Beach Themed Dresser

This is one of the first steps in turning our living space into a beach paradise.  My husband has had this quality, dark brown dresser since before I met him, but it didn't really fit in with the rest of the beach theme we were going for throughout our apartment.  I decided to take on my first big painting project to make this dresser resemble a piece that has been worn down by the sea, including sea glass accents.  Below are all of the materials that I needed to complete the project followed by my step by step process:

• Sand paper (150 grit)
• Soft towel
• Paint (I used Valspar Chalky Finish Paint)
• Tools to remove hardware (Philips or Flathead screwdriver depending on your hardware)
• Paintbrush (Recommend about a 3" brush)
• E6000 Craft Glue
• Cement/grout (used for mosaic)
• Decorative Filler (I got my decorative filler from Michaels on clearance in the floral section)
• Spray paint (if painting hardware)
• Cardboard box (to spray paint hardware)
• Ziplock (quart or freezer size)
• Scissors
• Sponge

1. Remove drawers from dresser and remove all external hardware.  I kept the hardware to spray paint later and reattach, but you may opt to replace the hardware.  At first I considered finding some beach themed hardware as a replacement, but those can be quite costly.  The original hardware was in good condition, but the color did not match.  So if you're like me and want to save some money, reuse the original hardware, but paint it to fit your style.
2. Sand all exterior surfaces of dresser and drawers.  Wipe down surfaces with dry towel to remove dust.
3. Paint all external surfaces.  Always my favorite part!  I chose not to prime the dresser and drawers, and only did one coat in order to make them look slightly aged.  Depending on your aesthetic preference, you can always prime and/or add additional coats.  Allow everything to completely dry.
   

   

   top: painted drawer
   bottom: sanded drawer ready for paint

   

   The painted dresser.
4. Spray paint the hardware.  I opted for a metallic, Krylon spray paint.  I used an old cardboard box to protect my patio from the spray paint.  My technique for spray painting evenly is simple.  Maintaining a consistent distance from the hardware of about 6-8", I move left to right with one constant spray across the surface before releasing, then back across right to left, and so on until you've covered the entire surface.  Start with one quick coat and allow to dry before adding more paint.  Spray paint can build up and keep your surfaces from being smooth if you use too much at once.  Also, make sure to turn the cardboard around and spray paint from any angles needed to cover all surfaces of the hardware.  Remember you're looking for smooth finish.  

   

   left: before               right: after

5. Attach decorations for "filled drawer."  I chose to use flat, polished rocks sold as a decorative filler from a craft store to decorate the top drawer, but you can always use any sort of decorations.  If you prefer something different, I recommend trying sea shells (whole or broken) or mosaic tiles if it suits your motif.  Using the E6000 craft glue, attach each rock (or chosen decoration) to the face of the drawer.  Make sure to leave space between each piece, and leave any holes for attaching hardware uncovered.  Allow to dry completely.  
6. Fill the face of the drawer.  Fill a Ziploc bag partially with the cement, then cut a hole in the corner leaving a small opening.  Gauge the amount of space between your decorations and cut the hole smaller than the space between them.  Fill the spaces surrounding all of the decorations and allow to dry for about 20 minutes.  Use a damp sponge or towel to clean off anything on the decorations. Allow to finish drying. 

   

   left: decorative pieces glued down          right: grout filled

7. Replace hardware and you're finished!  Just replace the hardware and replace the drawers and you're all done.  

   

   left: before        right: after

Since completing this project I've felt like the dresser needs a little more design.  Next I plan to add a white stenciled pattern onto the face of the other four drawers.  I haven't found exactly what I'm looking for yet, but as soon as I do I will share it with you.  Overall I am very pleased with the dresser and it definitely fits in better with our beach themed apartment.