From Workshop Find to Finished Piece: A Customer Transformation

There’s often a moment in the workshop where a piece catches someone’s eye before we’ve even started on it.

That’s exactly what happened with this wardrobe.

It had just come in — still with its original waxed finish, untouched and not yet through our usual preparation process. Solid, honest antique pine, full of character… but not quite what the customer had in mind.

They liked the shape straight away, but wanted something completely different in terms of finish.

Darker. Bit more depth. Closer to a look they had in mind.

How the Wardrobe Was Found

At this stage, the piece was exactly as it had arrived with us.

No prep, no adjustments — just a good, original antique pine wardrobe with years of use behind it and a traditional waxed finish.

This is often where customers see the potential.

Taking It Back to Bare Timber

To achieve the new look, the existing wax finish had to be fully removed.

This isn’t just a quick tidy-up — it’s a full strip back to bare timber so we can start again properly.

Only once the surface is completely clean can you begin to build a new finish that will be consistent and long-lasting.

Building the Colour in Stages

From there, the finish was built up gradually.

We used a walnut wood dye as the base tone, followed by adjustments using black colourant to deepen and balance the overall look.

This is where experience really matters.

It’s not just about making something darker — it’s about getting the tone even across the whole piece, working with the grain rather than against it, and making sure the final result still feels right for the timber.

Finishing in the Workshop

Once the colour was where it needed to be, the wardrobe was sealed and finished.

The aim was to create a deeper, more aged look while still keeping the natural character of the antique pine visible.

It was also lightly distressed by hand so it didn’t feel too “new” — just enough to soften the finish and help it sit naturally with the piece.

The Inspiration Behind the Finish

The customer had a clear idea of the look they were aiming for, and that always helps guide the process.

We’re not trying to copy something exactly, but to get as close as possible in feel and tone, while still working with the individual piece in front of us.

The Final Result — In Place

Once finished, the wardrobe was delivered and put into position in its new home.

This is always the best part — seeing the piece in the setting it was chosen for.

From a workshop find to a finished piece that fits the space exactly as intended.

Looking for Something Similar?

Stock changes regularly and individual pieces are often sold quickly.

If you’ve got a particular size, style or finish in mind, our Wishlist service allows us to source and prepare pieces to suit your requirements.

📍 Mickle Trafford, Chester CH2 4TA🚚 UK nationwide delivery available