This is a photo from the internet that can give you an idea of what the project should look like when I am done.
Asked on Jan 08, 2017
How can I repurpose a baby grand piano into a bookcase?
+37
I am in the middle of repurposing a baby grand piano into a bookcase. There are lots of examples on the internet, but I am looking for advice on how to blend finishes for various areas of the bookcase.
For the exterior and shelves I was hoping to simply strip and refinish the original walnut veneer, with the shelves being cut from the original top. I have had a lot of experience with that.
For the sides of the interior and the added section I am planning on painting.
The back of the bookcase (originally the sounding board of the piano) took quite a beating during deconstruction process, specifically prying off the string supports. Therefore I am planning on decoupaging sheet music to the back of the bookcase. I have lots of experience with oil based paints and finishes. But i have no experience with decoupaging, other than viewing some YouTube videos.
Questions-
Should I prime? paint? the sounding board before decoupaging? Oil or latex?
What should I use as decoupage medium? Videos show diluted PVA glue, acrylic varnish yet discuss urethane varnish as a top coat. Can I I decoupage with urethane? Perhaps shellac? The answer to this question might help me determine the best order of decoupaging and painting.
I hope this makes sense and thanks in advance for any and all advice.
John
A photo of the deconstrucetd piano.
A photo of the piano with an added compartment.
That is going to be amazingly beautiful. I love the idea of the sheet music. I have tons of it I don't use anymore and think it would be a good idea to use it on any piece of furniture. As for decoupage...you can buy it (the medium) at any craft store. I have experienced polyurethane turning yellow with age, so I would go with varathane or shellac.
The decoupage medium is called Mod Podge and can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Michael's, Hobby Lobby, etc. There are different kinds, even a sealer, so you might want to do some homework before you head out to purchase it. The choice is yours to paint before adding the sheet music. I would love to see it when finished.
NICE!
That's going to be super cool, I like the suggestion of using the sheet music, you can find some old music books and stain them with tea to age them. I can't wait to see your finished project
i love the idea! Where did you get the original idea from? Good luck with the project...Can't wait to see the finished project!
I am unfamiliar with the "sound board" material in your project.
Is it hard like plywood or soft like acoustical board?
If its plywood, fill with putty, sand smooth then paint on latex based primer.
If is soft....I'd hate to see your music sheets damaged by book corners or other sharp objects. Best to install a sheet of 1/4" plywood for a solid backing, prime and proceed.
After that your basically wallpapering. You can use a decoupage/Mod Podge product, white water based school glue, Cellulose or Wheat wallpaper paste. Something that dries clear.
I don't think you need to seal the sheet music unless your going to set a glass of red wine on it?
Wozer !!
I can't get over what an amazing idea this is...wow.
I can't suggest anything. I like the keyboard on the end, it's definitely a piece of work!!! LEAVE it......it's an outstanding idea. YOU have come this far and YOU will figure out the finishing touches.......Good Luck, I am in awe with your idea!! I think the keyboard accentuates your project!!!!
Love it! 👍👍👍👍👍🎹🎹🎹🎹🎹
Hey John! You WILL figure it out.....((.I wish I could figure out my keyboard with my computer???)........anyway, you got one hellava great project and I'm anxious to see your IMAGINATION and how far it takes you.........Good Luck Bucco!!
Great idea !! Attached pic of a similar project. I would love to see your piano-bookshelf finished. Good luck !!
Looks like an interesting project. Just be careful when disassembling a piano. The "Harp" that holds the strings can have a ton or more of tension on it from the strings and has to be "un-stringed" carefully. Check out this YouTube search on how to safely disassemble a piano.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1DX9hPMut0
Sorry... wrong link above:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+disassemble+a+piano
Phil
Thank you for the heads-up. I checked it out and it turned out beautifully! very well done.
We have a beautiful 1930s Knabe baby grand, burl walnut veneer, that is tragically beyond repair as a piano. We would love for someone to have it and turn it into something beautiful. Any ideas where to find someone who will be able to turn it into something useful and beautiful like these dramatic shelves?
Hello there,
Look for a cabinet maker or Carpenter with a design eye. or maybe a Collage.
wow ..
Hello John, hope this link inspires you.
https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/732327589376844225/