Decorating with bold colours can feel a little like walking a tightrope. One wrong step and you’ve tipped from “statement-making” into “overwhelming.” It’s tempting to play it safe with neutrals, but let’s be honest, that can be boring and a little overdone. If you’re craving something richer, there’s a way to dip your toe into the world of colour without going full-on neon. The secret? Tone-on-tone layering. By working within one color family, you can create depth, dimension, and personality, all while keeping the overall look cohesive and easy on the eyes. It’s a gentle push outside your comfort zone without the risk of a colour clash disaster. We decided to give this beautiful but dated dresser a modern look by taking those honey colors down to something softer and more elegant. Let’s take a look at the before photo of this dresser. 

Below is a list of supplies you’ll need to complete a similar tone-on-tone layering project 

• Fusion TSP Alternative + Wiping Cloths
• Stain and Finishing Oil -Taupe
• Fusion Mineral Paint – Tapestry
• Ultra Guard
• Electric Sander + Sanding Pads
• Non-toxic Stripping Agent and Scraper
• Mineral Spirits

Prep

While the wood on this piece was beautiful, its heavy amber finish gave off a strong orange tone. Thankfully, the dresser itself was in excellent condition and only needed a deep clean before refinishing. We began by removing the hardware and vacuuming away any loose dust and debris. Then, using a mix of Fusion TSP Alternative and water, we gave the surface a few light sprays and wiped it down with a microfiber cloth. The result was a fresh, grease-free surface, perfectly prepped for the next stage of the project. 

Next, we took out the bottom two drawers to prepare them for stripping. Using a non-toxic stripper that is safe for both indoor and outdoor use, we removed the existing finish and stain. Afterward, we wiped away any remaining residue with mineral spirits. Once the drawers were completely dry, we sanded them with 150-grit paper to get the surface ready for a fresh coat of stain.

Stain & Paint

For the drawers, we wanted a modern, raw wood look, so we chose Fusion’s Stain & Finishing Oil in the new “Taupe” shade. Commonly known as SFO, this product soaks deep into the wood grain with its blend of natural oils and resins, creating a durable, scratch- and water-resistant finish that beautifully highlights the wood’s character. Given the hardness of cherry wood and the need for lasting protection, it was the ideal choice for this project.

We began by stirring the stain thoroughly with a stir stick to evenly blend the pigments and achieve a consistent, opaque colour. Using a foam brush, we applied it in a paint-like manner, laying down a rich, saturated coat and letting it sit for a few minutes before wiping it back. Because the wood had such a warm undertone, we anticipated needing at least two coats to balance out the red and orange hues. To get the best results, we allowed 24 hours of dry time between each layer and carefully feathered out the finish.

While the stain was drying, we turned our attention to painting the base of the dresser. We wanted a complementary neutral tone, and Fusion’s Tapestry was the perfect choice to bring depth and dimension. One of Fusion’s newest neutrals, Tapestry has subtle olive and sage undertones that add warmth without overpowering. For full, even coverage, we applied three coats. A few areas showed minor bleed-through, but we spot-treated those with shellac, then touched up with paint for a flawless finish. To apply, we used a microfiber roller on the broad, flat surfaces and a Staalmeester 2-inch synthetic brush to capture the curved, ornate details.

A Masterpiece: Tone-on-Tone Layering

What a transformation this dresser has been through! From its warm, orange-toned wood to a fresh, modern blend of Taupe layers, this piece has taken on an entirely new personality. The tone-on-tone finish brings out the richness of the wood grain while keeping the overall look soft, elegant, and timeless. 

The taupe-washed finish softens the warmth of the original cherry, creating a more balanced and complementary look. The subtle stain enhances the natural grain while keeping the overall colour palette elegant and understated.

We selected a grey and white stone knob to highlight and celebrate the two-tone finish. Its subtle contrast perfectly echoes the layered effect between the Tapestry base and Taupe-stained drawers, tying the whole look together. 

And just like that, our dresser has been transformed into a modern, layered beauty. We love how the tone-on-tone approach added depth and sophistication without overwhelming the piece. We’d love to see your own tonal look projects! Have you tried layering neutrals in a project? Share your creations with us in the comments or tag us on social media. We can’t wait to see how you bring your furniture to life with these gorgeous shades!