We spotted this neat Before & After of a standard secretary over at ferm LIVING's Clever Spaces blog. Check out how to make the most out of an old piece of furniture after the jump. Keep in mind that everything old can be new again.
1) Sand and prime the surface of the furniture.
2) Paint the surface. In this case, a white latex paint was used.
3) Change out the knobs with ones you love. (Flea markets are a great resource for vintage knobs and drawer accessories.)
4) Measure and cut the sections you'd like to cover with wallpaper. An adhesive like 3M Hi-Strength 90 spray will help secure the paper to the wood. (Quick tip - make sure you place the pattern in the right direction)
5) Finish the project by using a finishing spray and allow the furniture piece to air dry.

[Images via ferm LIVING Clever Spaces.]
Check out more D.I.Y.'s from Apartment Therapy here:
- Chain + Hangers = Industrial DIY Storage
- How To: Make DIY Outdoor Furniture Water Sealant
- Cartonnistes DIY Cardboard Furniture
Comments (11)
That's an amazing transformation...
i'm a total addict of this kind of renovation. if there's a website devoted to this kind of transformation, please point me to it!
Looks great!
this is awesome!
very pretty!..inspiring!.
I did something similar with an old dresser I found. It's a fun way to use small amounts of cool wallpaper from thrift stores or flea markets - or a really fabulous wallpaper that would break the bank used on a full wall. Love the one used in this example.
Lovely!!!
Great work but I'd prefere the "before" secretary.
that is EXACTLY the desk I need!
lovely. compliment!
Adore it. If you are looking to add some oomph to a room without straining your skill set or your wallet, check out the link below for 3 places you didn't know you could put wallpaper!
http://grubbygirls.wordpress.com/2010/04/20/i-know-its-called-wall-paper-but-ima-put-it-on-my-fan/
Also, HOLY WALLPAPER CEILING BATMAN!
http://grubbygirls.wordpress.com/2010/04/20/to-the-window-to-the-wall-paper/