I bought this buffet off craigslist a couple of years ago. When I was looking for a piece of furniture that could hold a bunch of books in my new reading room, I knew functionally the buffet would work very well, but aesthetically it needed some work. The room has a sort of worldly and exotic feel so I wanted to do something that reflected that. Here’s what I came up with.
I have always loved the look of inlaid wood, but the price is understandably out of my range. Can you imagine the work that goes into creating one of those pieces?!!! So, this is my DIY version of the inlaid look.
To create this, I used some linoleum (that looked like wood), traced out the shapes I was planning to use, and then cut them out using an exacto knife.
Then I used some adhesive to put the shapes in place. I rework my furniture all the time so I used hot glue, knowing I could remove the shapes more easily if the time comes and I want a change. For a stronger and longer hold you could use Locktite.
Lastly, I hand painted around the “wood” pieces to give the whole thing a more authentic feel- like something you would see in Morocco!
Oh, I also added some fun and fitting knobs. I have always loved Anthropologie’s knobs and pulls, but Tulsa isn’t quite cool enough to have one yet. . . 🙁 I was pleasantly surprised to find these and many more at Hobby Lobby.
Stay tuned, next post I will go through the entire reading room and all its delicate details.
Oh, some fun news- it seems someone in France has posted about my “Redeemed Rocker”! It’s so fun to think people around the world are seeing my work! YEAH!!
Wow! What a transformation! Very well done!
I’m such a sucker for anything exotic or morrocan!! Turned out fantastic- Now i’m off to figure out where in the world I can put a morrocan inspired library in my home! 😉
That is really cool, Kara! Love the new look!
Omg..this is beautiful!! My mind is turning with all the ways this can be done!
Very cool looking buffet! I have to say, the rocker is my favorite of your make overs because in the shape it was in and the amazing turn out.
Yep, about the french post about your rocking chair, that would be me !! I just had to share your great work on it ! So glad you’ve find my blog this way, I hope you like it ! I have another one about babies & pregnancy (I’m 5 months pregnant) : http://www.abrandnewbaby.blogspot.com. This last one is only written in english.
Cheers from France !