Sideboard Saved On Garbage Day Gets a Makeover
Antique Cabinet Rescue: From Curbside Castoff to Golden Gem
Every now and then, a piece comes along that feels like fate. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I spotted this stunning antique cabinet tossed out for garbage. It was solid, beautifully built—and tucked inside one of the drawers were the broken leg pieces, as if someone had started a repair and changed their mind. I was more than happy to give it a second chance.
Cleaning & Repair: Rebuilding What Was Lost
Once back at the shop, I gave the cabinet a thorough cleaning with TSP Alternative. I glued the leg pieces back together, filling in the missing bits with wood filler to restore their shape. Since the repair would be visible, I painted the legs in Fusion Mineral Paint Coal Black—a bold, classic choice that added instant elegance. It dries with a lovely sheen.
Veneer Removal & Drawer Revival
The veneer on the drawers was already mostly removed, so I finished removing it completely. The drawers were in rough shape, so I decided to paint them as well, continuing with Coal Black to create a cohesive, dramatic look.
Stain & Shine: A Rich Contrast
To balance the dark paint, I sanded down the top and the trim around the doors, then stained them in Cappuccino Stain & Finishing Oil. The warm, rich tone brought out the wood’s natural beauty and added depth to the overall finish.
Golden Accents & Final Touches
I had a set of gorgeous antique drawer pulls that felt perfect for this piece. To make them pop, I painted them in Posh Chalk Pigments in Lemon Gold, along with the door locks. The gold against the black and cappuccino tones created a timeless, luxurious contrast.
I wanted the back board to stand out and not blend in with the stained top so I painted it in Coal Black as well.
The Reveal
From forgotten curbside castoff to a showstopping statement piece, this cabinet now radiates character and charm. It’s a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places—and with a little love and creativity, even the most neglected pieces can shine again.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever hesitated to rescue a damaged antique, let this be your sign. With the right tools and a bit of vision, you can turn any forgotten treasure into a functional work of art.
You’ll find everything I used—from Fusion Mineral Paint to Posh Chalk Pigments and Stain & Finishing Oils—available in-store and online. And if you’re looking for guidance or inspiration, I’m always happy to help you bring your next project to life.