I’ve been on a kick lately with small chests and night stands. I’ll admit that they’re easy to maneuver and transport without any help and that’s probably why I’m going for them. I love the simple shape of this one with its curved base and original brass pulls. A little TLC and here’s how he looks now…

A far cry from its chewed up before state.

But with this piece being solid wood, it had potential.  I sanded the top down to prepare for an ebony stain – my typical stain color of choice.  And filled in any gouges.

For the base I used a very light coat of boxwood milk paint which added depth under the second coat of lucketts green milk paint.

I didn’t use any bonding agent (primer) in my milk paint solution since the wood was very dry to begin with plus got a light sanding.  Therefore the milk paint primarily acted as a stain on this piece.

I used a top coat of Miss Mustard Seed’s furniture wax and some antiquing wax to add to the aged look.

I love the original brass pulls that came with this chest however one was incomplete so I had to improvise.  I chose to add 2 aqua & brass Anthropologie knobs on the top drawer.  This gives the otherwise antique style piece a hint of modern.

Plus I’m a fan of aqua (in case you didn’t know!) and the knobs paired nicely with the vintage globe!

And Bert he’s just so darn cute, isn’t he?

We have a pair of these funky wooden mid-century lamps.  Ryan and I really want to keep them but don’t have a spot for them.  I don’t even hate the original lampshades as I normally do.  Surprisingly no one bought them at Brooklyn Flea Philly last weekend although many considered them.  Maybe it’s a sign.

The ship ink & watercolor, Bert and the Replogle (Made in Chicago) globe have all found new homes though.  Like fostering puppies I tell ya…

I’m pretty happy with the color choices on this chest.  So what do you think, has it inspired you to paint?

Linking to Miss Mustard Seed