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From Gilded to Grounded: A Standing Jewelry Armoire's Dark Moody Transformation

Sometimes, a "bright and airy" makeover just doesn’t fit the vibe. I found this standing jewelry armoire after it had already been given a white and gold facelift by someone else, but it felt a bit too "glam" for many people. I knew it had the potential to be something much more sophisticated, mysterious, and—of course— moody . In this tutorial, I’m taking you through the process of retaining some of the previous DIY and layering on a deep, velvety dark green finish. We’ll be leaning into those shadows, highlighting the unique curved silhouette. Whether you're looking to tone down a piece that's "too bright" or you're ready to embrace the dark academia aesthetic, here is how I turned a high-contrast piece into a seamless, moody masterpiece.

From Playful to Pretty: An IKEA Organizer Makeover

Sometimes all it takes is a little paint and creativity to completely transform a piece. This lightweight birch plywood IKEA MOPPE organizer was originally covered in bright colours, hand-painted designs, and plenty of childhood charm by my eldest daughter. While those memories were sweet, it was time to give it a fresh new look that would fit seamlessly into today's décor.

For this makeover, I painted the entire organizer in a soft taupe shade, creating a calm and timeless foundation. To add a touch of elegance, I applied a delicate lace transfer around all sides, bringing subtle texture and vintage-inspired character to the piece. The finishing touch was a set of sweet little wooden knobs that add warmth and charm while making the drawers easy to open.

The result is a beautiful and functional organizer that feels right at home in any room, proving once again that a few simple updates can breathe new life into an old favourite. Follow along as I share each step of the transformation!


Years ago, my eldest daughter and I created a bold and bright horse theme for her bedroom way back when. It has been in storage for years. Time to get a glow up!




I did my middle daughters IKEA MOPPE organizer in shades of grey in a rustic library cabinet vibe. * Click link to see the full tutorial of it.


French villa from the Dixie Belle silk mineral paint line was brushed on using my favorite 2" angled synthetic brush. you can see how just one coat covers the bold purple.


All the previously painted sides were given a fresh coat of soft taupe paint.


My shop assistants, Cooper and Harley supervising the process.


Some areas of the thin birch plywood needed a quick repair. I used DAP wood filler applied with my handy off set metal spatula. When dry, sand lightly and paint or repaint as needed.


To add a bit of soft detail to the outside of the organizer, I chose wedding lace Dixie Belle transfer. Cut to size then using hte enclosed burnishing stick, rub in place after removing the white backing.


Transfer application video

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The transfer is in place. However once revealed I was surprised to see it now was more blue colored than the original grey I assumed it would be.


For the drawer pulls I thought originally the library drawer but they are too stark with this look. And the original finger pull an option but needed a bit more. The little wooden knobs seemed the best choice.


After 24 hours of allowing the transfer to dry I sealed it in place with flat clear coat again using my 2" angled synthetic brush


While the knobs dried in place, a second coat of flat clear coat was brushed on and this organizer is complete.


Charming IKEA MOPPE organizer that has been completely refinished for a fresh, elegant look. Painted in a soft taupe shade and accented with a delicate lace transfer wrapping around all sides. New wooden knobs complete the transformation, giving this piece a timeless cottage-inspired feel.

Perfect for jewelry, craft supplies, office essentials, tea bags, keepsakes, or any small treasures that need organizing.

Measurements:
• 12¼" W x 12¼" H x 7" D 

Features 6 drawers in varying sizes for versatile storage. A beautiful and functional piece that would look lovely in a bedroom, office, craft room, entryway, or on a kitchen counter.

Smoke-free home. Ready to enjoy! 🌿✨

It is available and can be shipped as well.




Take a video tour of it



For your convenience, I've included links to the Dixie Belle products I use. Please note that my affiliation with Dixie Belle doesn't increase your prices. Instead, your purchases through my links may provide a small subsidy that helps me continue creating and sharing these free tutorials. Thank you for your support!
The Amazon affiliate links are for your convenience to see the products I used as well. Ordering via the links may get me a small commission but does not affect your pricing. Thank you if you do choose to order them.

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