How To Build a Mid-Century Modern-Style Dresser

Transforming a plain dresser into a stylish mid-century modern piece is an easy and affordable do-it-yourself project. With just a few simple upgrades, you can create a stunning focal point for any room in your home. This Old House demonstrates how to give an inexpensive flat-pack dresser a mid-century makeover using walnut stain, olive green paint, brass hardware, and tapered legs, and you can follow our guide for more information.

Materials Needed to Build a Mid-Century Modern-Style Dresser

Before you embark on this transformative journey, make sure you have everything you need for your mid-century modern dresser project.

Materials

Gather these essential materials:

• Conical brass knobs: Look at the Deltana cone cabinet knobs in brass. They provide a timeless and sleek look and add a touch of mid-century flair.
• Finishing wax: Provides a protective sheen to your stained surfaces.
• Flat-pack dresser: Consider options such as the IKEA Rast chest, which is known for its affordability and versatility.
• Mounting brackets and wood blocks: Necessary for securely attaching your stylish new legs.
• Olive green paint: A bold and contrasting color that pairs beautifully with walnut stain.
• Primer: Prepares surfaces for optimal paint adhesion.
• Tapered wood legs: These are a hallmark of the style, lifting your dresser to a new level of chic. Check out these 6-inch white pine legs.
• Walnut wood stain: This will provide the classic, warm wood tone characteristic of mid-century modern pieces.

You want to confirm everything fits well, both physically and visually.

Preparing the Dresser

Preparation is key to any successful project. Laying the proper foundation makes the process smoother and helps to achieve a sturdy and reliable final product.

Assemble the Dresser

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for those starting with a flat-pack like the IKEA Rast chest. This initial step sets the stage for your mid-century transformation, creating a versatile base ripe for customization.

Create a Base for Legs

A strong foundation is necessary for attaching your new, stylish legs. Follow these steps:

1. Measure and cut two blocks to the length of your dresser. These will form the sturdy base needed for new leg installation.
2. Fit them underneath the dresser—make sure they’re flush with the sides for stability.
3. Use your drill to fasten the blocks securely to the base. This step prevents wobbling and supports the mid-century aesthetic that emphasizes form and function.

Staining and Painting the Dresser

The striking contrast of warm wood tones paired with bold colors is a defining characteristic of mid-century modern style. This step in the process is where color and creativity come into play, allowing you to personalize your dresser.

Stain the Frame

A beautifully stained frame sets the stage for your dresser’s mid-century modern transformation. Do the following:

1. Lightly sand the dresser frame to smoothen the surface and enhance stain absorption.
2. Using a sponge or cloth, apply the walnut stain meticulously, working with the grain of the wood for even coverage.
3. Clean with a cloth to remove any extra stain and reveal the walnut finish’s rich, warm tones.
4. Allow adequate drying time per the manufacturer’s guidelines to help the stain appropriately set.

Paint the Drawers

The contrast between the stained frame and painted drawers accentuates the dresser’s modern appeal. Here’s how to paint the drawers:

1. Remove them from the dresser and work on them separately.
2. Lightly sand the surface of each drawer so that the paint has a smooth surface to adhere to.
3. Apply a coat of primer to help the paint stick better and achieve a vibrant finish.
4. Use olive green paint on the drawer fronts, applying a second coat if necessary for full coverage.
5. Allow sufficient drying time to prevent smudging or uneven textures when reassembling.

The video starring a This Old House expert highlights these techniques, emphasizing how these straightforward steps can significantly enhance your dresser’s allure.

Adding Mid-Century Modern Details

Attention to detail distinguishes an ordinary dresser from a mid-century modern showpiece. These final enhancements embody the classic mid-century functional and decorative characteristics.

Attach Tapered Legs

Adding tapered legs elevates the dresser physically and stylistically, enhancing its beauty. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Before attaching, make sure the tapered legs are stained to complement the dresser’s walnut-colored frame.
2. Securely attach mounting brackets to the base blocks prepared earlier.
3. Carefully attach the legs to the brackets, applying steady pressure to create a snug fit.

Install Brass Hardware

Installing elegant brass hardware is key to achieving a mid-century look, marrying form with functionality. Use these steps:

1. Measure and mark the center points for each knob on the drawer fronts.
2. Create pilot holes for the screws to prevent wood splitting or damaging your perfectly painted surface.
3. Carefully screw the conical brass knobs into place.

These refined touches echo the sleek lines and understated elegance of the 1950s and 1960s design.

Finishing Touches to the Mid-Century Modern Dresser

Completing the dresser with finishing touches seals in your hard work and showcases your refined craftsmanship. Do the following:

1. Slide the painted drawers back into their beautifully stained frame.
2. Add a coat of finishing wax to the stained regions for durability and lustrous shine.
3. Use a clean cloth to buff the wax, achieving a polished, pristine appearance.

Styling Your Mid-Century Modern Dresser

Styling your newly transformed dresser can enhance its look and make it a standout feature in your space. Positioning the dresser against a neutral-toned wall creates a striking visual impact. Consider incorporating vintage-style decor, such as a sunburst mirror or abstract art pieces, to complement the dresser’s vintage vibe. 

A table lamp with geometric lines can provide practical lighting while maintaining continuity with the dresser’s style. Finally, decorating with a few carefully chosen books or magazines adds a curated, sophisticated touch to the overall look.

Tools Needed to Build a Dresser