Dollar Store Pumpkin Upcycle
I love finding seasonal decor at the dollar store because it's - well - cheap! Sometimes the colors are too bright and garish and need a little touch of something to tone them down.
I have shared how to whitewash pumpkins before on my blog (click here for that tutorial). While I used paint in that tutorial, today I'm sharing an even easier way to tone down the bright colors of dollar store pumpkins.
Here is a look at how the pumpkins looked before their mini makeover. I haven't seen these heavy, cement-like pumpkins before at Dollar Tree - make sure you keep your eyes open!
They're not bad, but like I said the color is too bright and strong for my decor style. Also, take a look at the stems - they don't match and the gold is super duper shiny. Keep reading and I'll show you a quick fix for that as well!
This is all you need to tone down bright decor and give it a lighter, softer feel. I purchased both the White Wax and the Antique Gold Rub n Buff on Amazon. You 'll need a lint-free cloth (old t-shirts are great), and a foam brush.
*Designer tip: Using white wax on white chalk painted furniture is a great way to protect your pieces without getting that yellow undertone!
Simply rub a little white wax over the surface of the pumpkin with the cloth, being careful not to get it on the stem. Let it sit a few minutes and then buff (rub) gently with a clean cloth. If buffing removes too much wax, you may need to do another coat of the wax.
Use the foam brush to quickly add a little of the Rub n Buff to the stems, and then buff it. It just takes a little bit to make a huge difference.
Don't the pumpkins look better now? Bonus: if your pumpkins have etched designs, the white wax will get in there and really highlight the design!
Hope you enjoyed this simple project! For hundreds more DIY and decor ideas, check out my blog, DIY Beautify!
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