The individual in question doesn’t often give the Hubs the credit he deserves. When it comes to transforming discarded items into treasures, the Hubs displays a remarkable knack for it, no kidding. Consider this bookcase, a relic from the 1980s, once gracing his office wall. During an office makeover, it was unceremoniously discarded. But our ever-vigilant Hubs seized the opportunity and brought it to our basement.
Originally intended for utilitarian storage – housing paints, tools, and seasonal decor – the bookcase took on a new role when we decided to revamp the man cave. Below is a glimpse of its original state, which will make the transformation all the more astonishing.
The Bookcase Makeover: Turning ’80s Oak into Modern Rustic Industrial
Welcome to the lower level, the third installment of the “Basement Landing” trilogy. This post is proudly sponsored by Fusion Mineral Paint, but every aspect of the project and all opinions are the individual’s own. For those not following along, the first post bid farewell to the golden wall as the Hubs and I installed convenient peel-and-stick planks. The second post detailed the evolution of the design plan. And now, this third and final entry will unveil how the bookcase underwent its remarkable transformation.
Step 1 – Preparing for the Paint
Every nook and cranny of the bookcase received a thorough cleaning, a light sanding, followed by another wipe-down. Surprisingly, as a rescue project, it wasn’t all that dirty and required no repairs. Each joint remained as sturdy as ever, and it possessed the heft of a tank. Delightful! What more could one ask for?
This meticulous attention to detail at the outset set the tone for the entire project. It was a testament to the individual’s commitment to not only breathe new life into this forgotten piece of furniture but also to ensure its durability and longevity. The sturdiness of the bookcase was a pleasant surprise, further confirming the potential for transformation.
This experience serves as a reminder that even seemingly neglected items can be revitalized with a little care and creativity. It’s a testament to the joy of uncovering hidden gems and turning them into functional and beautiful additions to one’s home.
Step 2 – Applying the Basecoat
When this transformation began, I had no plans to employ Fusion’s “Chocolate” paint. Truth be told, it was initially ordered for a different project. However, when the bookcase entered the scene, so did an enlightening moment: What if using Chocolate as a basecoat could mitigate the oak’s grain, subtly incorporating it into the final finish?
One coat of Chocolate was applied across the entire piece. After it dried, a second coat covered most of it. It may sound peculiar, but I was hoping for naturally emerging variations in color. And lo and behold, they materialized!
Step 3 – The Role of Beeswax
For this project, the aim was to have that delectable Chocolate shade entirely conceal any remnants of ’80s golden oak. To avoid sanding for layered color effects, I allowed the Chocolate to fully dry (a 24-hour wait) and then applied beeswax in areas where the topcoat was not desired.
This strategic use of beeswax was a pivotal step in achieving the desired outcome. It not only prevented the topcoat from adhering to certain areas but also added a layer of complexity to the finish. The decision to forgo sanding showcased a clever approach, allowing the Chocolate Basecoat to shine through without compromising the overall look.
In essence, this method encapsulated the essence of the project – a fusion of creativity and practicality. It demonstrated how thoughtful choices and techniques could transform an ordinary piece into something extraordinary, all while preserving the original character of the piece.
Step 4 – Applying the Topcoat
The topcoat of choice was Algonquin, a versatile hue from the Fusion family, known for its adaptability in various lighting conditions. Depending on the surroundings, it could appear as “yellow-beige, brownish-grey, or grey-sage.” Given the basement’s existing color palette, which couldn’t be altered at the moment, and the transition from the upstairs landing, this color’s flexibility was precisely what was needed.
The selection of Algonquin highlighted the importance of choosing the right topcoat, especially when dealing with complex spaces like the basement. Its chameleon-like ability to harmonize with different lighting situations allowed it to seamlessly integrate into the overall aesthetics of the room. This decision underscored the individual’s keen eye for color coordination and their commitment to achieving a cohesive and visually appealing result. One coat of Algonquin was applied and allowed to dry.
Step 5 – Layering Colors Without Sanding
Once the topcoat dried (approximately an hour later), the surface was gently wiped with a clean cloth. This achieved the same result as applying the topcoat and then sanding it to reveal the basecoat, but through a different technique:
- Apply beeswax to the dry basecoat where a layered or distressed appearance is desired, revealing the Chocolate beneath;
- Paint on the topcoat;
- Let the topcoat dry.
To wrap up
In conclusion, this DIY bookcase makeover journey was a testament to the transformative power of creativity and a keen eye for potential. The individual behind this project initially underestimated their partner, affectionately referred to as the “Hubs,” who turned out to possess a remarkable talent for recognizing hidden treasures among discarded items. What started as a neglected 1980s oak bookcase, relegated to office wall decoration, evolved into a stunning piece of modern rustic industrial decor for their basement man cave.
- The step-by-step process, from prepping the bookcase to applying layers of paint and wax, showcased meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to achieving a unique and impressive result. Fusion Mineral Paint’s “Chocolate” and “Algonquin” played pivotal roles in the transformation, demonstrating the significance of color choices in such projects;
- Moreover, the use of beeswax and a strategic application of black wax added depth and character to the piece, addressing the desire for a richer, more masculine appearance. The final result, with its “metalled” finish, perfectly satisfied the preferences of the man cave’s inhabitants.
This project not only breathed new life into a discarded piece of furniture but also served as a source of inspiration for others seeking to embark on their own creative DIY ventures. It’s a testament to the rewarding nature of repurposing and the joy of giving a second chance to items that might otherwise be discarded. The individual, along with the Hubs, now has not only a stunning bookcase but also a sense of accomplishment and pride in their transformative abilities.