7. The Distressed “Shabby-Chic” Refresh
Sometimes, a piece just needs a little bit of character. Distressing is a classic DIY technique that makes a new piece of furniture feel like a beloved heirloom. It’s perfect for nightstands that have a bit of ornate carving.
How to Make
Paint the nightstand in a soft color like dove grey or antique white. Once the paint is completely dry, use a piece of medium-grit sandpaper to gently rub away the paint on the edges, corners, and areas where natural wear would occur. To finish, apply a dark furniture wax over the entire piece and wipe it off. The wax will settle into the sanded areas, giving the piece an authentic, aged appearance.
Things Needed
- Furniture paint (chalk paint is ideal)
- Medium-grit sandpaper
- Dark furniture wax
- Wax brush or lint-free cloth
