling it…I would buy it, but I live in Canada.
I have pinned all your decorating ideas to try myself. Just wanted to say I think you are extremely clever. : )
Diane Henkler says
09/03/2015 at 8:48 amHi Debbie – Thanks so much for taking the time to leave me such a nice comment. XO I surely hope my home sells quickly, you just never know though. I am keeping my fingers crossed. Thanks for pinning my projects. I truly appreciate it!
Georgia says
08/13/2015 at 6:45 amHi can you do this with wallpaper
Diane Henkler says
08/13/2015 at 9:08 amHi Georgia – Yes you can use wallpaper to decoratively cover a dresser. It will work in the same way as the gift wrap.
blog inspiracion says
01/25/2015 at 4:03 pm¡Wow! I love it! Thanks! Your blog are beautiful ^^
Taylor C says
12/05/2014 at 4:48 pmI totally want to do this to my bathroom counter… could I do this? Does anyone know? It’s an ollldddd style counter, I couldn’t tell you what it
s made out of. But could I use wall paper? Does the Modge Podge make the paper water proof?
Can someone let me know please? Thank you! :)
Diane Henkler says
12/06/2014 at 8:19 amHi Taylor – Original Mod Podge will not hold up if the counter gets wet a lot. If it does get wet on a continuous basis, it may wrinkle and or buckle. They have a newer version that is for Outdoor use. It has a green label and is called Outdoor Mod Podge. You can buy it at the crafts store or Walmart. I have not used it on a counter, but have heard good things about it. I would still wipe up any water that gets on the counter after using the sink. It will only help keep the counter looking nice.
Dez says
10/12/2014 at 2:36 pmI like this idea a lot! I have a table that I want to decorate and was looking for inspiration and techniques. Thanks for sharing!!
Michelle says
07/10/2014 at 11:11 pmI love it! It is beautiful! I like how you added the glass beads to the handles that is so creative. I use and paint these same drawer pulls all the time. Thanks or the painting tip!
Karen says
09/24/2013 at 10:51 amI like the way you lightened up and transformed your dresser! I especially like the mirror collage on your wall above the dresser. That is really a great idea!
michelle says
08/21/2013 at 4:58 pmAbsolutly amazing job !!! I love what you did. Im in the same predicament with my dresser, same size as yours….just what i was looking for!!!! I am inspired….thank you..
Nicole says
07/19/2013 at 10:39 amThank you! I love the clear glass bead idea.
Rebecca says
07/07/2013 at 1:44 pmI tried this on my own and it worked GREAT! I gave my foyer a whole new makeover with this piece. Thank you for all the inspiration!
http://decoupawesome.wordpress.com/2013/07/07/dresser-makeover-decoupage-wrapping-paper/
Jill says
06/17/2013 at 2:03 pmHi, I am refinishing an old dresser with hardware that looks similar to what’s on this dresser. Recently I was looking at the hardware and it doesn’t appear to be screwed on with regular screws. Since I can’t see the backs of yours to see how they are held in place, I’m not sure how these were held in place on your dresser. But can you tell me how you removed them and just ignore me if they were secured in place with screws.
Diane Henkler says
06/17/2013 at 9:48 pmHi Jill – The pulls were screwed in from the back of the drawer front. Your pulls may be inset – you would have to pry them out of the front. There could also be a backing against the back of the drawer front. See if there is a seam along the top of the drawer that you can pry off to reveal the screws.
Kristyn says
06/13/2013 at 4:19 amAgain another great idea! Question…How easy would it be to change the paper on the dresser top if it became worn??
Diane Henkler says
06/13/2013 at 11:01 amHi Kristyn – No harder than removing wallpaper from a wall. Wet it well and then let it sit for about 10 minutes, then you can peel it off. A large Spackle knife would be handy to get under the paper when you first start to remove it. Once that is done, it should come off easy. I would sand any residue smooth with a sanding block.
Adrienne says
06/01/2013 at 1:12 pmYou did a great job on this! I just redid some of our cabinets and old hardware on our drawers and it made such a difference. But I think the paper top is a genius idea!
Jenn says
05/08/2013 at 5:45 pmI did this and I found that spray adhesive won’t bubble the paper. Thanks for the inspiration! I picked up a nice enough bureau from a junk store and turned it into an amazing piece of furniture that I’m just in LOVE with! I put a few coats of Minwax’s Polycrylic on top to seal it. It dries clear, so no yellowing :)
dekor says
03/08/2013 at 8:26 amHas been designed in an incredibly beautiful thank you for sharing.
Lisa says
02/13/2013 at 10:59 amI came across your blog today.. let me tell you. It is ‘awesome’. I love it! The details, so concise, nothing held back and easy to follow. Great job! Keep it up :)
Susie @ Homemaker-mom.com says
12/10/2012 at 11:50 pmOk, this is amazing. I am in love with that dresser! What an inspiration you are! I have an old little dresser I could do this too! Thank you so much. When ever I stop by your site I am blown away each time.
Alanna says
11/25/2012 at 2:20 pmI was so inspired by this project that I found my own wrapping paper that looks like sheet music and put it over my hideous counter tops in my kitchen that I have been wanting to replace forever! I just finished the first coat and it came out great!! Thank you for the awesome idea and the “how to” instructions!!
Susan says
09/16/2017 at 1:19 amI love love love your paper choice. Please share your finished product. I would paint the dresser the same color as is in the paper, which looks white.
Jen says
11/07/2012 at 3:19 pmI love this idea. Thank you so much for sharing. My dresser is on the front porch drying from my second coat of primer and my luxe paper arrived in the mail today. Im kinda stuck on what color to paint the dresser thou.
http://www.luxepaperie.com/eldeemgiwrsh.html
This is the paper I chose. I was thinking an antique white. My bedroom is a light light blue. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Diane Henkler says
11/08/2012 at 7:39 amHi Jen – Love your paper! You are going to have one pretty dresser. I think I would paint it the blue color in the paper. If the piece has a lot of nice detailing on it, maybe even apply a light glaze over it with the grey brown color to bring out the details. If it is too much blue because your room is blue – antique white will look just as nice, but I think lightly glazing over it with one of the colors in the paper will add more character to the piece. Either way it will look very nice. I would ask myself – What color would create a better color balance with the rest of the elements in the room?
LaRee B. says
10/18/2012 at 9:18 pmI’ve had this post up on my browser for about a week now, and I finally mod podged some fancy giftwrap to an old sewing table that I picked up for free from a neighbor. Thank you so much for the inspiration!
Carole says
10/16/2012 at 12:58 pmThat is so cool on the dresser top!
I recently came across this paper at a local paper store (not giving the name because I don’t want to lose my source! lol). As a paper artist and typography lover, I had to have a sheet. I used mine for wall art, but I love this!
natasha says
08/25/2012 at 5:55 pmHi I was wondering what type of roller did you use I’m waiting for my primer to dry…. I hate brushes…. I need a roller
thanks for the great posts!!!
Diane says
08/26/2012 at 11:49 amHi Natasha – I like foam rollers or high quality low nap rollers. You can see a photo of the brushes and rollers I use in this post.
https://inmyownstyle.com/2012/08/how-to-paint-an-old-wood-chest-of-drawers.html
They offer a smooth finish. It may take a little getting used to -as you can’t roll on with too much pressure or you will see roller edge lines and bubbles may show up with a foam roller if you press to hard. Just roll over the surface very lightly and if you do see a roller edge line show up – just roll over it gently to remove it. Most bubbles will go away on their own. If not – make sure to sand lightly and clean off the grit with a tack cloth between coats to smooth out the surface before applying the next coat of paint. If you have a nice dry 75 degree day out or are painting in an air conditioned space your paint and primer will dry fast.
Andrea says
08/25/2012 at 5:14 pmI liked your idea to use the typography gift wrap that I did the same thing! Thank you so much for sharing your project!
Architecture Linked says
08/18/2012 at 7:08 pmBeautiful work! I love the mirrors on the wall, too. Great eye for design!
Anomonster says
08/03/2012 at 1:55 amthis website has made me depressed, I find it terribly sad that someone made this in the first place, and then I scroll down expecting to see a column of comments reflecting my point of view and instead I see a whole lot of praise! What is the world coming to!? Seriously it’s 2012 and people still haven’t developed a sense of style!! I hope to god I don’t ever have to stay in a room so tacky. And srsly laughing over the mirror placement too….. what happened to intelligent design – this must be an American blog.
Susan says
09/16/2017 at 1:32 amI feel sad for you that you can’t see the beauty in this furniture. Everyone has there own taste but you shouldn’t put others down if it’s not your style. I think the mirror placement is cool, but this is my opinion. When it comes to making comments, I say follow the golden rule, if you don’t have something good to say then keep it to yourself!
Karen says
08/01/2012 at 10:10 pmI love it I tried it with a different pattern and it came out excellent I will put it on face book for my friends and family to see. Thanks for the ideal
Jackie says
07/13/2012 at 11:22 amGreat job ! This is fantastic.
Grey says
07/09/2012 at 4:27 amI prefer it as it was.
I give the new design 1 year and you will be sick of it.
Sorry.
Jackie says
07/13/2012 at 11:24 amAnd if she is, not too difficult to change out the paper on top. I like it
Jenny says
06/28/2012 at 5:35 pmOh my… I love this finished project more than I can say. You did a fantastic job Diane!
Becky says
06/24/2012 at 2:26 pmHi there, Inspired by your dresser, I am working on a book shelf for my daughter’s room. i just have one question: How much mod podge did you need for this?
Diane says
06/24/2012 at 4:56 pmHi Becky –
Two 16 oz bottles will be enough.
Alert Electrical says
05/31/2012 at 5:19 amReally inspirational – I have an ugly white Ikea dresser in my bedroom and am trying to think of some way to brighten it up – something along the lines of this is perfect! And the glass beads with letters idea is just so unique
JewSunStar says
05/29/2012 at 4:31 amHello Diane, I love the new look and your creation. I think i’m falling in love with your blog. lol :)
Brittany says
05/25/2012 at 2:34 pmWow! I’m very impressed with the way this turned out, and for only $15.00! That is awesome. It looks fantastic, and I love the decor on and around it, it’s all so perfect. Good job!! ;)
TheAL says
05/22/2012 at 10:48 amIt’s beautiful. What a cool idea, and completely doable. It’s like a completely new piece! I’m also quite fond of the mirror arrangement. :)
Moi says
05/16/2012 at 5:27 pmThe dresser looked better before you made it over
Angela says
05/15/2012 at 8:53 amThis is such a gorgeous dresser. I used your tips and did one in my bedroom. It turned out so pretty. Thanks for such a great post!
Jules Klimek says
04/30/2012 at 5:01 pmI have a dresser that has been doing it’s job holding clothes, but looks boring and ugly! I will try this!
Samantha says
04/29/2012 at 3:50 pmThank you so much, that is super helpful. I was originally just going to do laminate, but I haven’t found any laminate I enjoy. With the paint, I could do an interesting design
Samantha says
04/28/2012 at 1:19 amI have some questions. First, you put a layer of the mod podge on top of the wrapping paper as well? Does that prevent the paper from tearing? I have been looking for something to make a kitchen island, and can’t find any laminate that I actually like, would this be capable of holding up against daily kitchen uses? I think this is an amazing design, and would love to use something similar!
Diane says
04/28/2012 at 10:44 amHi Samantha-
Mod Podge on a kitchen counter would not hold up in the long run. I would not do it. I only use it on furniture that just needs dusting or a damp rag to wipe clean. If you would like to use the gift wrap you would have to seal it with a few coats of polyurethane. This will protect it, but it also will darken the paper. It will end up looking a brown-orange color and ruin the look. There are water based polyurethanes that don’t yellow, but a kitchen counter takes lots of abuse and I think that there are better options to re-doing a counter. Have you looked into the Rustoleum brand kitchen counter paints. There are 16 colors and comes in a kit. There are a few colors to choose. Here is a link describing what it is and does: http://www.rustoleum.com/CBGProduct.asp?pid=208
Melodie @ thReaDs~n~StUFf says
02/29/2012 at 8:49 pmThis is amazing! I love it, and am SO inspired, I am getting ready to place an order for the paper and am doing the top of a coffee table….can’t wait! Thanks for sharing!!
Morgan @ A Bright Idea says
02/25/2012 at 8:39 amThis turned out so great! And very unique. I have a dresser that I’ve been thinking about painting – this gives me some ideas. Love your blog, will definitely be back. I’m over at http://www.justhadabrightidea.blogspot.com if you ever want to pop in! -Morgan
Diane - It's All Good Until You Burn Dinner says
02/23/2012 at 11:21 pmI am in love with this dresser! I just don’t know if I could pull it off but it sure gets the creative wheels turning in my head! Thanks for the great idea and pics!
Michelle says
02/23/2012 at 1:39 amI love the way the dresser came out. I love the mirrors you arranged above it. How did you do the different layers?
Thanks
Diane says
02/29/2012 at 11:28 pmHi Michelle – Thanks -you can see the tutorial for how I did the 3D Gallery Wall here:
https://inmyownstyle.com/2011/02/how-to-create-a-3-d-gallery-wall.html
Andrea Arch says
02/22/2012 at 9:31 pmFirst of all, that paper choice is amazing. Secondly, great idea to spruce up the drawer handles. Lastly, overall great job! I can’t wait until garage sale season is here to be able to refurbish some furniture using gift wrap!
Lapidus says
02/18/2012 at 6:48 pmLike first,the name of a blog is a famous. Collection of this pictures are very interesting.I need one thing in my room like on pics.
Renee says
02/17/2012 at 1:12 pmOh my goodness….I am so very hooked to your site & ideas thank you so much for sharing not only what you do but how you do it! Loving what I am seeing today & loving that I found your site!
Roadster says
02/09/2012 at 4:11 pmTell me – will the the top be waterproof after the two coats of Mod Podge? I am thinking of using this for classroom furniture. Thanks
Diane says
02/09/2012 at 4:23 pmIt won’t be waterproof, but wipe-able with out the paper getting damaged. I have a little table in my living room that I have done the same way. I have placed hot tea cups and have spilled drinks on it. At first – I see a ring or a buckle in the paper, but once it dries – they are gone.
https://inmyownstyle.com/2010/09/before-and-after-table-makeover.html
If you would like to make the furniture truly waterproof you could use a water-based polyurethane over it. 2-3 coats would do the trick. It may darken the paper just a bit, but it will give you a waterproof finish.
Trish says
01/29/2012 at 9:03 pmI already have the dresser…LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your ideas!! Keep them coming!!!!
[email protected] Satori Design for Living says
01/20/2012 at 10:02 amWhat a fantastic idea. The dresser looks 100 times better!
Jennifer says
10/05/2011 at 11:47 pmJust beautiful, I have a similar dresser to redo so i just may have to “steal” this idea. Love it!
Lorraine Padden says
09/29/2011 at 7:24 pmWhat a wonderfully simple makeover. I think I could pull this off. Faabulous.
yvette says
09/28/2011 at 7:46 pmAnd note that her blog is called “in my own style”
Diane says
09/28/2011 at 11:52 pmHi Yvette-
Thanks for the nice comment -and notice of my blog title :) Much appreciated!
yvette says
09/28/2011 at 7:44 pmWow, elizabeth, that was mean! Didnt your mother teach you “if you dont have anything nice to say, dont say anything at all”? I think the dresser looks great. You did a nice job. You can tell you took your time.
Elizabeth says
09/28/2011 at 6:53 pmThe pattern of the gift wrap is too repetitive and boxy… The idea is great, but the execution is horrible. You destroyed a beautiful piece of furniture. I’m sure will see this ten years from now in “How to get ugly wrapping paper off a hand-me-down dresser.”
Jane says
10/30/2011 at 1:20 pmI have a dresser just like this one. They are a dime a dozen. You can pick them up for nothing on Craig’s List. I don’t think Diane will ever be sorry she did this. It is absolutely lovely & unique. And if she tires of it, I think its evident she has the creative talent to transform it once again!
AM says
09/16/2011 at 11:57 amGoodness, you ruined it.
AM says
09/16/2011 at 11:59 ambtw, nice blog though.. great stuff overall.
Melissa says
08/19/2011 at 2:29 pmYour blog is such an inspiration! So many great ideas. Thank you!
Yvette says
08/17/2011 at 7:27 amBeautiful!!! How did you get the wrapping paper not to bubble? That’s what happened to me when I modpodged a kids table with wrapping paper.
Diane says
08/17/2011 at 8:54 amHi Yvette-
The gift wrap I used was a higher quality than most. It is a tad bit thicker or in paper terms it has more weight. It is the kind you can buy in sheets, not rolls. Thin giftwrap from say the dollar store is very thin and will wrinkle. Even with the thicker wrap – I use very light coats of Mod Podge instead of one or two thick coats, but the real key is using heavier weight gift wrap or paper. I have used thinner and it does wrinkle, but if you put on light coats of Mod Podge and let it dry between coats the wrinkling goes away as it dries. Another thing to remember is to glue the back side of the paper down first and make sure there are no air bubbles in it. Then go over the top. I have also had success with brown kraft paper, old book pages, and the double sided gift wrap that kids sell as fund raisers – all of these are heavier weight paper – that is the key.
Trish says
02/09/2012 at 6:11 pmwhat about scrapbook paper…12×12 sheets? would those work?
Diane says
02/09/2012 at 6:17 pmHi Trish-
Yes – scrapbook paper would work perfectly. The sheets, not the cardstock type – that would be too thick.
JT says
08/06/2011 at 4:56 pmLove this dresser, but I would advise against using Mod-Podge as a finish on any kind of functional furniture.
It looks good right after you finish your project, but it doesn’t stand up to heat, moisture or scuffing.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a suggestion of a better product to use, but I just wanted to share my own experience with Mod-Podge on furniture. Just doesn’t last.
Lee Ann G. says
07/30/2011 at 1:54 pmI LOVE THIS!!!!
Thank you for sharing.
Lee Ann
jessie jacques says
07/24/2011 at 7:49 pmAs soon as I saw this, I ran out and bought a can of paint. I have the same dresser/buffet, and just had to re-do mine. Thank you so much for your inspiration.
Best,
Jessie
Sarah says
07/19/2011 at 11:07 pmI love this dresser. You did a fantastic job and it is so creative. We’ve been trying to come up with an inexpensive way to dress-up our dresser and this may be perfect! Thanks so much.
DDekor says
07/04/2011 at 3:13 pmAwesome, i love it!!
TBeads says
07/03/2011 at 12:58 pmThis is such an awesome idea! Beautiful work.
Sadie Lascelles says
07/03/2011 at 2:23 amseeing this DIY project actually inspired me to refurbish my dresser i’ve had my whole life. Thanks for the idea ! It’s a really fun and exciting project (:
Diane says
07/05/2011 at 8:25 pmHI Sadie-
Thanks. It will be nice to give new life to something that you have had for so long. Being able to add your own personality to it will make it extra special to you now.
Beverly {Flamingo Toes} says
07/02/2011 at 1:02 amFound this through StumbleUpon and had to stop and say how much I love it!! The top is perfect – but I especially love the hardware. The white is perfect too! Great job!
yup yuppers says
07/02/2011 at 12:47 amI thought the dresser was beautiful the way it was. The wood was a gorgeous color. I could understand maybe redoing the hardware, and I like the mirrors above it. I do not get the letter theme and the point of painting over such a natural beauty.
Diane says
07/05/2011 at 9:45 pmHi Yup Yuppers-
The wood looks ok in the photo, but it was badly faded and the top had a crack on one side that goes down on an angle along one side. There were also few water rings and damage when perfume was spilled on it years ago. I could have refinished it but that is too hard of a job with too many chemicals.
Since it was a hand me down that I never truly liked and was not worth much on the resale market – I decided to put some of my own style into it. I am a lover of typography and the letter giftwrap lets me enjoy seeing type in unexpected places. Painting it makes the room look much more coordinated and brighter. I do like the simplicity of a nice piece of wood furniture against a white wall. I have another dresser like this one and a highboy in another bedroom that has a much nicer patina that I love and will never paint.
fajas colombianas says
06/30/2011 at 11:42 amAmazing transformation, your idea is brilliant!
Federica says
06/20/2011 at 2:37 amI love it!!
Elfy says
06/09/2011 at 8:20 amLovely and very clever!
David says
05/04/2011 at 12:26 pmOMG! Inspired!
Diane says
05/04/2011 at 1:30 pmHi David- Thanks. It was always just a “hand me down” and now it is one of my favorite pieces of furniture.
Kristina Abernathy says
04/29/2011 at 6:13 pmI love it! I have a very similar dresser, and I’ve been trying to figure out what to do with it. You’ve inspired me – Thanks!
Diane says
04/29/2011 at 9:43 pmHi Kristina-
I think my dresser is from the 50’s from Ethan Allen. I loved the Typography gift wrap and knew I had to find a way to use it. I just saw it used inside the firebox in a mantel on Design Sponge.
Angela says
04/25/2011 at 12:22 pmVery cool idea!
Donna says
04/08/2011 at 6:23 pmIt is absolutely beautiful. I have a spare bedroom that is in desperate need of updating with the same kind of dresser as yours. I just love it. Thank you for sharing.
ANDREA says
04/08/2011 at 4:20 pmWonderful Job!!! Great inspiration!!! Love it!
Stacey of Embracing Change says
04/07/2011 at 9:27 pmThat is a super cool idea – love it! nice job!
Krystine says
04/04/2011 at 10:30 amThat looks so good! You did such a great job!
http://lucyluvinyl.blogspot.com/
Amanda @ Serenity Now says
04/03/2011 at 10:38 pmGasping! LOVE this makeover!! The dressertop is just amazing. Nice work, and a great tutorial!
Thanks for joining my Weekend Bloggy Reading party. :) Hope you’ll visit me at Serenity Now again soon! :)
madison avenue says
04/03/2011 at 1:46 pmwow! this is AMAZING!!!! when i saw it my jaw literally dropped! i love how it became so light opposed to a dark clump of furniture. i love how you did the pulls with the glass letters and i LOVE how you put a design on the top of the dresser! everything flows together sooo well i wish i had this in my house :) i also really like the way you layered your mirrors on the wall, it looks really nice. p.s. im your newest follower!!
beth says
04/03/2011 at 10:47 amOh, my goodness!! I love that! I never would have thought to do anything like that. Very clever!!
Hope you have a great day.
Beth.
Janine says
04/03/2011 at 8:30 amOutstanding!! I love this dresser and also the rest of the guest room—what a tremendous job you did!! Wow!! The colors you chose for the room and the dresser itself are just stunning. (came here from Mod Podge Rocks)
Myra @ The Casabella Project says
04/03/2011 at 1:15 amAMAZING job!!! I’m featuring your dresser makeover this week on my blog! :)
Nola says
04/03/2011 at 1:10 amLove the new look! What a wonderful way to dress up an old dresser!!!
[email protected] says
04/02/2011 at 11:11 pmVery cute and unique idea!
laurie says
04/02/2011 at 10:17 pmSoooooo cool, Diane! Luv the tip on painting the handles! What an incredibly creative and unique dresser!!!
xoxo laurie
Diane @ home sweet homemade says
04/02/2011 at 8:50 pmFabulous job! I love your paper selection for the dresser top and the creative way you embellished the drawer pulls! Splendid!
Becca says
04/02/2011 at 7:45 pmThis is perfection. I absolutely love it.
Brooke @ Inside-Out Design says
04/02/2011 at 6:58 pmWow, this looks amazing!!! I love this paper but I would NEVER use something this nice to wrap gifts in. :) Paper this pretty deserves so much more than to be trashed after a party. Thanks so much for inspiring me!! I bought some wrapping paper a few weeks ago to cover our ugly filing cabinet with. Now thanks to you I’m motivated to get started!
Gabriella {sensiblyluxe} says
04/02/2011 at 5:02 pmOhmygoodness, what a transformation! I would buy that dresser from a shop in a millisecond.
Kim says
04/02/2011 at 1:59 pmI LOVE how it turned out!!! What a great idea!!
Vivienne @ The V Spot says
04/02/2011 at 12:58 pmThis is a fantastic make-over! Thanks so much for the tip about the toothpicks. I refinish a lot of furniture and I have never tried this. Brilliant! I love the little glass beads on the pulls and the top is fantastic. Here from SAS
Marriah @ My Life Unzipped says
04/02/2011 at 12:15 pmwow. that came out so great. I love the buttons. http://www.mylifeunzipped.blogspot.com
Lori says
04/02/2011 at 12:12 pmI loooooooooove the dresser! Fantastic makeover! Now I’m off to find some of that cool paper….
Sommer says
04/02/2011 at 10:26 amDiane what an incredible piece! I love the paper and the sticky things on the drawer pulls! I’d love to have you link this to my VIP party today! http://designergarden.blogspot.com/2011/03/vip-party-9.html
Emma B says
04/02/2011 at 10:18 amI am a new follower, I just had to say how beautiful your dresser turned out! I love it :)
cris says
04/02/2011 at 9:58 amAmazing!! So so so cool!! I have an older dresser in my soon’s room.. I might try that! Her team is CARS so maybe I can get a checkered wrapping paper!!! Thanks for sharing!! I am now a stylish follower!!
Heather @ Local Fun for Kids says
04/02/2011 at 8:59 amThat is really beautiful. I saw your message on PSMM and wanted to stop by. You have a fabulous site with so many great ideas!
[email protected] Crafty Home says
04/02/2011 at 7:52 amThis came out great!! I hope you’ll share it at my linky party going on all weekend!
KSacavage says
04/02/2011 at 7:43 amThe dresser in my daughter’s room (who is off to college) is waiting for a “redo” such as this. It looks fabulous!
Seven Valley Hill says
04/02/2011 at 5:30 amoh and p.s. I’m desperate for that wall of mirrors behind it!!! GREAT job!
Seven Valley Hill says
04/02/2011 at 5:29 amOh. My. Gosh.
A. I love Emily Jones Design Co. too!
B. LOVE this dresser
C. totally copying it.
D. found you on Tatertots and Jello weekend party thingy.
and one more…. E. GREAT idea about the toothpicks! genius.
Glycérine says
04/02/2011 at 4:01 amwow.. wonderful !!!
Becky U says
04/02/2011 at 3:14 amThis has to be one of the prettiest dressers I’ve ever seen. Beautiful!!
Funky Junk Interiors says
04/02/2011 at 2:47 amAwesome Diane! That topper is so beautiful against my most fav wall ever. :)
Donna
Nicole W. says
04/02/2011 at 1:35 amYour dresser turned out beautifully! I love, love, love it! Thanks for sharing your great tutorial, visiting from Tatertots & Jello
Sherry says
04/02/2011 at 1:08 amThis dresser looks absolutely beautiful! What a great idea, thanks for sharing.
Sherry
Kim says
04/02/2011 at 12:43 amWOW WOW WOW…I am SOOOOO in love with this dresser. i just painted and distressed a white dresser in my bedroom, but it needs a little umph…I think I am stealing your idea! THANKS!!!!
[email protected] says
04/01/2011 at 11:59 pmThat is SOOOOO CUUUUTTTTTEEE! I love the way you dressed up the pulls as well. Great work!
Lucy Designs says
04/01/2011 at 11:47 pmthis looks awesome! I love the toothpick tip for the handles too…bookmarking that one in my head!
Kelsey says
04/01/2011 at 10:49 pmThis turned out SO cool! I love typography too. I should totally do this to my hubby’s dresser. Great job!
Courtney says
04/01/2011 at 10:41 pmAwesome, love it! Think that my favorite feature is the glass beads w/letters on it, inspired!!
Carol-Anne: Use the Good Dishes! says
04/01/2011 at 10:30 pmHoly Crap! This is bloody amazing….! (excuse the language, but it just looks amazing.)
Alison says
04/01/2011 at 10:28 pmHi, I’m a new follower! Coming over from Philly Social Media Moms! I’m a new-ish member myself…I mostly lurk since that’s all I seem to have time to do! Skim the posts, no time to comment! :)
I wanted to say, I love your dresser makeover! I have a small end table that resembles your before photo (freebie from side of the road!) that is in desperate need of a make over. Any suggestions for a first time furniture painter (painting some old chairs this month)?
Candice says
04/01/2011 at 9:51 pmOh wow, I love the dresser so much! And thank you for the tip to wedge the toothpick in the drawer pulls. I tried to repaint some without doing that and it was a disaster. I can’t wait to redo them now!!
Carrie says
04/01/2011 at 9:46 pmI love how you went beyond just painting the dresser and really put your creative energy into making it look totally different! Well done!
{found you through PSMM, welcome to the group!}
Julie says
04/01/2011 at 9:27 pmVery cute & original!!!
Mod Podge Amy says
04/01/2011 at 9:10 pmI absolutely LOVE that paper and your treatment on those handles is awesome!
debi9kids says
04/01/2011 at 6:52 pmOh wow. I am so totally in love with the finished project. Very nice!
Going to have to book-mark your blog :) LOVE your ideas!
ps Popping over from Philly Social Media Moms.
Alissa says
04/01/2011 at 3:31 pmVisiting from Philly Social Media Moms and I know I’ll be visiting often! Love your projects.
Colleen says
04/01/2011 at 3:29 pmOh My Word (Pun Totally Intended!) Awesome!!!
Life with Kaishon says
04/01/2011 at 2:24 pmWow! You did an outstanding job. This looks amazing! So glad you joined Philly Social Media Moms. Welcome. Delightful to meet you! : )
Beverly @ The Buzz says
04/01/2011 at 12:06 pmBeautiful. Love the way it turned out. And it looks so good with the mirrors above.
Christine says
04/01/2011 at 8:31 amI love it friend!!! Great job! My furniture never turns out quite this well:)
Christine
greatoakcircle.com
tracie says
04/01/2011 at 8:29 amfun!
Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. says
04/01/2011 at 8:14 amWhat a fun update! I love that wrapping paper. Great hardware. And I am totally going to use your toothpick trick – thank you!
Diana K says
04/01/2011 at 7:25 amDiane-That looks fantastic. I love the way it came out…..very, very clever..and it matches everything beautifully. Thanks for the tip on spray painting the pulls. I have usually tried to hang them from something~ Hugs- Diana
Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says
04/01/2011 at 7:24 amThe dresser looks so good, Diane! What a great paper and I love how it looks on the top. Wonderful idea to incorporate the letters into the handles. This is a beautiful transformation!
Madigan at madiganmade says
04/01/2011 at 6:45 amDiane,
A. That is great paper… what fabulous inspiration.
B. Love the dresser! The details you added are perfect.
C. I need to find out more about that gallery wall. (off to read more!)
Wonderful job! I love it.
Sharon says
04/01/2011 at 6:15 amWow, I love it! What a neat idea.
Michael at Blue Vevet Chair says
04/01/2011 at 3:35 amAbsolutely love the top! What an inspiration.
tammy says
04/01/2011 at 12:28 amthe dresser is perfect. and i love the mirrors hung over it! how did you layer them like that? it looks great. thanks for sharing this at my party!
Sarah says
03/31/2011 at 11:57 pmLOVE it! What a cute giftwrap. And I’m so glad I saw this post because I want to try using the tooth picks. Painting the hardware is always a pain. Thanks for the tips! And love the frames you hung.
Kim says
03/31/2011 at 11:35 pmI love it!
Coastal Femme says
03/31/2011 at 11:34 pmHi Diane ,
The dresser is gorgeous, What a great way to use a unique wrapping paper and the drawer pulls are the “icing on the cake” I like the black and white theme and can’t wait to see the whole room. What a difference painting the bed made too!
Laura @ Ms Smartie Pants says
03/31/2011 at 11:13 pmThis looks great! I’m thinking the black and white checks really pull it all together. Can’t wait to see the whole room!
Chrissie says
03/31/2011 at 11:00 pmI love how you made the hardware! What a great idea!
Anita @ GoingalittleCoastal says
03/31/2011 at 10:58 pmDiane, what a great idea. I think I need to do something like this to my son’s old dresser. Just need to find some paper that he will agree too. What a difference!