Dresser In Need Pt. 3 / It's Alive!!!

Originally Published Nov 16, 2015

When we last left the Dresser In Need it was receiving some much needed veneer repair.  Much progress was made since then and it's finally complete.  Joints were glued, wood was stained, shelf paper was removed and legs were fastened. Let's take a look....

After stripping the old finish we were left with this pale shell of its former self. But after a little stain it’s coming back to life. I used Varathane American Walnut stain on this one.

After staining

Here we can see where the side panel was separating from the frame. Some new glue and a plethora of clamps and it’s back together again.

Clamped up

Next up was the legs. I’ve got a pretty sizeable stash of vintage pencil legs and attachment plates that I keep for just such an occasion. I found a set that were in great shape and just needed a few inches trimmed off and a fresh finish applied.  Now it's ready to stand on its own four feet.

I saved the best part for last – shelf paper removal. This is never a fun job. I usually attack it with a heat gun and a razor blade. If there’s any glue residue left it usually comes off with a scrubbing of mineral spirits.

The finishing touch was a fresh coat of satin lacquer and voila!  Not bad considering what we started with.

Thanks for following along and stay tuned for more furniture refinishing fun!