From Neglect to New Purpose: The 1860s Chest of Drawers Transformation
Introduction
This venerable 1860s chest of drawers, a solid relic from the past, bore the weight of time in the form of extensive damage and wear. Unwavering in my commitment to embrace new challenges, I eagerly embarked on this daunting journey. The veneer, especially at the base, bore the scars of its long history, marred by cracks, chipping, and warping that had woven their narrative into the surface. Substantial water damage had left its indelible mark, and previous attempts to salvage the veneer were evident but unsuccessful.
The Challenge Begins
The old finish
Then there was the formidable task of tackling the top, similarly veneered and stained black and mottled after decades of use. Initially overlooked, as I delved into this surface, I was confronted with the startling realization of the top’s severe warping. Both sides displayed fractures and missing chips, with one side bearing a harrowing split that ran from the pinnacle to the base. A corner piece at the foundation was conspicuously absent, and the previous owner had employed wallpaper to line the drawers, back, and underside of the piece. They had also, regrettably, removed the original legs, and the stubborn remnants of old glue clung tenaciously.
What was initially anticipated to be a matter of days stretched into weeks, as I laboured relentlessly to devise solutions to a myriad of issues. My determination refused to waver, fuelled by the unwavering belief that this piece deserved to be spared from the bleak fate of a landfill. Thus, I remained steadfast, forging a resolute path to rescue this relic, although I was forced to abandon my initial vision. Once I released my grip on the past, a new plan emerged effortlessly, igniting a newfound surge of energy and purpose.
My efforts were dedicated to mending significant cracks and flaws, securing wayward veneer, and crafting a new corner on the left side. I coaxed the piece into submission, tirelessly endeavouring to smooth out its imperfections.
Continued Challenges and Making Decision
After priming the surface, I encountered the vexing issue of bleed-through. My solution entailed the application of shellac, followed by the meticulous layering of three coats of paint (using Fusion Mineral Paint Goddess Ashwagandha), with sanding intervals between each. I painstakingly addressed the conspicuous voids left by the original keyholes, while repeatedly retracing my steps to address unnoticed dents and holes.
As the finish line loomed, I lovingly oiled and waxed the top, and stained the new feet to harmonize with the overall aesthetic. Yet, the persistent challenge of the drawer handles continued to occupy my thoughts. Despite my relentless efforts, I found myself confronted by a disheartening realization – the drawers failed to fit seamlessly during the final reassembly. I resorted to nudging and coaxing, applying additional wax to facilitate a smoother glide, and rearranging them in an attempt to achieve the perfect alignment. This was no minor flaw, and a difficult decision loomed ahead.
Changing Directions
Original photographs unveiled the haunting truth that the drawers had never fit properly, an issue I had previously overlooked. They failed to align flush at the front, and a disheartening half-centimetre gap adorned the top of each drawer. The revelation left me disheartened, irate, and ensnared in a two-day funk. However, on the third day, a newfound vision emerged, reshaping the destiny of this enduring piece. It was reimagined as a sturdy workbench and a storage haven for my workroom. The newly crafted feet were set aside in favour of swivel castors, and simple shell handles were affixed. The drawers now house all those cumbersome items that defy easy storage, such as hardware, sanding paper, colour cards, and clean rags.
Finished
This 1860s era chest of drawers has been seamlessly reborn as a centrepiece in my workspace, and I couldn’t be more delighted with the outcome. What are your thoughts on this transformation?”
