January Project For A Cold Winter Day
One of the most gratifying things for me is rethinking the role for an object that has perhaps had it's day, lost it's appeal or function it once had. I have an affinity for boxes. I always look for boxes, especially with lids for storage in various area of my home.
One such thing I constantly look for at thrift or consignment stores is the wooden silver chest.
I have paid various prices for them. From 5 dollars to 20 dollars depending on the size.
I try to look for the ones with several drawers in them, as well as the hinged top.
After gutting the insides completely, I paint the outer surfaces with a good latex white paint, handles as well but, that is entirely a personal choice.
Then, I line the inside. Here, I have used anaglypta type paper, just because I had a role on hand, and I like the raised texture but you can use anything, fabric works just as well.
I distress and antique the outside surfaces and then finish off with a flat or satin water based varnish.
I like the way the pulls and knobs look after painting them. The pretty details stand out with a painted technique which you otherwise might not notice as well.
Look for boxes with interesting detail, like the carved feet on this one.
I have used my repurposed silver chests for storing treasured cards and notes, sewing notions, ribbons and laces, and of course silverware or cutlery.
They get moved from room to room, waiting to serve various functions. Here, in my craft/guest room still under decorating siege!
You can get another peek of one here.
Another example from my Pinterest board, Create...here it has been repurposed to serve as a patisserie server- just lovely! Hope this small idea sparks some great projects for the long winter months ahead. N xo
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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2 comments
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Love how you think!! Wonderful sensibilities...
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I totally understand your affinity for boxes as I too pour over the shelf at the thrift stores. I have two at the moment awaiting a new life. Neither of these have feet, but will by the time I am finished. I like the idea of painting over the handles for the total distressed look. Being a bit OCD I have never cared for distressing, and have ruined more than one paint finish picking a hair out of it, but I think I'm coming around a bit having seen a few things lately that I really like. Thanks.
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