DON’T TOSS THAT BROKEN PIECE OF FURNITURE BECAUSE THIS QUICK SPINDLE REPAIR WILL HAVE YOUR FURNITURE STANDING TALL AGAIN | YOUTUBE VIDEO
Hi beautiful friends! I found this dresser in a local mission thrift store and fell in love with it right away. The wood finish has seen better days, and I did notice a missing piece of wood on the right foot BUUUT I did NOT notice that the entire left spindle on the frame of this dresser was cracked right in half! This is a perfect opportunity for me to practice my furniture repairs and share how it goes. I hope this inspires you to pick up those pieces that may need some extra love OR fix up something you may already own.
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Below is the vintage five-drawer tallboy in the Mission thrift store. It was selling for $95 with 25% OFF sale.
Someone had loved this piece enough to refinish it. On Facebook, I see people getting upset about finishes that have been DIY’d – but maybe didn’t turn out professionally. The funny thing is we’ve ALL been there, right?! If we don’t try, we never learn. So I have the opposite view when I read those comments. I LOVE seeing someone’s creative handiwork to the best of their ability. In my mind, it shows the previous owner loved the piece enough to put some time and effort into it because they wanted to hold onto it for a while longer.
The biggest issue was the spindle that was broken in half. This needed fixing because its the foundation that holds up the weight of this dresser. The foot is cosmetic, but lets fix that too!
THIS POST IS SPONSORED/CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS TO PRODUCTS I USE. YOU CAN SEE MY FULL DISCLOSURE HERE.
SUPPLIES
Vintage Tallboy Dresser – SALVAGED
White Lightning Cleaner
Auto Sponge
Sanding Sponge
Paint Brush
Umber SILK All-In-One Mineral Paint
Big Mam’s Butta Topcoat
TOOLS
Heat Gun
Plastic Putty Knife
Dewalt Cordless Drill & Impact Driver Set (17% OFF as of writing)
PREP & CLEAN & REPAIR
I started by removing the vintage hardware using my Dewalt Impact Driver Set. There is a backplate that also needed prying off with my mini Pry Bar Tool. It comes in a set of 3 and has really come in handy for easy removal of nails and trim.
Once I had the loops and backplates removed, I cleaned the inside and outside of all the drawers with this heavy-duty furniture cleaner. I also made sure to number the back of each drawer because vintage dressers can be finicky when trying to put them back in a different order. Then I went on to clean the inside and outside of the body.
FIXING THE BROKEN SPINDLE
What you’ll need
- Wood glue
- Glue Syringe (not needed but super helpful!)
- Small dowel(s) or nails
- Furniture Clamps
- Sandpaper (120, 220 grit)
- Putty or wood filler
- Paint/stain and small brush or marker touch-up pens
- Drill with a small bit (for dowel or nail holes)
I started by assessing the damage. This spindle was cracked in half but all the wood pieces were there. Rather than remove the spindle, I worked on it while it was attached to the dresser.
Here are the steps I took to repair this spindle ~
- I removed all the old glue with a sanding sponge.
- Using a glue syringe, I added wood glue to the entire inside of the crack.
- Then using some pressure, I finangled the spindle together.
- Once properly together, I used clamps to hold it in place while the glue dried.
- Once dry, I hammered in some trim nails for extra support.
- Then I filled the cracks with wood filler.
- When it was dry, I sanded the filler smooth and painted with an all-in-one paint and primer.
- Looks great!
FIXING THE BROKEN FOOT
The missing part of the foot was repaired using the same method but I had to recreate the missing piece. To do this I used this Casting Kit and some strong Epoxy.
Here are the steps I took for the foot repair –
- I sanded the old glue adhesive off.
- Then I nailed in two nails to reinforce the new piece of foot I was going to add.
- Then using the GOOD foot, I mixed up some casting putty and create a mold.
- Using a strong 2 part Epoxy, I filled the mold to create the shape.
- I pressed it onto the missing piece.
- Then removed the casting mold and feathered the Epoxy out while it was still pliable.
- Once dry, I gave it a sanding.
- Then using a paint and primer in one, I painted two coats of paint.
STAINING – GOLD ASH
Ever since my sister Andrea and I restored my Dad’s garden bench, this Golden Ash has been one of my very favorite gel stain tones. It’s not too light and not too dark – just a gorgeous warm mid-tone which I thought would showcase the wood grain on this dresser beautifully. I applied one coat using a lint-free rag on the drawers.
For the larger areas, I opted for an applicator sponge to stain the top and sides. I actually prefer using a simple rag because I FEEL exactly how and where the gel stain is applied. This is an oil-based product, so I always make sure to have good ventilation (I open all my windows and set up a fan) and I wear a mask as well.
And because I love the before and after so much, here’s a sneak peek at the before and after stained drawers! This stain is bringing this dresser back to life!
THE UMBER DISAPPEARING ACT
To finish off the spindle repairs and the rest of this dresser frame, I painted them out in Umber. It’s a gorgeous brown that pairs really well with the Golden Ash Gel Stain. This dresser took two coats of Umber for full coverage.
I also used my slap-it-on paint technique to paint the spindles with NO brushmarks and make that repair I made disappear!
The foot repair got two coats of the Umber All In One Silk Mineral Paint as well. If this paint did not have the primer included, I would have primed before painting.
HARDWARE SOUP
While the paint was drying, I cleaned up all this vintage hardware, and I made a hardware soup. I’ve designated an old pot to clean hardware. I add water and then add in one cup of vinegar and bring to a boil. The finish on this hardware started coming off after about 15 minutes.
The vinegar and water removed all the dirt and painted on topcoat, but did not clean the patina off the brass. For that I used Brasso. This product is old but still works amazing. I remember when my Mum used Brasso to clean and polish all our brass chotcki around our home until they gleamed and didn’t have a spot of tarnish on them. I’m a little different. I don’t mind a little tarnish/patina on these vintage handles because I like old things. And I also want to mention that if you buy Brasso (if they still sell it… I couldn’t find it so I’ve linked to a similar product), it works on MANY metals and can last for YEARS. I think this container must be 15+ years old and still works great.
NOURISH AND PROTECT
As my topcoat, I used Big Mama’s Butta. This nourished the wood beautifully, and it can also be used on the painted surfaces and inside the drawers. Once it cures, its water-resistant as well. The best part is if you worry about streaks, brush marks, or orange peeling (if spraying) your topcoat this is a no-fail topcoat. You can’t mess this up! I apply it with a large brush in any direction. I wipe off the excess in any direction – and it still looks great. I also dropped my brush on floor and got some dust bunnies it in – yes they got onto the furniture and I picked them right out – easy. Seriously, I’m not sure what you’d have to do to muck up this finish – it’s foolproof.
THE BIG REVEAL…
Here’s the finished look, so beautiful, don’t you think?! I love these old vintage pieces!
The Golden Ash stain really brought out the beauty of this wood grain.
I love the way this all came together. The Brasso did a really nice job of cleaning up these vintage pulls.
And lets not forget about those repairs. Here’s a peek at the inside of the spindle.
And the outside of the repaired spindle. You’d NEVER KNOW!
Here’s a close-up of the new foot. This didn’t turn out quite as I would have liked but for a first try, I’m happy. Next time I’ll spend more time feathering out the Epoxy and more effort sanding it smooth. I will say its hard as a rock though and hopefully will last for years to come.
I also prompted Ai to generate a roomscape with the focal point being this restyled and repaired vintage dresser. Here’s what it generated…
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YOUTUBE TUTORIAL
Here’s the full step-by-step YouTube video tutorial for you. Our #siyoutubefamily is already a community of 55.3K, so don’t forget to subscribe if you haven’t done so already. You’re the BEST, and I appreciate your support! 🙂
Here’s another look at this French Provincial Side Table before and after. I hope it’s inspired you and given you some ideas for your upcoming furniture painting projects.
Thanks so much for joining me for another thrift store furniture upcycle. I’ve included some Related Posts below, and feel free to leave me a hello or any questions you may have in the comments below. I always love hearing from you. It makes my day!!
Happy painting, my friends!
Denise x
RELATED POSTS:
SILK ALL-IN-ONE MINERAL PAINT 101
COFFEE BEAN WASH ON VINTAGE DRESSER
$15 VINTAGE DRESSER | BEFORE & AFTER
CAVIAR STYLE VINTAGE DRESSER
DAD’S WOOD BENCH MAKEOVER
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Exceptional restoration. Bravo! Impressive.
Thanks so much! 🙂
I don’t know where to start. WOW is the only word that works for this !
You have really shown your talent / experience on this piece.
Your wood repair skills are so impressive. It all looks original now ! You made this daunting task (almost) look doable.
The golden ash stain looks amazing. LOVE it with the Umber paint. Love the warm paint and stain colors together.
The refreshed hardware looks amazing too. Not the typical oak leaf pulls for sure.
I could not imagine letting go of this piece. A really stunning statement piece.
You deserve an award for your vision and skills ! Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂
Thanks P! I really like the pairing of the Umber and Golden Ash as well. I love this piece so much I found space for it in my bedroom!The drawers are so large and spacious! 🤗
It’s awesome!
Thank you for sharing these repair tips 🙂
Thanks Stella and my pleasure! It was great practice for me! 🙂
Wow! Just Wow!
Amazing transformation Denise. Thank you for sharing.
Love your work and for sharing the trouble shooting. I’m learning so much from you.
I love a good WOW, thanks so much Trish! So happy you love it… I loved working on it. 🙂
The dresser is very beautiful Denise, wonderful job.
I cannot believe they wanted that much money for that dresser! Those repairs you made were pretty dang serious and the existing finish was awful! Again, great job.
Thanks Mary! And I hear ya… the thrift store prices are through the roof these days!
I had a piece of furniture with missing wood applique, and I hand-sculpted some Wood Epoxy Putty to match the side that was still there….making a mold would’ve been way easier! I’ll remember this for the future!
Hand sculpting is super artistic! This casting kit works amazing on wood appliques… I’ve seen some done on Youtube!
Oh boy, you really made a silk purse from a sow’s ear, Denise. Good job! I love that you made a mould and used it to repair that foot. When I saw the first pic of the broken leg, my heart jumped and said, YIKES, WHAT’S SHE GOING TO DO TO THIS?? Of course I knew you’d have the answer. I so admire what you do and appreciate how you do it. Thanks for being such a good mentor! Do you publish any tutorials?
Awww thank you Catherine, you always put a big smile on my face!🤗 I’m not sure I’m understanding your question about published tutorials though? Magazines – yes I have been published and I’m always thrilled and humbled when I get a magazine feature! Books – no but never say never, right?! lol. Online – TONS!😆 If I’ve missed the mark with your question let me know and have a super day my friend. XOXO
Beautiful piece! And great save, Denise! I always love what you do.
Hi Kelleeeeee!🤗 Thanks so much and wishing you a fabulous week! XOXO
Turned out nice Denise, and the mold for the foot is a really good idea. I never thought of doing that so next time I need to do a repair that’s how I will fix it .
Thanks Teresa and ya, its kinda fun playing with that putty. And for this foot repair, VERY little was needed. This kit will last for a number of repairs. 🙂
Wow! This is amazing Denise. You did a beautiful job. I think the foot looks great considering it was missing! I’ve used Brasso for years. You can still find it at discount stores ( I think) if not, try a hardware store. It really works wonders. I also recently cleaned some hardware using the bartenders cleanser that you suggested. I had forgotten all about that product. It did a fantastic job. This piece will be enjoyed for many more years thanks to your talent. Have a great weekend.
Ohmygosh, I forgot about Barkeepers Friend!!!… thanks for the reminder! I’m going to keep my eyes peeled for the Brasso in stores because I couldn’t find it on Amazon to link up for you guys which I found strange. Anyway so glad you like the dresser and wishing you a great weekend as well! xo
Gorgeous result, Denise! I have a couple of pieces I need to create molds for in order to repair – looking forward to your video! Thank you!
Thanks Marcia! I’ll have it published for you this weekend so you can see the casting mold kit in action. It was fun. I felt I was back in kindergarden playing with playdough!👧😆
This turned out amazing and might be one of my favorites! I would have probably passed on this since it seemed like a lot of work but you performed magic on it.
Thanks and honestly, if I had seen the split spindle in the mission thrift store, I probably wouldn’t have purchased this piece either.😆 But things happen for a reason and this was REALLY good practice for me. So happy you like the dresser Julie! 💙
Wow Denise, this dresser is stunning. I love how you brought it back to life while keeping the antique feel. Absolutely beautiful!!!
I love a good WOW so thanks Monique! I think she looks pretty darn good too. I want to find a place for her because I think she’s a keeper. Have a great week my friend. XOXO
Here’s proof that most furniture damaged can be repaired. Wonderful rescue and I agree with you. I’ve had many finishes that didn’t turn out the way I expected. I say, “keep on trying.” Thank you for sharing this wonderful piece. Have a beautiful week, my friend. xo 😘 Pinned 📌
Aw thanks my friend. And I agree, these older pieces were built to last and most pieces can be fixed up! This was a great piece to practice my repair skills on although I don’t know if I would have picked it up if I had seen that split in the thrift store. Don’t know how I missed that??… maybe it happened while they were bringing it through the store and loading it into my FUV?🤔 …or maybe I’m getting older and my eyes aren’t working like they used to.👀
Beautiful makeover. As for the Brasso, I still have tins of the stuff, not just the liquid but the smaller tin with the wool in it, its amazing stuff. Thanks for all the wonderful post, Janette UK. xx
Amazing stuff, right!?!😃 I love Brasso and it lasts f.o.r.e.v.e.r!!! Thanks Janette!
Stunning! You have such great vision for the beauty in furniture others can not see.
Bravó, Great job!
Super kind Jewels, thanks so much! Enjoy your week my friend! XOXO
I look forward to your beautiful furniture make-overs, Denise. Question for you: I have a vintage British phone box that has a terribly musty smell inside. I am going to repaint it the authentic red, since it was originally brown. I understand the brown ones were put in interior places, but I love the red ones! What do you recommend I use to get rid of the awful odor? Thanks for your assistance!
ohhhh, what an interesting/exciting project you have there!😃 I have the perfect post for you on How To Get Rid of Musty Smells HERE. It’s an older post and the comment section is worth it’s weight in GOLD… so many fabulous suggestions to make our projects smell fresh again! Hope this helps. 🙂
This looks beautiful! Here in the US, Brasso is sold in most stores. 🙂
Thanks Emily and thanks for the Brasso tip! I wonder why they don’t sell it online anymore. ?? I’ll keep my eyes peeled. I’m in Canada but super close to the US border. It could always be an excuse for a cross border shopping trip.🤗
Hey Denise: I found Brasso metal cleaner on my Amazon site and in Home Depot. I’m in southern Wisconsin, USA. Both places charge $4.98 for the 8 oz bottle.
Maybe Amazon wasn’t showing me the Brasso because I’m in Canada and it doesn’t ship here?? thanks for this! I’m going to take another look and then check out HomeDepot!
STUNNING! I love all your furniture makeovers but this dresser is one of my all-time favorites. Love it! Thank you for sharing these repair tips. I always look forward to your weekly emails I learn so much!
Awww thanks so much Nicki! I’m so happy you love it! Have an amazing week my friend. Hugs XOXO
Wow! That is so stunning. Thank you for sharing the techniques to repair and restore the beauty of the wood.
So glad you like it, thanks Theresa! 🙂
Gorgeous!
Thanks Lizzy! Have an awesome week. XOXO
Hi Denise, I’ve never commented before but have enjoyed your posts for awhile now. This dresser has got to be my favorite. You really worked some magic on it. It’s gorgeous!
Hi Felicia! I’m so happy you love the dresser and it inspired you to drop me a line, thanks so much! Have a wonderful week! 😊
Hi Denise, That dresser came out beautifully. I love the colors you used. Keep them coming. I love the inspirations.
Hi Donnita! I really like how the stain and paint matched up too. I think it gives this vintage dresser a ‘newer’ look while still keeping its vintage vibe. So glad you love it and thanks for your support! XOXO
STUNNING RESULTS, DENISE!!! LOVE IT!!! 🥰
YAYYYY, thanks so much Susan!🥰