Decorative handles
can change the look of a furniture piece
Many people find that they inherit a well-built, but old-fashioned cedar wardrobe. In the past, places to store clothes and textiles were built out of cedar as it was thought to keep moths from damaging the clothes. Often passed down through the generations, a cedar wardrobe might have sentimental value, and be too well-crafted to dispose of, but it may be hard to find a place for one in a modern home. Does this Spark an idea?
Paint
Although cedar wood has a warm orange tone to it, it may not suit the color scheme or style of every home. A lick of paint is a great way to alter the color of the wood to suit your decor. Prime the wood by sanding the surface to get rid of any stain and make a rough surface for the paint to adhere to. For a rustic, Nordic feel, choose a white or cream color and apply all over the wardrobe. A simple stenciled heart motif would add to this look.
Recycle the Wood
If the wood is in good condition, but you don't like the style of the wardrobe, carefully use the claw end of a hammer to take the unit to pieces. Remove all nails and sand down the pieces to ensure there's no rough edges. Reuse the pieces as shelves, or ask a carpenter to reform the pieces to make a table.
Wallpaper and Decoupage
If the wardrobe has panels, wallpaper them in a decorative paper. Use the same paper inside the wardrobe and finish with a coat of varnish. Or try decoupage -- a decorative technique made popular by the Victorians. Cut images from magazines or collect scraps and glue them onto the wardrobe, either in small patches, as a border or over the whole surface. You can add a clear coat over the top to seal.
Handles and Knobs
Decorative handles can change the look of a piece of furniture. It is easy to find interesting contemporary hardware available or scour junk shops and yard sales for unusual vintage pieces. Ceramic or crystal knobs look feminine and come in all sorts of colors, or go for an Asian look with silk tassels and beading. Decorative brass handles would suit a period home.
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