How She Updated a $20 Dresser Into Equestrian Art Using Stain!

by M&M Embellishments

2 Materials

I took a ordinary dresser and made a fabulous dresser for my horse-loving stepdaughter. Earlier in the week, I finished a small accent table so I made this to match.

chest of drawers turned into piece of equestrian art using stain, painted furniture, rustic furniture

I use stain and these wonderful paints by Velvet Finishes to create this effect. Take a moment to check out these paints at velvetfinishes.com!

I used Velvet Finishes Timeless, Opulent and Minimalist. Followed with their Dark Glaze. I really LOVE these paints. ( I do not sell these {yet} just really like the finish!!

I used two coats of Timeless, which is a rich grey.

Followed by two coats of Velvet Finishes Opulent.

I added a "smear" of Minimalist (bright white).... I wasn't really happy with how I applied the Minimalist. oops. I then sanded/ distressed.

And applied the VF Dark Glaze. After talking with Kellie - owner of VF - I realize I took off too much of the glaze. Next time, I will get it right. Now for the images. ....

I use MinWax Ebony Wood Finish stain for my artwork. I transfer the image onto the piece using carbon paper

I was going to add more detail ( clouds and sun peaking through), but since this is the top of the dresser, I knew it would be packed full of stuff, so I left it at this.

For the front, I chose a close up of the face. When I was doing this image, I had to lay the piece on it's back. I was really worried about that eye... But it seemed like it was going to be ok.

When I stood it up, the eye was "ok", but I see some other areas I need to tweek. Actually, the top of this dresser took way more time than the front. When trying to get the stain dark enough, ontop of the glaze, it is a little difficult. I ended up spraying a quick coat of polyacrylic to set the stain.

Now, I just have to do the finishing with poly (which I am not the best at - still practicing). I'm THINKING I may do another quick coat of the spray poly and then add a topcoat of glaze. Need to talk to Kellie to see if that would work.

Please check out my website for more artistic pieces like this. I also do custom orders!

This is the little telephone table I did for her.

I am pretty pleased with the turnout. Now for the stepdaughter's approval! :)

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2 questions

Chris on May 04, 2016
How do transfer the art?

1
Marcia on May 04, 2016
You are talking stain like the stuff you use on unfinished wood? Do you just put more layers of stain for the darker parts?

1