| Journal | Art Deco— Waterfall Dresser
Art Deco Waterfall— Dresser Transformation
The graceful curves, extraordinary grain patterns, and ornate pulls make an Art Deco Waterfall dresser timelessly desirable. Most are made of plywood with veneer, allowing for the construction of round-molded edges—hence the name waterfall. This style from the 1930s and 1940s was the most prevalent Art Deco furniture design of its time. Due to the thin veneers, most waterfall pieces you’ll find today almost always include some damage. Although the Art Deco Waterfall dresser I transformed for Leah didn’t have extensive veneer damage, it certainly came with some challenges— and I was up for the task!
Art Deco Waterfall Dresser
Leah requested a charcoal grey, with slight distress, stained top, and decoupaged drawer sides for her waterfall dresser makeover.
Leah’s Art Deco Waterfall dresser had seen better days, but its potential was undeniable. With worn veneer, scratches, and years of use showing, it needed some serious attention to bring it back to life. Careful refinishing brought out its signature curves and bold grain patterns, while a fresh new finish gave it the elegance it deserved. The original ornate pulls remain, a nod to its 1930s roots and the craftsmanship of its time. Now, this once-tired piece is revived, full of character, and ready to make a statement in Leah’s home for years to come!
All products mentioned in this post—and every post I share—are ones I regularly reach for. They’ve earned a spot in my toolbox because they’re reliable and deliver results. Simply what I use, trust, and recommend, shared honestly with you. No affiliate links, no commissions—just straight talk from my whole heart.
Country Chic Paint
Featuring
These are the products that brought this transformation to life—ones I trust, recommend, and share honestly with you. Select any to explore other projects for inspiration and see where to buy.
My Step-by-Step Transformation
These are the steps that brought this transformation to life—shared to guide and inspire your own project. Learn better by talking it through? Let’s connect for a consultation to bring your vision to life.
- Removed hardware— Believed to be original, with 2 of the 7 plastic bakelites unfortunately missing
- Searched for bakelite replacements— Was unsuccessful, however I did find similar waterfall style pulls with bakelites, for which I’ll give customer option of; I’m currently waiting for it to arrive via courier
- Repaired damaged areas with Bondo and glue— Good as new!
- Lightly sanded down body and drawers, and heavily sanded down top— In preparation for a two-toned transformation
- Vacuumed and washed— In preparation for product application
- Applied 3 coats of Country Chic Paint chalk paint in the colour Rocky Mountain to the body and drawers— A perfect charcoal grey colour, that lends itself ideally to industrial, masculine-style decor; brush application
- Sanded down chalk paint— For a smooth and buttery farmhouse distressed finish
- Applied 3 coats of my go-to Varathane Diamond Wood Finish (water-based, satin polyurethane) to the body and drawers— To achieve a crystal clear, water-resistant, and highly durable finish; sponge application
- Applied Minwax conditioning, stain, and poly products in the colour Provincial to the top— For a two-toned exposed wood transformation; lint-free rag application
- Attempted to also stain the top drawer— Didn’t however result in a pleasing finish, thus opted to paint
- Decoupaged drawer sides with Re-Design with Prima’s Washed Damask Decoupage Tissue Paper ~ A charming pattern that I felt was a lovely pairing for this dresser transformation; also applied a coat of CCP in the colour Simplicity prior to decoupaging
One-Hour / One-on-One / $80
Looking to achieve a similar look? Getting started with furniture transformations can feel overwhelming, but with hands-on experience since 2017, I’ve learned so much along the way. I’d love to share what I know and help guide you through the process.
Let’s work together! Whether it’s over the phone, via a screen-share session, or even over a coffee (or wine!), we’ll make a plan to bring your vision to life.
With all my heart and hands
Restoring Leah’s Art Deco Waterfall dresser was a challenge I welcomed. With its curved edges and vintage character, this piece had a story worth preserving. A thoughtful refresh brought out its charm while honoring its history, proving that even the most timeworn furniture can be revived with care and vision.
If you have a forgotten piece tucked away, don’t overlook its potential. Sometimes, all it takes is a little creativity to breathe new life into something old—turning the worn and weary into something truly special.
Furniture transformations aren’t just about repairs and paint—they’re about seeing beyond the flaws and reimagining what’s possible. Every project is a chance to restore, reinvent, and create something that will be cherished for years to come.
Thanks for following along on this journey! There’s always more to uncover, and I can’t wait to share what’s next.
Faye Caroline
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