How to give an old desk a Moroccan makeover

Keen to freshen up your workstation? Try our Moroccan-inspired makeover – it’s quick and easy to complete!

Step 1

Pull out the drawers and remove the old handles; fill the holes with wood filler.

Step 2

Wait until the wood filler is dry before sanding the drawer fronts; wipe off the dust with a soft cloth.

Step 3

Paint each drawer front a different colour (we used Annie Sloan Provence, English Yellow, Arles, Greek Blue and Emile).

Step 4

Sand the painted fronts to a smooth finish; sand the edges as well to give them a slightly scuffed look.

Step 5

Position the stencils on the drawer fronts and paint each one a contrasting colour with the sponge roller.

Step 6

For a weathered look, wait until the surface is just dry and then wipe over it gently with a damp cloth.

Step 7

Paint the rest of the desk one colour (we used Annie Sloan Old White) and allow to dry.

Step 8

Sand the edges so the wood shows through in places; also sand the flat surfaces lightly. Wipe off the dust.

Step 9

Seal all the painted surfaces with Annie Sloan Clear Lacquer. Measure and mark the position of the new handles, drill the necessary holes and attach them.