Fix It or Nix It? -- Antique Vanity

by Leigh Anne @ Houseologie

+246

Answered

Do you ever get free furniture and it sits and sits until you decide to do something with it? The story of my life! I decided to start a series called Fix It or Nix It? where you get to weigh in on what I should do with these random furniture pieces that fall into my lap!

fix it or nix it antique vanity, diy, painted furniture, repurposing upcycling

My husband's sweet secretary gave me this antique and very abused vanity. Aside from being very dirty the finish has a lot of damage. One side is missing almost all of the veneer.

The top has what looks like burn marks and deep scratches. The finish is worn off and it has just been generally neglected.

So, do you think I should try to restore it to it's former beauty, give it a complete makeover (FIX IT?) or pass and donate it to the Habitat for Humanity Re-Store or other charitable organization (NIX IT?) Fix It or Nix It? I want your opinions!!

235 answers

Elizabeth on Jun 11, 2014
This piece is crying out to be reborn! It is like a crippled old lady that needs some tenderness, some gentle massaging so she can stand on her own. Please I would love to see her after her makeover

1 marked as helpful Reply
- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Jun 11, 2014
  @Elizabeth Ha! Love this analogy!
  
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Chris aka monkey on Jun 11, 2014
@Leigh Anne @ Houseologie ok i have been looking for this to make a bathroom vanity so nix it and bring it to my house so i can fix it lol please fix it and i think painting it is the only way to go maybe an off white..something simple xx

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- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Jun 11, 2014
  @Chris aka monkey I wish one of my bathrooms were big enough to use it in, that's a great idea!
  
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Linny McCauley on Jun 11, 2014
Fix, fix, FIX!

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Rheta Gilmer on Jun 11, 2014
I say fix it! Or give it to me...hahaha!

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- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Jun 11, 2014
  @Rheta Gilmer LOL! So far, everyone says fix it :-)
  
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Leslie Long on Jun 11, 2014
I usually try to save the wood finish if I can but this one is in bad shape so I would most def paint it with chalk paint, which will bring out the highlights of the carved sections...and get creative with the hardware. I wish I were closer because if you were going to nix it, I would come and get it :) Good luck!

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- See 1 previous
- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Jun 11, 2014
  @Leslie Long Since everyone so far has said fix it, I'm considering keeping the drawers wood and painting the rest with chalk paint. Not really decided yet but will be sure to post when it's done :-)
  
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- Leslie Long on Jun 11, 2014
  @Leigh Anne @ Houseologie Yes, perhaps you can just "refresh" the piece and only paint the top. The top is the worst. I have done this before by using very fine steel wool over the entire piece and then a gel stain over the parts you wish to stain. You can match the existing color pretty easily. Would love to see the finished project so be sure and post pics of before and after :)
  
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Pepsigirl13 on Jun 11, 2014
Paint it some fab color and use it in an unexpected way e.g. as a desk for you laptop! Or a buffet! It's got storage, so even better!

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Teresa Schroepfer on Jun 11, 2014
Oh, I would so fix it. You can buy veneer in the same pattern as the wood. It stains really well and is not to expensive. You could paint it too. I love the detail of the piece. Good luck. Be sure and post the final results.

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Tana, Little Red Bag Productions on Jun 11, 2014
I beg you to fix it! Such intricate, beautiful design on the façade. Clean it with all your might where it's filthy. Use 1850 Furniture Refinisher (it's actually a cleanser) and a 0000 steel wool. If you can't get the top the way you wish it to be, consider doing a harlequin design in a deeper stain on the tops & sides. This baby is too good for chalk paint luv...

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Leslie Anne on Jun 11, 2014
Shabby chic! Paint it! Think "outside the box"--storage in a hallway/entry or end of a bed, a "table" between 2 chairs on a long wall, a plant stand under a window. . .

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Allison King-Jordan (Zentivity Designs) on Jun 11, 2014
Just weighing in here with the Fix It consensus... :) What a beautiful stately old lady. She deserves some TLC... :)

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Beverly Tayler on Jun 11, 2014
refinish it for sure!

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Meena M on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it!

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Siretha on Jun 11, 2014
Fix, you could redo the damaged area with cork; ( I could use) as a Sewing machine table, pattern/marking storage, machine manuals, craft related sales flyers .etc. Now I need to go thrift/furniture resale haunting to see if I can find something along the same lines

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Kathy Jones on Jun 11, 2014
Beautiful! You need to bring it back to life!

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Andrea H on Jun 11, 2014
wheres the mirror?

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- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Jun 12, 2014
  @Andrea H Long gone, is my guess. I wasn't given a mirror but I could attach one to the wall above it :-)
  
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Deb J on Jun 11, 2014
Save me Annie Sloan!

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Lois Gibbs on Jun 11, 2014
Restore it!

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Karan F on Jun 11, 2014
Fix It !!! If not replace the veneer then place Tile or Marble on the top,,, It would make a beautify buffet or maybe a coffee station.. I would Love to have a piece like this to redo <3 Best of Luck I can't wait to see the results..

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- Amy Petracek on Jun 11, 2014
  @Karan F I love the idea of tile or something for the top and refinish the bottom! It is a beautiful piece! Please post pics of the finish. :)
  
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S K on Jun 11, 2014
Oh my - fix fix fix! It is beautiful!

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Lois Schoenecker Yue on Jun 11, 2014
its got good bones...

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Connie James on Jun 11, 2014
If you're keeping this for yourself, I would save it. I can tell you from experience, it's alot of hard work, but very satisfying to restore the beauty of the wood.

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Brenda H on Jun 11, 2014
That's something I've been looking for... she needs a make over to be a beautiful girl again.

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Rae Busch on Jun 11, 2014
FIX!!! Great lines...lucky you!

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Dale Walker on Jun 11, 2014
It's got good bones

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Cheryl McMillion on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it.

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Marla on Jun 11, 2014
oh goodness, fix it, it's beautiful, great bones.

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Hope Badge on Jun 11, 2014
I painted one almost exactly like this and it turned out beautiful!!! (Annie Sloan Chalk Paint)

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Wanda on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it I would kill for that piece it's beautiful

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Tonya on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it!!! Its so worth it!

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Shirley P on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it

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Gin352945 on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it, she is gorgeous.....

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Terri Brodfuehrer on Jun 11, 2014
is it really old with dovetail joints? I would take the time to refinish it. I'm one of the few that feels chalk paint has been done almost to death, but works in some areas. very old wood with time put in it needs to be restored.. jmo though =) .. do what your gut/heart tells you to do!

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Jean on Jun 11, 2014
I separated mine and made night stands, they turned out great....Good luck on whatever you do!!

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Stacey Paduch on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it! It's beautiful!

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Wendy Willey on Jun 11, 2014
If it was mine I would take it apart and create 2 side tables...then take the center piece and make it into a hanging wall shelf.

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Jacque Hodges on Jun 11, 2014
Most definitely, fix it.

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Angie Moore on Jun 11, 2014
I would go with the Annie Sloan Paint as well...I am sure it will look great!!!!

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Gizelle Cooper on Jun 11, 2014
makeover and post photos when done

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Laura Jo Lubeck on Jun 11, 2014
It has great bones and character, fix it!

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Cheryl P on Jun 11, 2014
Yes Paint it!

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Sherry Wissel on Jun 11, 2014
I would paint the base a cream color and distress it but I would restore the drawers to their original glory and switch out the hardware to something fancy

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Yvette on Jun 11, 2014
Ohhhh. I can see this in grey and white with crystal knobs. Fix it.

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Brenda L on Jun 11, 2014
Well, unlike some "antiques" this is missing a mirror and is in bad shape and the lines are not that great either. I would love to see what you can do with it, no creative ideas barred including paint which I usually hate. I am betting you can make it beautiful and worth the effort.

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Des341057 on Jun 11, 2014
It's a beautiful piece I would definitely restore it

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- Beth Sherlock on Jun 11, 2014
  Considering this was probably hand carved on the drawers and feet, I would say fix it. You cannot obtain pieces like this anymore, let alone for "free". I would guess the person that gave it to you knew you had the talent and eye for beauty to make it a masterpiece again!
  
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Linda Stankey on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it

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Andrea Robinson on Jun 11, 2014
That is really good shape for a 70 year old piece. If you aren't up for a true refinish, I would donate it so that whoever buys it can. I've done two like that (with mirrors) and they are a bit of work, but the finished product is worth it.

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Wendy Johnson on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it and paint it. I have an old vanity that use to be painted, i tried to strip it and now its just a mess. So I laugh when ever I see people complaining about painting something and wonder how many of these things were originally painted in the first place before someone stripped them.

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Therese C on Jun 11, 2014
I don't think you should fix it or nix..just send it to me! (lol) It is a beautiful piece that deserves whatever pain staking work is required to bring it back to life!

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Marion Nesbitt on Jun 11, 2014
Agree with Andrea Robinson.

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Judy Feenstra on Jun 11, 2014
There are so many things you could do with it I'm sure... my first thought was to refinish it and use it for a desk.

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Pam W on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it. There is plenty of time to nix it, it if does not turn out like you would like.

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Kim Calvert-Lohrman on Jun 11, 2014
How do you repair the veneer?

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Bev308357 on Jun 11, 2014
I have seen a lot worse! I think I see new life in it!

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Janet koons on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it. You'll feel so good after such a big challenge.

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Lee Ann Yeager on Jun 11, 2014
Keep and fix. Burn marks are from hot cups like coffee.

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Renee Meyer on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it for sure. It will be beautiful. I would love to know how to repair the veneer. I have an old sewing machine that belonged go my grandmother that needs repair.

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- Cheryl Green on Jun 11, 2014
  @Renee Meyer look on pinterest. I seen one on here a while back that repaired the veneer.
  
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Nedra Brush Bohan on Jun 11, 2014
Oh my yes, I too say fix it! You should be able to buy veneer. Lots of character in this piece.

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Jamala W on Jun 11, 2014
Most def!! Fix it!!

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Kathryn Derr on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it!!! Paint can cover a multitude of sins and damage. Much too pretty to nix and still a lot of life left in this beauty!

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A.E. Zaring on Jun 11, 2014
fix it or give it to me and I will fix it~lol

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Alice Fillmore on Jun 11, 2014
I love the legs on this.

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Cindy on Jun 11, 2014
Clean it, bead-board it, paint it and then add glass to the top. it would make a great desk for someone who works from home.

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Sandy Eck on Jun 11, 2014
Nice, fix it, it will be perfect when your done. Then send it to me.

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Tina Trent on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it! Wish I had it!

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Terri S on Jun 11, 2014
I say fix it too! Looks like a potential beauty!

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Linda C on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it! It has good bones! :-)

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Jamie Knight on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it for sure! It has great bones . make sure you post the finished pictures :)

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Rhonda Petrey-Smith on Jun 11, 2014
fix it, to bad the mirror is gone, but it is still beautiful

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Gloria Traylor on Jun 11, 2014
Give it to me! :)

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Cathycavasos on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it. Check bondo wood filler, I read an article where you can apply bondo to area where veneer is missing, let dry, sand, and paint.

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Vicki Word on Jun 11, 2014
Oh you can fix that...go for it!

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Kathy Ball on Jun 11, 2014
Most definitely fix it! It is well worth it! It's a beautiful piece. Good luck!

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Dana Corby on Jun 11, 2014
It's beautiful! Fix it! And if you want to go all out, you can get iron-on wood veneer at any home improvement store..

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Michelle Holden Johnson on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it!

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Jacque D on Jun 11, 2014
restore!

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Elaine Moton on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it. I hope you can do it without painting it. Restore it to it's beautiful wood glory. If not, paint it beautifully

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Bunni on Jun 11, 2014
Restore it, or reperpose it....

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Cyndi Guffey on Jun 11, 2014
I have one similar to this. redo yours so I will have an idea for mine!

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Mary Ellen Luth on Jun 11, 2014
Fix It, it could be fantastic

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Sharon H on Jun 11, 2014
oooo! Fix it! Bondo is simple easy to use.

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Mary Russell on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it, it will be beautiful.

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Angel View Cottage on Jun 11, 2014
If you know how to paint, I would go with one of Benjamin Moore's gorgeous paint colors. They have the best selection not to mention coverage, no voc's (if that matters to you) paint+primer in one saving time and money. Then over whatever color you choose, age it with valspar mocha water based glaze (my favirite, so easy to use) You have nothing to lose but a bit of time. This baby can be gorgeous!!! Best of luck whatever you do 😁 ~Patty

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Linda J S on Jun 11, 2014
Go for it you can do it!

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Randilee S on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it!

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Duffy V on Jun 11, 2014
Restore!! No paint!

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Jeanne on Jun 11, 2014
You can buy sheets of replacement veneer. Check online for stores. My husband has refinished many veneer pieces. You have to be careful when sanding because the veneer is thin, but it can be done with beautiful results.

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Tammy O'Brine on Jun 11, 2014
Fix - restore

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Jenny on Jun 11, 2014
I have never been able to get rid of burn marks (or been able to cover, even with the darkest stain), so I would paint it. It is too pretty to trash or donate!

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Diana Wright on Jun 11, 2014
fix it, you can do it!!

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Rudy Oakley on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it, will be beautiful!

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Lorna S on Jun 11, 2014
SEND IT TO ME! Barring that, paint her up, gild her and let her shine 😊 but don't do the distressing icky stuff...she's already and obviously old! Let her look as lovely as possible!

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Lee Martinez on Jun 11, 2014
fix it, those drawer fronts are awesome, I would paint the rest, restain the drawer fronts to retain that awesome-ness

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Linda Radcliff on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it !! It would make a great wash stand for the bath

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Marie S on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it

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Cindy Rhodes on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it ..I would ..If your handy it be beautiful..♡♡

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Jeanee Rockweiler on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it! I don't usually like painted wood but I bet you could make this look real good with some paint.

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Kelly Clark on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it. fix it fix it!!!

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Michelle Hazelrig on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it and chalk paint it!

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Sandra Whittier on Jun 11, 2014
There are lots of people that know how to totally know how to repair this(warn water, lemon are a couple) without having to hide it under paint. It you can't find it on the internet many others would love the chance.

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Nancy Owens on Jun 11, 2014
keep it and fix it. you can do it fit it. if you don't want to give it to me I'll fix it. My niece just moved from there she would have fixed it.

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Dee325843 on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it! Off white paint with just a bit of gilding, walnut stain to age and bring out the character.

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Laurel on Jun 11, 2014
Really pretty lines in the furniture. I say ... FIX IT,PAINT IT, LOVE IT!

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Darlene Carson on Jun 11, 2014
Fix it with a beautiful mirror behind it!

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Bethany W. on Jun 11, 2014
By all means "fix it"!!!! It's going to be so beautiful when you're finished.

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Joan Hurst on Jun 11, 2014
Most definitely fix it! If you decide to paint it, I'd clean up the drawer fronts and leave them natural.

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Yvette Gerace on Jun 11, 2014
There is a matching mirror, very ornate, that goes with this. 3 sections surrounded with engraved wood. It sits on top I know because I have my grandmothers set. Identical. But your piece is a whole lot more "weathered" than mine is. The wood on the drawers is actually 2 tones and albeit old, the finish is shiny. Someone at sometime appears to have sanded yours and took off the original hardware too. Mine needs refinishing too. Both the vanity and the mirror have been sitting in my garage for 20 years. I don't know how to repair the bubbling veneer on top.

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- Carol on Jun 12, 2014
  @Yvette Gerace, Sometimes these old pieces "weird me out" -- I was waiting for someone to come up with a matching mirror ! The center between the 2 ends is lower, so that the woman could sit, and do her hair or face. Picture a narrow bench, tuffed seat cushion attached....
  
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Carla Bilbrey on Jun 11, 2014
Complete makeover.

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Shirley D on Jun 11, 2014
It depends on how much work you're willing to put into it. I think it's got a lot of potential to be a beautiful piece. I'd sand it all down, use wood putty to fill the scratches, and then let the wood tell me what to do. If the wood is beautiful by itself, give it two or three coats of clear varnish. If not, stain it and then varnish it. I don't like covering wood with paint, but if you like it, paint it. It just looks too strong and beautiful to get rid of.

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Renee Combs Lage on Jun 11, 2014
FX IT! Or sell it to me and I'll fix it. LOL

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Shirley Burkett on Jun 11, 2014
This could be beautiful if fixed up and become a heirloom!

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Anne Carr on Jun 11, 2014
Refinish it, keep the natural wood. It is beautiful.

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Ellen Johnson on Jun 11, 2014
Definitely fix it!

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Sabren on Jun 11, 2014
Do you have a place for? Do you plan on using it? I think is a great piece and if your answers to my ? Yes, then go for

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Robin Snelson on Jun 11, 2014
Give it to me!!

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Nita Pedroni on Jun 11, 2014
fix it for sure, paint it with chalk paint and seal with the wax to bring out those lovely lines. Where I live, you could get about 500.00 after it was painted with Annie Sloan paints.

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Benjie Young on Jun 12, 2014
fix it.

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Kim on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT!!!

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Gina M. Furey on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT!!!!

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Michelle Wigfall on Jun 12, 2014
I love it...definitely fix!

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Dream Scapes, GA on Jun 12, 2014
Try fixing first, but if it isnt how you like it then donate

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Rebecca on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it!

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Angie W on Jun 12, 2014
Please, Fix It !!!!!!....Just Please Do Not paint it.....Please....This is gorgeous..

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Kathy Ragan on Jun 12, 2014
It's a hard call. The front and the legs are stunning but the top looks pretty beat up. I'd try my best to restore it to it's natural glory but this is your piece... your decision.

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Chris Swingen on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it! It's a beautiful piece

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Sharron Cox on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it. Marbleize or paint with a lacquer on the top and re-stain the rest to its former beauty!

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Vinny walker on Jun 12, 2014
Please don't paint.....RE STORE TO IT'S BEAUTY

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User on Jun 12, 2014
It is beautiful, fix it!

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Tina Greenway on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it

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Rachel Clark on Jun 12, 2014
If you don't have a place for it, donate. That way someone else can fix it to go with their own decor. Personally, I would combination restore and fix. I'd restore the front of the piece, and repair/paint the three top surfaces to very closely compliment one of the natural colors in the wood. I would then bring that same color to rings on the turned feet. It would have to be a paint that was almost identical to one of the wood colors in shade. It would be very subtle, and downright lovely (oh, and replace those horrid knobs). ;)

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Sharon Pilon on Jun 12, 2014
Restore it to what it should look like ! I have one very close to that with a mirror. It was my Grandmothers , bought new in 1916 and just needs a touch up ! I also have the matching seat for it, the 5 drawer dresser and the double bed frame. The only thing they need is touching up.

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Jeanette S on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT! A good cleaning, a few rub downs with a good oil (Old English Dark) and you will be surprised how it will sparkle. As for the top, remove the veneer from the top and redo. A small decorative molding around the tops and then inlay with a beautiful mosaic! Some of that small decorative kinds (bronze, copper) are stunning! Post your results!

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Chris Fuller on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it...such a beautiful piece....so decorative!

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Jacqueline Saam Cleary on Jun 12, 2014
Fix or paint....good bones

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Debbie N on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it! I'm sure we will all be amazed at the results!

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Karen Hawkins on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it! Since there is no sentimental value to you, you could make 2 end tables and a little table out of it if you couldn't get it restored.

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Laura Fenley on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it. Finish removing the veneer and remove the veneer on the opposite side. There will be wood beneath, which can then be stained or painted (if you're going to paint, then maybe don't go through the trouble of removing it). It's a lovely piece. However, if you don't have a place for it, then perhaps donate it so that someone who does have a place can snag it up and make it beautiful again.

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Marie Michels on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it, but please don't paint it.

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Bonnie G on Jun 12, 2014
Oh the possibilities!!! It is beautiful do not toss it refurbish it.

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Sherrie on Jun 12, 2014
It looks like the veneer has been stripped from the top. But this old pieces usually have such great wood underneath staining it is possible! But you won't ruin the value. What is sad it will probably be worth more if you paint it. If it was a valuable piece I would not tell you to paint it. It will update it and it won't hurt the value of it. And it would fit into your style more.

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Nora Q on Jun 12, 2014
I like paint, if it is some antique of note it is in bad shape. Go crazy on it.

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Trisha Martin on Jun 12, 2014
Oh, I am excited for you. I think it would be a great bar or coffee bar. You could use paint to complement your kitchen or dining room. Even add a piece of granite. And paint in black or white or a color you love. Keep us posted for the final reveal. Add a great piece of art over the bar and WOW! You will have a stunning new piece of furniture!

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Anna Erishkigal on Jun 12, 2014
Where do you envision putting this piece in relation to your other furniture? If your furniture is all natural wood, then Is suggest you gently strip it down and see how bad it still looks. If not, save yourself a ton of work and paint it to match whatever you already have. Veneer is very delicate and doesn't hold up to much sanding, so if you -do- decide to go natural wood, strip it so carefully. What does the veneer look like on the stripped side? Usually they used to use maple underneath more exotic woods such as walnut which can be sanded and take a stain rather well, but if it is not attractive, then I suggest you just paint it. You can also purchase a new exotic veneer and re-veneer the side, but that is rather beyond the skill of most DIY restorers.

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Sheepgirl1 on Jun 12, 2014
Definitely fix it. It has nice lines.

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Crystal Giles Still on Jun 12, 2014
Fix!!! It has great lines. Sand it. Prime it. Chalk paint & wax. Beautiful!

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Mary Carper on Jun 12, 2014
It is a great piece, you could do an array of stain or paint treatments...

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Dawn on Jun 12, 2014
I restored one in worse condition.You can remove the veneer fairly easily and I've found the wood underneath is nice once sanded and stained.

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Somewhat Quirky on Jun 12, 2014
Clean it up and paint it. The detail will show more with paint and it will be much cheaper and faster to paint. To me, this piece is not worth all the work to restore it.

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Karen Maison on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it. It is a beautiful piece of furniture. I appreciate the old furniture as it stands up so much better than the furniture we have today.

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Sara W on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it!

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Christine Coniglio on Jun 12, 2014
Restore it ! It is hard to find such a beautiful piece of furniture with so much character now a days.

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Mary T on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it!!

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Lillian Mccormick on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it it's beautiful

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Gjpatchs on Jun 12, 2014
Maybe someone has mentioned this all ready but you could make two end tables by removing the center piece if possible.

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Angel w/ Attitude on Jun 12, 2014
I'll take it, it's beautiful , please don't paint it. A little elbow grease , steel wool, matching stain and and a clear top coat, shiny or dull depending on your taste. Good luck, and I'ld love to see it when you're finished.

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Jan Radosevich@gmail.com on Jun 12, 2014
Do you need bedside tables? Either refinish or paint...

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Rosanne Cleveland-King on Jun 12, 2014
It is a wonderful piece, and I think you can fix it to be fabulous!

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Desiree Ladd on Jun 12, 2014
It could be gorgeous if you fix it! Restore or reimagine either way I will be an amazing piece & completely worth the effort.

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Nancy Depoint on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT FOR SURE

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Laurette on Jun 12, 2014
Leigh Anne, is there a makers mark inside anywhere? Looks like a piece that was probably made in Grand Rapids in the late 1800's early 1900's. Give it a really good cleaning with some oil soap to actually see what your furniture looks like. If all the finish is gone and the veneer is gone the wood underneath is probably breaking down and very soft. Unless you know how to restore both you will never get a consistent finish on it. At that point you can try to sell it to someone who can try to restore it or paint it to seal the wood and stop it from further deteriorating. Good luck!

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Charlene on Jun 12, 2014
Definitely a keeper! I would prime and paint it if you plan on doing the work yourself or take it to a professional if you want it restored to it's original glory. Either way it is a beautiful piece.

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Karin Sabo Wagner on Jun 12, 2014
Paint it!

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Naomi Pena on Jun 12, 2014
I agree with these ladies, and love that ideas of separating it and turning it into two night tables. I would paint it light grey, white on pink and add a mirror. it would look great in a little girls room

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Avac on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it!

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Dale Weakley on Jun 12, 2014
Would make a cute laptop center for kitchen.. love to repurpose furniture!

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Cindy on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it and post updates

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Jeulia H on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it-you can use it for craft supplies, office items, a vanity(very original, I know) It is really a beautiful piece

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Nancy on Jun 12, 2014
I would redo it. It is a beautiful piece of furniture.

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Phyllis Dillon Zeoli on Jun 12, 2014
It would be beautiful restored. Look at the woodwork on those drawers!

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C on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it! If you don't have anywhere for it, remove the center piece to create 2 side tables {or accent tables} It would also make a beautiful table for an entry hall with the drawers for keys/hats/mittens ;)

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Jac308459 on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it... I looks like such a fun project one you can definitely use you imagination on. You could use at least 2 different colors. I love the piece

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Ruth Waibel on Jun 12, 2014
fix it. It would make a great beading table or craft station. Can put all your supplies in the drawers.

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Bruce Neumann on Jun 12, 2014
fix it.

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Shari Veater on Jun 12, 2014
You can do either/or...its a great piece! I would fix it if I had it...didn't you always want a vanity as a little girl? I did, and that would be a great one...have fun with it :)

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Michelle Vizzo Dalling on Jun 12, 2014
Use it as a vanity in a bathroom and add a bowl type sink on it and maybe marble or granite tops.

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Richard Monje on Jun 12, 2014
A large piece of glass on top and a nice shadow box in the middle. along with a facelift and it will look great

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Vicki lynn on Jun 12, 2014
I'd fix it. either separate it and make 2 end tables or sand it down as is and paint it

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Judi B on Jun 12, 2014
My preference is always to restore - especially an unusual piece like this. Depending on what kind of wood is under the veneer, you might want to see about replacing the veneer or taking the sides down to the base wood and refinishing. I have a very old, rare, doctor's examining table that has lost some veneer. I found solid oak under the veneer that is just lovely!

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Susan Haynes on Jun 12, 2014
OMG fix it!

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Melinda on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it!! Why not remove the middle "table" piece and make two nightstands? Or end tables?

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Marylou Johnson on Jun 12, 2014
Holy cow!!! I have this very same vanity!!! I LOVE it...I use it for storing nail stuff, cosmetics, panty hose, jewelry...well...I use it as a vanity. I definitely agree with the others - FIX IT! You will love it, too.

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Jackie Prim on Jun 12, 2014
Go for it! I see a beautiful makeover. Fix that baby and love her:)

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Alanda on Jun 12, 2014
FIX

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Cathy.Roll Tide on Jun 12, 2014
@Leigh Ann I would to have this piece! I would restore it and add a mirror to have a beautiful vanity!

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Suzanne on Jun 12, 2014
That definatly is a fix it. Some Annie Sloan chalk paint and it would be beautiful again. I think too much damage to try to restore it to its original state. Go for it, what's the worst that can happen? If you don't like it then take it to a consignment shop.

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Nance Anderson on Jun 12, 2014
Keep it - fix it. It's an awesome piece of furniture.

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117135 on Jun 12, 2014
It is a keeper! I agree with making into 2 end tables!

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Mary McNamara on Jun 12, 2014
I would keep it natural ,it is so beautiful I would find some marble and maybe grout marble to the top since it has such a deep stain Also would change Hardware to clear glass or hobby stores have some great painted porcelian knobs PLEASE post pic's when you finish it

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KathrynElizabeth Etier on Jun 12, 2014
It's gorgeous--fix it! And if you're not going to fix it and you decide to donate it to Habitat, please donate it to the one in Waynesville, NC (that's the closest one to me!).

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Pauliegirl1 on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT!!! VANITY OR END TABLES.....BOTH GREAT IDEAS! WHATEVER YOUR NEED??

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Angela Ball on Jun 12, 2014
Definetly fix!!

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Kat on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it! If you nix it, send it my way plz

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Toni on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT!!!!!

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Leah M on Jun 12, 2014
Fix!

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Ugo342623 on Jun 12, 2014
FIX IT by painting it a very "in" color! I like the end table idea, but you could also put a new top on it, like marble, and use it in the kitchen like a buffet server. The options are endless once it's fixed!

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Joan Young-Santiago on Jun 12, 2014
Give it Love...Fix it!

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Jean Paskalides on Jun 12, 2014
you got it for free? I love it ...paint it.

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Donna on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it! It's beUtiful

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Phyllis Elliott on Jun 12, 2014
I had one like it when I was growing up. With that much challenge, I would definitely see what could be done.You girls are so creative.

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Rusted & Rescued by Diana Marvel on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it!!....If you don't like it...then Nix It! You have nothing to loose.., go for it.

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Lucy Greer on Jun 12, 2014
Fix it so beautiful

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Paulette Montoya on Jun 13, 2014
omg fix it! It is beautiful!

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Capemom8741 on Jun 13, 2014
Fix it! It's a lovely piece and will look great after some TLC. I can imagine the vanity done in either white or light blue chalk paint, and glass nobs. I'm sure you'll decide to keep it once it's redone.

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- Linda on Jun 26, 2014
  @Capemom8741 LeighAnne.... Yes...that is exactly what I was thinking. White chalkpaint. I just re-did (is that a word...sounds funny!)...anyway I just painted a bed with all those curlique grooved designs for my 14 year old grand-daughter's room. 4-poster with designs on headboard and footboard. Just did it in white chalkpaint...as she wanted no contrast in the grooves. It was badly damaged, too. Had to strip off some veneer...puttied those and other damaged areas in and sanded. 2 coats of Kilz to seal, as the brown stain ran some... lots of machine & hand sanding. 2 coats of chalkpaint. Then finished with 2 coats of Satin Finish Minwax Polycrylic...as it doesn't yellow. Looks gorgeous! Sounds simple here, but it took a long time as the turned posters weren't easy to get the paint on without drippy places. Anyway, the white bed is in an aqua-walled bedroom with several (5) white wicker and a smallish white antique shabby-chiced desk...I re-did them all. Wish I had photo of bed to show you. Just finished a couple weeks ago and haven't taken any pics. Should have gotten a before and after. Where was my camera?? Probably lost with my brain.... Wishing I had your piece to match it. Actually this looks so much like the vanity with a matching mirror that I grew up with. (Sister inherited it and left bed and vanity in the rain til it was ruined...many years ago. I'm still mad at her!!!Good luck
  
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Julie Charest on Jun 13, 2014
Oooh, what a lovely piece with lots of potential! I would love to see the top a warm wood color and the body aged turquoise. I am with the others if you nix it send it this way! LOL

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Julie Charest on Jun 13, 2014
Something like this? Please share what you choose so we can get inspired too!

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- Bur351447 on Jun 14, 2014
  @Julie Charest love this, perfect color for antique.
  
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Faith R Georges on Jun 13, 2014
Remove the center and make into two side tables.. paint and you are good to go.

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Sandy Lueker on Jun 13, 2014
I would paint it a white shabby chic and highlight the curvy design with a light tan color...beautiful!

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Lori Snarski on Jun 13, 2014
Fix it. Paint all of it with a light colored homemade milk paint but leave the drawer fronts stained. It really gives it a nice pop! Beautiful piece. I have paid money for items in worse condition and rehabbed them.

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Lucinda Ellis on Jun 14, 2014
If you don't like it as a vanity, cut out the center table, to make two end-tables and paint them. Deep scratches can be filled with wood-filler, would make GREAT end-tables for couch or bed. :)

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WannaBGardener on Jun 14, 2014
Fix it, this is such a lovely piece and you will love it when the project is completed.

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Juls Twombley on Jun 14, 2014
Please say you fixed it

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Bs.dennis on Jun 14, 2014
Restore, it is beautiful

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GLHF on Jun 25, 2014
Hopefully this isn't too late, but I would 1st try to restore, Sand down the top and that ugly stain may just be removed. Depends on how deep it went, looks more surface stain from the photo. If you sand stain and reseal it will be beautiful and staining the same colors will hide any nicks!

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Sheila D on Jul 05, 2014
Love the piece, How about night stands or small t.v. stand in a guest room?

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Cathy.Roll Tide on Jul 25, 2014
Leigh Anne @ Houseologie, if you haven't decided what to do with it, send it to me! I love it!

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Teri Uliasz Boyungs on Jul 25, 2014
Off white chalk paint with a dark wax finish would look amazing.

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Marie farrell on Jul 26, 2014
off white and marble on the top

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Mary Ellen Luth on Jul 26, 2014
Paint it in a blue green milk paint

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Heather on Jul 26, 2014
Love it....restore to its former glory! I wish pieces like this would fall into my lap!

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- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Jul 26, 2014
  @Heather Hi! I tried really hard to restore it but it was so messed up! Here's a link to the finished piece that I'll admit isn't really my style. I sold it to someone who will love it for years to come :-) http://houseologie.com/fix-it-or-nix-it-antique-vanity-makeover/
  
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Tana, Little Red Bag Productions on Jul 27, 2014
there's so many possibilities! here is a photo of one I recently finished...perhaps you can get some ideas...and then make it your own :)

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Nancy on Mar 30, 2016
I checked out the finished item. Beautiful! http://houseologie.com/fix-it-or-nix-it-antique-vanity-makeover/

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- Leigh Anne @ Houseologie on Mar 31, 2016
  @Nancy Thank you!!
  
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Daisy'smum on Jun 14, 2016
You get such beautiful old pieces of furniture in the US even if they have had a hard life.

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Marion Nesbitt on Jun 14, 2016
Refinish.

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Sheila D on Jun 15, 2016
Go for refinishing but i would suggest keeping the integrity of the piece and not painting over the detailing and inlay which are unique and beautiful. If unsure, check with a local re-finisher that can give you some tips. Please send pics.

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Nita Pedroni on Jun 15, 2016
I would use Annie Sloans chalk paint on it and then use the dark wax in the crevices

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Karen Hawkins on Jun 16, 2016
I say fix it with the old showing through. I? would search or old door knobs or glass knobs, or pulls to help make it show still antique, Sory to hav written so much.

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Linda Hess-Key on May 04, 2017

I say, restore her!

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Peggy A Epstein on Jun 11, 2017

Fix it!!!! ¡

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Jessie on Jul 24, 2017

FIX IT! FIX IT! This is fun! FIX IT ! Paint!

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Emily on Jul 24, 2017

Fix it, sell it then.

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Pat on Aug 08, 2017

Love it... definately fix it ... either keep as it is with paint and some tlc or separate it into two nightstands

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Heje on Aug 10, 2018

It is a beautiful piece with a lot of detail on the drawers. It could be made into two nightstands if you wanted to remove the middle piece.

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Stephanie Denise Brown-Byrd on Aug 21, 2018

Beautiful piece! Fix it....sand and re-stain.

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Julie on Feb 03, 2020

So....What did you do with it? I'm interested because I have one similar to it along with the matching bed and cedar chest and I haven't decided what to do with mine.

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Cha on Mar 07, 2020

separate the end pieces and paint them

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Johnavallance82 on Jun 29, 2022

Make Bedside cabinets . Cut the legs off. Add the legs to centre drawer.

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