My husband asked me to refinish this family heirloom | Antique ELM Furniture Restoration

My husband asked me to give a little restoration to an antique elm washstand that’s a bit of a family heirloom. I stripped the old finish, re-stained the beautiful wood and got it ready for the NEXT generation.

Products Used in this Video:
+ Surf Prep 3x4 Detail Sander & 5” Random Orbital Sander
+ 80, 120, 180 & 600 grit abrasives
+ Minwax Penetrating Wood Stain in Special Walnut & English Chestnet

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IMPORTANT: This video is not sponsored. You watching these videos supports my small home business. I am grateful for each and every one of you! This description may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these affiliate links, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Always read and follow individual product or tool usage and safety recommendations. Viewers should attempt these projects at their own risk.

[teddic]

That is one of the best refinishing jobs I have ever seen on a piece of wood this old. Your husband is so lucky to have such an artist in the family. Well done!

[frelnc]

I'm so glad you chose to follow your husband's wishes and leave the "kid stuff" in the drawer. This is an adorable little piece. The doors have absolutely stunning grain which adds a whole other dimension to this little beauty. As usual, Katie, a great remake. Love it.

[TheLindyHooper]

Wow. This is a primo example of how to do a How-to. Great camera angles, no excess explanation and info that makes me feel like I can do this. Bravo

[marthaolmsted]

Thank you for preserving and restoring this washstand by refinishing the wood instead of painting it over like so many others. Beautiful result!

[dshey]

That was sweetly sentimental of your husband to want all the childhood marks inside the drawer left alone. In spite of elm being a greenish wood it DOES have beautiful grain. The two stain colors you combined hid the green very well. I liked the rustic authentic hardware. You now have a little beauty for your home.

[gbrickcommercialre]

Would've loved to have seen your husband's reaction. He must be very pleased; the piece was beautifully and sympathetically restored. Love your work!

[MeMe-cdwy]

So happy you did not paint it like so many other “repurposers” online. It is truly beautiful.

[janine]

Okay, not only are you expert at your trade of furniture refurbishing, but also at creating great videos! 💯

[Njeanous]

Katie is Priceless. She spoke so clearly and relevantly. I will definitely consider REFINISHING. Her explanations were enlightening.

[kathyl]

Katie, this turned out absolutely beautiful! What a joy to be able to restore something to its original beauty, and still keep the character of the old piece. I love it and I’m sure your husband is very pleased. 😊

[debbiestott]

Something special about old family prices and the memories they bring back. As always a great job done Katie.

[mushyfrogs]

This is such a simple restore but it's absolutely one of my favorites that you've done. The wood grain is beautiful and I looove the way the mix of the stains turned out. ❤️

[stephanie]

I’ve been watching restoration DIY for years and you’ve made it so approachable. The sanding alone can be intimidating. Thanks for the contribution. 👍

[petersdotter]

I really like that you accented the grain and different colors of the natural elm wood with your finishes. It makes the piece so much more interesting, and a conversation-starter, prompting family memories that will continue through another generation or two.

[kathyaakananabluebird]

What a lovely family story this piece has. I am glad you and Doug saved it. :) Beautiful work.

[lili]

How sad that elm isn’t found anymore because the grain is stunning! Thank you for restoring this sweet little piece of family history!

[joannye]

Wonderful job…it is always refreshing to see what can be done with old treasures rather than merely trashing them!

[sherryjackman]

Fun childhood memories from art supplies in the drawer insider that your husband asked you to save. What treasure as some of us don't have that many good ones from our youth. I have really enjoyed learning a lot from your videos. I now have better idea of what to watch for when choosing used furniture. I don't have space or equipment to do much refinishing in my current apartment. Over 40 years ago in Fairbanks, AK I refinished a dresser and my hubby took lots of photos to prove I did it. Glad I found your channel.

[blueberryblues]

When we were first married 50 plus years ago I bought a piece just like that with the harp on the back for $69 at an antique store. 😊It was not in bad shape and we owned until a few years ago when we downsized. I miss that sweet little piece in the guest bedroom. You did a beautiful job of redoing it and I am always impressed by your patience. Great job! Xo

[maggiem]

I absolutely love how this came out. The grain in the wood is outstanding and beautiful.