Upcycled buffet with chevron-design drawer liners

[DanaR]

This buffet rescued from landfill was given a new look with fresh paint, varnish and drawer liners made from chevron wallpaper.

• The project
• Before and after
• How to upcycle with paint
• More upcycling projects

The project

I found this buffet on the side of the road dumped and a little worse for wear. I believed it had good bones though and when I got it cleaned up, it proved me right.

I cleaned, sanded, painted and sealed with a gloss. I also lined the drawers with a chevron-pattern wallpaper available at Bunnings.

I applied stain on the top and then three coats of spray gloss. The first couple of times I used the spray gloss, I didn't let it dry in-between coats long enough. I only waited an hour instead of at least six hours and then let it cure for over 24 hours. Believe me, it makes a huge difference!

I used British Paints Paint and Prime. It's got great coverage as a primer and provides a smooth, quality finish. I usually do three coats or two coats and a touch up. It's water-based so easy to clean up and comes in a flat, satin or gloss finish. My brush technique still needs work but I saved this piece from landfill and now it will be used and loved.

Before and after

How to upcycle with paint

Painting is a quick, easy and affordable way to upcycle furniture. Learn how with this guide: How to upcycle almost anything with paint.

More upcycling projects 

Workshop member DanaR also upcycled this buffet with a Hamptons look.

By lightly distressing fresh paint and adding vintage handles, prettyliving completely changed the look of this buffet.