Every now and then, a piece comes along that looks completely forgotten — but still has incredible potential. This 9‑drawer dresser was exactly that. Discarded, bulky, and weighed down by oversized hardware, it needed a fresh start. And with a little prep, a gorgeous paint color, and some creative detailing, it became a beautiful, useful piece once again.

Step 1: Removing the Bulky Hardware & Deep Cleaning

The first thing I did was take off the big, heavy hardware that overwhelmed the dresser’s front. With the drawers freed up, I gave the entire piece a thorough cleaning inside and out using TSP Alternative. This removes years of grime and gives the paint a clean surface to adhere to.

Step 2: Scuff Sanding the Shiny Finish

Because the original finish was quite shiny, I scuff‑sanded the dresser to help the paint bond properly. A quick scuff is often all you need — just enough to dull the sheen and create a bit of tooth for the paint. Make sure you wipe the dust off before you paint.

Step 3: Painting in Clay Alchemy by Fusion Mineral Paint

Then came the fun part: paint. I applied my first coat of Clay Alchemy by Fusion Mineral Paint, and instantly fell in love with how the color suited this dresser. It’s warm, earthy, and elegant — the perfect match for its carved details.

After the second coat, the coverage was beautiful and even. To protect the finish for years to come, I applied Flat Ultra Guard, which gives a durable, protective layer.

Step 4: Updating the Hardware & Highlighting Details

To modernize the look, I updated the hardware with a fresh new style. I also highlighted the carved detail on the drawer fronts using a bronzy gold pigment, which added just the right amount of shimmer and sophistication. It brings out the curves and carvings in such a lovely way.

Step 5: Adding Peel & Stick Wallpaper Inside the Drawers

For a final touch, I lined the inside of the drawers with gorgeous peel‑and‑stick wallpaper. The pattern looks incredible when the drawers are opened — especially against the Clay Alchemy color. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact and adds a boutique feel to the entire piece.

💛 The Final Look

What started as a discarded dresser is now a warm, stylish, functional piece ready for a new home. Clay Alchemy’s earthy tone, the bronzy gold accents, and the wallpaper-lined drawers all work together to create a truly unique transformation.

If you love seeing furniture come back to life, stay tuned — there’s always another makeover happening here at Regained Relics.