Antique furniture always tells a story, and this Empire chest was no exception. With its classic curves and sturdy build, it had so much potential, but the old paint job had to go. Here’s how I brought this stunning piece back to life, complete with product links and discount codes to help you tackle your own project!
Step 1: Stripping the Paint
The first step was removing the old paint to reveal the beautiful wood underneath. For this, I used my go-to furniture stripper, which makes even the toughest jobs manageable. You can find the product linked and don’t forget to use the discount code Vintagefinds10 at checkout for savings! https://greenez.com?sca_ref=5618858.dCfWx3Iqjw
Step 2: Applying a Medium Brown Dye Stain
Once the paint was stripped, I prepped the raw wood for staining. I used a medium brown dye stain that gave the chest a rich, warm tone. You can find the exact product under the General Finishes tab on the top left corner of this link. https://bit.ly/3GPIRnB
Allow the stain to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step. 
Step 3: Adding Depth with a Custom Glaze
To add character and enhance the wood’s details, I mixed a custom glaze using Fusion Mineral Paint in the color Cast Iron and their clear glaze. Follow the product instructions to achieve a smooth, professional finish. This glaze added a subtle contrast that made the Empire chest’s classic design elements pop.
Please use the discount code vintagefurniturefindsfmp for 10% off your Fusion Mineral Paint products!
https://shop.fusionmineralpaint.com/vintagefurniturefindsfmp
Step 4: Sealing with Satin Topcoat
For the final touch, I sealed the chest with Polyvine Wax Finish Topcoat in Satin. This protective layer not only adds durability but also gives the piece a soft, elegant sheen.
You can find my favorite Polyvine Wax Finish Varnish topcoat here.
Step 5: The Perfect Hardware
To complete the look, I added beautiful hardware that complements the chest’s classic style. You can find the hardware I used linked here https://geni.us/Krd0zBQ
The right hardware truly elevates the entire piece, pulling everything together.
The Final Reveal
This antique Empire chest has been completely transformed into a show-stopping statement piece. The combination of the warm stain, custom glaze, and satin topcoat highlights the craftsmanship of the original design while giving it a modern, updated look.
Ready to Transform Your Own Piece?
All the products I used are linked throughout the post, and don’t forget to take advantage of the discount codes:
• Furniture Stripper: Vintagefinds10
• Fusion Mineral Paint: vintagefurniturefindsfmp
With the right tools and a little patience, you can turn any tired antique into a treasure! Let me know if you give it a try—I’d love to see your results
