DIY Dresser Turned Bench Tutorial

When I picked up this chest I didn't realized it was in as bad shape as it was until I got it home.  Once I assessed its damage it left me scratching my head.  It was missing the top 2 drawers the second drawer down was missed the bottom and one of the sides, and the bottom drawer also needed a new bottom.  It was missing a caster wheel and the top...well it was just plain nasty.  But this chest’s frame was in great shape, not to mention it is made out of Oak.

First I pulled off the top.  Once the top was off I pulled out the top drawer divider and guide and removed the 2nd drawer.  Leave the 2nd drawers guide, the bench seat will go there.

 After I had the dresser stripped down to the last drawer I flipped the old top over cut it down to size and used it for the bench seat.  Once your seat is in, use wood filler, I like Elmers Wood Fill, and fill in all those holes and cracks.  Once your wood fill is dry use a 150-grit sand paper, and sand the entire dresser until it is smooth. 

This chest didn't have much of isn't own character so I added some molding around the drawer to spice it up a bit.  

 Once everything is all sanded it is time to paint.  

This bench could easily be painted by hand but I do use a Graco airless paint sprayer for all my furniture.  

I always prime my pieces first, I like to use kilz or zinsser primer in latex.  

Once the primer is dry it is time to add color!  I used Quarry by Pratt and lambert for this bench.  

After it is all painted and dried I added a brown oil based glaze to all the details to really make them pop!  After the glaze dried I added a clear top coat to help protect this bench.  

And this is what you get, a beautiful repurposed bench.  With a working drawer!!

You can also make different pillows on Shutterfly, to accent any creations you make for your home decor.

TTFN  

Brooke