Restyling a Nightstand

Prepare the surface of your nightstand. Remove the drawers and unscrew the hardware. Clean the wood surface with a commercial cleaner. Lightly sand the surface with a fine grit sandpaper and wipe the dust off with a tack cloth.

Apply stain or paint to your nightstand. If you are adding stain to a natural wood finish, remove the existing varnish with a commercial stripper, following the manufacturer's instructions. Apply a stain that is a darker shade for complete coverage. A deep cherry stain will create a traditional look while a very dark espresso finish will blend well with a modern decor. A painted surface will adapt well to a country or eclectic room. Subdued colors such as sage, yellow, rose or blue will accent a country bedroom. Bright, trendy shades of red, green, pink, purple or black will reflect a lively young interior.

Embellish the nightstand. Add decorative carved wooden trim that has been stained or painted to match the new color or finish. Decoupage the top of the stand and the front of the drawers with decorative paper. Stencil script or paint flowers, stripes, polka dots or swirls with acrylic paint and an artist's brush.

Replace old hardware with updated fixtures that will reflect the desired new style. Brass will highlight a traditional stand while brushed nickel will coordinate well with a contemporary approach. Porcelain or crystal will blend well with a country look. Painted wooden knobs can add to an eclectic design.