Dresser update help needed,my first DIY

Yep it looks like you could definitely fix those drawers with wood filler instead of trying to take all of the veneer off which could be a very tough job. I would remove as much of the veneer that's loose as there is, fill it with several coats and then sand it down. I would also remove those drawer pulls and fill those in holes in too while you're at it - that will open you up for any type of hardware you would like to replace them with.

If the top looks like its in pretty good shape I think I would consider painting out the drawer fronts first in a rich navy and leaving the body of the dresser to see what that looks like first. The two tone (stain and paint) are becoming really popular these days.

I would definitely remove loose bits of veneer and fill those spots before sanding.

I have to say that I love the handles. They have a funky mid century look and I think they could look awesome after the piece is painted. You could even spray paint them another color to go with whatever paint color you choose for the dresser. The color you paint it is really up to you. What colors do you love? What's already in the room where you plan to keep it?

If you don't want to paint you could decoupage instead. Here's a decoupaged dresser project that I did, which was originally a shiny veneer. You might not want to do exactly what I did, but it might just spark an idea for you.

Try some wood paste first. The. You could paint the whole thing

The wood paste should work well to remedy the veneer problems. As others have said, apply the wood paste (possibly in layers) and then sand. Those handles are keepers! Choose a color you love that goes well with the rest of your decor, prep and paint the piece and you'll have a fantastic looking conversation and useful piece!

This conversation may help: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/repair/furniture/q-repair-wood-veneer-44321830

You could remove the veneer, but it's a big job and you don't know what's underneath it. Personally, I would fill the chipped spots and sand.

you can paint it, stain it or even decopodge it or use other peel and stick items to decorate the drawers - I love the handles they could be used with about anything

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZ6CvSc242Q

You could try the painting technique I used here so I didn't have to sand: https://happydealhappyday.com/paint-bathroom-vanity-no-sanding-required/

If you are going to paint this dresser, you can fix those spots with Bondo, then sand down even and paint. Use a good quality paint. This way you will not have to seal the dresser.

I'd use wood filler, sand and paint! beautiful piece!!

Sand off old dinner and replace with new and paint with plastic coat paint. 3 layers.

This shows how to fix chipped and scratched wooden furniture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTPy5irt1G8

I would fill in the spots where veneer is missing, sand the rest and give it a coat of paint. Replace the handles...