Small Antique Dresser Gets Upcycled With Horse Decoupage

Some pieces just beg for a bold makeover—and this old dresser was one of them. With its wide drawer fronts and sturdy build, it was the perfect candidate for a full decoupage sheet. Living in farm country, I knew the horse design would resonate with my customers—and I was right. This beauty didn’t last long in the shop! Redesign with Prima has such a beautiful array of decoupage papers.

Prep & Stain

I started by cleaning the entire piece with TSP Alternative to remove any dirt or residue. Once clean, I sanded the top and applied Fusion’s Cappuccino Stain & Finishing Oil. This rich, warm tone added depth and durability while letting the wood grain shine through.

Decoupage Magic

To make sure the horse decoupage paper would pop, I painted the front of the dresser white. Once dry, I applied Fusion’s Decoupage & Transfer Gel, carefully placed the paper, and smoothed it down with another coat of gel to seal and protect the design. I used a sharp knife to cut the paper between the drawers. The result was a striking focal point that added personality and charm.

Bold Contrast & Metallic Accents

For the rest of the dresser, I chose Fusion Mineral Paint in Coal Black. It created a dramatic contrast against the rustic horse imagery. To finish it off, I added new drawer pulls and painted them in Fusion’s Bronze Metallic for a touch of glam that tied everything together.

This dresser makeover is a great example of how decoupage and paint can transform a tired piece into a showstopper. Whether you're working with farm-inspired themes or modern motifs, Fusion Mineral Paint and a little creativity go a long way.