This makeover transforms a simple dresser into a Harry Potter-themed storage masterpiece. By painting drawers to mimic vintage trunks in house colors, and adding faux leather handles with metallic clasps, the piece gains character and charm. The side painted like a brick wall with the Platform 9¾ emblem adds depth and context. It’s not only decorative but highly functional, with each “trunk” serving as a drawer for storage. Perfect for a themed bedroom, kids’ space, or anyone who wants their décor to reflect a love of fantasy.
Materials Needed
- 1 wooden dresser, approx. 40-48″ tall with 4-5 drawers
- Sandpaper: 120-grit & 220-grit sheets
- Primer (1 quart, white or grey)
- Chalk paint or acrylic paint in: deep red, green, navy, yellow, black, and grey (8 oz each)
- Painter’s tape (1 roll, 1″)
- Gold or brass metallic paint (4 oz)
- 4-5 leather drawer pulls or faux leather straps (approx. 5-6″)
- 20-25 brass tacks
- Printed Platform 9¾ stencil (8-10″)
- White paint (4 oz, for stencil and brick highlights)
- Paint brushes: 1″ flat, ½” detail, and foam roller
- Optional: Mod Podge or clear coat spray sealer (12 oz)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Remove all drawer handles. Then sand the dresser with 120-grit paper to strip old finishes, then smooth with 220-grit. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Step 2: Apply a coat of primer across the entire piece. Let dry 2-3 hours. This ensures strong paint adhesion, especially for bold colors.
Step 3: Paint each drawer in a different trunk-inspired design. For example, yellow with black stripes for Hufflepuff, green for Slytherin, navy for Ravenclaw, and red with gold detailing for Gryffindor.
Tips: You can use painter’s tape for sharp stripe lines. Then allow each layer to dry before adding details.
Step 4: On the dresser’s side, sketch or stencil brick outlines with painter’s tape. Paint with a red base coat, then lightly dab black and brown tones for depth. Also, highlight edges with a small brush dipped in white to create realistic brick texture.
Step 5: Add the “Platform 9¾” emblem. Place stencil on the brick-painted side, dab white paint carefully, and peel away once dry.
Step 6: Attach leather handles or straps onto each drawer front. You have to secure with brass tacks or upholstery nails for an authentic trunk look.
Step 7: Once the paint is fully cured, seal with a matte or satin topcoat for protection.
Step 8: Reassemble drawers and admire your magical creation and now it’s ready to guard your socks, books, or even spell scrolls!
Tips: If you don’t have leather pulls, cut strips from an old belt for a budget-friendly option.