I purchased this 2003 dresser and hutch for $50 from the original family that used it in a child’s bedroom. It was WELL used, but it was pine and I knew with proper tools and a little elbow grease, I could refinish it into a piece that someone would re-love. If you have a child’s dresser not being used anymore and want to modernize it, stick around, and I’ll show you how to achieve a mid-century modern makeover.

Step 1: Sanding Prep

You will need to sand using different grits during additional phases of the project. During this phase, I used the grits listed below. To see why I sanded this piece, click the link.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CpgTdGPAGXp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

• Orbital Sander
• 60 grit round
• 150 grit round
• Rag with mineral spirits or damp rag with water for cleanup after sanding
• Sandpaper Grit Chart from Grainger.com

Step 2: Cut off existing legs

My client wanted a modern look rather than the traditional one offered by this child’s dresser. To achieve this, it was necessary to cut away the traditional wooden legs and replace them with black metal legs purchased online. It’s not a hard process at all. I’ve listed the materials below. The only thing that didn’t come out 100% is that one of the back legs ended up being a 1/4 inch shorter, which made the piece a little wobbly. I added a felt pad to it and cut it to match the leg — problem solved.

• Frog tape – to keep the wood from splintering
• Circular saw
• Eye and ear protection

Once you’ve gotten rid of the legs you don’t want, it’s time to add the ones you do. I got these off of Amazon. Link is below.

Gosche 4-inch Metal Furniture Legs – Amazon link

Click for my obligatory Amazon Disclaimer . 😉

Stay tuned for Part II of Child’s Dresser Mid-Century Modern Makeover.

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More projects from Short Girl Farm:

• Dresser Flip
• Renovating an Antique Chifferobe in 5 Easy Steps
• End Tables Flip
• Guest Room Twin Beds — A Great Idea!
• From Family Antique to Display Cabinet
• Building a “Jenny Lind” Bench