child's desk makeover

This child's desk came to our home about 10 years ago.  Noelle had begun her noellejanae.com website and she was making videos left and right.  She wanted her own office because my office was in the house at that time.  We had plenty of space and I just couldn't deny her!  LOL

The desk came with that large shelf in the back and a couple of other things.  The whole lot was $15 I believe and everything is solid wood.  The desk stayed with her for years until 2020 when I gave her my grown up desk and took her small desk until I could find what I want.  I decided that this little desk could become so much more and I moved it over to my office!

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This desk has seen better days for sure.  Here's how I transformed it.

BEFORE BEGINNING, choose your paint and your knobs if you're changing them.
I went to Lowe's and purchased the very inexpensive knobs.  At $1.48 each, I couldn't beat the price! I purchased 2 cans of Krylon charcoal gray chalk spray paint from Lowe's as well.  At $6.68 per can, it was extremely reasonable.

1. I removed the knobs which were actually painted multiple times and STUCK.  I used a utility knife to sever the knob from the paint.  CRAZY! Check out the layers of paint under all of that.
2. I used an orbital sander with 60 grit sandpaper to remove layers of paint and then followed up by hand sanding with 100 grit sandpaper so the chalk paint would adhere well to the surface.  After that, I removed the dust with a dish towel.
3.  I spray painted the charcoal gray chalk paint on the drawers then the desk itself.  After the first coat, I went back with a second coat where necessary.  I had the doors open during this process.
4. I let it dry for several hours before I added the knobs.  After that, I lined the drawers with cute shelf liner.  SO EASY!  Here's how it came out!  It's in my office now and will soon be a tea, coffee and hot chocolate station.  LOVE IT!

It's hard to tell how CUTE this desk is now!  The drawers will soon contain tea bags, coffee and all sorts of supplies.  My hot water pot will sit on top of this and I'm considering getting a small microwave.  When I get it all finished, I will share the whole thing with you!  I AM TOO EXCITED!

What have you transformed into something totally unexpected?  Do tell!  I'd love to know.

Happy Decorating!