First things first. If you are reading this because you have a Lane cedar chest, you should be aware that all Lane cedar chests made between 1912 and 1987 were recalled due to problems with the locks. Click here for a link to the Lane website for all the product safety details. Basically, the original locks can automatically lock shut when closed and need to be replaced. The link gives information on how to get a replacement lock to make the chests safe.
With that public service announcement out of the way, I’ll move on to the fun stuff. I picked up this vintage Lane cedar chest at my local Goodwill. The serial number revealed that this chest was made in 1929. The finish was in pretty rough shape and the veneer on the top was badly peeling.
Here is that peely top.
I started by removing the veneer from the top. I used the wet towel and iron method to loosen the glue. Once the glue was loosened, I used my putty knife to gently pry and peel off the veneer. The wood underneath looked like it had potential, so I decided to sand and refinish it. Here’s how it looked with the veneer removed.
I used stripper to remove the finish from the edges and then sanded down the top. I applied one coat of General Finishes java gel stain, let it dry for a day, and then sealed it. I sanded and painted the body with a custom navy blue made with a dab of General Finishes persian blue, a splash of Queenstown gray and about a cup of coastal blue. I know those measurements aren’t precise, but I just mixed until I had achieved the color I wanted. The result was a gorgeous navy blue.
Here is the side view.
I decided to try something a bit different for this piece. I purchased a stencil about 6 months ago for another piece, but ultimately decided not to use it. It is the French love letters stencil from Royal Design Studio Stencils. While researching the history of Lane cedar chests, I learned that these chests were marketed to soldiers leaving their sweethearts behind in World War II. Given that history, I thought the French love letters stencil would be perfect for this piece. I used a bit of antique white paint and stenciled the top. I then sealed it with 3 more coats of General Finishes topcoat.
Oh, that pretty little keyhole cover.
I picked up this collection of paint brushes today at an estate sale across the street. They belonged to my sweet neighbor who lived to be 97 years old. I think they look so pretty on this piece.
This chest creates the perfect spot to place your things next to the door. I refinished all four sides, so it would work great as a coffee table, too.
Thanks for stopping by.
Susan
Linking with Finding Silver Pennies, Refresh Living, Slightly Coastal and The Painted Drawer
That is lovely! You do great work and give me such beautiful inspiration, thanks for sharing.
Thank you Maria!
I’m a newbie here and I have to say I’m loving it! Thanks for all the painting tips you add to each post. I have really been enjoying your blog. You have inspired me to rescue a few furniture pieces myself.
Hi Shari! I am so happy to hear that I have inspired you to take on some furniture rescues. Go for it! And, thanks for reading my blog – it means so much to me.
This is really beautiful, the ch oice of colors is very nice. . I love seeing old things saved. My favorite part is the writing on the top. Visiting from Create Link Inspire
This redo is gorgeous! Love the color you chose and the stenciled top completes the piece perfectly.
Love this redo! Great color choice and the top stenciled finishes the piece off beautifully.
It’s gorgeous !
I used that stencil on a dresser as well ( on the front though ) and will be using it again this week –
Love your makeover – the color is just beautiful !
Lovely. I appreciate your efforts in reworking the top, rather than painting the entire piece. More work, I know, but worth it in the end. Simply lovely.
Thank you! Yes, it’s definitely more work than just painting, but when I see pretty wood, I sometimes just can’t paint it. Glad you stopped by.
Me too! Even if it means more work. : )
Absolutely stunning! Great custom color…just love it.
Thank you Jillian!
Wow! This turned out gorgeous!! Love it!!
I love the projects that you do. The chest along with the other pieces are beautiful. I have never tried General Finish products, but think I will give them a try. Hope they turn out as good as yours have. Are they like chalk paint? Thanks for sharing with us. I have added you to one of my favorite blogs, so can’t wait to see what else you come up with. Found you on Pinterest.
Hi Betty! I am so happy you found me – I appreciate you following along! I would definitely recommend General Finishes products, they really are fantastic. Milk paint is not the same as chalk paint, although I am not an expert in chalk paint and have only used in a handful of times. General Finishes is actually an acrylic paint that performs like a true milk paint is some ways, but it comes mixed in a can like traditional paint (and not in a powder form like true milk paint). It is fantastic for furniture, and creates a great finish. Good luck with your projects.