High Gloss Lacquered Mid Century Dresser

2 Materials
This inexpensive mid century dresser got a high end makeover with some high gloss lacquer and little refreshing to the original wood finish.
For $15 I couldn't pass up this stylish little piece. The quality is not the greatest (paper thin veneer, laminate top, plywood drawer boxes, etc) but it's fully functional and was a great piece for me to test out a new to me product. High gloss lacquer.
I first filled some large chunks that were missing from one of the sides. It went all through the veneer and into the plywood and particle board frame. Bondo did the trick and this wood filler helped to cover the open wood grain so I could get a smooth, glossy lacquered finish.
It took 3 coats on most parts, but 4 coats on the top of the dresser. The top of the dresser was the trickiest part since it was so long and lacquer dries extremely fast which can leave an uneven sheen or gritty texture from overspray. In the end I changed the direction I was spraying and some settings on my spray gun to help acheive a great finish. The photo above shows the color really well. I adore this color. It's a warm gray and the browns and greys in it make it so rich looking!
I used some Restore-a-Finish in the walnut color to refresh the wood drawers and legs. It hid the light wear and rejuvenated the wood portions of the dresser.
Just look at the high gloss shine!
Suggested materials:
  • Gloss Lacquer
  • Restore-a-Finish
The Weathered Door
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  • Dea Dea on Oct 26, 2016
    This is just what I am looking for. What type of store did you find the dresser? About what di the dresser run? (To be nosey?)
  • William William on Oct 26, 2016
    Love the grey and wood! Great choice. Great Job!
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