how to decorate dresser
Decorate a dresser by updating its hardware, painting or refinishing it, and adding decorative accents like trays or mirrors. Organizing the drawers and ensuring proper scale and proportion of decorative items are also key to a polished look. Consider the room’s style for a cohesive aesthetic.
Updating your dresser can dramatically change the look and feel of your room. Whether you have a brand-new piece or an old hand-me-down, a few strategic updates can make it a focal point. Start by considering the overall style you want to achieve. Is it modern, farmhouse, bohemian, or mid-century? Your choice will guide your hardware selection, color palette, and decorative additions.
The most impactful change you can make is updating the hardware. Knobs and drawer pulls are like jewelry for your furniture. Measure the distance between screw holes on existing hardware to ensure new pieces will fit. For a modern look, consider sleek metal pulls in brushed nickel or matte black. For a farmhouse vibe, opt for ceramic knobs or rustic iron handles. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles, but keep a consistent finish across all hardware for a polished appearance. If your dresser has no hardware holes, you can install new ones, but ensure you have the correct tools and measurements. You can also use adhesive decorative elements if drilling is not an option, though these are less durable.
Painting or refinishing your dresser is another transformative step. A fresh coat of paint can modernize an old piece or add a pop of color to a neutral room. For a smooth finish, clean the dresser thoroughly, lightly sand it, apply a primer, and then follow with two coats of your chosen paint. For a more natural look, you can strip the old finish and apply a new stain or a clear protective coat. Consider techniques like chalk painting for a matte, vintage feel or a high-gloss finish for a contemporary aesthetic. If painting, ensure good ventilation and use a mask to protect yourself from fumes. When staining, always test the color on an inconspicuous area first.
Adding decorative elements to a dresser
Once the foundational elements are addressed, you can add decorative touches to personalize your dresser. A decorative tray on top is excellent for corralling items like keys, jewelry, or a small vase. Choose a tray material that complements your dresser and the room’s decor – perhaps a mirrored tray for a touch of glam, a woven basket for a bohemian feel, or a simple metal tray for a minimalist look.
Consider adding a mirror above the dresser. This not only serves a functional purpose but also amplifies light and makes the room feel larger. You can opt for a large statement mirror or a grouping of smaller mirrors. Ensure the mirror’s frame style matches the dresser’s updated aesthetic. If you’re hesitant to drill into the wall, consider a leaning mirror, provided the dresser is stable enough to support it.
For a more artistic touch, you can decoupage the dresser with fabric or wallpaper, or even stencil intricate patterns onto the drawers or sides. These techniques require patience and precision but can result in a truly unique piece. When decoupaging, use a good quality decoupage medium and ensure all edges are sealed to prevent peeling. For stenciling, use a stencil brush and dabbing motions to avoid paint bleeding under the stencil.
Organizing dresser drawers for a polished look
A beautifully decorated dresser shouldn’t have messy insides. Organizing your drawers makes the exterior decor feel more intentional. Use drawer dividers or small boxes to keep items separated and tidy. This is especially helpful for smaller items like socks, underwear, or office supplies if the dresser is used in a living area or office.
For clothing, folding techniques like the KonMari method can maximize space and make it easy to see everything at a glance. Consider using shelf liners in the drawers to add a pop of color or pattern and protect the dresser’s interior. If the dresser has deep drawers, consider adding an extra shelf or using stackable organizers to prevent items from getting lost at the bottom.
Choosing the right scale and proportion
When selecting decorative items for your dresser, think about scale and proportion. Avoid overcrowding the surface with too many small items or overwhelming it with one oversized piece. A good rule of thumb is to create a focal point, such as a lamp or a piece of art, and arrange other items around it. For example, a large lamp on one side, a stack of books in the middle, and a small decorative object on the other side can create a balanced composition.
The size of the dresser itself will also dictate what works best. A large, wide dresser can handle a more substantial mirror and multiple decorative objects, while a smaller, narrower dresser might only accommodate a small framed picture and a single item like a candle. Always consider the surrounding furniture and wall space to ensure the dresser doesn’t look out of place.
Common Dresser Decorating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Step or Tool | Typical Mistake | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware Update | Choosing ill-fitting or mismatched hardware. | Measure existing hole spacing precisely before purchasing new knobs or pulls. Stick to a consistent finish (e.g., all brushed nickel) for a cohesive look. |
| Painting/Refinishing | Skipping essential prep steps like cleaning and sanding. | Thoroughly clean and degrease the dresser, then lightly sand the surface. Apply a quality primer for better adhesion and a smoother finish, especially when using darker colors over lighter ones. |
| Decorative Accents (Trays, Mirrors) | Overcrowding the dresser top with too many items or using pieces that are too small or too large. | Select a few key decorative pieces that complement the dresser’s size and style. Create a balanced arrangement, perhaps with a central focal point like a lamp or vase. |
| Organizing Drawers | Leaving drawers messy and disorganized, undermining the exterior’s appeal. | Use drawer dividers, boxes, or folding techniques to keep items neat and maximize space. This makes the dresser look and function better. |
FAQ
how to decorate a dresser in bedroom
In a bedroom, decorate your dresser to complement the room’s overall aesthetic. Update hardware for a fresh look, and consider adding a mirror above it to create a vanity area. Arrange decorative items like a jewelry dish, a small plant, or a framed photo on top to personalize the space and enhance its function.
how to decorate a dresser without painting
If you prefer not to paint, focus on updating the hardware with stylish knobs or pulls that match your decor. Add a decorative tray on top to hold essentials and a small vase or candle. You can also use contact paper or wallpaper to line the drawer interiors for a hidden pop of color or pattern, or apply decorative decals to the drawer fronts.
how to decorate a dresser for a living room
For a living room dresser, consider it a functional display surface. Update hardware to match the room’s style, and add a decorative tray for remotes and coasters. Incorporate art, a plant, and perhaps a stack of books. Ensure the scale of items complements the dresser and surrounding furniture.
how to decorate a dresser for a nursery
In a nursery, prioritize safety and charm. Choose child-friendly, smooth hardware, and perhaps paint in a soft, calming color. Add subtle decorative elements like a cute mobile above or a small, securely placed toy. Ensure the top surface is clear for changing essentials or organizing baby items.
