You don’t necessarily need to replace a dresser that looks outdated. Instead, you can refresh it by adding a fresh coat of paint and then swapping the drawer knobs and drawer pulls. It’s relatively easy to do, and it will make your dresser look much more modern. Get the details, so you can take on this project.
Remove the Drawers and Hardware
Remove the drawers from the dresser you want to update. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the old hardware. A drill might be quicker to use, but you’ll have more control with a screwdriver.
Drill Holes for the New Hardware
It’s possible that your new hardware will fit into the holes that held the old pieces. Most of the time, though, you will need to drill new holes. Start by marking the holes. Then, drill a small starter hole and follow that by drilling a larger hole to accommodate the new hardware.
Cover the Holes on the Inside of the Drawer
Cover the holes on the inside of the drawer with painter’s tape. This will prevent paint from leaking through the drawer. It’s easier to prevent a mess than it is to clean one up, so you’ll want to take this step.
Fill in the Old Screw Holes
Use wood filler to fill in the holes you used for the old hardware unless you are using the same holes for the new hardware. Keep in mind that wood filler shrinks as it hardens. Go back and add more wood filler as needed until it’s just a bit higher than the drawer’s surface.
Sand the Filler
Use 100 grit sandpaper to sand down the wood filler, so it is flush with the drawer. Sometimes, you’ll end up with a slight indentation in the wood filler after sanding it. If that happens, add some more and then sand it once again.
Paint the Dresser
If you’re happy with everything but the drawer knobs and drawer pulls, you can skip this step. However, if the current paint looks dull, freshen it up with a new coat of paint. You can even go with a new color if you want to change the look completely.
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Replace the Hardware
Once the paint dries, you’ll be ready to replace the hardware. Use a screwdriver to screw the new hardware in place. Make sure it’s secure, close the drawers, and test it out. They should open and close with ease.
This project is so simple that you can easily knock it out in an afternoon. You just need to buy some new hardware and paint and make sure you have the right tools. Then, you can change the look of your dresser in no time.
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