Painted Antique Dresser Ideas
Ready to give your old, worn out dresser a fresh new look? Check out our list of painted antique dresser ideas to get inspired and have some creative fun with your furniture makeover.
In this guide, we’ll dive into some cool DIY dresser makeover ideas and tips on turning your dresser into a stunning piece that’ll last for a long time. Below are some suggestions to get you started on your painted antique dresser project. Let’s dive in!
Antique dressers hold a special charm and character that can add a unique touch to any room. However, over time they can start to look worn and outdated. But before you toss it out or replace it, why not give it a fresh coat of paint?
Painting your antique dresser is an easy and affordable way to revamp its appearance while still preserving its vintage charm. Plus, it allows you to get creative and bring your own personal style into the mix.
Whether you’re after a standout piece or something more low-key, there are tons of painted antique dresser ideas out there to match your taste. Get together with some friends or take it on as a solo project—either way, enjoy trying out these paint ideas for antique dressers!
What type of paint is best for painting an antique dresser?
When painting an antique dresser, you’ve got a few paint options to choose from. The best paint depends on the look you’re going for and the dresser’s condition. Here are some choices:
- Chalk paint: A favorite for antique dressers, it gives a matte, vintage finish. Plus, it needs minimal prep and can be easily distressed for a rustic vibe. Check out these top chalk paint brands that you can used for your next DIY project.
- Milk paint: Like chalk paint, it has a matte look but is thinner. It’s great for that shabby chic or farmhouse style. Learn about the best milk paint for furniture you can use here.
- Latex or acrylic paint: With a wider range of colors and finishes, these are perfect for bold, modern looks. They’re also more durable than chalk or milk paint. Here’s our list of the best acrylic paint for furniture to find out the top acrylic brands available in the market that you can use.
- Spray paint: If you want something quick and easy, spray paint can freshen up your dresser fast. Just be sure to sand and prime the surface first for the best results. Check out our list of the best spray paint for furniture to help you decide which spray paint is right for your project.
Whatever paint you choose, go for a good-quality brand. Adding a clear topcoat afterward is also a good idea for extra protection and to make it last longer.
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How can I update my painted antique dresser while keeping its vintage charm?
If you want to give your painted antique dresser a modern vibe while keeping its vintage charm, here are a few tips:
- Swap the hardware: Changing out old knobs and pulls for new ones can instantly refresh your dresser. Stick with traditional or antique inspired designs to keep that vintage feel. Here’s how to change hardware on a dresser for a more detailed guide on updating or changing the hardware.
- Add some details: Paint on designs or patterns using stencils or freehand for a unique touch. Decals or transfers are another easy update. Here’s stenciling furniture to learn more about what you need to know about adding stencil to furniture!
- Show off some natural wood: Instead of painting the whole piece, leave some areas in their natural wood state. This adds contrast and highlights the dresser’s original beauty.
By mixing these elements into your painted antique dresser, you can give it a modern twist while still honoring its vintage roots.
More Painted Furniture Ideas
If you’re still seeking inspiration after checking out our list of painted antique dresser ideas below, don’t worry. We have plenty more ideas for you. Here are some posts with additional painted furniture ideas!
Painted Antique Dresser Ideas
Want more ideas to revamp your old furniture with paint? This blog post on painted antique dresser ideas features some stunning before-and-after photos for inspiration. Whether you're going bold or keeping it simple, we've got tips for every style and skill level. Get ready to unleash your creativity and give your home a fresh new vibe with this list of makeovers!
Dark Green Dresser Makeover
Take a look at this awesome makeover by A Ray of Sunlight and see how you can turn a dull, brown dresser into a stunning dark green piece. This tutorial has all the tips you need for prepping the surface and painting techniques to get a smooth finish. Just follow the steps and watch how easily you can give your antique dresser a dramatic transformation!
Painted Antique Dresser Makeover
Turn your old dresser into a beachy, coastal piece with this guide from Confessions of a Serial DIYer. Just sand, paint, and distress, and you'll have a stunning piece in no time. The blog also shares tips on keeping your drawers tidy with fabric liners and stain. So your dresser will not only look fantastic but be super functional and organized too!
Chalk Painted Black Dresser
Chalk paint is ideal for getting that vintage, distressed look. This makeover from A Ray of Sunlight will show you how to use chalk paint in black to transform your dresser into a statement piece. Get ready to give your room some moody elegance with this painted antique dresser idea. Time to grab some supplies, put on an old shirt, and let your creativity flow!
Antique Victorian Dresser Makeover
Check out this gorgeous antique Victorian dresser makeover using milk paint by Art is Beauty. The deep, rich green color gives it warmth and character while keeping its vintage charm, and the rose gold hardware adds a glam touch. This shows how you can mix techniques and finishes to personalize your painted antique dresser and make it one-of-a-kind.
DIY Farmhouse Dresser in Black
Farmhouse style is all about warm, inviting tones and distressed finishes. Check out this tutorial from A Ray of Sunlight to nail that farmhouse look using black milk paint. You'll end up with a rustic yet elegant piece that feels like a family heirloom. If you're into the cozy vibe of farmhouse decor, this painted antique dresser idea is perfect for you.
Antique Dresser Makeover
This beautiful piece by Lost & Found Decor shows how you can use chalk paint to add depth and texture to your antique dresser. The mix of colors and techniques gives it a unique, aged look that perfectly matches the vintage vibe. Get inspired to try this technique on your own painted antique dresser!
The Navy Dresser with Textured Drawers
Start with a basic, plain dresser and transform it into a standout piece with this post from A Ray of Sunlight. By using navy paint and raised stencil designs on the drawers, you create an eye-catching textured effect that adds depth and interest. This painted antique dresser idea will definitely make your furniture pop in any room.
Antique Dresser Edgy Makeover With Paint
Add some flair to your vintage dresser with this guide from Do Dodson Designs. They show you how to use a round brush, spray bottle, and putty knife with chalk paint for a unique, edgy finish that’ll make your piece pop. Go ahead, get creative, and make your antique dresser bold and unexpected!
Teal Painted Highboy Dresser
Is your old highboy dresser in need of a makeover? Check out this post by A Ray of Sunlight for a fresh, modern take on a classic piece. The dipped teal color gives it a fun and unique touch, while the acrylic knobs add a touch of luxury. Give your highboy dresser a makeover that’s both stylish and practical.
Magnolia Garden Dresser Makeover
Why not add a touch of whimsy to your painted antique dresser? This post from Salvaged Inspirations shows how you can use floral transfers to create a beautiful, garden-inspired design on your dresser. The result is a charming piece that will brighten up any room in your home. Get ready to bring some floral flair into your decor!
How to Use Milk Paint on Furniture
Transform your old dresser into a shabby chic masterpiece with milk paint. A Ray of Sunlight shares how to use this popular paint technique to get a vintage, chippy finish. Plus, it also shares tips on sealing your piece for that perfect aged look. Get ready to add some rustic charm to your painted antique dresser!
Damaged Antique Dresser Revived
Prodigal Pieces shows you how to turn a beat-up antique dresser into a gorgeous piece with some expert repair and painting techniques. Discover how to fix chipped veneer and give that piece a fresh paint finish for a brand-new look. This guide is perfect for anyone looking to bring old, tired furniture back to life.
French Blue Dressers
Do you love the classic, elegant vibe of French decor? This tutorial from A Ray of Sunlight shows you how to get that look with your painted antique dresser. The soft blue paint ties these mismatched nightstands together, giving them a cohesive and sophisticated feel. Add some Parisian flair to your bedroom with this painting idea!
Vintage Dresser Revamp
Refresh your antique dresser with this refinished vintage piece makeover by Jen Woodhouse. Using a combination of grey and gold paint, she turns a dark, heavy dresser into a light, airy piece that feels modern yet timeless. Have fun giving your old furniture a fresh new look with this post.
Dreamy Blue Painted Dresser
Here's another makeover from A Ray of Sunlight for all you vintage lovers out there. This piece shows off a dreamy blue paint that gives it an ethereal vibe, perfect for a bedroom or living room. Plus, with a bit of glaze, it gets that aged look that makes an antique dresser stand out. Get ready to bring a touch of nostalgia to your home with this painted antique dresser idea!
Grey Painted Antique Dresser
Take your old dresser from drab to fab with this tutorial from Lost & Found Decor. The smoky grey paint color gives it a modern, chic look while still maintaining its vintage charm. Plus, the floral transfer adds a feminine touch that makes this piece truly unique. Give your antique dresser a fresh, trendy makeover with this post!
The Chippy Gray Milk Paint Dresser
There's nothing quite like the charm of milk paint when it chips and peels. Take a look at this post from A Ray of Sunlight for an easy guide on how to get that perfect chippy look on your antique dresser. The grey color really nails that rustic, farmhouse vibe, making it a fantastic addition to any room in your home.
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