This is one of those pieces I got and ended up wanting to keep because it is just so unique. As usual I got it off of craigslist. It looks like it is just a normal dresser, but the top drawer is actually a desk. The inside has these latches that keep it closed and usable like a drawer, but when you release the front, it is a desk! It is called a Butler’s Desk.
I originally planned on staining it darker since it was all scratched and dented, but I love the warm, worn look of the wood. Some of the scratches were more noticeable than others, but I just used orange oil to refresh the wood. That stuff is amazing! It covers scratches like charm. I used it on my MC danish modern dresser which I planned on refinishing, but after using it I think it almost looks brand new! I definitely recommend trying it out before taking all that time to refinish.
Here are some before and after examples. The scratches and dings were really obvious because of the light color, but after is is hardly noticeable.
Here are some better pictures of it closed and open. Just be aware I like to take a lot of pictures.
I might sell this piece, but I am still undecided. There is really no place for it, but people I talk to and I all think it is a unique are rare piece that I may not find again, and especially for the price I paid. I have seen a few selling on ebay for $800 to $2000. I’ll work on finding a spot for it!
This is a beautiful piece! I also checked out your inventory and you've some great pieces that I cannot wait to see how you refinish! I'm your newest follower :)- Susan
Thanks! Really appreciate you following along! I am excited to get to work on all the piece I have sitting around 🙂
That is such a cool piece of furniture! Great tip about using the orange oil, too. I pinned it for future reference.
Have a great weekend!
Angela @ Number Fifty-Three
Very cool piece, Reeves! I never would have guessed the top drawer would really be a little desk! What a fun surprise!
I'm featuring you and this beauty this week at Knick of Time Tuesday – thanks for sharing at te party!
Very unique and just beautiful!
From one Reeves to another I think you should keep this unique and beautiful piece. It is stunning. I have the bottom to an old China hutch my mother used as a dresser. I'm not sure if I should try to refinish it or paint it. How do you decide which to do?
From one Reeves to another I think you should keep this unique and beautiful piece. It is stunning. I have the bottom to an old China hutch my mother used as a dresser. I'm not sure if I should try to refinish it or paint it. How do you decide which to do?
Thanks for showing all the pictures so I could get a good look at this interesting piece. I have never heard of a butler's desk before so this was very informative. It's really cool, you should keep it!
How stunning- this Butler's desk is to D*I*E for… they just don't MAKE 'UM like this anymore…how sad for all of us.
Great piece thanks for sharing 🙂
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wonderful piece
I love the glow the orange oil gave it. It looks so refreshed….like it has been rubbed with love.
What an interesting piece! I was wondering where you buy the orange oil, it seems to work wonders.
Adriana
I believe you should be able to get it at most hardware stores. It is great stuff to have. I use it on all kinds of woods!