How to Update a Washstand

I am in love with the finished product of this washstand. Antique washstands were designed to hold a Jug and basin set, to either sit on top of the furniture or sometimes was fitted into the washstand top. Today we use them as curvy, sexy dressers. Here, we make over a dresser washstand to match our home decor. Get all the details of this makeover!

Dixie Belle Paint Products:

• White Lightning
• UPDATED: our new improved Bonding BOSS is even better!
• Mint Julep
• Voodoo Gel Stain in Up in Smoke

How To:

After cleaning the piece with White Lightning, I used a gray Voodoo Gel Stain from Dixie Belle Paint called Up in Smoke applied with a brush on the top of the piece.

Then, using a 120 grit disc on my orbital sander I went over the surface. As I predicted much of the gray would rest in crevices, knots, and inside the wood grain pattern. I loved being able to identify the old saw marks and how the gel stain accentuated all the different wood characteristics.

On the body of the piece, I applied the BOSS and as I continued to work it did begin drying clear. I also noted a slight bit of “grip” that seemed to come with it. I feel like it will grab on to the paint nicely when I begin. Be sure to cover everything really well to prevent any contaminants from bleeding through into the paint!

Now, on to the paint! I wanted a fresh vintagey green color so I opted for Mint Julep. I got 99% coverage in the one coat. If you need more than one coat, wait at least 30 minutes if you’re in a hotter, drier area. Colder or humid – wait at least four hours until there is no stickiness or tackiness.