Transform an Old Dresser into a Stylish Kitchen Island
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Finding the Dresser
- Initial Plan
- Discovering the Potential
- Improving the Top
- Transforming the Drawers
- Adding Open Shelves
- Revamping the Hardware
- Raising the Height
- Finishing Touches
- Conclusion
Introduction
👋 Hey there! Welcome to DIY Your Calm. In this article, I'm going to take you through my journey of turning an old, beat-up dresser into a functional and stylish kitchen island. From finding the dresser to revamping the hardware, I'll share with you all the steps and techniques I used to transform this piece of furniture. So, without further ado, let's get started!
Finding the Dresser
🔍 The first step in any furniture transformation project is finding the right piece. I came across this dresser in a thrift store, and it caught my eye immediately. It was priced at just $15, and although my initial plan was to just sand it and do a quick paint job, I soon realized that it had even more potential than I initially thought.
Initial Plan
📝 Originally, my plan was not to make a video out of this project or turn it into a kitchen island. It was just going to be a small side project. However, once I brought the dresser home and took a closer look at it, I realized that its dimensions were perfect for a kitchen island. With its narrow width and short height, all I needed to do was raise it a few inches and add a new top to make it a functional and stylish addition to any kitchen.
Discovering the Potential
💡 The dresser's original top had a unique look, but I decided to cover it with a new wood top to achieve a butcher block style. To do this, I used 2x6 pieces of pine, joined them together, and made the top slightly larger than the original one. While the new top wouldn't be an actual butcher block, it would serve as a perfect surface for extra storage and occasional use.
Improving the Top
🔨 With the decision to create a new top, I began building it out of the 2x6 pieces of pine. After cutting and joining the boards, I used a miter saw and a Kreg jig to create strong and secure connections. The final result was a sturdy and level top that would provide the perfect workspace in the kitchen.
Transforming the Drawers
🗄️ One of the challenges with the dresser was the missing and damaged drawers. Instead of fixing them, I decided to repurpose them into open shelves. By removing the bottom drawer components and covering the sides, I created stylish and functional shelves that would be perfect for storing kitchen essentials.
Adding Open Shelves
📚 To further enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the dresser, I decided to add open shelves to the design. Using slats made from a 2x4, I covered the bottom portions of the dresser on both sides, creating a beautiful and practical storage space. This addition not only provided extra room for kitchenware but also added a unique touch to the overall look of the kitchen island.
Revamping the Hardware
🔑 While I decided to keep the drawers at the top of the dresser, I wanted to give them a fresh and updated look. To achieve this, I used a crockpot to strip the paint off the drawer handles. After removing the paint, I decided to paint them silver instead of keeping the original brass finish. The silver color complemented the overall aesthetics of the kitchen island and added a modern touch to the vintage piece.
Raising the Height
⬆️ To raise the dresser to the desired height for a kitchen island, I needed to replace the old homemade legs. Instead, I opted for larger casters, which not only provided an extra couple of inches but also made it easier to move the island around. Additionally, I built a sturdy 2x4 base to support the casters and raise the dresser to the perfect height for comfortable kitchen use.
Finishing Touches
🎨 After completing all the modifications and improvements to the dresser, it was time to give it a finished look. I filled any screw holes and imperfections with spackling, sanded the surfaces smooth, and painted everything with a white gloss paint. The crisp white color not only matched the style and vibe of the kitchen but also gave the island a clean and fresh appearance.
Conclusion
🏁 And there you have it! My journey of transforming an old, worn-out dresser into a functional and stylish kitchen island. From finding the dresser to revamping the hardware and adding the finishing touches, every step was done with care and attention to detail. The final result is a unique and personalized kitchen island that not only adds extra storage and workspace but also enhances the overall aesthetics of any kitchen. So why not unleash your creativity and turn that old piece of furniture into something amazing?
Highlights
- Turning an old, beat-up dresser into a functional kitchen island
- Repurposing and transforming the drawers into open shelves
- Adding a new wood top for a butcher block style
- Revamping the hardware for a modern touch
- Raising the height and adding casters for mobility
- Completing the look with a fresh coat of paint
FAQ:
Q: Can this project be done with any dresser?
A: Yes, the project can be done with any dresser that meets the desired dimensions and has potential for transformation.
Q: How difficult is it to build the new top?
A: Building the new top requires basic woodworking skills and tools. With the right measurements and proper joining techniques, it can be a rewarding and achievable task.
Q: Can I customize the design to fit my kitchen style?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to modify the design, color, and finishes to match your kitchen aesthetics and personal preferences. Let your creativity shine!
