'Circe' Depression-Era Dresser
3 Materials
I feel in love with the lines. Such a beautiful piece, in itself. And I know there are many people out there who would say " Don't you dare paint that!".
And I almost didn't.
But I had a vision for what it could look like.
The piece came together, pretty much by itself. Although the veneer was good, I always think of Depression-Era pieces as having inferior grade veneer. So I painted it.
I know. Don't hate me.
Pure & Original Classico in Majestic Cloth was the base color. I wanted to deep moody canvas. Then Pure & Original Black/Polar Blue. General Finishes Black glaze, and wax.
Circe
The image transfer is a painting by JW Waterhouse.
Divine.
I used Artisan Enhancements transfer gel, largely because it gives me a clear image transfer.
Although I used very deep tones on the majority of the pieces, I wanted to use a few lighter tones to balance the image.
I wanted to keep the original hardware intact - just the natural patina.
Wax to give a deep sheen to the piece, to accentuate the curved front.
Agreed, some people will say that I should never have painted the piece.
I get it.
But when I compare the Before and After, side to side, I know I make the right decision.
For me.
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3 of 9 comments
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I like natural wood, but you have real vision. I agree that your after is great....nice job!
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I refurbish, restore, and make furniture. I am in LOVE with your vision and technique. I want to try this technique out ASAP and I have two depression era veneer dressers that I feel would get a new life with this idea. Total kudos to you and for also sharing your technique and wisdom with other artists like myself. We’re a community and we should support the process and one another in the creation of beautiful works of art! We all have our own interpretations of an idea. You’re a true gem to this community ❤️🛋🖼❤️
For the love of furniture,
Janelle Hicks
PRISM artworks & furniture
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I'm one of those people who hate it when people paint antique furniture and ruin the value of it but even I've got to say I absolutely love what you did with this piece! I actually think the colors you chose to use and adding that beautiful transfer have only increased the value of it. So many people these days just slap on a coat of white paint and rub some wax over the antique patina of a beautiful piece of furniture and ruin not only it's look but also it's value forever! You are a master at furniture transformation and created one beautiful piece of history! Please explain how to do a picture transfer on wood and where to get the supplies to do it? I've never heard of anyone doing this and it enhances furniture in my opinion so well that I'd like to try it on a newer piece of furniture in my home too! Thanks you so much for sharing your awesome piece of furniture make-over!!!