I found this beauty scanning Craigslist in late winter or early spring and it was listed under furniture as “student desk.” I was pleasantly surprised to find a vintage school desk in such great shape when I clicked the link. The ad said the owner knew nothing about it and was asking for an offer. I really wanted that desk so I offered him $35 cash, which he accepted immediately and I knew I should have started lower. Oh well, after that I saw listing for very poor condition desks like this going for much more so I was not upset.
We picked it up and were glad to see all the great features it had. The chair slides forward and back and swivels. The desk has two different upright positions and it was in great shape. Now I just wanted to repaint and refinish the seat so I had to decide on colors. I chose a gloss gray Rustoleum paint in a can and a red gloss Rustoleum paint that I used both spray and paint on versions. For the seat, I sanded and then used a Minwax Polyshades all in one stain and varnish. I love the way it turned out. What do you think?
Here is the picture on Craigslist:
Here I am in the middle of painting, I was painting the inside, which I sprayed.
Nice and fresh and clean and pay attention to the quality tools I am using. That is a bonafide stick holding the desk at the proper angle for maximum coverage.
Here is the desk after refinishing the wood in one of the upright positions. It was very sunny so please excuse all the glare.
This is the desk in the other height for the elevated top.
Sun in his eyes.
About the desk:
As I was painting I found the patent in many places and on the portion of the top that holds it in the 2 different upright positions I found this stamped in the metal.
It is from the American Seating Company and is a Model Ten Twenty for which you can see an original ad below. The desk was from the 1950s.
Wow, it looks fantastic! Nice job!
Thanks Heather!!!
You did an amazing job! This really brings back memories for me!
Thank you Janet, it was really fun!!!
I found one in my neighbor garbage and I’m in the process of sending everything still not sure in color may go with original loom
I just picked up one of these desks for $10
Hello!
I enjoyed reading your story. I am a teacher who just retired after 45 years of teaching. I am looking for one of these desks to purchase. I had one of these when I was in school and am looking to buy one. If it is already “finished” that would be fine. I would also be willing to do the work myself. If you know of someone who is selling a desk, I would appreciate any help you can give.
Thank you.
Carmen
Thank you Carmen. I would just keep an eye on Craigslist and LetitGo to see if one gets listed. It really is hit or miss but they are out there.
I had a desk just like this when I was a little girl. It was redone beautifully. I wish they still made them like this.