Dishfunctional Designs: Upcycled Dressers: Painted & Decoupaged

Give a dresser a contemporary look with bright colors and bold designs.

Do you have an old dresser that you no longer need in the bedroom? Why not repurpose that old dresser into something completely new?

A fresh coat of paint or a covering of decoupage papers can transform any old dresser into a brand new piece of furniture that doesn't have to live in a bedroom. I have one in my entry way and one in my family room and I have to tell you - I love having the extra storage space for things like hats and gloves and games.

Check out this collection of painted and decoupaged dressers and maybe you'll be inspired to make over one of your own! Don't have an extra dresser to play around with? Check out thrift stores!

Painted flowers are surprising easy to paint. Lay the dresser flat when painting.

I love dark woodland themed rooms and furniture; as a matter of fact I have a new blog post coming up soon with an entire collection of Whimisgoth furniture, so stay tuned!

Dry brushes, sponges, and old rags can help wipe away and blot on paint, creating an antique, weathered effect like the one seen here. Add the birds and flowers with paint or decoupage papers.

A project for the talented and ambitious: detailed paisley painted designs

Cute woodland characters are a popular pick for nurseries and kid's rooms

An ombre paint effect with Asian themed designs

Painting drawers different tones and colors is a great vintage look

Folk Art style flowers are easy to paint and require little experience

Decoupage does not always have to be with thin tissue paper. You can experiment with heavier papers and even fabric like the dresser shown above to add texture and lots of interest

Got an eye for art? Mandalas are easier to paint than you may think! It is just a basic, repeating pattern. Practice on paper first, drawing out and perfecting your design before painting.