This desk has a special place in my heart because I originally pulled it out of my uncle’s barn.
He had a bunch of furniture stored in there, and told me to come take what I wanted. I chose this trestle desk, with the intention to give it a makeover and sell it, like I do with most pieces.
The funny thing is, I went ahead and put it up for sale. The gal who wanted it mentioned she needed something big enough for double monitors. I had just switched day jobs and was about to start working full-time from home. Now that she mentioned it, I needed a place for double monitors! She decided the size wasn’t quite right for her needs. So, I set it up for myself, and it has been working perfectly for me ever since.
Stripping & Prep
Here is what it looked like after I stripped the top using Citristrip. Apply a thick coat with a chip brush, cover with plastic wrap and wait a couple hours or overnight. Then use a plastic putty knife to scrape off the old stain.
Then I stained it with a couple coats of dark espresso gel stain. I put an old sock over my hand, and apply the stain with it. I like how it lets me control the thickness and blending.
I sealed the top with two coats of Gator Hide for durability. First, I poured some sealer all over the top, and then I spread it using a damp blue sponge in long even strokes.
I don’t do much prep before painting. A light sanding and a good wipe down with a damp towel, and it’s ready to go. The base is painted in a couple coats of Drop Cloth, a creamy white.
Lastly, I added these cute D. Lawless brand verdigris knobs to the 3 drawers on the front. isn’t it charming now? I love it!
Resource List:
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- Desk (gifted)
- Citristrip
- Espresso gel stain
- Gator Hide
- Blue sponge
- Drop Cloth chalk mineral paint
- Knobs
If you like this look, check out this vintage dining set refresh with similar finishes. Please Pin and share this project!
