It wasn’t glamorous—certainly the least enjoyable part of the process—but each section I removed felt like uncovering history. Eventually, the vanity stood stripped to its bare bones.
Then came the sanding—hours of it.
Reaching into every crack and curve took persistence, but the payoff was worth it. As the surface smoothed, the wood’s natural character began to emerge. I chose a grain-defining stain that enhanced its depth, producing a warm variation in color across the different types of wood.
The mirror topper went through the same process, and in the process I uncovered a stamp reading “Galax Va., 1942”—a small but thrilling confirmation of the piece’s 80-year history.
For the finish, I applied four coats of premium satin polyurethane, which offered both protection and a soft, elegant sheen. The original handles, polished with a bit of Brasso, gleamed once again.
After more than 100 hours of work—along with some blood, sweat, and a few tears—the transformation was complete. What was once a worn and forgotten vanity has become a cherished centerpiece, restored with love and ready for another lifetime of use.
