How to Transform a Dresser with Paint and Gel Stain Part 1
This dresser came to me in pretty rough condition. It needed some repair to the drawers and sides and the top had to be completely sanded. But with the curved front, beautiful hardware and sexy legs I knew with a little elbow grease I could revive it.
It had some pretty deep scratches on the top so I decide I would sand it all down and smooth it out first.
I used 80 grit paper to remove the scratches and all of the poly and stain.
Then I went back over the entire surface with 120 grit to smooth everything out.
My client wanted a dark stain so I chose General Finishes in Java. She had seen this table I finished recently and loved the color.
I’m becoming more and more fond of General Finishes Gel Stain. It applies really smoothly and isn’t as messy as traditional stain because it’s so thick. I like using a foam brush to apply it. Then I take a t-shirt like cotton rag and remove any excess.
The color turned out exactly as I had hoped it would.
After it was completely dry I applied a satin urethan. This step wasn’t totally necessary as the gel stain already contains a fair amount of polyurethane but I want to make sure it would be extra durable since it’s going in a nursery to be used as a changing table.
Next up I’ll be mixing two colors of chalk paint to get a custom color for the drawers and base. I hope you’ll stay tuned to see the final result. Click here to see part 2!
Do you have a custom painting need? If you are within 1 hour of Fairview TN, email me at farmfreshvintagefinds@gmail.com for pricing and details.
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Thanks for reading and commenting below.
What a beautiful dresser! It reminds me of one I have sitting in my garage that I keep meaning to do this same thing to, but just haven’t had time yet. I have never used the gel stain, only the regular watery stain. But I may have to give this a try 🙂 Can’t wait to see the “AFTER”!
Serena @ Thrift Diving
That dresser does have beautiful lines to it and is going to be gorgeous when finished!
Thanks Diann!
You’re a pro! I’ve always wanted a dresser with this exact shape – it is beautiful!
Thanks so much!!!
Beth what a lucky baby to have such a beautiful piece {once you get done with it} for a changing table. I’m not usually a fan of stain just because I always seem to make a huge mess with it. I’ll have to give the gel a try though. You make it sound like the ticket.
cheers
Thanks Therese!
I haven’t tried a gel stain. It looks really easy to use and the end result sure is pretty.
Paula I really like it. It’s so much easier to use in my opinion. I’ve used a few other brands but I like this one the best.
Such a pretty dresser and I love the finished top! Can’t wait to see the rest…
Thanks so much for sharing at AMAZE ME MONDAY!
Blessings,
Cindy
Thanks Cindy!!!
Love how this turned out Beth, thanks for sharing all your steps too!!
Thank you so much! You are so welcome. I hope it helps you if you decide to stain something.
Blessings,
Beth
I’ve never used gel stain but I’ve heard great things about it. I love the color you chose…and can’t wait to see your custom color!
So beautiful!! I love paint…but I do love the look of beautiful wood grain too!
Nancy