DIY Painted Mid-Century Drawer Pull Starburst

Carrie Waller

There's no denying that mid-century modern furniture has taken the interior design world by storm. This trendy development is, of course, wonderful for those of us who appreciate retro antiques, yet the rise in demand has drastically effected the cost of these vintage pieces. The good news though is that you can get the look with just a few simple details reminiscent of the bygone era! Find out how to transform a plain, boring nightstand into a mid-century-inspired beauty in just five easy steps.

Choose a Plain Side Table or Dresser with Drawers

Start by choosing or purchasing a plain side table or dresser, making sure that the piece has at least one drawer for this project. You'll also need to ensure that the drawers can accommodate the height and width of your stencil, so make sure that you have the stencil handy as you source your furniture piece.

Carrie Waller

Place the Starburst Stencil on the Drawer Front

Remove your drawer or, if possible, detach the drawer front entirely from the piece of furniture. Lay the drawer or detached drawer front on a flat surface, and remove the drawer pull hardware. Take the stencil outside to a well-ventilated area, and spray the back of the stencil with a thin and even coat of stencil adhesive spray. Bring it back inside and center the stencil around the drawer pull hole. Press into place with your fingertips.

Carrie Waller

Mask the Rest of the Drawer

Use delicate surface painter's tape to mask off the rest of the drawer front and sides. Press all tape edges firmly down with your fingertips.

Carrie Waller

Apply Spray Paint Over the Stencil

Take the drawer or detached drawer front outside to a well-ventilated area, and lay it on a piece of scrap cardboard or paper. Spray 2–3 thin and even coats of paint in your color of choice over the stencil, avoiding the other masked-off areas of the drawer front. If needed, use this opportunity to spray the drawer pull to match.

Carrie Waller

Reattach the Drawer Hardware

Gently remove the used masking tape and stencil immediately after spraying on your final coat of paint. By removing the masking materials soon after painting, you ensure that the paint won't stick to and come off with the stencil. Allow the paint to dry for 24 hours before handling the drawer or detached drawer front and drawer pull, and then screw the drawer pull back into place to finish.

Carrie Waller

Carrie Waller