05/25/2020
Nearing the final stages of this project, we decided to call it the cabinet from hell. If I had not been so insistent on putting it in the newly remodeled tack room of our main barn, we would have given it up. This cabinet was in pretty miserable shape, and dirty and smelly, to boot.
I chose a chalk paint from the Home Depot line, to give it a chance. The color did not reflect what was on the display. But it grew on me. No way was I going to replicate the sad, fabric, wood backed panels. It needed a whole new clean look. Grunge, sanding, or chipping was a no-no. It also was falling apart. We repaired the cracks, breaks, and put in a new, birch plywood backing. The drawers were also broken and had to be remade. The tin panels were speedy, but this poor girl needed a new life, and we made the investment. Once in, the cabinet did not fit where we intended. Lots of scuffs were made in the finish getting it back out. The cabinet doors also didn't line up. So we decided to give her a very clean finish, and neat, serviceable hardware. Because this cabinet goes in a room frequented by small children, it was bolted to the wall behind it. We added a central door latch and magnetic hardware so the doors closed completely, every time. It is utilitarian, and looks like someone cares about it now. We are happy. It goes well in the space. Clean, useable, and enough of a minimal bling to carry itself with a bit of personality. Not gonna lie, so glad this one is done.
