Almost everyone has either had a piece like this, still has
one, or knows some one who has had a
house full of them.

They were bought cheap and considered disposable. They are
now considered so disposable I’ve seen them almost given away at yard sales and
thrift stores, most of them selling for under $20. People seem happy just to get
rid of these slightly orange-colored, light wood, boxy-style pieces. The thing
is, they are throwing away hidden little treasures. Not only do these furniture
pieces offer great storage; but they have so much potential!

In most cases, they
are amazing blank canvases. A coat of paint can completely transform them into
something simply wonderful. They are perfect for adding wood appliqués and
decorative trim. They paint up like a dream!

What are some simple steps in transforming these diamond’s in
the rough?

-First remove knobs and fill any unwanted holes with wood
putty. Drill new holes at this time.

-Give them a light sanding to rough up the surface so the
primer has something to stick to.

-Use a dark tinted primer if you are going to be using dark
paint to make the job easier.

-Paint with a latex paint. I prefer either satin or eggshell
finish.

-Get creative and paint art work or patterns with acrylic
craft paint. Use a stencil or freehand it. If you don’t like it, it’s only
paint, you can redo it!

-Seal piece when finished with a poly acrylic to keep it from
chipping and enjoy you new treasure!