When a “before” photo landed in our inbox recently, we did a double-take — it wasn’t our photo at all but a beautiful dresser redo by Desiree, on the same piece we refinished for Clara’s nursery a few months ago. Small world. Here’s Desiree’s note about her project:
Technically this isn’t a Reader Redesign since you’ve already done it — perhaps it’s more of an homage? At any rate, I followed your tutorial to a ‘T’ and then some! I was hunting for a dresser for our guest bedroom and when I found one identical to the one you redid for your nursery, I jumped on it because I knew refinishing it would be straightforward.
I wish I’d only paid $20 like you guys, but everything’s pricier in the big city — even on Craigslist! Huge thanks to you for the tutorial; I definitely couldn’t have finished this without it. Also, you’re kinda awesome! — Desiree
Right back at you, Desiree. Your finished piece looks fantastic — it’s a little surreal to see Clara’s changing table in someone else’s home, but the dresser suits a lighter stain beautifully and translates well outside of a nursery. Nicely done. If you want to see more of Desiree’s step-by-step process and how the dresser complements the rest of the room, check her blog for photos and details. Thanks for sharing the eye candy, Desiree!
How about you? Have you tackled any furniture makeovers lately or discovered a Craigslist find you couldn’t resist? Tell us about your projects — we love seeing before-and-afters and hearing how others approach refinishing, staining, and styling secondhand pieces.