Giving New Life to an Old Bookcase
This old dusty bookcase has migrated throughout my home and finally ended up discarded in the shed. Since I am in the process of fixing up my shed (She-shed coming soon!!! 💁🏾♀️) I decided to remove this bookcase. When I tell you that this bookcase has seen better days... lord have mercy... She has been through some thangs, and it is about time we dust homegirl off and give her a little makeover to get her looking fresh and clean! Do I even need to mention that this was done on a budget?! Yal already know that your girl likes to pinch those pennies until they squeal, so... yes... this project was done on a budget!🤗
Here is how I gave this solid wood bookcase a refresh!
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What you will need: Paint Stripper, plastic scraper, gloves.
This was my first time using this brand of paint stripper, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well it took the paint off! (While it did have a chemical smell it was by no means overwhelming. I was sure to use this product in an area that had proper ventilation as per the instructions.)
After scraping off the layers of paint I removed the residue with odorless mineral spirits
I sanded the entire bookcase with 40 grit and then followed up with smoother grits until it was buttery smooth! 🤤
Next I sealed the wood. I chose a paste wax (my first time using wax on furniture) and I love the finish that it gave the piece.
For the backer board, I used remnant paintable wallpaper, left over from my dining room makeover.
I used Mod Podge to adhere the wallpaper to the backer board (using what I already had).
I added a coat of paint to the now wallpapered backer board. This was a leftover paint sample that matches other pieces throughout my house to give this piece a cohesive feel.
I reattached the backer board, and just like that this bookshelf has been given a new lease on life!
Done!!!
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Nice job! I ❤️ it!
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Beautiful! I love the contrast of the blue color and texture on the backer board with the color of the bookcase. You have great vision :)
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Big difference! Very nice!
I’ve never DIYd with furniture… could you elaborate on the backer board? Is it readily available at hardware stores?
Thx