How to Repair Antique Drawers - A White Writing Desk Makeover

Jenni Ingram
by Jenni Ingram
4 Materials
$45
3 Hours
Easy

If you have an antique furniture piece that has damaged drawers that still pull smoothly, I have a smart solution to save the piece! Read on ...


This antique writing desk had been sitting in my stash for a while. I love the shapely legs and gracefulness of this piece. It's solid wood and totally worth saving. They don't make furniture like this anymore!

But I was stumped on how to fix the two outside drawer fronts that were damaged. The veneer broke off in the oddest place.

All I did was cut the trim pieces to size (cut just a hair shorter than the drawer width to be sure the drawer opens and closes smoothly). Add a thin bead of wood glue to each piece.


And nail it in place. Using glue AND nails is important because the nails hold the piece in place while the glue dries, and it makes for an extra tight bond.  

Once the pieces are attached, wipe away any excess glue with a damp paper towel while the glue is still wet.  


To learn more about how to choose the PERFECT paint color for your piece, so you can get the professional look you want, join Hometalk's upcoming workshop!  

Because the trim is a different color than the rest of the desk it looks a little odd, but at least the drawer fronts are fixed and she is ready for her paint makeover. I first painted the raw wood trim with a dark brown milk paint to allow me to distress this area if I choose to, and it will match the rest of the desk.   My blog list has a complete supply list so you know exactly what colors, top coats and tools I used --like what nail gun and size nails!

I sanded and stained it the top so it is beautiful and so smooth. I love the classic combination of the dark top and white base with slightly distressed edges.


See how nice the trim looks, now that it's all finished the same way, I don't think you'd ever know it wasn't original. 

She has a whole new look -- and a whole new life to live!


I hope this project gives you the desire to save an antique and give it a fresh start. I'd love for you to find me on Facebook: @rootsandwingsfurniture to see more of my makeovers and share your painting projects.


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Again click on the blog link below to get my full product & paint list & details on how to get this farmhouse makeover.


Thanks for stopping by! Now go find an antique to paint!!!


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Jenni Ingram
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 1 comment
  • Vickie Dispensa Vickie Dispensa on May 14, 2019

    GREAT JOB !

    looks nice was better than i thought it would look.

    - FYI - I thought antique had to be over a hundred years old. And if you redo them (IF they're not damaged) they lose their value. Just for the Younger generation/

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