So a few weeks back I did a blog about an old secretary desk. The desk had seen better days but when it was done it was the cutest little desk. I know the person who bought it and she loved it. It is now in her home living a restored life. Todays blog is much the same but with a bit of a twist.
I bought this secretary desk in an online auction, sight unseen. I wasn’t sure what it would look like and if it needed repairs. Pick up day came and off I went to Forney. Yes my favorite auction house rustybydesignauction.com had the desk. I was nervous to see it because I wanted a project that was easy. After all I find most of my blog items in need of great repair on the side of the road. At last my wait was over they brought the desk out to my truck. So far so good it didn’t appear to have damage. I didn’t see the inside as they loaded it into my truck. I had to wait until I got home to see that. Off I went back to Garland to see just what I bought and how much work it would take.
Upon arriving at home I discovered that the organizing system inside wasn’t attached. There was a small chip in the upper edge of the fold out desk and well that was it. I was so happy all easy fixes, all easy to accept it as a part of the shabby chic look. I started working on the piece by cleaning then lightly sanding followed by 2 coats of Annie Sloan paint. This blue is amazing, it has an old look to it so appropriate for this piece. As you can see I almost forgot to take a before. It already has a bit of blue paint on it. Oops!!
After it dried I sanded the edges and gave it 2 coats of Valspar clear. Now to address the drawer in the front. I wiped it down really good with light soapy water. Dried it off and called it done. The drawer had no damage what so ever, no knicks, no dents and still had a great Finish to it. Leaving it with the original finish seemed to be the right thing to do. Just look at it WOW what a beauty. After I stared at the outside for a bit I realized the day was getting short. So now to deal with the organizer inside. I painted it out white with Valspar Project Paint. I sanded the edges after it was dry and decided to paint the 2 drawers in the blue. Once it was clear coated and dried I had to attach it to the top of the desk. Greg helped me with this part because it took me holding it and Greg attaching it with the nail gun.
This project turned out so great. Leaving the original drawer was a good decision and it all works together. I love redoing these piece to a restored life. I can’t explain the feeling just pure joy for me. What gives you joy? Send me a line and tell me your story. Have a great Blue Happy Monday.
This piece is on display and for sale at Doc Holliday’s Emporium 113 S Birmingham Wylie Texas.
