Drexel Dresser in Creme

I've painted all kinds of stuff over the last 3 years.  From the lowliest of pieces (particle board and doggie steps) to the best the furniture industry has to offer.  This dresser happens to be in the second category.  I don't see Drexel come through my garage doors very often, but I was salivating (that's actually a pretty gross image, huh) when I saw what was on the trailer that pulled into my driveway.  I couldn't wait to get started on this beautiful piece!  My client wanted it cream with dark hardware and a wood top.  One of my favorite combos!  And, it is so suited to this classic beauty!

 

 

 

 

 Before

I don't get very many pieces where everything works the way it should, so I was absolutely thrilled when I opened all the drawers and they slid so beautifully!  Thank you, oh thank you, Drexel!!

 

  I almost always sand the top down on a piece regardless if I'm painting or staining.  I am a sucker for a wood top and even if I'm painting I just have to know what's under there! In this case it's a beautiful piece of mahogany veneer.  So pretty!  I have been burned by doing this--once I sanded down the top and it was a solid piece of cherry.  It was so beautiful, but my client didn't want the top wood so I had to paint over it!   I think I cried a little. ;) 

 

 It really was a privilege to work on this piece!

 

 

 

 After

 

I just want to lick touch it.  It is seriously so pretty.

 

 

 

 I mentioned in my last post that I used a modified latex from Sherwin Williams (ProClassic) for this set.  Even though it levels out so nicely (I love watching it melt) I still sand between every coat.  It just feels wrong not to.  I know, I'm strange.

 

 

 

 Again, the hardware received two coats of Oil Rubbed Bronze from Rustoleum.  I always prime my hardware before spraying it as well.

 

 

 

 Here's that gorgeous top.  When I sand a top down I use 150-180 grit.  I used to use a more aggressive grit, but it left marks in the top and it was just more sanding to get them out.  150/180 is tough enough for most finishes (although it may take a few more sheets) and fine enough where I can buff out any swirlies with it.  I always look at the top at an angle in the sun to see the fine scratches so I can sand them out.  Then 1 coat of Java Gel from General Finishes and 4 coats of Minwax Polycrylic in Satin.

 

 

 

 Hyndrangeas from my garden.  I normally don't like to cut my flowers, but I couldn't stand the thought of these turning brown on the bush!

 

 

 

Look at those curves!!

 I love this warm white for fall too!

 

 

 

 

Custom: Not for Sale