Transforming A Dresser Into A Buffet Table: My Personal Experience
Recently, I decided to give my dining room a makeover. I wanted to add a unique and functional piece of furniture that would serve as both a storage solution and a stylish accent. After some research, I decided to turn an old dresser into a buffet table. It was a fun and rewarding project that transformed a basic piece of furniture into a statement piece. In this article, I’ll share my step-by-step guide, top tips, pros and cons, and personal review on how to turn a dresser into a buffet table.
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Choose Your Dresser
The first step is to find a dresser that fits your style and needs. Look for a sturdy piece with enough drawers for your storage needs. It’s important to choose a dresser that is the right size and shape for your space. Keep in mind that you’ll be removing the top drawers, so make sure the remaining drawers are deep enough to hold your serving dishes and table linens.
Step 2: Remove Top Drawers
Using a drill or screwdriver, remove the top drawers of the dresser. This will create an open space for your buffet table. You can use the drawers for other storage purposes or donate them to a local charity.
Step 3: Sand and Paint
Sand the entire dresser to remove any rough spots or imperfections. Then, choose a paint color that matches your decor and apply at least two coats of paint to the dresser. You can also add decorative hardware to the remaining drawers to give them a fresh look.
Step 4: Add a Top Surface
Measure the top of the dresser and cut a piece of wood or marble to fit. This will create a flat surface for your buffet table. You can attach the surface with screws or adhesive.
Step 5: Style and Decorate
Add your favorite serving dishes, table linens, and decor to your new buffet table. You can also add a mirror or artwork above the table to create a focal point in your dining room.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
Here are some top tips and ideas to consider when turning a dresser into a buffet table:
- Choose a dresser with sturdy legs or add furniture feet to make it more stable.
- Add a coat of clear sealant to protect the painted surface from scratches and spills.
- Use decorative contact paper or wallpaper to line the drawers for a pop of color.
- Add a wine rack or stemware holder to the open space for added functionality.
- Use a dresser with a decorative front to add texture and interest to your dining room.
- Paint the dresser a bold color to make a statement piece in your space.
- Use the dresser as a coffee bar or home bar instead of a buffet table.
- Add a table runner or placemats to create a cohesive look with your dining table.
- Use the top surface as a serving station during parties or family gatherings.
- Repurpose an old dresser from a thrift store or garage sale to save money and add character to your space.
Pros and Cons
Like any DIY project, there are pros and cons to turning a dresser into a buffet table.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: You can save money by repurposing an old dresser instead of buying a new buffet table.
- Customizable: You can choose a dresser that fits your style and customize the color and hardware to match your decor.
- Functional: A dresser-turned-buffet table provides ample storage for serving dishes, table linens, and more.
- Unique: A dresser buffet table is a statement piece that adds character and interest to your dining room.
Cons:
- Requires DIY skills: Turning a dresser into a buffet table requires some basic DIY skills like sanding, painting, and attaching a top surface.
- Not as sturdy: A dresser may not be as sturdy as a traditional buffet table, especially if it has narrow legs.
- Limited storage: While a dresser provides some storage, it may not be enough for larger dinner parties or events.
- May not match existing decor: If you can’t find a dresser that matches your existing decor, you may need to repaint or refinish it to fit in with your space.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I’m thrilled with how my dresser-turned-buffet table turned out. It’s a unique and functional piece that adds character and interest to my dining room. I love that I was able to repurpose an old piece of furniture and give it a new life. My suggestion would be to choose a dresser with sturdy legs or add furniture feet to make it more stable. I would also recommend adding a clear sealant to protect the paint and make it easier to clean.
Question & Answer / FAQs
Q: Can I use any dresser for this project?
A: It’s best to choose a dresser that is sturdy and has enough drawers for your storage needs. Make sure the remaining drawers are deep enough to hold your serving dishes and table linens.
Q: Do I need to use a specific type of paint?
A: You can use any type of paint that is suitable for wood furniture. Choose a paint color that matches your decor and apply at least two coats for a smooth finish.
Q: Can I add a glass top to the dresser?
A: Yes, you can add a glass top to the dresser for a sleek and modern look. Make sure the glass is tempered for safety and attach it securely to the dresser.
Q: How long does this project take?
A: The time it takes to turn a dresser into a buffet table depends on your DIY skills and the size of the dresser. Plan for at least a weekend to complete the project.