Painted Vintage China Cabinet

by Patricia

This is a Depression Era china cabinet that had seen better days. It has gorgeous lines but with few exceptions the veneer and mouldings were in terrible condition.

After. Napoleonic Blue, Graphite & Cream.

painted vintage china cabinet, chalk paint, painted furniture

Nevertheless, the structure itself was sound. It offers lots of storage inside the cabinet as well as a drawer.

I spotted the cabinet at a thrift store. I noticed other shoppers were drawn to it, but one by one they passed it by. I did, too! But I couldn't get it out of my mind, so I went back and made the purchase. It sat for over a year in my entryway while I decided what to do with it.

I finally decided on a color scheme of Napoleonic Blue with accents in Graphite. The interior is painted in Cream.

I made rough repairs, but left some of the imperfections as-is. I think the finished piece is regal but with a cottage charm.

I lightly distressed the details and added some subtle gold highlights to the decorative moulding and hardware.

There are still dings and dents, but the new finish will give this piece a second chance.

I painted the hardware in Graphite and applied two coats of wax. I then added gold highlights.

Just to give an idea of the amount of storage space, I was able to display a 12-piece china set inside of the cabinet for the photo shoot. The china is from the same era as the cabinet.

Additional storage is available in the drawer.

Additional photos are available on my blog. http://theblacksheepshoppe.blogspot.com/2015/02/depression-era-china-cabinet.html

Enjoyed the project?

You can do it! Saved to your projects

Frequently asked questions

Have a question about this project?

Ask a Question

3 of 4 questions

Hannah Elsenheimer on Dec 01, 2016
I am painting a rocking chair and would like to kind of mimic the look you gave to this china cabinet, would you mind giving me some advice on how to do it and what materials i may need?

1
Dia4829409 on Jul 07, 2017

How did you use the Graphite Paint and what color of wax I love this piece

1
Dia4829409 on Jul 07, 2017

I love you blue piece how did you use the Graphite Paint and what color of waxk you very much

0

Comments

Join the conversation

4 of 35 comments

Marj MRC Creations on Oct 24, 2018

I realize this is an older project, but I have to say just how much I love what you did to it. It's gorgeous!

1 Reply
- Patricia on Oct 25, 2018
  
  Thank you Marj! It was one of my favorite pieces.
  
  3
Susan Beery on May 20, 2021

Thanks for sharing!! Stunning piece. Fabulous colors

2 Reply
- Patricia on May 20, 2021
  
  Thanks so much Susan!
  
  Like