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How to upcycle an old dresser into a desk

Tara creates a stunning piece on a budget. - by Tara Dennis
  • 18 Dec 2020

This week, Tara’s giving an unloved old dresser a designer upgrade. She’s turning it into a dresser-come-desk that is as stylish as it is functional. With faux bone inlay created by some clever stencilling, this gorgeous piece looks like it’s straight out of a glossy magazine, but can be made on a budget.

Get the project sheet

Download the step-by-step instructions for the dresser to desk project

Timber tallboy before pic

An old pine tallboy is the perfect candidate for upcycling into bespoke work station. If you don't have one gathering dust somewhere in the house or garage, scour secondhand and charity shops or check out Gumtree. 

Tallboy with pull-down desk
Photography Sue Ferris

The upcycled tallboy now has a pull-down desk that's perfect for a laptop or tablet. The desktop is attached with a piano hinge and decorative chain supports. The tallboy is refinished in chalk effect paint and the bone inlay effect is achieved with stencils and paint. So easy! 

Tallboy with stencil design in paint
Photography Sue Ferris

When the pull-down desk is shut the work station looks like a beautifully decorated tallboy. This makes it an ideal piece of double-duty furniture for a bedroom or living space. 

Get the project sheet

Download the step-by-step instructions for the dresser to desk project

For more DIY projects, pick up a copy of the latest issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine in selected newsagents and supermarkets or buy online today!

  • DIY
  • Decorating
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Tara Dennis
Tara Dennis
On Channel Seven’s Better Homes and Gardens, Tara Dennis shares her interior style and design secrets, showing viewers how to transform their homes for less.

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