There’s something magical about breathing new life into a piece of history. This beautifully refinished antique chest now exudes timeless elegance and charm, making it a standout feature in any room. It’s a perfect blend of historical craftsmanship and modern restoration techniques—combining the best of both worlds.
The Restoration Process
I began the transformation by sanding off the existing finish. Knowing this chest was made from solid wood, I started with an 80-grit sandpaper using my trusty orbital sander to strip down the surface efficiently. Once the old finish was gone, I worked my way up to 120-grit for a smoother base, ensuring the wood was prepped for its next chapter.
Bringing Out the Beauty
To enhance the natural grain of the wood, I used @fusionmineralpaint’s Stain & Finishing Oil in the shade Light Oak, one of the stunning colors from their new release. This rich, hand-applied stain gave the piece a warm and inviting tone, emphasizing its intricate details while preserving its antique charm. 
Pro Tip: You can save 10% on Fusion Mineral Paint products by using my discount code vintagefurniturefindsfmp on their website.
https://shop.fusionmineralpaint.com/vintagefurniturefindsfmp
Sealing the Deal
For the final touch, I applied my go-to topcoat: Polyvine’s Wax Finish Varnish in Satin.
*** I use the size 14 or 16 brush.
Brush Link
You can find my favorite Polyvine Wax Finish Varnish topcoat here.
This product is a favorite for a reason—it provides a subtle sheen that enhances the finish without overpowering the natural beauty of the wood. It also ensures the chest remains durable and functional for years to come. 
Why This Chest is Special 
Every detail of this piece tells a story, from its sturdy construction to the lovingly applied modern finishes. Whether it’s used for storage or as a decorative statement, this antique chest is proof that timeless design never goes out of style.
If you’re inspired to refinish your own antique treasures or want to learn more about my restoration process, feel free to reach out! And don’t forget to check out Fusion Mineral Paint’s stunning new stain colors—they’ve truly become a game-changer in my refinishing projects.
1 comment
Hello,
I have recently begun the ardenous task of refinishing my grandparent’s depression dressed. After stripping it and sanding it and filling all the termite/wood worm holes I see that there are probably 3 types of wood used and the filler is very different from the wood as well. How to I achieve a more cohesive look in a raw wood? I would like the drawers to look the same as the sides but they appear to be birch and the body of the dresser and top and apron appear to be a type of red wood similar to a cedar or cherry.