Dresser Turned Into a DIY Map Cabinet

I sanded the whole dresser with 120 grit sandpaper. To add some dimension and variation to the final finish, I sanded down some areas to bare wood and some are just lightly sanded.

As we all know, Map Cabinets do have many drawers. And this dresser only had 2 long drawers and 2 short ones. So I decided to give it faux drawers by creating a line in the middle of the drawers using a router.

The piece had its share of imperfections and to add more character, I added fake holes to blend it in. This made the look of the cabinet more antique!

Then I used a Water-Based Gel Stain in a warm brown color. I gave two coats of it to bring out the holes and create a gorgeous finish.

After the stain dried, I mixed 50/50 rich dark brown with black chalk mineral paint and water. I applied the first wash by brushing it on and then wiping off the excess with the grain. The piece now showed a decadent color!

I dabbed another coat of wash on the sections and this gave the piece a more dated look.

I mixed my leftover dark brown chalk paint and the top coat that I will be using. This served as a tinted topcoat and it made a very huge difference as it gave the finish another layer of depth.

I then added caster wheels.

Lastly, I added brass pull handles for the faux drawers.

And here is the finished look! What do you think? Does it travel you back in time?

The color is perfect and I love those little dings and holes, really punches a new character!

Here’s another look at its before and after. Has the Dresser Turned Into Map Cabinet inspired you to explore and try new things? Or has it given you an idea for your next project? Let me know! Happy Painting Friends!

For a more detailed and original source list:

https://salvagedinspirations.com/how-to-dresser-into-map-cabinet/

Dresser Into Map Cabinet Video Tutorial on Youtube!