I spotted this dresser and I just knew. You know that feeling when something worn and forgotten speaks to you and you can already see exactly what it could become? I brought it home, sanded it, gave it a fresh coat of paint, and then added the most beautiful rub on transfers I have ever come across. Delicate climbing pink rose vines that made the whole piece feel like something out of a French countryside cottage.
If you have never tried rub on transfers on furniture, this post is going to change your weekend plans.
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Before…
Here is the dresser before. Simple bones but thank goodness not rotting or any major damage anywhere.
I should mention it is all wood and the drawers have dove-tailed corners. I love the little key hole, sadly no key but maybe I can make one?
Step 1 – Prepping for painting
First up, remove all hardware.
Then sand all surfaces. I used an orbital sander first and then a detail sander for the tight areas.
I will be using single knobs and as such will need to fill in the extra holes on the drawers. If you are replacing with a similar pull to what was orignally existing then you won’t need to do this.
For a good cohesive look, it is imperative to caulk all cracks.
Step #2 – Adding trim
To add a little more detail to this dresser, I ordered some trim from Temu – yes can you believe it, Temu. I checked on Amazon and locally but the price was so much better on Shein (about $2 CAD a meter/yard). Here is a link in case you are interested – just click here.
Simply measure and mark how much you need and then cut to the proper length.
Remove the adhesive plastic covering and press into place.
Step #3 – Painting
For this project we used Sherwin-Williams Interior Super Paint Satin in Ivory Lace. It is the perfect creamy white that has such a great vintage feel.
I would highly recommended two coats for great coverage with ample drying time in between.
Step #4 – Adding a lacey detail in an unexpected place
If you want to add a very unexpected detail, cut pieces of lace to fit the sides of the drawers.
Then lay the lace on top and gently spray with the color of your choice. I picked a color that was very similar to the pink in the rub on transfers that you will see me using later.
I found that the pink I used, was a little to vivid so I dry brushed the Ivory Lace paint carefully over top.
Here are how the sides turned out.
Step #5 – Adding rub on transfers
As you know with me, my favorite thing is the garden so I chose a pink rose vine to remind me of my beautiful Eden roses. Aren’t they gorgeous?
The rub on transfers came in a long roll. Cut the transfers to fit on the drawer fronts. Make sure that the pattern makes sense.
Then gently remove the backing. I found it best to hold the transfer face down and hold the backing tight to the transfer and roll it back by bending the backing over and inching my way down.
Then place the transfer on to the drawer and use a wide plastic filler spreader to get the air bubbles out and smooth out the transfer. It is best to work from the inside out so that you press the bubbles out and smooth the wrinkles outward.
Let sit for 30 seconds, then gently pull the plastic transfer cover off.
Look how pretty it turned out!!!
Step #6 – Adding vintage style knobs
This pretty little dresser would not be complete without some vintage style knobs. I also purchased these from Shein – click here for the link.
They perfectly compliment the rose rub on transfers.
The Big Reveal
Here it is all styled in my greenhouse.
And here is a look at the sides of the drawers. Just an extra added touch!
Styled with faux flowers, vintage books and perfect champagne gold bird bookends.
I love the delicate femininity of it and how it bring the feel of my cottage garden inside our home.
What do you think?
Do you love it, hate it or are just ho hum about it?
Every time I walk past this dresser now I smile a little. There is something so satisfying about knowing that what was once unloved and overlooked is now sitting in our home looking like it was always meant to be there. That is the magic of a good DIY and the magic of rub on transfers in particular. They ask so little of you and give so very much in return.
I hope this inspires you to look at your next thrift store find or garage sale discovery a little differently. Your next favourite piece might just be waiting for a little paint and a pink rose vine.
If you loved this, you may like this…
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Reading nook essentials for a calm and inviting space, just click here.
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