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Journal  |  Vintage Vanity Dresser

Vintage Vanity— Dresser Redesign

By Faye Caroline  
  June 8, 2023

The classic charm, detailed craftsmanship, and timeless silhouette make a vintage vanity dresser a beautiful addition to any space. Often featuring elegant curves, turned legs, and an attached mirror, these pieces blend both function and style effortlessly. This particular dresser, with its warm wood tones and delicate details, had plenty of character—but it was ready for a fresh look. The colour Homestead Blue quickly became an obvious choice, offering the perfect balance of richness and sophistication. And now, after a little love and a lot of brushstrokes, this vintage vanity dresser is looking better than ever.

Vintage Vanity Dresser

Lori requested a teal blue, with slight distress, stained top, and hardware replacement for her vintage vanity dresser redesign.

Vintage Vanity Dresser BEFORE
Vintage Vanity Dresser AFTER

 

Lori’s vintage vanity dresser had been a beloved piece in her home for years, and as she transitioned to a new space, she wanted to bring it with her—just with a fresh look. Time had softened its finish, and the hardware no longer suited her style, but its classic details still held so much charm. A rich coat of Homestead Blue milk paint brought new depth, while updated hardware added a refined touch. Now, this treasured dresser has been beautifully refreshed, ready to continue its story with Lori in her new home.

 

Prairie Crocus

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.
Homestead House Paint Co.

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.

Prairie Crocus
Homestead House Paint HOMESTEAD BLUE
Q

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.

Prairie Crocus
  • Removed mirror— Ever so carefully, for ease of product application
  • Removed hardware— Not original, and replacement was recommended
  • Filled hardware holes— In preparation for new chosen set
  • Sanded down top and front legs— In preparation for a two-toned transformation
  • Vacuumed and washed— In preparation for product application
  • Applied 3 coats of Homestead House milk paint in the colour Homestead Blue to the body and mirror frame/harp— A complex blue with a hint of grey and an undertone of teal, it adds charm and confidence; paint brush application
  • Sanded down milk paint— For a smooth and buttery farmhouse distressed finish
  • Applied 2 coats of Fusion Stain & Finishing Oil (SFO) in the colour Cappuccino to the milk painted areas ~ A wood conditioner, stain and top coat all in one; sponge application
  • Applied Minwax conditioning, stain, and poly products in the colour Provincial to the top and front legs— For a two-toned exposed wood transformation; lint-free rag application
  • Selected, purchased and installed new Louis XVI Old Brass Ring Pulls from Lee Valley— A style that I felt was a lovely and fitting replacement for this dresser transformation
  • Ever so carefully reinstalled mirror— Heavily secured with a clear caulk sealant
Q

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.

Prairie Crocus
Q
Second Verse Foundry

With all my heart and hands

Transforming Lori’s vintage vanity dresser was more than just a refresh—it was about preserving a piece that had been part of her home for years. With its timeless design and sentimental value, it deserved to shine again. A thoughtful update gave it new life while still honouring the charm that made it special, proving that well-loved furniture can always be reimagined.

If you have a cherished piece that feels a little tired, don’t overlook its potential. A fresh perspective and a little creativity can turn something familiar into something extraordinary—keeping its story alive in a whole new way.

Some pieces hold more than memories—they hold a place in our hearts. Bringing new life to this dresser wasn’t just about changing its look, but about making it feel at home in a new space. It’s a reminder that even as life moves forward, we can bring parts of the past with us in a way that still feels right today.

Whether you’re here for inspiration or just passing through, I hope this transformation sparks ideas for your own spaces. There’s always more to create, and I look forward to sharing more soon.

 

Faye Caroline

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