Desk Makeover With French Wreath Graphic

Hubby picked up this desk for me. It was a Craigslist find. I wasn't sure what exactly I was going to do with it. I only knew that it was abused and needed love. :)

I began by sanding the top down to the bare wood. It wasn't hard. The finish was practically begging to come off. I didn't sand out all the imperfections though. I like them. Next, I primed/painted the bottom portion of the desk (hardware, too!), then sanded the edges for a rough/chippy look. Finally, I stained the bottom (over the paint), wiping it away to leave behind an antique sheen.

On top, I did a white wash of watered-down latex paint. When it was dry, I also stained over that. It gives the top that driftwood look.Then I traced the graphic on and painted it. 

Thank you Graphics Fairy (see link in sidebar).

 

Here it is with the left side "distressed" so you can see the difference.

 

I think it turned out gorgeous. Could be used as a desk, vanity or even a TV stand! Lots of shabby-chic, cottage loveliness!

Bruno and the Pile of Projects

Today I have a LOT of work to do! On My Porch right now I have a desk, a table, four chairs, a china cabinet, a side table and an old window that all need makeovers. Plus, I have a friend who needs her hutch sanded and painted by yours truly.

Let's forget the overwhelming pile On My Porch for just a moment and focus on one item in particular: a desk. This little guy--let's name him Bruno--was rescued from Salvation Army a few weeks ago. He's been hanging out On My Porch ever since, waiting patiently for a makeover while other, more glamorous items have had their turn.

My plan for Bruno is to turn him into a beautiful buffet table. I want to sand his veneer, paint him a creamy white, distress and glaze him and finish him with a shelf and some baskets.

Unfortunately, Bruno is going to have to wait a little while longer. I'm itching to makeover a table and chairs I got last night, plus my friend's hutch will take a lot of time and attention for a week or two. After that, I might work on my own china cabinet and well, poor Bruno is just sitting on the back burner. At least he's not lonely out there.

Don't you love his old hardware and cute little drawers? Plus the top drawer is divided so neatly. I can't wait to see how Bruno turns out, but I suppose I'll just have to.