DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING I GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH MY LINKS, AT NO COST TO YOU. PLEASE READ MY TERMS OF USE POLICY FOR MORE INFO. Thank you for supporting this page! You can find all of my favorite tools mentioned below & used in my projects at my link here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/restoreitwithrachel

This cedar chest started out as a perfectly good just simply worn & outdated piece.

I wanted to keep the integrity & purpose of the original item but modernize it & refinish it so that it could last a very long time for someone!

To begin, I removed the original hardware and trim, and sanded the entire piece. I used 80 grit sandpaper with my power orbit sander on a low speed to remove the finish off the delicate veneer top. I then went back over it with 220 grit sandpaper to smooth it out, and scuff sanded the front & sides as well.

I used a product called “lathe” to make the design in the front. These are actually meant to be used to create plaster walls but I’ve found them super helpful for furniture restoration decoration purposes. As of 2023 prices, they’re about $0.58/4 foot piece or $17/bundle. This piece used about 10 pieces of lathe, so it only cost $5.80 in material.

I secured each piece with wood glue & nails using my brad trim nailer. Then filled the holes with sand less wood filler. The next day I sanded those areas smooth with 220 grit sandpaper.

Now for fun to make it pretty!

For the top, I did two coats of “walnut” color gel stain. This is a super user & beginner friendly product and lasts a loooong time.

After 24 hours I sealed the top with “special dark” furniture wax.

I painted the body of the piece with an enamel furniture paint in a neutral color, a light beige with olive undertones. I hand distressed the edges of the decorative part to add some modern farmhouse character in. I sealed this with clear furniture wax from the brand “Jolie”.

For the base, I removed the original feet as it was damaged and I wanted to modernize it. I grabbed a $10 pair of matte black metal furniture feet from Amazon & this officially was done!

I really enjoyed working with such a great piece & loved the opportunity to recreate an item for the Habitat for Humanity Restore Appleton. They have such a beautiful message and mission to help those in need of assistance & housing & really they offer such high quality items all the time. I couldn’t recommend enough to go check this place out if you need any home improvement materials, or would like to try your own hand at refinishing a piece of furniture as the proceeds from their sales go directly back to their programs.

If you or someone you know would like help refinishing, redesigning or creating the perfect items for your home, please follow or message Restore with Rachel & let me know how I can help you out!

Thank you for looking!