How can I make this old nightstand more artsy?

Strip the stain off to refinish it then you could white wash it or just paint it. You could replace the drawer knob too.

Hi Ruby, Just some colorful paint and highlight the details and a new knob would make a big difference.

Choose colors to paint that work with your decor and that you love. Chalk paint will not require much prep but do seal it once finished with wax or poly. You can add pops of color inside the drawers. If you like decoupage, add it inside the drawers, on the bottom shelf or on top - wherever you love it. Having fun is the most important part!

You don't need to strip it.

https://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=paint%20nightstand

Here is my version of this type of table.

I would paint and or decorate to match the feel of the room. What style is the room, romantic? feminine? generic? sports? How will it be used? As an occasional table, as a nightstand? One time I used a section of log painted pink as a night table for my then young daughters room. You could sand, restain and poly this for a more formal room or paint it one solid color for a contemporary simple room, or multicolored for a playful relaxed room

If you use a chalk or mineral paint you may not even need to strip or sand it first, depending on the finish you want. If by artsy you mean stand out unique then you could pick a really bold colour and contrasting handles. You could also use a furniture transfer to add some pattern or detail if you like that style. Great base for whatever you do though, I’m sure it will turn out beautiful.

I would paint it a fun color and give it a new knob... paint sometimes makes all the difference in the world.

Search Treasures by the Sea Paint on Facebook. BEST paint EVER! No need to sand and the possibilities are endless! Plus no fumes, SUPER quick dry times, and all made in the USA. Plus the owner is an amazing woman and her company is the best!

Even if you use chalk paint which you can make yourself.

Chalk paint recipes

Here are three of the most popular chalk paint recipes: Plaster of Paris, Baking soda, and unsanded grout. There are only three ingredients for each recipe and using the quantities specified below will allow you to make just over a cup of paint each.Plaster of Paris chalk paint recipe

• 1 cup latex paint
• 1-1/2 tablespoons water
• 2-1/2 tablespoons Plaster of Paris

• 1 cup latex paint
• 3 tablespoons cool water
• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 1 cup latex paint
• 1 tablespoon cool water
• 2 tablespoons unsanded grout

I Like this one the best,

CALCIUM CARBONATE

2 PARTS PAINT

1 PART CALCIUM CARBONATE

You still need to clean the the nightstand very well to get rid of any grease and dirt.

I would also buy a sanding sponge 22 grit and lightly sand. A five minute job for the entire night stand. Then I would use chalk paint of whatever color you like for the room.

Also you can use Rustoleum spray paint for the knob.

You can use a chalk based product like Fusion Mineral Paint. It can be painted on with very little prep. They also have a primer product you can use on very shiny surfaces first. You can find a retailer near you by visiting here... https://fusionmineralpaint.com/where-to-buy/