While Jamie was visiting my for my birthday, we made a quick run to Vendors’ Village to see my booth. Jamie spotted this $5 record cart in the back of the store. I agreed to buy it, redo it and if she likes it she can have it, if not, I will resell it.
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I brought out my favorite Krud Kutter to clean up the dirt, grime and nicotine. The rack on the left is original, the one on the right has already been cleaned with the Krud Kutter and lightly sanded.
I used the Krud Kutter on all of the metal parts, including the casters.
The top on the cabinet was in rough shape and it was pressed wood, so I knew I wouldn’t be able to save it.
I cut a new top for the record cart out of a scrap 1×12. Sometimes I get so giddy about having a board the right size, that I neglect to see that it has a really ugly grain to it. Thanks to Rodney for routing the edges for me because I couldn’t find the wrench to my router (table).
I used some Minwax Pre-Stain Conditioner prior to staining.
After the conditioner dried, I used some Minwax Jacobean dark stain on the 1×12.
Not shown: I also sanded the bottom wood pieces and used the stain on them. (It’s difficult to take pictures with your phone while you are staining)
After the stain dried, I sealed the wood pieces with some Wipe-on Poly.
Okay, here’s the amazing AFTER! The only problem? When I saw this picture on the computer I noticed the funny grain of the wood . . . I hadn’t noticed it before.
This was a pretty quick makeover, but it took a LOT of elbow grease on the metal parts.
Can you believe it’s the same vintage record cart? I’m amazed at how different it looks.
Have you rescued and renewed anything lately?
gail
Jennie says
October 14, 2017 at 11:53 amOoo, have you thought about putting wood on the arms that pop up? You could then use it as a bar and tidbit table as well as holding your vinyl and maybe your turntable.
Susan says
April 10, 2016 at 9:04 pmIt looks gorgeous Gail! You did a beautiful job and I love Krud Kutter!
Theresa says
April 10, 2016 at 6:10 pmI love the grain in the wood. Gives it a lot of character.
Reenie says
April 6, 2016 at 10:37 amVery cute!!
Merryjo Agnel says
April 5, 2016 at 11:54 pmWhat a great finished product. I love it!
girlfromwva says
April 5, 2016 at 5:40 pmwhat a great finished product. i love old (sorry, vintage) carts like this. you did a great job!
Betty says
April 5, 2016 at 5:27 pmI think the stand turned out great. I love the grain because it is different.
Kate says
April 5, 2016 at 4:32 pmI want that owl!
Mindi says
April 5, 2016 at 1:54 pmWow what a transformation! The metal looks fabulous, way to go Gail! I love the wood even if the grain is different, it adds character!
Melissa's Antiques says
April 5, 2016 at 8:57 amI love it! Think it turned out wonderful. My husband and I each had quite the record collection before we met. We’ve combined it to a black metal rolling record cart that also holds our record player and another stand alone record holder. Both auction buys – $1/each! 🙂