First DIY Home Project: Entertainment Center

I can't wait to start doing more decor posts when we move into the house! Today I wanted to show you a little of what I have been up to the past week.
As most of you know, getting your first place is not only super exciting but stressful because basically all of the "necessities" are needed. We are pretty much starting from the bottom when it comes to furniture/kitchen accessories/bedroom stuff, you know all the must haves?! Luckily one of my favorite things to do is to find bargains! Whether it be on Craigslist, Facebook, antique stores etc. I scored this credenza/buffet/dresser on Facebook for $115! I have been looking to use one of these as our entertainment center in the great room. I think they look amazing with a TV mounted over it and cute decor on top. I have been seeing these at antique stores for $225 and up and had a feeling I could find a better deal! Most of these {even the more expensive ones} still need a little love, whether it be a new coat of paint or different knobs. Let's just say Jeff and I saved so much on this DIY.

Before:
The paint was very weathered, thin and chipping. It also had a ring on the top {probably from a vase or plant} The knobs are beautiful but needed a little face lift.

After:

Jeff and I sanded the piece down and painted a couple light layers of chalk paint over it in a pure white shade. After letting all the coats dry we took some sand paper to the corners/edges and sporadically distressed it to give it that shabby chic look {we may add more distressing later on}. I love rustic, shabby chic pieces so their can never be too much distressing in my world. :) There is gorgeous dark walnut wood underneath so we wanted it to peek out a bit. We also left the walnut wood exposed inside the center cabinet. Jeff spray painted the knobs with a gold paint that is for metal. {We love gold!} We haven't put the clear wax over it yet but we both think it looks great! 

Just some inexpensive changes can make all the difference when decorating. No need to spend a ton of money on new pieces when adding charm to old ones can look just as nice. Plus Jeff and I had so much fun doing this together. We are already onto our next project :) Stay tuned for that!

For some of my home inspiration photos follow me on Pinterest!

xoxo,
Alyssa