Originally when I shared about this DIY project I was taking on, I wasn’t sure how it would go. Why? Because I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and use a color for the refinish. I know, I know. My neutral-loving heart was on the edge of its seat the entire time! However, I am loving the result I have gotten so far! Goodness, gracious – color can be so fun sometimes! I haven’t yet styled it in the girls’ bedroom, but I wanted to share the process with you thus far because I get a lot of questions. Questions specifically about what I prefer to refinish DIY and upcycled pieces with. While I love a good bare wood with a simple wax coating or a stain, milk paint has been wonderful to work with! So, let me give you a peek inside this upcycled antique DIY desk using milk paint!

First, the upcycled antique DIY desk

I found this piece on Facebook Marketplace and loved the bones of it. However, the current finish was a little too strong for the space I would be using it for. I wanted something a bit softer for the girls’ space and I also wanted to step out of my comfort zone and use some color. 

I began with sanding it all down using 80 grit sandpaper followed by 150 grit again, but only for the top. While it wasn’t the toughest finish to get off, the entire garage was covered in red dust by the time I was done.

A quick wipe down and then I tackled the first coat of paint. Once dry, I then did a light sanding with a 220 grit once more before adding the final coat. Sanding in between the first and final coat helps the finish to become even smoother to the touch which I love.

And that shade of green just had me from hello. RIght?!

Added some simple knobs that I found at Hobby Lobby. I wanted the style of knobs to flow well with the style of desk because I will throw in the modern touches with the styling and decor I use.

And then once the last coat was dry, I added a layer of wax to help cure the finish and protect it even more. I used a clear wax by Behr.

The pros about using milk paint for refinishing

Now, the paint I went with for this upcycled antique DIY desk was a General Finish milk paint in Basil. I love this brand, but I love using milk paint for a lot of reasons. Some of them being:

• it stretches farther than other paints. I only used half a can for this upcycled project
• it dries quickly
• its very forgiving
• it is more durable than chalk paint

Now I get to dive into styling this piece in the girls’ bedroom and I will absolutely share more into that very soon. But I loved how this turned out and I love that I stepped outside of what I am comfortable with and worked with some color for this one!

What is your vote? Do you enjoy color done in a minimal way and for an unexpected surprise? Or do you like to keep everything neutral?

Stay tuned for more on this project and others that we are tackling! Can’t wait to show you!