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Reality Daydream

The Dream is Free, The Hustle Sold Separately

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A Facelift for the Credenza

August 14, 2013 by Bethany Sy

If you don’t already, you should subscribe to our blog so you get an email every time we publish a new blog post (not more than 2 times a week… TOPS)! You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you don’t miss ANY of this madness! 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We’re not knocking out furniture projects like we used to… I’m sorry what was that? You’re wondering WHY NOT?

Have you ever been in a commercial airliner with a screaming toddler for any amount of time? Now close your eyes and imagine that same noise… multiplied by TWO, for a duration of infinity. It’s exhausting. Physically and emotionally draining.

Moving along!

We call it …the credenza…

The Buffet {Sawdust and Embryos}_thumb

But truth be told, I have no idea what the difference is between credenza, buffet, sideboard, and bureau. If you are secretly hiding this knowledge, PLEASE educate the rest of us in the comment section.

In order to keep you from convulsing, let’s just call it a credenza (cause that’s what it was advertised as on Craigslist).

The credenza is a part of our dining room. I love it’s character and the fact that we scored it for a few dollars. I knew that I eventually wanted to ‘do”’ something to it, but wanted to wait for inspiration to strike before we pulled the trigger. It’s been living as-is in our dining room for almost a year… and while the wood finish didn’t bother me much, it drove me NUTS that the girls’ cars, balls, toys would roll under there into the Credenza Bermuda Triangle. ALL THE TIME.

The Buffet {Sawdust and Embryos}_thumb - Copy

So it became an urgent priority to have a piece of trim slapped on the front of there. Using our RYOBI Miter Saw for the perfect angle, Nick cut some pre-primed basic trim to cover that front area.

Adding Trim to the bottom of Furniture {Sawdust and Embryos}

Then, while he removed the backing on the doors (which was a lot harder than it sounds, but is such a specific situation that I’m not going to go into detail)…

Credenza {Sawdust and Embryos}

…I painted some 1×4 pine boards using the same techniques from my ‘Barnboard’ Tutorial using mint, gray, and a splash of turquoise (GASP!). Do you know where I’m going with this???

Meanwhile… we painted everything else WHITE (after sanding/priming of course).

A White Paint Job for the Credenza {Sawdust and Embryos}

Next, Nick glued my ‘barn boards’ together in sets of 3, and shaved down the sides with the table saw until it was a perfect fit for the doors.

IMG_0462

Buffet Doors {Sawdust and Embryos}

 He used a nail gun to secure the backs of the doors into the frame (sorry no pic of that), and then drilled a hole for hardware! I love the original hardware. You just can’t beat the real thing!

Drilling Holes for Buffet Hardware {Sawdust and Embryos}

Buffet Doors with Original Hardware! {Sawdust and Embryos}

 All we have left is to slap on those hinges! But not before adding some designer fabric to those drawers!

While at Haven blogging conference, some of the amazing vendors hooked us up with ‘swag’… and my favorite item was this amazing navy/white fabric given to us from the Online Fabric Store. It’s gorgeous.

Online Fabric Store! {Sawdust and Embryos Buffet Transformation}

 And it so happens that there was the PERFECT amount to line the 6 drawers in the credenza. If Nick hadn’t gone to the conference with me and gotten his own ‘swag bag’, we’d have been up a creek without a paddle! There’s just something so fresh and clean about fabric-lined drawers. It was time to get to work!

Credenza Transformation {Sawdust and Embryos}

 I cut the fabric to size with a little to spare on all sides, and then using a hefty putty knife to secure the fabric, I sliced it with a very sharp razor blade so my fabric would be the perfect fit!

Lining Drawers with Fabric {Sawdust and Embryos}

 Then using a craft/fabric adhesive spray , I lightly misted the back side of each fabric square (one at a time), and carefully lined it up in the drawer, and pressed down… smoothing all the wrinkles out. This whole process was SO EASY! Why haven’t I been doing this on all our pieces?

Lining Drawers with Fabric {Sawdust & Embryos}

 Now all we have left is to slap those doors on! Can you stand the anticipation?

This transformation was one that we worked on here and there, between other projects… so this all happened over the course of a month or so; during which time we effectively lost one of the hinges.

I mean… you reach a point with a piece of furniture where you’re super DONE! And soooo ready to stand back and take a gander at your handiwork. So having to search for a hinge in the 9th hour was unpleasant. But we FINALLY found it! I don’t even remember where, except that it was obscure.

Credenza Transformation sawdustandembryos.com

Now this is my kinda math equation:

Credenza Transformation by Sawdust and EmbryosCredenza Overhaul Transformation! {Sawdust and Embryos}

Buffet Transformation {Sawdust & Embryos}

Doesn’t that trim piece on the bottom just make it feel more crisp and… finished? And no more vanishing toys!

Here she is at night.  🙂

Buffet Overhaul Transformation {by Sawdust and Embryos}

The beauty of this piece is that I can change out those ‘barn wood’ slabs for something else when I get sick of them! A funky geometric fabric would be fun, or a painted pattern or stain treatment… or a sparkly red fabric around Christmas time! I can already see Nick rolling his eyes.

Buffet Transformation by Sawdust and Embryos

Credenza Before and After {Sawdust and Embryos}

This is one of my favorite pieces we’ve done! I love the character it adds to our dining room! Be sure to check out our furniture gallery for tons of techniques and inspiration!

And if you don’t already, you should subscribe to our blog so you get an email every time we publish a new blog post (not more than 2 times a week… TOPS)! You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram so you don’t miss ANY of this madness! 

Bethany {Sawdust and Embryos}

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About Bethany Sy

Nick and Bethany Sy are the creative free-spirits behind DIY/Lifestyle blog, Reality Daydream. They recently purchased a historic mansion and have been documenting the ups and downs of renovation and making this home their own... all while sharing tips and tutorials along the way! When they found themselves in the trenches of infertility, they started a journey that would prove to be their most important DIY project ever, and have 3 beautiful girls to show for it. <3

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Comments

  1. 104

    Mea Cadwell says

    October 6, 2023 at 12:26 am

    Here’s what I found about the differences: https://unruhfurniture.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-credenza-sideboard-buffet/

    Reply
  2. 105

    Robin Johnson says

    November 22, 2016 at 10:19 pm

    I love this! I am curious about the doors and the hinges. I feel like you can’t see the hinges at all from the outside. How is this even possible? Are they some type of magical hinge?

    Reply
  3. 106

    Amy Clausen says

    August 10, 2016 at 3:32 pm

    Great job! I think that the whole credenza, sideboard and buffet issue is a regional (think soda/pop/coke) thing. But a bureau, to me, is a bedroom dresser. Of course, I could be wrong. My grandfather and greatgrandfather would repurpose old pianos into furniture – I have a sideboard that they made, just shelves, no doors or drawers, but the top is curved and its mahagony.

    Reply
  4. 107

    Teneal Breitenstein says

    August 10, 2016 at 4:49 am

    Perfect! Great job ?

    Reply
  5. 108

    Anonymous says

    August 20, 2013 at 7:22 pm

    I love the makeover, but hate the multiple pages.

    Reply
  6. 109

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 20, 2013 at 2:51 pm

    Hehe! THANKS Christine! We love your inner voice. 🙂

    Reply
  7. 110

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 20, 2013 at 2:47 pm

    That's a GREAT suggestion Ashley! Thanks!

    Reply
  8. 111

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 20, 2013 at 2:46 pm

    Thanks a great idea Karen! Thanks for the suggestion!

    Reply
  9. 112

    Christine Freeman says

    August 20, 2013 at 10:23 am

    To quote my oh-so-eloquent now-ex-dh, "OMG That's butt-effin'-ugly!"
    My inner voice said, "I can't WAIT to see what she does with it."
    I read. I paged. and read and paged.
    Coming to the doors photo, my inner voice escaped loudly and yelled, "OMG That's absolutely the coolest makeover yet."
    Brilliant.

    Reply
  10. 113

    Jessica says

    August 18, 2013 at 4:33 am

    O.M.WOW! This "credenza" is gorgeous!

    Reply
  11. 114

    Mary Cole says

    August 16, 2013 at 10:50 pm

    So cool. I am new to this blog but I really enjoyed reading through the project. It turned out beautiful! Great job!

    Reply
  12. 115

    Amy H. says

    August 16, 2013 at 1:23 pm

    I like the multi step posts and the faster loading of your homepage was a plus. Wonderful piece of furniture and very jealous you have time to do all that with the girls. Our b/g twins are giving us little time to do stuff but they are younger. So much screaming to look forward to, eh? Thought the teething and separation anxiety at the same time times two was alot!!! Ha ha. Love your website and look forward to many more of your projects.

    Reply
  13. 116

    ashley @ my craftily ever after says

    August 16, 2013 at 6:35 am

    I like the format, it was kind of like Christmas. I just kept clicking and there was more! I feel like you are never going to make everyone happy. I personally don't mind truncated posts since it makes it easier to gloss over the ones I am not interested in. This was the same for me, if I hadn't wanted to see the final piece I would have stopped clicking. Maybe offer all the steps at the bottom so that people can see where they are going (step 2 -barn wood, step 3 -fabric lined drawers, step 4- big reveal) so they can choose their own adventure…

    Reply
  14. 117

    Cheri says

    August 15, 2013 at 8:28 pm

    I've never had trouble with loading your site. The multi page post felt like trying to get extra page views, being you asked. That said, I'd still read anyway!

    Reply
  15. 118

    SandyQuilts says

    August 15, 2013 at 6:08 pm

    Love your site. Love your work. Love your girls. I don't have problems with your site loading at all. I did 'not' like flipping to next page, next page, next page, etc. Sorry.

    Reply
  16. 119

    Ali says

    August 15, 2013 at 5:21 pm

    Er… you refinish furniture, paint a million backsplashes, do up your beautful home and look after 2 little people – not boring!! 🙂

    Reply
  17. 120

    Karen says

    August 15, 2013 at 11:45 am

    I never would have thought to redo the credenza that way but I love it.
    Suggestion: For lining drawers, I use preglued vinyl wallpaper. Cut it to size, dip it in water, and "wallpaper" the drawer. It will wipe clean and when you get tired of it, it comes out really easy. You can purchase discontinued rolls for a very reasonable cost!

    Reply
  18. 121

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 10:52 am

    Thanks for the encouragement and feedback Lindy!

    Reply
  19. 122

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 10:52 am

    Thanks Kristin! I'm feeling super twilight-zone-ish because I'm talking to you on the phone RIGHT NOW! 🙂 HA!!!

    Ok about the fabric… we happened to get the same print! In fact, I wasn't sure if everyone got the same one, or if there was a variety floating around. Since you and Micheal got two different ones, you should make some fluffy throw pillows!!

    Reply
  20. 123

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 10:49 am

    Hehe! Thanks for the constructive criticism Angela! Be sure to send pictures when you finish up your credenza/dresser! 🙂

    Reply
  21. 124

    AngelaDL says

    August 15, 2013 at 9:26 am

    Gorgeous! Now I need to kick my butt in gear and redo our buffet/credenza/sideboard (which is really just a dresser)!

    Hope this is constructive, but I really really hate the multiple page tutorial. It honestly kinda made me feel like you were gaming for extra page views – which I know isn't the intent, but it was a major turnoff.

    Hope you all get to rest up soon, I love your monthly posts to the girls and seeing how much they've changed since I first started reading!

    Reply
  22. 125

    Capturing Joy says

    August 15, 2013 at 8:51 am

    oh wow, what a project! First of all, I love the word credenza and have no idea how it is different from a buffet, etc. But hoping someone else enlightened you above. Second, I really was on pins and needles and needed to click through to the end (genious, my friend). Third, did Nick swap his fabric to get matching to yours? We got 2 different–which I love and have no idea what I will do with them.

    Reply
  23. 126

    Lindy says

    August 15, 2013 at 8:29 am

    This is absolutely AMAZING! I want one in my house!!!! I can never find awesome pieces like that on Craigslist! I'm so jealous! 🙂

    The multiple steps was OK…..I was originally reading in email so I had to pop over to the blog but it was great once I popped over. I would rather have steps than taking forever to load.

    Reply
  24. 127

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:53 am

    Awww thanks Brittany! I always like to try out a new idea or technique with each piece of furniture… it's a disease!

    Reply
  25. 128

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:52 am

    You're so sweet Lauren! Thanks for loving it… and taking the time to comment! 🙂

    Reply
  26. 129

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:51 am

    Wow what a complement! THANKS!! 🙂

    Reply
  27. 130

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:50 am

    Becca, that's good to know! Because the whole point is definitely to make loading time faster… we'll take this into consideration! This was just a trial-run 🙂

    Reply
  28. 131

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:44 am

    Thanks for your honesty! This was definitely just a trial run… so we're taking all the feedback to heart. If we do this again in the future, it will only be for lengthy step-by-step tutorials.

    Reply
  29. 132

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:37 am

    I AGREE! There's just something about original hardware. There was a day when I would try to mess with the finish… but I always regret it. Embracing that brassy-ness never fails! 🙂

    Reply
  30. 133

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:36 am

    Thanks for all the positive words Renee! You're so encouraging! Thanks for being one of our loyal followers. I always look forward to your comments… <3

    Reply
  31. 134

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:35 am

    You are SO SWEET Mary! And you know? …I'd totally 'let' you babysit the sisters. I wish you lived closer too! HA! 🙂

    Reply
  32. 135

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:33 am

    Thanks Andi!

    Reply
  33. 136

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:32 am

    Beth! So glad you love the credenza!! And thanks for the feedback on the multiple-page format. I know it's inconvenient to come back to the first post to comment. At the end of the last post, I left a link to the first post to hopefully make it easier. But I might not have made that link obvious enough. Thanks for making the extra effort to comment! 🙂

    Reply
  34. 137

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:30 am

    Thanks Jennifer, we love it too! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

    Reply
  35. 138

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:30 am

    Thank you Sharon! You should you SHOULD!

    Reply
  36. 139

    Brittany says

    August 15, 2013 at 7:25 am

    Definitly one of my FAVORITE pieces you have remade. Seriously, instead of JUST painting, you went above and beyond. It is so gorgeous I cant stand it!

    Reply
  37. 140

    LaurenMarie says

    August 15, 2013 at 6:08 am

    Sometimes I am just in awe of what you come up with. I would have never thought of the barndoor look but it totally works with the stark white. And I like the navy fabric in the drawers 🙂

    Reply
  38. 141

    Amber Wulle says

    August 15, 2013 at 12:35 am

    You did a turquoise glazed vanity a while back that I love- I'm picturing something like that for the paint with copper. They make the peel and stick copper and stainless for appliances… that might work. Cheaper than a real sheet.

    I can picture stainless steel with the white paint. Or mirror. Would be a nice clean look. But the slightly rustic and funky wins my heart…

    Reply
  39. 142

    Anonymous says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:43 pm

    Absolutely LOVE it, probably one of my favorites pieces you guys have refinished!!

    Reply
  40. 143

    Becca says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:13 pm

    Love the credenza make-over, but hate the new format! Too many links to click that I know I'll give up when my computer connection is slow!

    Reply
  41. 144

    leapnlzrds says

    August 14, 2013 at 10:57 pm

    Love the credenza and probably won't click past the first page in multi-step blog posts. Since it's not teaching me how to do something in steps, I would rather just see it on one page. If I'm following along to create the same object, however, I would maybe appreciate every step on a separate screen.

    Reply
  42. 145

    moxiedesignstudio says

    August 14, 2013 at 10:29 pm

    Wow! Need I say more. My favorite part is the original hardware…so stunning!

    Reply
  43. 146

    Renee says

    August 14, 2013 at 10:13 pm

    Beth: The orange hutch is my favorite but this credenza certainly makes a bid for #1! It is absolutely amazing! The navy and white are such contrasting colors that it makes the piece so sharp and clean looking. Very, very striking! As far as the new format, I loved it. I looked forward to each new page with much anticipation! You guys are amazing!

    Reply
  44. 147

    mary says

    August 14, 2013 at 10:08 pm

    Loved the credenza, loved the tutorial, love you guys. Don't ever stop, I've learned a boatload from you. Wish we lived closer, I'd babysit the sisters. Or you could move to Florida.

    Reply
  45. 148

    LittleMyoo says

    August 14, 2013 at 9:54 pm

    This. Is. Incredible.

    -andi

    Reply
  46. 149

    Nikki says

    August 14, 2013 at 9:10 pm

    Best idea yet!

    Reply
  47. 150

    Beth Willmore says

    August 14, 2013 at 7:17 pm

    I am seriously dying, I LOVE that finished piece, and can't believe it's the same credenza!

    Good job, and the pages did load a lot faster since you split them up, but then I just had to click the back button a couple of times to get back to the first place to comment. Is there an easier way to do it?

    I wish we lived closer so that you could do some furniture pieces for me, I seriously love your style!

    Reply
  48. 151

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 4:33 pm

    Haha… THANKS Diane! 🙂

    Reply
  49. 152

    Diane Kimball says

    August 14, 2013 at 4:18 pm

    That's a great idea!!!!

    Reply
  50. 153

    Diane Kimball says

    August 14, 2013 at 4:16 pm

    I would go with sideboard. Just my opinion. LOVE IT regardless of what you call it!

    Reply
  51. 154

    Jennifer - The Deliberate Mom says

    August 14, 2013 at 4:06 pm

    Oh wow! What a STUNNING transformation! I love it!

    Wishing you a lovely day.
    xoxo

    Reply
  52. 155

    Sharon says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:58 pm

    Absolutely gorgeous!!! Makes me want to find one to do!!!

    Reply
  53. 156

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:29 pm

    Wow Christy! This is such a great complement! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

    Reply
  54. 157

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:27 pm

    Thanks Jesse! I just emailed you. 🙂

    Reply
  55. 158

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:26 pm

    Hehe… you're so sweet Mary. 🙂

    Reply
  56. 159

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:25 pm

    Thanks for letting us know how you feel!

    Reply
  57. 160

    Christy Wiley says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:18 pm

    Im in awe. Seriously…in awe. I looked at each page in anticipation, and when I saw the final result, my jaw fell to the floor. It is absolutely one of the most beautiful transformations I have ever seen. This is a job VERY WELL DONE.

    My opinion on the multi step thingy? I liked it!

    Reply
  58. 161

    Nine Red says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:09 pm

    The credenza came out great! I never know what to call them either. This comes just as I'm searching for something for our kitchen too (getting rid of that hutch) and have been doing 4 separate keyword searches on craigers. ha! The barnwood is really really pretty, great job.

    The multi-step: I didn't mind it at all, but I feel like a lot of readers will. Remember the reactions to truncating? I never had issue with your site loading slow, always came up fast for me. Were others saying it did?

    Looking good either way! 😀

    Reply
  59. 162

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:08 pm

    I like it. I like it a lot.

    Reply
  60. 163

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:07 pm

    Well thank you! I agree… I think that little piece of trip really MADE this piece. 🙂

    Reply
  61. 164

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:07 pm

    Wow Ali, now that's commitment! You wouldn't believe how boring our life really is… but when you start writing stuff down, it actually makes me realize that I do more than wander around the house with a cup of coffee and no pants all day. Thanks for following along!

    Reply
  62. 165

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:05 pm

    HEHE! Christina you know us so well!

    Reply
  63. 166

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:04 pm

    Very good point about those who follow in their readers. Thanks for your input! And I'm glad you love the 'credenza'!

    Reply
  64. 167

    Anonymous says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:00 pm

    WOW the credenza is beautiful and the trim piece really does finish it off nicely. Love the new format. Can hardly wait for the next post. 🙂

    Reply
  65. 168

    Ali says

    August 14, 2013 at 2:57 pm

    I ADORE this!! I think it's probably one of my favourite pieces ever from you guys… think I might try do something similar now!

    Also, I have spent the last week or 2 reading your entire blog – you are truly amazing people and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you a tiny wee bit.

    http://www.inflictionblog.blogspot.com

    Reply
  66. 169

    christina @ homemade ocean says

    August 14, 2013 at 2:38 pm

    Preeeeety much obsessed 🙂

    And it's funny because I noticed the new background and thought, "ohhhhh I hope that is a project…that looks like something they would do" and I am even more excited to see the whole shebang.

    Reply
  67. 170

    Nicole Goodwin says

    August 14, 2013 at 1:29 pm

    My idea is to give a summary with the before and after picture included. Then have a link to click on the tutorial. If they want to read how to do it.

    Reply
  68. 171

    Liz @ Wonderfully Made Pursuits says

    August 14, 2013 at 1:15 pm

    Wowzers! What a beautiful, unique piece! It's one of those creative ideas that makes me want to find something in my home that I can try it on!

    As far as the new format, I read most of my blogs in a reader so that means I only click over to the site if I'm interested in what I see there (title, first paragraph, picture, etc.) or if it's a blog I know that I consistently love. For this project there was no way I would have NOT clicked over. When I first clicked the "next" button I thought that it would just be a part 2 of 2, which I was okay with. Having 4 different parts makes it a bit longer, and honestly if it was a project I wasn't as excited about, I might give up in the middle. I LOVE your blog and your projects (and your adorable littles), but I just wanted to give honest feedback. Again, beautiful credenza-buffet-whatever.

    Reply
  69. 172

    Anonymous says

    August 14, 2013 at 1:09 pm

    Very nice, don't mind clicking as my computer is SLOW. What ever makes you happy, it's your blog. Mary in NY

    Reply
  70. 173

    Laney at Mom Of 2 OSaurus says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:38 pm

    I love the credenza, especially that you can swap the door pieces! I do NOT love the new tutorial format, however. I prefer to have everything loaded at once!

    Reply
  71. 174

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:33 pm

    Thanks for your honesty about the posting format. If we do this again, it will definitely only be for very long tutorial-type posts.

    I too hope I get a nap today! Or at least a moment to sit in silence and stare blankly at the wall. 🙂

    Reply
  72. 175

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:31 pm

    Thanks Rachel!

    Reply
  73. 176

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:31 pm

    Yes EXACTLY… so you know what I mean!

    Reply
  74. 177

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:30 pm

    Good to know! Thanks Tina!

    Reply
  75. 178

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:29 pm

    You're too kind! The orange hutch is at the top of my list too. 🙂 How are you feeling?

    Reply
  76. 179

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:28 pm

    Stephanie, it's good to know that the site doesn't load slowly for you. I always wonder how quickly it loads for others. I just don't want to waste people's time! 🙂

    Reply
  77. 180

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:26 pm

    Awww Mallory… thanks for being a regular! And it says a lot when you say this is one of your favorite pieces!

    I understand what you're saying about wanting the option to just scroll. 🙂 If we end up doing this again, it will ONLY be for super long tutorials. And it will keep us from leaving you hanging with separate posts on separate days! GOOD POINT! 🙂

    Reply
  78. 181

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:22 pm

    LOVE the idea of a copper in place of the wood! Or even some sort of hammered or galvanized steel… now you've got my wheels turning! hehe!

    Reply
  79. 182

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:21 pm

    Diane! Thanks for the explanation o furniture-types! So would you call this a sideboard then? It IS on wheels… so maybe it is indeed a buffet? I'm thinking it's definitely not a credenza… OOPS!

    Reply
  80. 183

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:15 pm

    Don't be sorry Colleen! We WANT to know how people feel about it. Honestly we're not even sure how WE feel about it yet. 🙂

    I'm glad you like the credenza transformation!

    Reply
  81. 184

    Colleen U. says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:09 pm

    Super cute project! Isn't it great when it's finally done and you can stand back, admire your hard work and FINALLY feel like it was worth it? THE best feeling!!!

    As far as the multiple steps, I'm sorry, but I really don't like it. Really, really, don't like it. I realize that it may increase initial load time, but the steps (especially when there's 4 of them) take much more time in my opinion. I'd rather wait a tad longer for the 1st page to load than to have to go through multiple steps. I feel I would only take the time to click through if it were a project that I am really, really interested in. Otherwise, I'd just skip it. Sorry! But true….

    Reply
  82. 185

    Diane Kimball says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:06 pm

    Loving the look of the credenza! Totally up my alley! Although I would have changed the hardware color….still love the shape, but think the bronzey patina doesn't quite flow with the crispness of the piece (in my opinion). Here's the answer to your question:

    "The credenza is basically a center shelf section with side, shelved cupboards. Most buffets from the 1800s and 1900s were simply sets of shelves on wheels used to serve food. Most simple sideboards contained three to four drawers across the upper part of the table base. There were two or three sets of drawers on each side. Many were made with open knee-hole openings in the front center, so they resembled desks."

    Also, not to fond of clicking through to see the finished piece. Two posts is good, four is a little long. Never have had a problem with your site loading slow….I must have fast internet!

    Can't wait for more furniture updates! Sorry for the book.

    Reply
  83. 186

    Amber Wulle says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:04 pm

    Ooooh.. gotta find a credenza, paint sprayer, handy man, shop space to work on it. 🙂

    I love how the doors turned out. I've had a thing for hammered copper for a while–picturing it instead of the barnwood, maybe with more colorful paint…

    Torn on the division of the article.

    Reply
  84. 187

    Mallory says

    August 14, 2013 at 12:03 pm

    I absolutely love it! I go to the blog almost every day hoping for a new update. I love the posts about the girls but can't wait for a new furniture post! This may be on of my favorite pieces. I secretly dream someday I'll have a space to do some of the great things you make!

    I didn't mind the multiple steps, but it wasn't my favorite. When the posts are too long, I often find myself scrolling to the end just to see the end product. The shorter posts made it easier to read and then look forward to the next page. If you are going to make a longer post, please don't drag it across a few days, I don't want to wait!

    Reply
  85. 188

    The Ballard Family says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:54 am

    The credenza = BEAUTIFUL! The website is very slow and glitchy. I did not like clicking through to the next step at all and definitely didn't like having to click back to the first page to leave a comment. Thanks for asking our opinion! I hope you get a chance to take a lil nap today! Toddlers are exhausting, but you are doing an excellent job! Love following you on Instagram!!

    Reply
  86. 189

    Rachel Ward says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:49 am

    I like the buttons to click for the next page a lot!

    Reply
  87. 190

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:40 am

    Aww thanks Ann Marie! And thanks for your honesty about the post format. We're just trying it out and seeing if it truly makes a difference with load time…. and do see how annoying it is for our readers. 🙂

    Reply
  88. 191

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:39 am

    Lisa… it was just a box-cutter, brand new out of the packaging. Don't cut yourself! 🙂

    Reply
  89. 192

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:37 am

    Yay! Really? I've never seen anyone else with one like mine either! Our husbands must have similar (stunning) taste in jewelry! 🙂

    Reply
  90. 193

    Beth @ Sawdust and Embryos says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:36 am

    Hehe… thanks for your honesty!!

    Reply
  91. 194

    LisaM says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:33 am

    AWESOME. So, where did you get your super sharp razor blades? I spent 15 minutes deciding what to get at the hardware store for an upholstery project (also cutting fabric) – and I knew it needed to be super sharp! Any tips?

    🙂 So awesome.

    Reply
  92. 195

    Ann Marie @ Twice Lovely says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:32 am

    What a great piece!! I love the way it turned out. Didn't especially love clicking through then coming back to the first post to leave a comment. It's a little cumbersome I think.

    Reply
  93. 196

    Stephanie, Sandpaper and Glue says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:27 am

    I love how it turned out– really refreshing and pretty!!

    I never had trouble with your site loading, but I don't mind the new format. Might be easier to comment on the last post though instead of the first?

    Reply
  94. 197

    Tina says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:13 am

    Loved the credenza!! Amazing!? But really hated the multiple step posting.

    Reply
  95. 198

    Maria says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:13 am

    I love how it turned out! I love the colored wood behind it. Absolutely beautiful! Also, really like the way you did the post. It was actually kind of fun to be "anticipating" the next step.
    🙂 One more thing (and this is totally random and probably a tad weird), but I saw your wedding ring in one of your posts not long ago, and it is just like mine. I have never seen another one like that and I LOVE mine…so I love yours too 🙂

    Reply
  96. 199

    thecarruths says

    August 14, 2013 at 11:05 am

    That is absolutely beautiful!! The post in multiple steps was a little annoying. But it was nice how quick everything loaded. I think if it were two or three instead of 4, it would have been much less annoying. Not that it's going to keep me from drooling over every.thing yall do!

    Reply
  97. 200

    Kenz @ Interiors by Kenz says

    August 14, 2013 at 10:51 am

    This is BEAUTIFUL. I think this is my new favorite piece of furniture you've done. For awhile there it was the orange hutch, but move over Tangerine, there's a new winner! This is SO stunning! The trim really does add class to it, and the doors are simply AMAZING. Such good taste!

    Reply
  98. 201

    Kala M. says

    August 14, 2013 at 9:59 am

    I love it! The changes give it so much more dimension. I totally agree with adding the trim to the bottom. I don't have children yet but I do have two cats who love to lose toys under furniture. There is probably one or two hiding under the stove right now.

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Palm Branch Inspired Art Panels - Sawdust and Embryos says:
    July 24, 2015 at 7:22 am

    […] up with some tall/narrow art pieces to flank the vintage schoolhouse world map that hangs over our credenza currently. And this seemed soooo so so so perfect. Even though we live in Iowa which is about as […]

    Reply
  2. Cutout Silhouette Plaques - Sawdust and Embryos says:
    June 5, 2015 at 7:27 am

    […] eventually put a comb hook on the back to hang this on the wall, but right now I just have it on the credenza leaning against the wall. My favorite thing about this is that all 3 girls are on the same plaque! […]

    Reply
  3. A Tour of our Homestead! - Sawdust and Embryos says:
    May 29, 2015 at 7:19 am

    […] of my favorite pieces in our whole house is this credenza. You’ll just have to read the […]

    Reply
  4. Out With the Old, In With the…..Old? says:
    June 2, 2014 at 12:03 pm

    […] they did over at Sawdust and Embryos for their credenza.  You can read more about her makeover here.  The inside of it is just as pretty as the outside!  I’m thinking we can take off the […]

    Reply
  5. Mini Ladder Shelf for Serving a& Organization says:
    September 30, 2013 at 5:32 pm

    […] do a lot of entertaining, and almost always use our credenza to spread out food buffet-style to keep the actual dinner table uncluttered. This new addition will […]

    Reply
  6. Blog Redesign Reveal! says:
    September 24, 2013 at 4:26 pm

    […] wood’ border along the top is a photograph of the ACTUAL wood we distressed and used on our Credenza Transformation that now lives in our dining […]

    Reply

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We are Nick and Bethany! Welcome to our blog, Reality Daydream where we share our DIY adventures!
Click here for lots of art projects using only wood stain on furniture!!
Please feel free to share or pin my posts! You're welcome to use ONE of my images (no collages or pinnables) with a link back to the corresponding post. Please do not edit or crop that single image in any way. Improper use of my photos, ideas or words is a violation of copyright. Thank you!

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Attention: Almost any do-it-yourself project involves risk of some sort. Your tools, materials, and skills will vary, as will the conditions at your project site. Reality Daydream has made every effort to be complete and accurate in the instructions of the plans on this website. Reality Daydream will not assume any responsibility or liability for damages or losses sustained or incurred in the course of your project or in the use of the item you create. Always follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions in the use of tools, check and follow your local building codes, and observe all commonly accepted safety precautions.

 

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