DIY Desk Makeover

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Who can pass up a dated pine desk with an yellowing finish, oversized hutch, and rounded wood hardware? Not me! Just a few quick steps to remove the top and add a fresh finish to turn this find into the perfect writing desk! Plus, I teamed up with my friends at Varathane to coat the top with a beautiful coat of Dark Walnut stain using their 3X Wood Stain, and a protective coat of Triple Thick Polyurethane. Read on to see how easy it was to transform this desk!

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Steps

1. Choose a Desk to Upcycle

I found this solid wood (read: no particle board!) desk at a local sale for just $20! It passed my inspection for wobbly legs and a sticky drawer, and then found its way right into the bed of my truck:)

2. Remove the Top

Loosen any visible screws and fasteners and then used a pry bar to remove the hutch.

3. Remove the Hardware

Using a screwdriver or drill/driver loosen and remove the hardware.

4. Fill the Holes

Fill and holes leftover from the hutch and the holes from the hardware with wood filler. Let dry, and then sand smooth.

5. Sand the Top

Wear a respirator and work in a ventilated area. Using a random orbital sander, remove the desktop finish until you reach uniform bare wood. Finish by sanding with a fine grit sandpaper.

6. Prep the Top for Stain

With a lint-free cloth, wipe the surface clean in preparation for a finish. Wipe the remainder of the base clean as well.

7. Paint the Base

Using a high-quality synthetic bristle brush, apply a coat of paint to the base of the desk. Let dry. Apply a second coat if necessary.

8. Apply the Stain

Using a lint-free cloth, high-quality synthetic bristle brush, or a sponge brush, apply a liberal coating of wood stain to the top and edges of the desktop.

9. Wipe the Stain

Using a lint-free cloth, wipe the surface in the direction of the grain to remove the excess stain. Allow the stain to fully dry.

10. Apply the Polyurethane

Using a high-quality synthetic bristle brush, apply a coat of polyurethane in the direction of the grain. When possible, work in long straight passes to ensure a uniform finish, and tip off edges with the brush held at a 45-degree angle to prevent drips. Drill new holes in the drawer front and add updated hardware.

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