Ep. 86 TRASHED makeover of Old SEWING CABINET

[@pamsheets632]

Another heartfelt story! Beautiful job! Your kindness is in every incredible video an story you share! Thank you Barry for being uplifting in our crumbling world! You're awesome! 😊❤

[@markwalker8868]

My suggestion is to build a storage box for the chess pieces that is the same size and configuration as the original box. Then cut the original platform for the sewing machine to accommodate the new box so when you open the lid you can lift out the storage box and set up the pieces and then when finished you place the pieces back in the box, put it back in and close the lid. Or perhaps it can slide in from the front when the apron front is open?

[@daniellehaggard7401]

That was my idea as well but a shelf inside the door with a place for each piece. And a cubby inside the top for other board pieces like checkers.

[@gregpendrey6711]

Barry's channel is inspiring. These are great ideas😎

[@VioletJoy]

I had a similar idea, but since the chess pieces look so cool sitting on top, I was thinking maybe another game (like checkers or backgammon) could be stored inside.

[@expatmoose]

Super idea👍🏻

[@jodidavis6595]

That’s a great idea.

[@vickiel914]

I've always said, there is a kindness about you that people are drawn too. You have a calming effect. I hope that young couple can recoup their losses and move on with their lives. I love her artwork. Very pretty and moving. This piece, you did a great job, as always. ❤

[@manuelatreide]

My grand mother had one mechanical sewing machine. It is stored in my house and I wanted to sell it a few years ago. My teenager niece dissuaded me to do so: she told me that, one day, she might be happy to have it in her home. I am currently moving back to this house, and you just reminded me that I should take care of this furniture to maintain it for Eugénie. After all, it is hers as well as it is mine… As always, your content is priceless. Bringing into many people’s lives a moment of peace and serenity. Brittany has just been hit by a massive storm that left hundreds of thousands home without electricity and data networks. Mine included. As I am for a few days - or weeks - sheltered in my parents’ house, I once again find comfort in spending a moment in your workshop, watching you taking back to life someone’s piece of past. Thank you Barry. From Normandy, M

[@nancykaminski8600]

I have my mom’s old sewing machine in its cabinet. My dad painted that cabinet in the 60s when the rage was harvest gold or avocado green furniture, and mine is a really unattractive green. I remember the cabinet is lovely walnut under that paint. I am inspired to finally restore it to its true beauty and start using the sewing machine again. Thanks, Barry!

[@VioletJoy]

Sounds like a great plan. These are times I wish pictures could be shared on KZbin. I would love to see it when it's all done. Good luck with that. 💛

[@SisterShirley]

@nancykaminski, from my experience, you'll be pleased with sewing on such a well-made workhorse. The machines offered in the last 25+ years do not usually hold up to the quality of the older ones. Sure, today's are fun with all the bells and whistles, but when you want to just sew a seam or hem a skirt, the older one is no fuss, no muss and gets the job done without learning to code😅

[@nancykaminski8600]

@@SisterShirley yes, it is a good, solid Free Westinghouse machine, vintage 1947. It goes forward and backward, and that’s about it. And that is all I need.

[@laurasell2353]

Thank you for sharing the letter and chess piece story. I was also encouraged by your idea for the sewing cabinet. I also see many of these being given or thrown away, and perhaps more DIYers will repurpose these as you did!

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello Laura

[@richardpfefier1171]

A great project, with a touching and thoughtful story with it. Perfect for contemplation on a Sunday morning. Thank you for sharing this. It was needed today.❤

[@cassandrawoods2271]

Barry another fantastic project and i really do like the way you have repurposed this cabinet but left it so you could potentially turn it back into its original purpose. Keep up the phenomenal work!

[@AmyCeleste]

That is really creative! Restore a finish was a great choice. I love sewing cabinets.

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello amy

[@caroltanzi29]

Barry: nicely done: restoration and story. You have your feet always on the ground. This is what makes a person whole. Carol from California

[@vickiebelk635]

Thank you for saving this beautiful piece, Barry!

[@polgarauk5606]

Beautiful story 😊 I hope that couples path is becoming much smoother now 😊 Wonderful result on the old sewing machine cabinet but I think a shelf would be good too 😊

[@SewTexas]

Love that you have selected old sewing machine cabinet to give new life. I like to say I am pretty sure I began my sewing journey before I could read. I have more vintage sewing machines that I am embarrassed to say, I sew on all of them at one time or another. The cabinet turned out beautifully.

[@ЕленаКолесникова-х3г]

Бари,спасибо ,что есть ваш канал.Я взрослая женщина,мне 62 года.Архитектор с большим стажем из России.Мне нравится вши задумки по реставрации.Ну, а блестящее их воплощение в жизнь ,это вообще ,бальзам на душу.Вы прекрасный мастер своего дела.Руки у вас просто золотые и терпение ангельское.А еще очень нравится,скрупулезность в вашей работе,внимание ко всем деталям изделия, которые вы реставрируете.Вы не только реставрируете фасады и столешницы,но и внутренние поверхности и задние части изделия.Очень многие так не делают,делают только фасады,столешницы ,ну и боковины,иногда ящики протрут морилкой.Ваш результат,новое произведение искусства. Одним словом ,вы замечательный мастер.❤❤❤❤❤

[@MadCityModern]

Loving your comments

[@janinegaylard9233]

So lovely to see your videos picking up and getting sponsors!!!!

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello Janine

[@neilschipper3741]

Thanks Barry for sharing such a beautiful letter. Great job on the sewing cabinet, made a great games table out of it. If you do put a couple of shells in it it would be great for the chess set, checkers, and board games. Thanks for sharing once again Barry.

[@CONSTELLATION_PEGASUS]

Loved seeing this! The tribute was amasing! I once converted an empty sewing machine cabinet to a chess table, too, but I painted the chess board on the top...that took some time. The apron on the table I had wasn't as deep, so it didn't have a door in the front. I removed the sewing machine tray and made a tray that would fit inside the cabinet, when the top was opened, lined it with felt, and that worked great for storing the chess pieces. It's truly amasing how you incorporate life stories into your projects! It gives them a whole new life of their own! Thanks for this video! Phenomenal transformation!

[@piglettowood5476]

I love how you have repurposed this, whilst keeping all the charm and beautiful wood, those brass knobs are perfect. I always find your vids calming but interesting with a sense of purpose. Natalie 😊

[@lyndseybeaumont7301]

What a creative and imaginative restoration. I know someone who would love that. I think I may be on the lookout for a table to transform for chess. Thank you for this Barry. Stay well x

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello Lynsey

[@Leader-fq1dq]

Love it!! It would make a wonderful side table in the bedroom.

[@lisatimora6244]

You have such a calming and kind voice. It makes me follow your channel. The craftsmanship and your thoughts are always positive. I don't know if you have a family, but I think your kindness and thoughtfulness are to be treasured in this crazy world. I would think a family would be proud. I always hear birds chirpping in the background. I don't know if it is part of the "music", that makes your channel is a beacon of hope. The sewing cabinet is beautiful. Take care, Lisa

[@mellymel1100]

This is lovely. My fav thing is the dedication and care you put into your projects Barry! Thank you

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello melly

[@christinebrady6842]

What a beautiful gift that letter and the piece of art included. Sometimes you just never know the ways in which you help others. Keep that close to your heart so you'll always know how valuable you are.

[@Canuckmom128]

Patience, skill and an Artist’s eye - I love seeing old pieces that were well used and full of character, be upcycled and reborn. I was thinking this piece would have also made a gorgeous sink cabinet for a powder room. Very unique approach to your Posts - lots of kindness and calm - much needed these days. Well Done.

[@DorisAnn77]

Always Love the storytelling and narration that has become so commonplace with your videos. Another successful rescue of an unloved and unwanted piece! ❤

[@smb123211]

Three works of art for one! The poetic prose, the perfect video and the restoration itself! Love how you let the actions and results become the dialogue of the story Again congratulations

[@kathleenwoodbury7491]

Another beautiful transformation!

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello Kathleen

[@caroledwards1182]

Lovely! I like the path you chose for the old cabinet, unexpected but delightful.

[@lakegirl239]

Beautiful. I wish sewing machines came in furniture cabinets again and when opened to sew, the machine was flush with the surface. Perfection.

[@maggiesue4825]

My husband and I will have been married 50 years next month. I love your stories, your insights, your reverence for old, sad furniture! Thank you for sharing!

[@thekingtroll2]

wow, that came out great. The inside could have a small shelf for checkers and other small games you could play on that. I found a small side lamp/plant table that was vintage. You can play on it or you can lift the top and it stays up. So then it almost looks like a table with a picture on it. I havent decided what to put on the top but now I might put on a checkerboard. We use it to play cards or small games between two chairs. You'd have a field day in our town in Ohio. They facebook, throw out or Goodwill a ton of small stuff that you can get from free to $10 and go home amazed at the quality of stuff people throw out. I'm lucky. My grandfather was into out door wood working stuff. He'd make a 6 foot Santa and at the time, he'd sell it for $100 back in the 1970's. He'd make a pair of wooden candy canes that he sold for $50. He was in the newspaper twice and I inherited every single tool and supply he ever owned. That's why I love to work with anything wood.

[@CharlotteB.]

Your videos are food for the soul ❣I love watching them, hearing your stories and feeling the calmness that I crave. Thank you!

[@janetmario]

I just did the same thing with a sewing cabinet a friend gave me! Of course, I'm not the craftsman you are, and I DEFINITELY don't have that exceptional laser printer...but I'm satisfied with the way mine turned out (I also made a video and put it on my channel). Thank you for being YOU!!

[@rosaliefunk1629]

Barry, you are a gem. Your love and kindness makes the world a better place.

[@alisavogt2892]

Great video! It would be cool if you could build a shelf that slides out to hold the original box for the pieces!

[@barbaranelson5177]

As a quilter I found this piece absolutely stunning,thank You so much for sharing

[@chefmichaelt]

Barry, you are such a beautiful soul and a blessing to all of us who follow your work. May God bless you richly.

[@reginagibson3847]

You do have a very calming effect when you speak. I'm glad you shared her letter. I will admit that sometimes your stories bring me to tears but they aren't sad tears but tears remembering stories and events from my past that brought me joy and also sadness

[@QueenNanaEva]

What a magnificent and magical piece of furniture

[@MadCityModern]

thank you

[@ChristelWiltbank]

Wow 🤩This was a great save and repurpose piece. I love what you've created and feel sure you're probably going to add to the interior. Really enjoy your videos, they're so inspiring and peaceful.

[@MadCityModern]

Thank you!

[@bluecurlygirl]

Beautiful cabinet. Love how it turned out Barry. Definitely think it could do with a shelf or two or perhaps a drawer?? When I saw it first I thought concealed bar.

[@juliemarkham4332]

Awesome idea and beautiful chess set!

[@jillosiecki3049]

Nicely done. My friends recently refurbished a sewing cabinet like this into a “wet bar” where they installed a plastic dish pan in the sewing machine well. The plastic pan holds ice and chilled wines, while the flipped open table stored wine glasses, unchilled wines, and other items. When not in use, it is closed and used as a simple side table. I thought it was brilliant!

[@sharyndj7404]

I so love how you have artfully woven together your talents…in restoration and storytelling…to create something more than a redesigned piece of furniture. What you bring to each piece delivers a result that has both heart and soul. It is clear from the beautiful pieces you re-create that you have found your purpose. It is so inspiring to watch and listen. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us…we are so excited to come back for more!

[@pattyseel1892]

Beautiful! I really enjoy the peace, serenity and reverence you infuse into your stories! Keep up the good work!

[@cecoya]

I like that you made a chess/checker board on top of a sewing table. Very few people want an old sewing cabinet anymore unfortunately. You made it useful in today's world. You can put a shelf in the bottom to hold all the game pieces so they all stay together. Thank you for sharing that young couples story it puts others in mind and things they go through and allows us to all know we are not alone. You have a wonderful day

[@SusieMonk-jh8tj]

I love thé stories you share as much as your wonderful transformations. Keep safe Barry, you are very loved.❤️❤️

[@FloridaClay]

I never suspected it would make such a handsome game table. Shelves inside to store games sounds idea. I agree with the person who wrote about how you convey a sense of kindness. With the great projects, it keeps me coming back to your channel again and again.

[@MadCityModern]

I always enjoy reading your thoughtful comments for each video. such an encouragement to me. Thank you! Barry

[@matildahicks6311]

You do such beautiful work. I’ve seen those sewing machine cabinets re purposed into make up vanities. But I love the chess set.

[@wgale6397]

I love everything you do, but mostly your soothing voice, which brings me peace!

[@lfuentes4098]

It came out beautifully. I have a similar table that has served as a side table for many years. The finish is a little worse for wear. I think my mom had found it on the side of the road and just cleaned it up and put a coat of shellac or polyurethane on it. She was not a wood refinisher so it wasn’t quite smooth. She gifted it to me after I married and moved out. I love to look at it and remember my moms thoughtfulness since she is no longer with us. I might try the restore a finish since yours came out so well. My dad and I are restoring another of these sewing tables. Also a salvaged find from my mom. But this one has the sewing machine inside. Unfortunately, it’s a complete restoration project needing new veneer. But I’m excited to see it finished. 😊

[@BritInvLvr]

As a sewist, I'm really looking forward to this video.

[@Thatsinteresting363]

This piece is as beautiful as the message in the video!

[@armelleaymonin8907]

Beautifully restored cabinet!

[@MadCityModern]

Thank you

[@ElaineWood-f2t]

I have my mother's sewing machine cabinet. The machine itself is long since gone, but I kept the cabinet as a reminder of the clothes that she made for me and my sister when we were children. The cabinet is probably mostly particle board with a wood frame, but to me, it's a priceless treasure!!

[@tiffanytrippeer5401]

Thank you for sharing her story,I wish for nothing but happiness going forward. And as always another beautiful piece! 😊

[@jeffvenables4845]

Hey Barry! Loved your project this video, and your plan to include the chess board and set. Beautiful culmination of project piece, new toy, chess piece gift, and back story! Very cool. My husband and I will be married 46 years next month. Can’t believe it’s been that many years! Your projects and storytelling skills are always inspirational. Thank you! ~Cathy

[@MaryGarza-u9h]

I enjoy watching you turn a piece of furniture come to live again.

[@samararivett2965]

That looks like the sewing machine table my family used as a TV table when I was growing up. I never saw it open and was fascinated by the bobbin cups and the mechanics I could only see from underneath. Your creativity and honesty are therapeutic to me. Thank you for the great story😊.

[@diannamiles345]

Each piece to me can be likened to a Phoenix rising from the ashes, as the Phoenix is associated with renewal and rejuvenation.... Every piece of furniture you change from unloved and unwanted to beautiful and desirable... Thank you for sharing

[@nickimontie]

I still have my mom's MCM Kenmore sewing machine and cabinet. It's a bit dinged up in places but I love the mahogany color. It will always be a sewing machine for me. Great job on the repurposed cabinet - it was a great use for it!

[@gddrew]

Such beautiful work and a clever repurposing. I love how you appreciate things from the past and show them love by giving them new life and purpose.

[@annatjiekruger77]

I have an old sewing machine cabinet (not nearly as old as the one in the video). I bought it with my first sewing machine. Nowaday I use a table model sewing machine and use the old cabinet as storing space. I just love antique sewing machines and cabinets. At school I learn to sew on a manual powered sewing machine that would have fit in the cabinet in the video.

[@lesleywatkins1172]

What a great idea to change this little machine cupboard into a chess desk! I love the chess set too! Me and my husband have played chess all of our 40 years of married life and we taught our two sons too! It’s a great game! 😊

[@jannamarie3990]

What a beautiful story and beautiful job from you once again. You truly touch my heart. Thank you. Looking for more from you always❤

[@AfterTheRains]

An astonishingly beautiful chess set with a sweet history and now with an appropriate setting.

[@jackstrange186]

This turned out beautifully.

[@maryland8532]

Very nice tribute. End product transformed a beautiful sentiment. Bravo Barry!

[@gloriamccallum5447]

I love the the finished piece and the story you shared it is amazing how positive things you can give to people

[@InamortasFury]

Thanks!

[@jr7575]

Beautiful table it can be used for almost anything looks like a lovely antique.

[@rhondarupright7827]

I still have and use my grandma’s 1942 singer in its original cabinet. I refinished it because my grandpa put fake wood contact paper on it and he also smoked. It is beautiful

[@cherylweso]

My sister made a sink base out of an old sewing machine cabinet,for a mini basement kitchenette. It tuned out great! She protected the wood with water proof product.

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

Barry, we ALL know you're ALWAYS going to create or restore something fantastically. But, it's the story telling that is the most enjoyable part of the video. Wel... that & being able to guess your movies mad quick LOL!!! I know I'm in for it now & I have no doubt you're gonna stump me. Hoping all is well my friend, Dirty Jersey out!!!

[@pickletreewoodcraft7858]

Wonderful and inspiring story! You are indeed a person who emits positive energy and it can have such profound effects with out even specific intentions!

[@carolvalentine2407]

Wow! Gorgeous and clever.

[@Marianpf-o4h]

Interesante restauracion.Gracias.Saludos desde Cantabria España.

[@kristicitak3932]

Beautiful work as always ❤

[@pamallen2498]

Beautiful story. That chess set almost make me want to learn the game.

[@claudiahundhammer837]

Ich spiele sehr gerne Schach......aber auch wenn ich nicht spielen würde, so bildschöne Figuren und ein so tolles Möbel hätte wohl jeder gerne.. ..es strahlt so viel Gemütlichkeit aus❤

[@fannycraddock99]

Lovely story and beautiful workmanship as usual Barry. Take care.

[@57WillysCJ]

Good choice. Sewing cabinets can make nice small liquor cabinets for those who enjoy such things. They made one similar and another that elevated the decantors when the lid opened.

[@sonyawaters9133]

You have such great talent in restoring these pieces. Wish my son could do this. LOL

[@MichaelB8391]

I enjoyed your craftsmanship and your reflections. Thanks.

[@keithhaggard323]

What a wonderful episode Barry. Whenever I encountered a sewing console , I wondered about the hours spent there making wonderful pieces for a family, dresses, confirmation/ baptismal gowns, Wedding dresses . I think to save a piece from the trash pile means giving it a second life. The letter was such a beautiful story of how a web tutorial can be a beacon of hope to another. The end result as a gaming table was just perfect and I liked the contrast in the finishes. Great job good Sir.

[@01backpack]

It turned out to be a nice, unique chess table. Good job!

[@valeriebigley8759]

I love how you maintained the history of the piece while repurposing it into a beautiful place for the chess set. What a heartfelt tribute. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@VioletJoy]

Barry, you never cease to amaze me. Not only is your skill displayed in these videos, but your heart shines through.💛 Why am I tearing up? 🥺 That letter really got to me. The meaning behind her art is inspiring. 💛 I really hope that couple gets another chance to have a wonderful vacation. This table is so cool. The chess pieces are beautiful on their own, but to know the story behind them makes them even more meaningful. It might be nice to add a shelf inside to store another game (and the chess pieces on occasion). Checkers, backgammon?

[@carolynledford6484]

I actually learned to sew on a sewing machine like one that would have been in that cabinet. I always loved the design of those old machines. I really liked the transformation of the cabinet, I would probably put a shelf or some sort of storage for the game pieces. Thanks for sharing your beautiful stories. Everything and everyone has a story, we may not think anyone would be interested but I for one am. Thanks for sharing!!

[@lindaotto-hl1cz]

Beautiful piece! I like the idea of a shelf inside. A place to store other games perhaps?

[@brandielee7971]

This looks like it was for a Sears sewing machine! It looks very similar to my two Sears/Kenmore machines. Both still in their original cabinets. One was my grandmother's, and she used it until the day she died. It shows it age and wear, and at some point I hope to freshen the cabinet to give it even more life.

[@randbodily3058]

Beautiful work. I have one of those cabinets I put on a furniture dolly that I have my chop saw on. Sometimes you just need to forget what something was to give it new life.

[@isabelcortijo2642]

A sad story but full of hope, I can relate with that girl's words and I wish that things go better for her in the future. And you Barry, you did it again, this sewing table has turned out beautiful, and yes, I think it would be useful if you built a shelf or drawer inside, with cubicles or something like that, to store each of the chess pieces . ❤

[@marieortiz158]

Ok I'm here for the Garver Feed Mill midwest vintage market. It's a beautiful day in Mad city! Your video popped up and I couldn't be happier! It turned out beautiful !❤ Marie

[@nanciumphres9001]

Very unique repurposing here. I like this idea. Thanks for sharing!

[@fiberotter]

I have my gr grandmother's treadle machine. The top veneer is in very bad condition. You make me brave to take it off and expose the wood underneath.

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello fiberotter

[@wendy833]

Wow! A new video. Hi Barry. Hope all is well.

[@AlexTodd-60s]

Hello Wendy

[@Jemawin]

Barry, you are such an inspiration! Thanks.

[@theheritagehousesc]

Beautiful work and a great story! Thanks for sharing.

[@KarenWiegel-je9jc]

What a great story!! Another beautiful job, Barry!! You are a joy to watch!!