Between the Rafters: Turn the WHITEr shade of pale

Friday, October 5, 2012

Turn the WHITEr shade of pale

If you remember my antique dresser reveal from back in August, you'll remember that I painted it in Annie Sloan Chalk Paint (ASCP) Old White, applied the clear wax and then the dark brown wax, and then stained the top a deep brown color. The only thing I did different here is that I used ASCP Pure White and I thinned the dark wax using mineral spirits--so as not to make it quite so dark.

I've had the chest itself for many years. It dates back to my very first apartment and has made three moves with me since then. My grandmother picked it up for me at a yard sale for $20. It sits in a corner in my master bedroom so I decided to lighten it up a bit.

Unfortunately, the before picture I have isn't very good. Scratch that -- it's terrible! Alas, I had already started work and completely forgot to take a picture. BUT...you can see what shade the wood was at least.

Once again I had to use two coats of the ASCP. I applied the clear wax and then thinned the dark wax with mineral spirits. It was still a little darker than I wanted so I applied some more of the clear wax. I sanded the top and stained it a dark, rich brown--Kona by Rustoleum. The hardware is original to the piece. I didn't do anything other than take it off and put it back on.

And here she is all finished! I especially love the detailing on the top two drawers. And those sweet little pulls!