SHWING!!! Ugly Desk turned Pretty Sage

10:59 AM

Ok, Ok, OK, I know there is NOOO excuse for how long its taken me to get this post up, but I do have a pretty good side story... I was at playing with toys all last week... seriously! For those of you who dont know, I am a sales rep for several awesome toy companies and work to make sure they get the best placement in the mass market.  Last week was the NYC Toy Fair where the latest and greatest toys for Christmas are previewed.  Every year, new inventions and games continue to surprise me and I love knowing about it all 10 months before everyone else... hehehe...Well, there was that, AND the awesome cold I caught on the plane ride back (p.s- the person who invented "Cool Touch Kleenex" should be granted sainthood.  Seriously, Im about to buy stock in their company).

ANYWAY, let the trumpets sound! I am ready to reveal the project I've been working on from my Garage Sale Jackpot back in November. Remember this guy??

Yea.. thats a lot of old, painted, stained, sad, sad, sad wood...

So, I decided I was going to give this guy its best chance at a future... I needed to totally refinish him.

Step 1: strip all the handles...
Even naked he doesnt look much better... ... .... (thats what she said)... :-)

Oh, but good news??  This piece is old, solid wood!! You know how I know?? Look at the bracketing on the side...
 Yea, no one make em like that anymore... It makes me gitty every time I find a piece with bracketing like this...Its how you can really tell the sign of quality at just a quick glance.

After I stripped the handles, I had one major problem glaring me in the face... the sides of the desk.
 yeaa.... not so pretty.
 Major sad face.... I've seen catcus with less splinters.

Even on the other side...
 So, since I had such good luck with Wood Filler during my Goodwill refurb, I decided to give it a try for this little problem as well.
 Hooray Elmers (and additional guess work)!

Unfortunately, it turned out like this...
 Yea... thats just depressing... It looks like I had a seizure while trying to apply it.

So next step?? Eh, I'll just rip the whole side paneling off...
SURE! A hammer sounds like a GREAT idea...
 (Can anyone else sense the WRONG turn this is about to take?)

yea... THIS happened...
So after I cried, stomped my feet, cursed, attempted the hammer a second time, call Chris to complain, cried a little more, and sent a frownie face text message to my mom, I decided to go to Home Depot... aka a 5 minute drive away (did I mention how much I LOVE where we live???)
I knew I wanted to get something to replace the siding... thin, light weight, easy to work with... I found this plyboard  for about $.67 a sq ft
 And then, (because I'm weird and really enjoy the smell of fresh cut wood) I had them cut it for me... Seriously, Im surprised I didnt marry a lumberjack.

 Anyway, I brought it home to cover up the butchering job I did earlier..
 Perfect fit!!! Bo-YAH!!
 So... to make it permeant, I used some $3.59 Power Grab I picked up while also at the Mother Ship (aka Home Depot)
 As you can see, I have a very scientific and complex way of applying Power Grab...
 ohh ahhh... artsy...poetic... kinda looks like something Dexter would put together..

After I put everything on, I calked the sides and used some tape to hold it down to keep it even...
 Side view #2...
 The next morning, I came out and it dried PERFECTLY
I also knew I would have also replace the inside paneling as well...
So I did my magic and used a VERY scientific method to make sure everything stayed in place...


Next day? All dried and pretty!

However, I really didnt like how there was an obvious contrast between the original desk wood and the new paneling, so i decided that maybe if I framed it, it would look a wee more polished.

So... back to Home Depot I went... and for $0.36 I found my answer...
And again, because of my awkward should-be-mens-cologne smell, I found myself at the cutting table... probably standing way too close and inhaling like I was in a flower nursery.
Sorry for the blurry picture, I was probably inhaling way to many wood chips to make sure I had my camera in focus.... Now that I think about it, Im kinda surprised I didnt get kicked out of Home Depot.... point for me!

Went home to try em out... bam... they are going to look GREAT!
 Oh yea, just some primer, paint, and its going to look AWESOME!!!
 I thought it would be cute to do I stencil in the window, and the only thing they had a Home Depot was this...
 ummm ewww, gross, gag, disgusting, sad, pathetic... not going to work.

Eh, we'll get back to that...

Anyway, because this desk as seen better days, it needed a hardy sanding... so I used a really low grit... 40
 Tip: the lowest the grit, the rougher the sandpaper.
 And because Im a good wife, I took everything out of the garage into the driveway (since my husband-man really does NOT like all the dust... but then again, who does)
 THIS might take a while...
 And that awesome handle stain... yea, had to go.
After about an hour of wearing a handkerchief over my face like an ol' time western bandit, I was finally starting to see the beauty of this desk.
Better....
See! No more tan lines on the handles... sanding, the Botox for furniture.
Its also important to note that after I sanded everything with a 40 grit, I follow it with a 150 (high) grit to make sure everything turns out smooth as a baby's bum.
And now... we prime....
Side note to all those who get wrapped up in projects... take the tape off before you begin to prime....
Because then you spend 15 minutes calling your self "idiot" out loud, alone, in your garage, which starts to worry your neighbors.

I then planned a quick trip to Hobby Lobby to get a "real" stencil which only runs about $10 after their 40% off coupon.

$72.56 later.... I came home with this...
An amperstand, a can of crackle spray paint, chalk spray paint, 5 (yes, FIVE) different types of stencils, hot glue gun, paint brushes... oh, and a ceramic rooster.
Yes, because every house needs a rooster... Just like Young House Love has "Jarvis" and the Bloggess has "Beyonce"....(honestly, you havent lived, laughed, or cried hard enough until you've read about Beyonce... read it... right now... actually, finish reading about my desk first, THEN read about Beyonce)

Soooo here is the stencil pattern I chose.
Im a big fan of geometric shapes, so I figured why not go for it.

I chose a paint color that we already had in the house... Silver Sage by Restoration Hardware... honestly, it goes with everything. ESPECIALLY white, so I figured it would be perfect for this desk.
Applied with a rag... another awesomely scientific method brought to you by Samm....
But hey now! Not too shabby!!! kinda cute. I like how its nice and soft... just right!

I then tried to frame it with the siding I found at the H.D...
Again, perfectly applied... in random chaos sort of way....
And then used my high-tech "staying down" tool...(I hope everyone is enjoying my savvy terminology)
Once removed?...
SOOO pretty! I love how the Silver Sage frames it with the white.

Next step... now that I was soooo close... was a WATER based Polycrylic sealer. VERY important that its WATER based... oil based will turn yellow... and NO BODY wants that.
After a couple coats, I brought him inside and set him up to see how pretty he was...
 Wow... really pretty... maybe he's a she...
 And from the side....
Wow I'm loving the stencil!!

Up close, even better...
 Awww even the footsies are cute... Im glad I painted them Silver Sage... I think it really ties it all together.
And the handles? I mean come on! If we were in a Wayne's World movie, this is where they would enter "SHWING!!!"...

Here's the awesome before/after to give you a good side by side.... Although I wish you could see the destructive sides that I took a hammer to....
So that's it! I would love to get your feedback! Do you like the stencil?  Would you have kept the wood handles and just painted them? Are you upset I brought up Wayne's World and now will work the word "Shwing" back into every day lingo?... Let's hope so.

I would LOVE you to leave a comment!!

Share This Story

Tags:

You Might Also Like

109 comments

  1. Brooke @ Inside-Out DesignFebruary 20, 2012 at 12:19 PM

    I LOVE it!!! Oh my gosh, what a transformation!!! The stencil is gorgeous, and yes I agree that it was a brilliant move to paint the feet in the silver sage. I'd never know that was the same desk; awesome job!!
    btw I've read about Beyonce and it was life changing. ;)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hailey February 20, 2012 at 2:19 PM

    I love it too! The colors are perfect and the stencil is too! so creative!

    ReplyDelete
  3. SueFebruary 20, 2012 at 3:42 PM

    Samm, YOU are my entertainment! You crack me up! I feel like I'm reading a blog that has just won an HGTV show for most clever and creative restorer! I, too, love the smell of sawdust - it smells like toast! But, enough about me ... your desk redo is amazing! I love the subtle color you used against the white, love your knobs (never would have kept the old wood ones) and it's genius how you restored the sides and framed them in! You ROCK -- if you didn't have such an awesome job, I would tell you to figure out how to do this for a living. But, keep the cool job you have and do this for fun and to entertain and amaze me! Great big hugs, Sue
    p.s. Where do I read about Beyonce?? (hmm, Schwing - need to figure out how to work that into my vocab!)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Samm SpanglerFebruary 20, 2012 at 4:39 PM

      Here's the link for Beyonce! http://thebloggess.com/2011/06/and-thats-why-you-should-learn-to-pick-your-battles/

      I just read it again to make sure that it was still funny... and I think I broke a rib.

      Enjoy!

      Delete
  4. Cassie BustamanteFebruary 20, 2012 at 6:35 PM

    that was a ton of work but it looks amazing!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Jessica @ Stay at Home-istaFebruary 20, 2012 at 8:09 PM

    Sooo pretty. I love the stencil on the side, it just makes it extra special.

    And cool touch Kleenex? You just blew my mind (pardon the pun). I have to buy that right now before anyone in my family gets sick again.

    Welcome back!
    Jessica

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Samm SpanglerFebruary 21, 2012 at 12:22 PM

      haha glad you liked the stencil Jessica! And yes, I hope Cool Touch Kleenex changes your life as much as it changed mine... ... ... thats a sentence I never thought I would write... wow. ANYWAY! Thanks for stopping by!

      Delete
  6. Live Laugh RoweFebruary 20, 2012 at 8:25 PM

    Hi Samm!

    Your desk turned out amazing!! Thank you for participating in the blog hop! Wishing you much success in your bloggy endeavors! New follower:)

    Kelly
    www.livelaughrowe.com

    ReplyDelete
  7. Shauna KFebruary 20, 2012 at 8:41 PM

    hey Samm! thanks so much for your sweet comment on my blog :D the baby wreath didn't take all that long to make really... maybe 1/2 hour to wrap the wreath (it was a little smaller than standard "wreath size"... maybe like 10" diameter instead of the typical 12"?) anyhoo, and the flowers were pretty easy too- they're all basically cutting out the petal shape and then sewing the petals together, so maybe like 1 hr for all the flowers... I made the whole thing while watching some of my fav tv shows ;) hehe... the longest part was wrapping the word- probably over an hour for just that! If i did that again, I would have used a thicker yarn to make it go a bit faster!
    And by the way, LOVE this post!! the before and after are truly spectacular!! "sanding, the botox for furniture" <-- LOVE that! hehe, so true... sanding covers a multitude of sins :P

    ReplyDelete
  8. UnknownFebruary 20, 2012 at 9:17 PM

    I love the way you re-did it!! Your excellent way of teaching each step was very accurate and sooooooo what I would have done!!! You made the piece look brand new. I have not had such a good time reading about a project in so long.....I am ready to take on the world......ok, maybe just my bedroom.

    I think changing the handles was a smart choice. I give it 2 thumbs up :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Samm SpanglerFebruary 21, 2012 at 12:24 PM

      Thank you for all the sweet comments! Im glad you enjoyed reading it! Im still kinda new to the whole blogging world so encouraging words are much appreciated! You're blog is adorable as well! I'm a follower

      Delete
  9. LoriFebruary 20, 2012 at 11:52 PM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  10. LoriFebruary 20, 2012 at 11:53 PM

    That is a fantastic makeover...love it. Don't you just love these blog hops where we get to find and meet new blog friends? Glad I found you. I'm a new follower and I would love if you stopped by and followed back, so we can stay connected. Lori

    ReplyDelete
  11. BridgetFebruary 21, 2012 at 8:01 AM

    Great job. I just redid a desk and didn't even go to this extent and it took forever so great job! i love it. love your newest follower bridget
    www.bridgeywidgey.com

    ReplyDelete
  12. KathyFebruary 21, 2012 at 9:59 AM

    Beautiful work Samm. Mom and I are sitting here admiring your work. Love the stenciling and the colors. Do you sand all of that by hand? A woman of many talents....

    ReplyDelete
  13. UnknownFebruary 21, 2012 at 11:17 AM

    Love it! I am your newest Linky Follower and thanks so much for linking up to my Toot Your Horn Tuesday!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. patti westFebruary 21, 2012 at 2:32 PM

      Did you really say "shwing!"??? LOL!!!! {Mother of 2 sons in their twenties here.} Love this dresser and all of your pics. What a boatload of work...but worth it!! I have that same stencil and used it on an old little piece that is now a side table in my living room. I'm your newest follower. Party on. ;)

      Delete
  14. Ada (hellooo home)February 21, 2012 at 5:32 PM

    OMG Samm .. it turned out AMAZING!!!! My eyeballs almost popped out when I saw the 'after'. And oooh how FUNNY you are (I confess I sometimes zoom looking through pictures but ur funny 'terminology' def caught my attention. Hmm, I would be a bit careful being tooo close to the Home Depot guy - they may start posting a WARNING sign with ur photo ; ) Ok, I am heading over to add u to my Google Reader so I can stay in touch! Oooh, ps. I love how the stencil u choose looks like your blogsite background - it was 'meant to be' :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Samm SpanglerFebruary 21, 2012 at 11:38 PM

      Ada, Thank you so much for all your kinds words! I'm definitely a bit of a paz when I'm working on something so I'm glad my weird little quirks come across on my blog! And yes, I too am a little concerned about getting a warning sign with my picture on it outside Home Depot. I seriously have dreams/nightmares where I'll wake up thinking they closed the one by our house... it's sad; yet soooo addictive!

      Delete
  15. LindseyFebruary 21, 2012 at 7:28 PM

    INCREDIBLE!! Just wanted to say that i spent way more time than I intended exploring your lovely blog. Stopping over via the blog hop! So nice to meet you!I'm a new follower :)

    Lindsey
    outofalabaster.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  16. Peggy~PJH DesignsFebruary 21, 2012 at 7:32 PM

    Hi Samm your desk turned out lovely and I laughed all the way through it because it was funny and it sounded just like me when I'm doing a renovation. I love the way you framed the stencil and it made it stand out a lot more. Congrats it turned out beautiful. Thanks for stopping by my blog and leaving kind words. I'm a new follower on LF.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Brooke @ Spruce Your NestFebruary 21, 2012 at 11:52 PM

    I absolutely love it! You did a fabulous job and I adore the stenciling! I am following you back :-)

    ReplyDelete
  18. Stephanie from GardenTherapy.caFebruary 23, 2012 at 12:45 AM

    wow, it's beautiful - great job!

    ReplyDelete
  19. UnknownFebruary 24, 2012 at 12:32 PM

    luff the desk turned out awesome i definitively think he is a she ;)

    ReplyDelete
  20. Melissa @ No. 2 PencilFebruary 25, 2012 at 9:26 AM

    I am loving this desk, and I love a funny chick. So I'm a new follower!!!

    ReplyDelete
  21. Our Pinteresting FamilyMarch 5, 2012 at 6:51 AM

    That looks fantastic. What a nice tutorial...I appreciate you taking photos all along the way. It's fun to watch the transformation. :) Megan

    ReplyDelete
  22. Our Tennessee LifeMarch 5, 2012 at 11:22 AM

    I Love it! Fun to read about your journey as well!
    Danielle

    ReplyDelete
  23. Sarah @ Home, Sweet...March 5, 2012 at 2:41 PM

    Love this desk -- it is so amazingly nice -- excellent job. I'm also in love with some of your other furniture redo's and am going to have an awesome time to exploring them. I'm your newest follower!

    ReplyDelete
  24. UnknownMarch 5, 2012 at 6:00 PM

    I love your desk! Great choice of the stencil on the side. Looks awesome. I like the shutter on the top too :) Linking up from our delightful home hop. Newest follower. Check me out if you get a chance ;) -Kim http://bbunchmama.blogspot.com/2012/03/diy-start-being-awesome-sign.html

    ReplyDelete
  25. Sarah@budgetfriendlydecoratingMarch 5, 2012 at 10:18 PM

    No one would believe that was the same desk if they hadn't read your tutorial. It is an absolute beauty!

    ReplyDelete
  26. Miriam@BeBookBoundMarch 6, 2012 at 12:08 AM

    Oh my gosh, it is such a doll of a dresser! GREAT rehab job. I love the colors. And you'd never know it- it just looks custom. Great job.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Decor To AdoreMarch 6, 2012 at 7:12 AM

    Oh I adore your old/new desk! I too love the smell of cut wood. I keep cedar blocks in my drawers. :)

    I hope you'll stop by my blog. I am hosting a giveaway for a $50 Kirklands gift card.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Kelly @ Here Comes the SunMarch 6, 2012 at 7:46 AM

    This is an amazing transformation! Newest follower here.

    ReplyDelete
  29. UnknownMarch 6, 2012 at 9:34 AM

    Very Nice!!!! You did a great job!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  30. Valerie EarnestMarch 6, 2012 at 10:55 AM

    Beautiful! You did a wonderful job- and it was highly entertaining to read! :)

    I'm a new follower-

    Valerie- www.occasionallycrafty.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  31. CarrieMarch 6, 2012 at 12:57 PM

    labor of love.

    ReplyDelete
  32. MarisaMarch 6, 2012 at 1:56 PM

    Beautiful!! It looks amazing. I found you on Polly Want A Crafter and I am a new follower.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Cassie BustamanteMarch 6, 2012 at 5:25 PM

    what a fabulous save! it looks amazing after all that hard work!

    ReplyDelete
  34. KristyBMarch 6, 2012 at 7:06 PM

    Great tutorial! I have a desk very similar (my first redo piece). It has damage on he sides just as this and I've been stuck not knowing exactly what to do about it. Thanks so much. I also love the colors you chose.

    ReplyDelete
  35. CynthiaMarch 6, 2012 at 8:44 PM

    Oh my what a transformation. The stencils add a lot to wrap up thr piece. Great job!

    ReplyDelete
  36. NeeCeeMarch 6, 2012 at 11:24 PM

    Amazing refinishing job....you did a fantastic job....no one would believe it was the same piece of furniture....great detIls! Found you at Trendy Treehouse......NeeCee at pinecreekstyle.blogspot.com
    Your newest follower......

    ReplyDelete
  37. Marty@A Stroll Thru LifeMarch 7, 2012 at 4:47 AM

    What an unreal transformation. I love it all and your tutorial is wonderful. Gorgeous desk. Thanks for joining TTT. Hugs, Marty

    ReplyDelete
  38. Tara @ Tales of a Trophy WifeMarch 7, 2012 at 6:57 AM

    Looks great and it matches your blog:) New Linky follower.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Crafty Texas GirlMarch 7, 2012 at 7:59 AM

    From one Texas girl to another-- love it! So glad you shared your desk on "Cowgirl Up!". It looks amazing!
    :) Samantha @ Crafty Texas Girls

    ReplyDelete
  40. Nat and HollyMarch 7, 2012 at 9:31 AM

    This is an amazing makeover! {I'm in the middle of a dresser re-do right now and I am so not patient enough for all the sanding and prep you did...} I {heart} Home Depot too, just went there last night like 15 minutes before closing! I am so glad I found your blog, new follower via GFC. Can't wait to see what other projects you have coming our way! You are seriously hilarious too. Love it!

    ReplyDelete
  41. UnknownMarch 7, 2012 at 3:36 PM

    This is AHHHHMAZING! Fantastic job, looks beautiful!!
    Barbara
    http://chase-thestar.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  42. Mandy BeyelerMarch 7, 2012 at 6:39 PM

    Thanks for linking to Take-A-Look Tuesday - you were featured today!
    Mandy, www.SugarBeeCrafts.com

    ReplyDelete
  43. UnknownMarch 7, 2012 at 8:29 PM

    lovely desk and you had me laughing I didn't even get to read about Beyonce I'm your newest fan

    ReplyDelete
  44. JillMarch 7, 2012 at 8:46 PM

    Wow wow wow! What an amazing transformation! and I so enjoyed reading the whole post about it! Laughed every time you went sniffing wood cutting!! :)

    Awesome Job Samm!
    Thanks for linking to a Round Tuit!
    Hope you have a fabulous week!
    Jill @ Creating my way to Success
    http://www.jembellish.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
  45. UnknownMarch 8, 2012 at 9:35 AM

    Thanks so much for linking to Toot Your Horn Tuesday!! Your creations truly inspire me and I look forward to seeing them every week. Can't wait to re-do something. You make me think I can do it!!

    ReplyDelete
  46. RhiannonMarch 8, 2012 at 10:55 AM

    gorgeous! love the colours.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Decor & HarmonyMarch 8, 2012 at 11:04 AM

    Great job you put a tremendous into this PROJECT holy mackerel! Love the stencil too! Stop by for my giveaway!

    ReplyDelete
  48. AnonymousMarch 9, 2012 at 1:46 AM

    Beautiful! You would never guess it had such a nasty past! Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  49. Debbie-Dabble Blog and A Debbie-Dabble ChristmasMarch 9, 2012 at 5:07 AM

    Goodness!! I know you went through so much work and aggravation but the results are absolutely amazing!! I love this desk!! It really is a work of art and Congrats to you on such an amazing transformation!!

    Hugs,
    Debbie

    ReplyDelete
  50. UnknownMarch 9, 2012 at 5:34 AM

    My goodness I never ever would have thought to do that, how clever! I seriously would have took it to the curb after dealing with the siding and I'm speaking from past experience lol. Wish I had known, sigh:) I would like to invite you to link up your work of wonders at my cheap finds and transformations party if you'd like.

    http://bacontimewiththehungryhypo.blogspot.com/2012/03/anything-goes-linky40-achoo.html

    Have a great weekend!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Dollar Store CrafterMarch 9, 2012 at 9:10 AM

    Just One Word.........BEAUTIFUL !!!

    ReplyDelete
  52. Deb Hornick GothamMarch 9, 2012 at 10:11 AM

    WOW!! You did an amazing job!! I love the stencil and the colors are prefect!!! Love it:)

    ReplyDelete
  53. UnknownMarch 9, 2012 at 8:48 PM

    Thanks so much for linking up. You are definitely getting pinned this week:)

    ReplyDelete
  54. Katie @ Creatively LivingMarch 9, 2012 at 11:43 PM

    Love, love, love it!!!....and the story too. It turned out awesome!

    Thanks for linking it up @ Creatively Living!

    --Katie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Katie @ Creatively LivingMarch 11, 2012 at 1:44 AM

      I'm going to be featuring this on my FB page tonight :)

      --Katie

      Delete
    2. Samm SpanglerMarch 11, 2012 at 11:43 PM

      Thanks so much for the feature Katie! Glad you like it!

      Delete
  55. JenniferMarch 10, 2012 at 3:20 PM

    I adore this! The colors are perfect and I love the tongue-in-cheek way you tell the story. I'm your newest follower and I'm so glad you linked up this week!

    ReplyDelete
  56. Bonnie and Trish @ Uncommon DesignsMarch 10, 2012 at 7:32 PM

    Incredible transformation! Sanding truly is botox for furniture!! :) thank you so much for linking up to our Uncommonly Yours link party! Bonnie ;)

    ReplyDelete
  57. JanaMarch 10, 2012 at 9:04 PM

    Turned out great...kind of matches your bloggy blog! Thanks for linking up at Giggles, Glitz & Glam. Hope you will continue to link up each week. Loving some of the things I'm finding on your blog.

    ReplyDelete
  58. MimiMarch 10, 2012 at 10:46 PM

    Stopped over from Sugar and Spice blog hop. What a project this was. Turned out great~

    ReplyDelete
  59. Beth@Makemeprettyagain.comMarch 12, 2012 at 10:23 PM

    Great job! Love the way she came out. And yes you were right to ditch the wooden handles. Too chunky. The stencil on the side adds a little oomph to the desk. Very nice job. If you get chance, please visit my blog and check out my "peacock desk". I did a stencil as well. Love to hear what you think!! Thanks.. Beth

    ReplyDelete
  60. PaulaMarch 13, 2012 at 2:47 PM

    Love this post and LOVE how the desk turned out! We'd be so happy if you linked this up at our party! http://housewivesofriverton.blogspot.com/2012/03/riverton-housewives-round-up-8.html

    ReplyDelete
  61. DaniMarch 13, 2012 at 9:10 PM

    Wow! This is really great and I totally love the way you took us through your steps! You just picked up another follower! :) Found you through the Tuesday Trash to Treasure from Sassy Sites.

    ReplyDelete
  62. Rose :: FineCraftGuild.comMarch 14, 2012 at 6:07 AM

    well, WAYYY nicer than before. You got yourself a nice new desk!

    ReplyDelete
  63. Suzy www.savedbysuzy.blogspot.comMarch 14, 2012 at 8:53 PM

    I'm kind of jealous that you only live 5 minutes from HD! Your desk turned out amazing. I think I have to feature you again this week! The other readers might get jealous, but I love this desk. I hate working with peeling veneer and have used that same board and paint-can hold-down technique that you used. Very effective!

    ReplyDelete
  64. UnknownMarch 15, 2012 at 5:39 PM

    Oh my goodness...I'm not sure which I love more, this amazing transformation, or how much your post made me giggle! I love your 'scientific methods' and your writing style. Meanwhile, did it creep out the Home Depot guys when you took their pic? Or were you so stealthy they didn't know? I love the smell of fresh cut wood too...mmm! Anyway, thanks for sharing at Shine on Fridays; featuring this tomorrow at One Artsy Mama!

    http://oneartmama.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  65. amy and jesse hudsonMarch 15, 2012 at 8:45 PM

    I am so glad you linked this up to y Drab to Fab party!! Wanted to let you know I am featuring you this week!
    This week's party is up, so I'd love to see more of your great stuff!

    http://www.amynjesse.com/2012/03/drab-to-fab-link-up-8-features_15.html

    Have a great one!

    Amy @ Sugar and Spice

    ReplyDelete
  66. UnknownMarch 16, 2012 at 12:11 PM

    Thanks so much for linking up to LaThrifta's Cheap Finds and Transformations last week! You were awarded the superstar badge of honor! You can pick it up here if you'd like and I hope that you'll party with us again:) Have a great weekend! http://www.thescottscrib.com/2012/03/lathriftas-cheap-finds-and_16.html

    ReplyDelete
  67. Coleen McCrea KatzMarch 16, 2012 at 8:42 PM

    This is stunning! Stopping by from One Antsy Mama blog hop.

    http://craftyandcookingmomma.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  68. KerryMarch 26, 2012 at 5:30 PM

    I was late for work today! Lost track of time surfing the LHBD website.
    Such fun stuff!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  69. How to Nest for LessApril 2, 2012 at 2:11 PM

    Holy smokes!! This is GORGEOUS!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  70. Sparkle ArtsApril 10, 2012 at 8:56 AM

    Love, love , love. I'm glad I found you from Pinterest. Now you have a new blog stalker :) JK

    ReplyDelete
  71. Mary JoMay 25, 2012 at 9:53 AM

    Amazing!! I keep finding one awesome project after another! I love your humor and how you take us through the process step by step! Pinning ya! :)

    ReplyDelete
  72. KTGJune 6, 2012 at 9:25 AM

    Wow! I am really impressed. It has even inspired me to think that I might be able to do this with a similar desk we own. It was a $10 garage sale "treasure" that needs lots of help. Thanks for your inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
  73. AnonymousJune 18, 2012 at 7:32 PM

    You've inspired me to go a little further with my redecorating. Great job on the desk.

    ReplyDelete
  74. AnonymousJune 22, 2012 at 9:48 PM

    Wow, looks fantastic! Did you apply anything to the top to seal it and give it that smooth surface?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Samm SpanglerJune 23, 2012 at 1:13 PM

      Yes I sealed it with a water-based Polyurethane. If you plan on sealing a surface with a poly coat, make sure you use WATER based when covering paint and OIL based when covering a stain... if you use a oil-based sealer on a painted piece, it will start to yellow over time (I had to learn that the hard way)... I hope that helps!

      Delete
  75. AshlymayJuly 25, 2012 at 10:57 AM

    I really like the transformation. I also like how you aren't perfect in your projects. I mean this in a awkward good way. I am trying to save up money currently so I can start doing projects like this for my home. I am a stay at home mom, (who use to work non stop day and night) have a wonderful 1 yr old son. He is SO CUTE! Anyways, it gave me confidence to see that you don't have to be perfect, you don't have to be a pro. You can make mistakes and it's okay. I really appreciate your cuteness, you make it fun to read and exciting to see the results. PLEASE continue posts your projects and tutorials. Talk to you later.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Samm SpanglerJuly 26, 2012 at 10:54 AM

      Ashlymay, That you so much for all your sugar-sweet words!! Plus, BRAVO for being a stay at home mom... you guys are my heros! Seriously!... And yes, mistakes are totally part of the process. By NO MEANS am I a professional or even pretend to be, but it is a LOT of fun experimenting with little ideas that pop in your head. They might not always work, but when they do its one of my favorite feelings! More projects to come I promise!

      Delete
  76. Mary's MomJuly 30, 2012 at 6:52 PM

    I LOVE that you go step by step WITH PICTURES. I love a lot of bloggers work but as a beginner, when they go thru and only show me like a pic every 3 steps, it's aggravating not understanding it. I also love that you tell us the name of the products you use, the color and by who and where! great job really. I'm about to go try this project on a dresser. by the way, where did you get the handles from?

    ReplyDelete
  77. D R E A M A K E R S YAugust 21, 2012 at 9:52 PM

    You have a good sense of DIY... and I sure learn a handful tips and tricks here... Awesome!!

    ReplyDelete
  78. Emma Squared DesignsAugust 23, 2012 at 3:09 PM

    How in the world do you come up with these great project??? I have seen a few of your "refurbish" type project and I have to say I am impressed! Do you ever sell your refurbished stuff? I think you could make a killing on that stuff! My great uncle would do stuff like that and have a huge yard sale once a year to sell all his refurbished stuff. Or you should teach classes on it. I would take a class from you on how you do this. :)
    Thanks for the tutorial!
    Ali
    (of Emma Squared Designs)

    ReplyDelete
  79. KristinOctober 17, 2012 at 7:19 PM

    I love what you have done, even reading thru your highly techical techniques, LOL was very cute. I love what you did and you are an inspiration to me, because I have always wanted to attempt something like this, but I just dont find the nerve to actually commit. I am new to your page, so I hope to find more that you have done! Thank you for sharing your experience,

    Bravo

    ReplyDelete
  80. CreativaCaleNovember 1, 2012 at 10:08 AM

    Great Job!Bravo!Thanks:)

    ReplyDelete
  81. JPNovember 6, 2012 at 9:15 AM

    Wow...that was some aggressive project! Way too much for me to attempt...I'm a fan of simple, quick and easy voila! I do admire your ambition and it sure did turn out great!

    ReplyDelete
  82. Joanna February 1, 2013 at 2:15 PM

    Love the project, where did you find the new handles?

    ReplyDelete
  83. UnknownJanuary 18, 2014 at 8:59 PM

    Samm, love your blog. First one I've ever really followed. I'm going through a difficult time now and you make me laugh-out loud even. That worm snake you were holding was huge-I thought I had some big worms in my garden, it was kind of grotesque in a way-sorry, King Worm. Everything I have read so far has really been a great success, and I know that Chris is a great help to you too. Pretty soon Baby Brooks will be handing you glue sticks as you need them. Like I tell my daughter, although sometimes the days when they are little can be rough and seem so loooonnnng, it's amazing how swiftly the years actually go by. You are a special person and are gifted with a way with words. (Did I tell you I am a retired teacher and administrator?) Before long, I bet we get to read a book written by you. Shelley T

    ReplyDelete
  84. AnonymousNovember 11, 2014 at 12:14 AM

    Hi buddies, it is great written piece entirely defined, continue the good work constantly. TreeServiceinGreenville

    ReplyDelete
  85. AnonymousJanuary 16, 2015 at 12:23 AM

    Hurrah, that’s what I was trying to get for, just what a stuff Presented at this blog!! Thanks admin of the site. Best Limo Service Los Angeles

    ReplyDelete
  86. AnonymousFebruary 2, 2015 at 11:16 PM

    I don’t like to give comments mostly on the blogs but your blog is one amongst the blog that I was compelled to give nice comment. Hmmm!!!
    http://www.stewartlangleyproperties.com/

    ReplyDelete
  87. AnonymousFebruary 6, 2015 at 4:27 AM

    I am very contented to get this blog! I will bookmark this webpage and share this with my friends too. home security systems

    ReplyDelete
  88. UnknownFebruary 10, 2015 at 12:55 AM

    Thank you so much for your all great explanation, I liked reading this. umrah package

    ReplyDelete
  89. UnknownFebruary 15, 2015 at 11:09 PM

    Hi Samm! I noticed you said you used Polycrylic to seal it and coat it. About how long did you wait before using it the desk? And does it scratch or crack?

    ReplyDelete
  90. UnknownFebruary 23, 2015 at 12:16 AM

    Really it is quite edifying article just that I was on the lookout for. blog post service

    ReplyDelete
  91. Mitcheal ClerkMarch 13, 2015 at 12:54 AM

    Every week-end I used to pay a fast visit this site, because I’d like enjoyment, because this web site conations certainly fussy material.who do you pay a deductible to

    ReplyDelete
  92. AnonymousMarch 26, 2015 at 6:32 AM

    Cool blog! I found this blog very useful; have learned lots of thing here.
    WePayTheMost.co.uk

    ReplyDelete
  93. UnknownApril 11, 2015 at 1:13 AM

    Waow man! You know you have helped several people including me, thanks for sharing with saving our never-ending hours of browsing…
    COR Residential Real Estate Atlanta

    ReplyDelete
  94. UnknownMay 8, 2015 at 1:02 AM

    Hmmm I have got real pleasure from your blog and also Derived a benefit from this information you imparted to us. Thanks hutchinson island fl real estate

    ReplyDelete
  95. AnonymousJune 8, 2015 at 6:16 AM

    It’s a good fantastic blog write up, the way you depicted details here, all readers can understand easily. Health Insurance Gainesville

    ReplyDelete
  96. VivienneJuly 11, 2015 at 8:41 AM

    Great job! The desk looks beautiful. Makes me want to try my hand at making something ordinary look wonderful. What a transformation. You are so clever! (And amusing!) thank you for Cheering up my day. Xx

    ReplyDelete

Comments make my heart happy... and I read every ONE of them... thank you so much for taking time to make my day!

Like us on Facebook

Little House in the Big D

Flickr Images