Asked on May 02, 2014

French Washstand

Lorraine
by Lorraine
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I came upon this dandy and now need some advice: It is rusty and shabby chic but it is going to the backyard as an outside sink for fish, vegetables and hands. Should I leave it as is or should I have it sandblasted and powdered coated to remove the rust? This is the original paint so am very skeptical about the redo. Tell me what you think? I might add that the color of this little dandy matches the wood cook stove I have in the garage - and it will be making it's way to the screened porch this summer - or else! So give me some feedback. Thanks
french washstand, outdoor furniture, outdoor living, painted furniture, porches, shabby chic
Antique French Washstand
Does not go with my rustic little bungalow but the color matches my old wood cook stove which will be making it's way to the porch this summer - so help me!
  79 answers
  • Donna Byram Donna Byram on May 02, 2014
    Love the color, if you can color match it, I would have it sand blasted and powder coated or painted. Especially since all your other fixtures in the picture or nicely painted. If you want to leave it as is, you might consider spraying it with a no sheen polyurethane to keep it from rusting any further.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Donna Byram Thank you for your input. I want to preserve this little dandy - perhaps one of my daughters or granddaughters will take a liking to it. I plan to use it as an outside sink in the summer and because it is so light I can pick it up and bring it in the house in the winter and use as a plant stand. First thing my husband said - you are planning on painting that - right. So I am leaning towards the sandblasting and powder coating.
  • Kelly S Kelly S on May 03, 2014
    Powder coat it to preserve it, otherwise it will rust into nothing because of being outside.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Kelly S Thank you for your input - my husbands first reaction was - you are painting that - right. I want to preserve it - and finding something like this in western Colorado is unique. I am going to use it as an outside sink in the summer and because it is so light I can bring it in and use it as a plant stand in the winter - will do well in the extra bedroom. So I am leaning towards the sandblasting and the powder coating. I really appreciate your comments.
  • Katie Katie on May 03, 2014
    This is really sweet. If you don't love the colour….and it's not valuable…go ahead and repaint it a colour you love that will suit your taste. IF you want to preserve the original colour, I would check into marine varnish. I think it's very funky! I love it.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Katie Hi Katie - Thanks for your input - have been doing some research and found one like it dating from 1850 but don't know if this one falls into that time frame. Things like this just don't show up in western Colorado so I want to preserve it. I will use it as an outside sink in the summer and a bring it in the winter and use it as a plant stand. I have an old wood cook stove that is the same color - so they make a great pair. Will do some further research. Thanks again
  • Chris aka monkey Chris aka monkey on May 03, 2014
    wow what a sweet find, i think you bought it for the design and not the color so changing the color would be ok,can't you just use rustoleum paint? sandblasting sounds so harsh,but if they guarantee no damage powder coating lasts a long time have fun xx
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Chris aka monkey Thanks Chris for your input - we have a great place here for sandblasting and powder coating but I would check with them to see if they think it could withstand the process. True it is not my favorite color but I have a wood burning cook stove that is the same color - so they are a pair. I don't think the bowl is original so will look further for a replacement. Thanks again
  • Jean Marie Jean Marie on May 03, 2014
    Don't touch it!!
    • See 1 previous
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Jean Marie Thanks Jean Marie - I appreciate your comments - I have found another via the internet and it dates to about 1850 though I don't know if that applies to this one - They do have that new coating that makes things waterproof but I am concerned about the rust - if I have it sandblasted I will have it powdered coated in the same color and will use it as an outside sink in the summer and then bring it in for the winter and use as a plant stand. Thanks again!
  • Cheryl Merchant Cheryl Merchant on May 03, 2014
    I would use it as a plant stand and leave it the color it is.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Cheryl Merchant Thanks Cheryl - plan to use it as a plant stand in winter - in the house - and as a summer outside sink. The color is the same as a wood burning cook stove that we have so they do make a pair. Thanks again
  • Sherry L Sherry L on May 03, 2014
    Don't fix it up too much, I love it as is. If you want to change the color just some rustoleum, but not too much perfection. Powder coat would be too prefect.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Sherry L Hi Sherry - I am concerned about the rust and though western Colorado has a very dry climate - I don't want this to deteriorate anymore than it has. I don't really care about the value - just preserving it so I can pass it on to one of my granddaughters. Thanks again
  • Linda H Linda H on May 03, 2014
    I would get rid of the rust.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Linda H Thanks Linda - that is my biggest concern - though western Colorado has a very dry climate I don't want to see this deteriorate any further. Thanks again
  • Kim Stone Kim Stone on May 03, 2014
    I would sand blast. You don't want to risk the metal flakes contaminating foods.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Kim Stone Well Kim, we will just be cleaning the dirt off the vegetables from the garden and my husband can do his initial fish cleaning in it and the gray water will be great for the plants but I don't want it to ruse anymore than it has so and leaning to the side of powdered coating and sandblasting. Thanks for you input!
  • Tamara Tamara on May 03, 2014
    Wow! That is a find! I spent a few years traveling back and forth to Paris, buying antiques and selling them here in the USA, and there is little that I haven't seen. That is a beauty and you MUST leave it AS IS. I am not a fan of blue, but that is incredible and to do anything to it would ruin it forever. You are very fortunate to have such a great piece and it is amazing. Enjoy!
    • See 2 previous
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 05, 2014
      @Tamara Tamara - you have some great points. I will leave it as is - at least for the time being - you are so right - the charm is in its weather worn condition and I don't want to take that away. A couple of years ago I came upon another garage sale and found a cast iron plant stand - painted white - tile was missing but the bones were good but there was soooo much paint on it that you couldn't see the filigree - bought it and had it sandblasted and powder coated - it doesn't look like the same piece - they took off dozens of layers of paint - the charm in that piece is having all those delicate swirls now showing, My plan for this piece is to use it for this summer as an outside sink and then move it in during the winter and keep looking for that "cheap" farmhouse sink that can stay outside without any worries. I honeymooned in Paris - enough said about that marriage -but I loved Paris and the way of life I can still taste those fresh croissants and strawberry jam 45 years later. Wishing you a great week and summer and thank you again for your insight.
  • Donna Conrad Donna Conrad on May 03, 2014
    Personally, I would paint it all white - and put that in my bathroom - filling the bowl with sponges and assorted fragrant soaps, vintage linen towels on those racks, and some pretty toiletries on the table-top...with a potted plant at the base. It's just too cute for the outside! Then of course ~ Come Halloween at your door entrance...guess what you could fill that bowl with? (( ; )) Either/or - it's a keeper!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Donna Conrad Well Donna, bathrooms are too small and house is too rustic for white but I will put it in the spare bedroom and use as a plant stand in the winter - and I would like to keep the original color. As I read all of the comments from people it is hard to decide whether to put it outside for the summer or bring it in. Thanks for your input!
  • Evelyn R Evelyn R on May 03, 2014
    I'd also keep it in ... I love yard art but this is a beauty to keep around.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Evelyn R Hi Evelyn, I will keep it in during the winter and the spring - when the wind blows a gale here. I just can't decide whether to refurbish or leave as is. We have a very dry climate in Western Colorado so the rust will be slow to grow and that is my main concern. Thanks for your input!
  • Karan F Karan F on May 03, 2014
    That would make such an Awesome out door, sink, coat the bowl, place a drain inside the bowl, hookup to water source, be good to have by back door for a quick cleanup from gardening.. :)
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Karan F You are thinking like me! Think I will need to find a different bowl - don't think this is the original and it is really beat up - worse than the stand. This is light enough that we can bring it in the house or the shed when the wind blows or it starts hailing and I will bring it in during the winter and use as a plant stand in the spare bedroom. But I wanted something to wash off vegetables from the garden and a place where my husband can do an initial fish cleaning - and this seemed to fit the bill. Thanks for the comments - I appreciate it!
  • Cathy Jo Cathy Jo on May 03, 2014
    KEEPER as is
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Cathy Jo That's the rub - we don't have much humidity out here - western Colorado is pretty darned dry - I am thinking that I might just leave it as is through this summer and then consider the options comes fall. Thanks for the input - appreciate it!
  • Jami F Jami F on May 03, 2014
    Rustoleum now has that clear water shield spray to protect things from the out door weather and water. Can't remember the name. Love the color. Is it going to be a sink with a water source? That would be fantastic!!!!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Jami F I have seen that advertised and the next time I go to the hardware store I will check into it further. I just don't want the rust to eat it up. Just standing it in the backyard, up against the house and next to the outside spigot - we can clean garden vegetables, do some initial fish cleaning or wash our hands BEFORE we come into the house - have seen so many gorgeous outside sink arrangements and this just seemed to find me before I found it. Thanks Jami for your thoughts.!
  • Robin Gilbert Robin Gilbert on May 03, 2014
    Have you researched it's value as it is? I have never seen anything like this. It may have some antique value as it is that would be ruined if you painted it.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Robin Gilbert You are so right Robin, I did check on the internet and found one like this dating from around 1850 - so I don't really want to ruin the antique integrity of the piece - I have seen the waterproofing spray that Rustoleum now has and think I will check further into that and then revisit this dilemma at the end of the summer. Thanks so much for your thoughts - you made a very good point!
  • Joni K Joni K on May 03, 2014
    just seal with clear spray and leave it as is . It's very cool I'd love to have it.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Joni K Thanks so much - I have never seen anything like this around here! Our climate is very dry so the rust will not creep as fast as it would if we were in a humid area and though the color is not my favorite - it matches a wood burning cook stove that I have. Will bring it is during the winter and use as a plant stand. Thanks again!
  • Margo Steeneken Margo Steeneken on May 03, 2014
    Keep the blue color and protect the paint. Like the idea of a plant stand
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Margo Steeneken Will do that plant stand thing in the winter - it will be great in the spare bedroom and though the color isn't my favorite - I want to leave it as close to original as I can. Thanks for your thoughts!
  • Wanda Brethorst Wanda Brethorst on May 03, 2014
    Oh my so neat..don't think I would put outside and I would clear coat it too lucky find!!:)
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Wanda Brethorst I will look into that waterproofing product that Rustoleum is advertising and I will bring it in during the winter - I also think there is something to spray on that protects from the UV rays - Thanks for your thoughts!
  • Wendy Willey Wendy Willey on May 03, 2014
    It's gorgeous! I think I'd replace the metal sink bowl with a really pretty flowering potted plant.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Wendy Willey - Yup - the bowl has to go - it is in worse shape than the stand - so I am looking for a nice porcelain bowl - and will check the storage space in the top of my garden shed first. Will bring it in during the winter and use a plant stand in the spare bedroom. Thanks for your thoughts!
  • Kenny24 Kenny24 on May 03, 2014
    I'd leave as is
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Kenny24 Comments are running about 50/50 - so I will probably leave it as is for this summer and then revisit the sandblasting and powdered coating in the spring. Thanks for your input!
  • Judy Lxn Judy Lxn on May 03, 2014
    leave it- anyvalue will be lost if you mess with it, WHY OH WHY??? do people feel the need to mess with stuff? old is beautiful....we will be too some day.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Judy Lxn Well Judy - I am old! Medicare and me became best friends last month - ha ha - but I don't want to ruin the integrity of the piece and I don't want it to deteriorate any further. Our climate is dry so I doubt the rust will advance too much further and I will bring it in during the winter As I answer everyone's comments I am thinking that I will let it go for this summer - and then see what it looks like in the fall and if has accumulated more rust then I will make a decision. Thanks so much for your thoughts!
  • Gwen Duncan Gwen Duncan on May 03, 2014
    knock the rust off, not the paint and seal it! Its a cutie for sure. But like everyone is saying keep the rust away from your food.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Gwen Duncan I am not sure how to clean off the rust and not the paint - so will figure that one out. We will use it just to wash the dirt off of the garden vegetables before they come into the house, some initial fish cleaning and a place to wash our hands before we come and rewash our hands. Will bring it in during the winter and use as a plant stand. Thanks for your thoughts!
  • Patricia Linn Patricia Linn on May 03, 2014
    Keep it as is!!!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Patricia Linn it's running about 50/50 - keep it as is to refurbish! And as I answer the comments from people I am leaning on keeping it as is - sealing it and coating it with a UV protector and then revisiting the makeover next summer. Thanks for your thought!
  • Ann298900 Ann298900 on May 03, 2014
    Leave it the way it is. Maybe you can seal it ,but it is so adorable just the way it is!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Anni I am leaning towards leaving as is - as I read through and answer the comments it is running about 50/50. I don't want it to deteriorate any further but I also don't want to compromise the integrity of the piece. Thanks for your thoughts, Anni. ( my favorite name by the way!)
  • Debbie Sue Gardner Debbie Sue Gardner on May 03, 2014
    its perfect just like it is. i love it
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Debbie Sue Gardner Thank you - I am leaning towards leaving it as is - sealing it from the UV rays and any further rust and then revisiting this question next summer.
  • Darlene Carson Darlene Carson on May 03, 2014
    Very cute but I'm in love with the white chair with red arms...where did you get it???
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Darlene Carson So you are only one so far that comment on the chair! That little piece came from the house across the alley from my mom's. The people in that house also had a twig picnic table and benches and they were moving. So I asked my mother if she would ask the people if they would sell me the twig picnic table - at that time we lived in the mountains and it would go great on the porch. They gave use the picnic table and benches and threw in the chair which was in pretty sad shape. I tried stripping it and that did not work so when we moved to this house - out of the mountains thanks heaven - I took the chair and had it sandblasted and powdered coated in the same original colors, bought some plastic tubing to protect the rockers. So start checking out backyards in old neighborhoods - you never know! Thanks Darlene for your comments - they have been fun!
  • Susan Johnston Susan Johnston on May 03, 2014
    Cute little stand. Would make a great fern stand, you could fill the basin with ice to keep bottled beverages cold when you eat on the porch, could be an adorable bird bath in a garden. I also adore your white and red chair!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Susan Johnston Thanks for the input Susan, I will leave outside and use as a summer sink for cleaning garden vegetables and hands, but will bring inside for the winter months. I love the idea of a bird bath and I bet the birds around here would too. The little red chair has a story all of it's own and thanks again for your input.
  • Janis Janis on May 03, 2014
    I would seal it so no futher rust.. But it is so cute and would be great the way it is
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Janis I think the tide has turned and the vote is in favor of leaving as is - the ruse does bother me and I will look into a sealing agent to protect it from further deterioration. I thank you for your thoughts.
  • Maureen Maureen on May 03, 2014
    Love the color - leave it as is.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Maureen It's a color that kind of grows on you - I think. I am now leaning towards leaving as is and trying to find something to seal it so the ruse doesn't do it in. Thanks Maureen for your input I appreciate your thoughts and time.
  • JoDien Bamberg JoDien Bamberg on May 03, 2014
    Leave as is and place wave petunias in the white bowl. Love this piece
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @JoDien Bamberg Oh - where I live the deer would make a quick snack out of those petunias - and I love them! It looks like the vote is swaying towards leaving as is - though I think a sealer to protect it from further rust might be the order of the day. Thanks for the vision of petunias hanging gracefully from the pot - I appreciate you time and input.
  • Debbie Debbie on May 03, 2014
    I would find out the value before I 'd put ant thing on it even a clear.If it is original state it may reduce the value. I love the piece.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Debbie Thanks Debbie - I do have a friend that dabbles in antiques so will ask her what she thinks - in the meantime I will leave as is - I think the charm in the piece is the wear and tear and if I refurbish it that will all be gone - thanks for sharing your thoughts - i appreciate your input.
  • Mary Lou Graham Mary Lou Graham on May 03, 2014
    I agree with Debbie I like it as is
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Mary Lou Graham - Well Mary Lou the vote is swinging you way and as I said to Debbie all the charm is in the wear and tear and if I refurbish it that will be gone. Thanks for sharing your thoughts I appreciate it.
  • Vic230262 Vic230262 on May 03, 2014
    As is!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Vick Okee Dokee - I don't want to ruin the charm of the piece by refurbishing it so I am planning on checking with an antique dealer about sealing it against further rust damage and will keep it in the house during the winter. Thanks for your input I appreciate it.
  • Peggy Peggy on May 03, 2014
    I like it just the way it is and it does match your stove!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Peggy You are right about that - it does match the stove! When I first saw the piece it was the shabby look of it and the color that pulled me in. Thanks for your thoughts - the tide has turned to leaving as is. Appreciate your time Peggy.
  • Jackie I Jackie I on May 04, 2014
    I would be weary of putting food in it. It could be lead paint and I wouldn't necessarily want to chance getting rust in my food.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Jackie I We will use it as an outside sink - to wash hands and garden vegetables before going into the house.so am more concerned about the rust eating through the metal than getting on the food - but you do have a great point and I would certainly not use it for prepared foods - thanks Jackie for sharing your thoughts and ideas - i appreciate it.
  • Nedra Brush Bohan Nedra Brush Bohan on May 04, 2014
    I say the check with the value, if you've no intention of ever selling it. I'd make it match the red and white chair.Too cute!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Nedra Brush Bohan - I love that idea but it already matches a cook stove I have. Doubt that I will ever sell it but I sure don't want to diminish it's charm by refurbishing it. Thanks for your time Nedra, I really do appreciate your thoughts and time.
  • Marilyn McClelland Marilyn McClelland on May 04, 2014
    Great piece.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Marilyn McClelland Thanks Marilyn - it sure grabbed my attention!
  • Brian S Brian S on May 04, 2014
    https://www.facebook.com/pages/Prismatic-Powders/196108587134804?fref=ts
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Brian S So I looked at your link - these are powder coating colors. I had the red and white chair - you can see a little of it in the picture - sandblasted and powdered coated a couple of summers ago - kept the original colors but think the original paint was lead based. Thanks for the information - I will hang onto the link.
  • Beverly Alley Beverly Alley on May 04, 2014
    LEAVE IT THE WAY IT IS SET A POT OF VINES INSIDE THE BOWL, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A CONTAINER TO CATCH ANY LEAKS UNDER THE FLOWERS OR VINES, MY CHOICE WOULKD BE SWEET POTATO VINES.../
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Beverly Alley - I love those sweet potato vines - I could put those inside of it when it is not being used as a summer sink - what a great idea and I thank you so much for your idea and the time you took to share it with me Beverly.
  • Debbie Dean Debbie Dean on May 04, 2014
    I agree with Beverly Alley - the decorating rule that supports leaving it the way it is - is that every room needs 1 surprise element. The fact that it "doesn't go" makes it "go."
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Debbie Dean You have taught something today. I have never put it into words but there are things in this house that go even though they don't - now I know why. I really like it the way it is and don't want to do anything to diminish the charm. Thanks for education Debbie and your time - I appreciate both!
  • Sandi Maurer Sandi Maurer on May 04, 2014
    What an amazing look love this the way it is !!! Please ship to Ohio !!!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Sandi Maurer Think we should share it - can I send some deer along with it - all the fewer to eat my flowers! Thanks for your thoughts Sandi and your humor!
  • Amy Hodgen Amy Hodgen on May 04, 2014
    Definitely leave it :D
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Amy Hodgen That is the way the tide is turning - leave it as is. Don't want to diminish the charm so will try it for one summer as is outside - check into sealing it to prevent further rust damage, bring it in during the winter and use it as a plant stand. Thanks for your thoughts -Amy - it's a long way from the UK to CO - glad you came by.
  • Cheryl Long-Odell Cheryl Long-Odell on May 04, 2014
    Leave it as is!!! Justcoat it yo withstand being outside and to stop anymore rust...
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Cheryl Long-Odell That's the way the vote is going - leave it as is - I will check into coating it with something to protect it from further rust damage - will keep it outside as a summer sink and bring it in this winter and use as a plant stand. Thanks for your vote and your time Cheryl - I appreciate it.
  • Heather (New House New Home) Heather (New House New Home) on May 04, 2014
    Definitely leave it!!!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Heather (New House New Home) When I first starting reading the comments they were leading towards the sandblasting - that made my husband happy - but the more I look at it and think about it the more I like the idea of leaving it as is - refurbishing would take all the charm away - would look like something that came out of a department store - Thanks for your thoughts and time Heather - I really appreciate both!
  • Jest Pati Jest Pati on May 04, 2014
    I would paint it to white and decorate it with gentle vintage roses ......
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Jest Pati Now that is something my mother would have done - but alas there is not white in my house - just rustic mountain. However - if I put roses on it at least my resident herd of deer wouldn't be able to eat them! Thanks for the idea - I appreciate your time and input.
  • Kate F Kate F on May 04, 2014
    I would leave it the way it is at least for a little while. Repaint if you keep thinking about it and find it bothers you. Either way - it's adorable!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Kate F You know Kate - I think your idea is the cats pajamas - leaving it for the summer, using it as a summer outside sink, bringing it in for the winter and then revisiting the redo later. Thanks so much for the insight and I really do appreciate your time and input.
  • Cheri Cheri on May 04, 2014
    I would wait awhile to make sure I knew what I wanted to do....but with that being said, I would paint it white and use it indoors. Outside it is just going to continue to rust and I would think get in poor shape over time. It is so adorable that I would use it either in my house or on my covered porch. Wish I could find one like that!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Cheri It's pretty darned dry here - we get less than two inches of rain a year - almost no humidity - we complain if it rises to 10%. Snow is another story - though we don't that much here and I will bring it in during the winter. I am thinking that I will try it for one summer as an outside sink, keep looking for that "cheap" farm sink and then revisit what to do with it next summer. Who knows - nothing in permanent that's for sure. Thanks for your input and time I appreciate it.
  • Jackie K Jackie K on May 04, 2014
    Whew...heart racing! I'd paint the entire room to coord-go with it before I'd alter the sink in any way! :)
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Jackie K Well I could do that - but my husband would have to move to the garage and there is no tv hookup out there - ha ha! I do have a spare bedroom that it will go into quite nicely - so will put the little stand in there for the winter - oh the walls are blue and the quilt on the bed has lots on blue in it - so it will make a dandy plant stand for the winter. Your reply is a hoot and I thank you for sharing it and your time.
  • Delores M Delores M on May 04, 2014
    I say you throw it in a box, get rid of it . . . I'll give you my address ;-)
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Delores M - Sorry - there is a little line ahead of you - if you don't mind waiting your turn. Thanks for the humor and your time.
  • Ann S Ann S on May 04, 2014
    Make it the start of a outside garden center & hook a faucet or hose to it!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Ann S Bingo! You get the prize! - I don't know what that is though. We keep tracking into the house to wash garden vegetables, clean fish and wash hands after grubbing about in the dirt - this will keep a little more of the dirt outside. Have an outside faucet in the back that we can hook up to it - and it will be great - less house cleaning - I think. Hey thanks for getting my drift and sharing your thoughts I appreciate it.
  • Sandy Wiseman Sandy Wiseman on May 04, 2014
    Beautifull, I'm 69years old and I've never seen this before. Keep it that way for awhile then decide if you want to powder coat it. I , also live in Ohio .call xxxxxxxxxxx if you want to send it to Ohio. God bless you.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Sandy Wiseman Well Sandy - I am not far behind you age wise and I had only one - not quite like this one - and it was a display piece with NFS tage on it - I kept going back to the store and checking but they never took the sign off. I will keep it as is for now and then decide - next summer - if I really want to refurbish it. Will keep it in house during the winter and use as a plant stand. There are two of you from Ohio - perhaps you can share when your turns comes up - ha ha. Thanks for your thoughts and input I appreciate your time.
  • Elaine Simmons Elaine Simmons on May 04, 2014
    I have never seen anything like it either, Sandy and I am 73. I love it and would keep it just the way it is!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Elaine Simmons Well shoot - I am a bit younger than you and have only seen one - in a little shop in a little town in the CO mountains and it had a big NFS tag on it. The piece was a little different but I kept checking back and it never went on sale. I think I will leave as is - if we get a hail storm I can put it in the shed and I will keep it in the house for the winter - great plant stand. Thanks for your time and input - I do appreciate both.
  • Katie Young Katie Young on May 04, 2014
    Leave it! What a gem you have there.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Katie Young Thanks Katie - as I pondered the purchase - I decided that this was one of those things that I would regret not buying for years to come - and I think I will leave it as is - after all - it's been like this for along time - another year or so won't hurt it and then if I decide to refurbish I will. In the meantime - we use it as an outside summer sink and bring it in for the winter months and it can double as a plant stand. Thanks for your input, and your time - I appreciate both.
  • Diana T Diana T on May 04, 2014
    would make a great birdbath
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Diana T The birds would love as well as the resident herd of deer - they would drink it dry! If I ever tired of it - or come up with a better idea - I will put your birdbath idea to good use. Thanks for the input and your time Diana.
  • Patricia Laursen Patricia Laursen on May 04, 2014
    Thanks... Mine is going to my outside shower, which I adore. Perfect for shaving or even just a flower pot in the changing area. Can't believe I didn't think of that.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Patricia Laursen Now I don't have the outside shower - but that is great idea - please don't share that with my husband - he thinks I have too many ideas - ha ha.
  • Patricia Laursen Patricia Laursen on May 04, 2014
    Mine is from England and has all the beautiful pottery for washing, shaving, water, thunder jug, drinking pitcher, drinking cup, larger water pitcher. That will be staying under wraps for now. It is all numbered and painted with violets. Only the metal stand will go outside, or maybe I should look for a new one.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Patricia Laursen As I looked through the internet I found that it looks like the bowl was probably porcelain or even ceramic - the one that is in this one is certainly not original - it will move to the shed just as soon as I find a replacement - which means I must look in the shed loft. Thanks for your input and time really appreciate it - and share that outside shower idea with me sometime.
  • Patricia Laursen Patricia Laursen on May 04, 2014
    Leave as is!!!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Patricia Laursen And I am planning on leaving as is - at least for now - I figure - as I have read all of the comments - that it's been like this for years - another year or two won't hurt it and it can come in during the winter and go out during summer - multi tasking. Thanks again Patricia!
  • Vivian S Vivian S on May 04, 2014
    Is there a clear Rustoleum spray paint that could be used to add protection without changing the original? Would that work?
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Vivian S I don't know Vivian. I will look into some kind of sealer so the rust doesn't do anymore damage - Thanks so much!
  • Liliana Wells Liliana Wells on May 04, 2014
    I would leave it as is ad use as a planter. What fun!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Liliana Wells Planter in the winter, outside summer sink in the warm weather. Good place to clean those garden vegetables and hands after grubbing about in the dirt. Multi-tasking! Thanks for your input and thoughts - appreciate both Liliana!
  • Judy Martin Judy Martin on May 04, 2014
    never seen befor is that the true color? / use it inside unless it has a sealer/weather will mess it up ....
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Judy Martin I think it is the true color - but I will have to check further. I have a wood burning cook stove that is the same color - and though it is not my favorite it kind of grows on a person. I will check into sealing it before I put it out in the elements - but will bring it in for the winter months and use as a planter. Thanks Judy for your thoughts - they are most appreciated!
  • Caroline Hargrove Caroline Hargrove on May 04, 2014
    If something isn't done about the rust it will just keep getting worse to where nothing can be done and then the item won't be worth fixing anymore. So I'd at least do what I could to fix that. Also don't think I'd want rust water to clean any food I was going to eat.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Caroline Hargrove I will look into doing something with the rust - but I would like to keep it as is at least for the time being. I will bring it in during the winter and we don't have a lot of harsh weather here in the summer and little humidity so what shows on photo is probably years and years of rust. The bowl needs to be changed out but there won't be any prepared food near it - just grubby garden hands and just picked vegetables. Thanks for your thoughts, Caroline I appreciate hearing what everyone has to say.
  • Lori Lori on May 04, 2014
    O mam i saw one almost like this one, it was more of a table top one.I thought it was a childs wash stand. Now I wish I had picked it up. !!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @ Don't you just hate when that happens! I know the feeling - and I knew if I didn't load this up in the truck and take it home I would be feeling that way! I did look on the internet and saw some that had more of a table top - there is a whole page on Pinterest devoted to these things and I have only seen one other in CO and that one wasn't for sale. Next time Lori - just buy it! Thanks for sharing!
  • Karren Brunell Karren Brunell on May 04, 2014
    I would use it as a wine rack, and the basin as a chiller filled with ice...maybe add some brackets for glasses or something like that...
  • Char J Char J on May 04, 2014
    Unless the rust would be a concern in working with food (you mentioned fish and vegetables), I would leave it as is.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Char J The only food that will around it will be just picked garden vegetables and grubby garden hands. My husband could use it to clean his fish but I doubt that he will - otherwise I think I will leave it as is and decide next summer if it needs a paint job. Will bring it in for the winter though - that is a whole different cup of tea. Thanks for your input and thoughts Char - I do appreciate you taking the time to respond.
  • Shelby Hansen Shelby Hansen on May 04, 2014
    never have seen one before either......I'd leave as is for now. If it starts to seriously deteriorate then I would redo.....
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Shelby Hansen You are absolutely on track! It's been like this for years - it is dry here - not more than 2" of rain per month - so the rust will not move rapidly and will bring it in during the winter. If it starts deteriorating quickly then I will have to take those drastic actions. Thanks for your input and thoughts I do appreciate you taking the time to respond.
  • Liz Takacs Liz Takacs on May 04, 2014
    it is probably worth more if you leave it that color but a great to protect it.
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Liz Takacs You are right Liz, if I refurbish it will look too new and take all the charm away - so i have decided to leave as is and keep a close on the rust and bring it is during the winter. If I had small children buzzing about I think seriously about redoing it now - but I will probably be the only one to use it and even if I have to have it redone - I will keep the color. Thanks for your thoughts and input I appreciate you taking the time to respond!
  • Donna Bruffey Donna Bruffey on May 04, 2014
    Excuse me, Lorraine, but don't they use the word "please" in Colorado? I apologize, but I was raised to say "please" AND "thank you".
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Donna Bruffey Oh Donna if you reread the first part of my question I did say "Thanks" - I really wasn't raised in a barn and as I write a note to each person that has replied to my question I am thanking them for their time, their ideas and their input. I hope you have a lovely week and thanks for your input as well.
  • Nana Pompey Nana Pompey on May 04, 2014
    looks great leave it as is
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Nana Pompey Oh My - my sister used to teach school in Cottage Grove - about a million years ago - or in the 80's which is about the same. Will leave it as is for the time being - if it looks like it might start sliding further down hill I will have to take those drastic measures. The charm is in the shabbiness - just don't want the rust to take over. Thanks for your input and taking the time to respond.
  • Cheri G Cheri G on May 04, 2014
    I would treat the rust and then coat it with the same color paint rust oleum. I like the idea the other lady gave about using it as a planter it would be beautiful! What a lucky find!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Cheri G I think I like the idea of using it as a planter when it is not being used as a sink and then bringing it in during the winter to keep it safe from the elements. I will leave it as is for the time being and if it starts to go down hill I will take those drastic measures and have it sandblasted and then I might just spray paint it myself so it doesn't look quite so perfect. Thanks for the input and your thoughts I appreciate you taking the time to respond to my question.
  • Nedra Brush Bohan Nedra Brush Bohan on May 04, 2014
    One can get too many different colors going on, so you might want to keep that in mind as you stand back and assess the colors in the area where your items will be inhabiting. Good luck!
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 04, 2014
      @Nedra Brush Bohan - It's going in the back of the house - away from the red and white chair and the black table and chairs. Nothing back there but the porch and some flower boxes with flowers if it ever warms up. I do have a blue bedroom in the house that it can stay in during the winter - otherwise it would not go with anything inside the house. Thanks for the point I do appreciate it.
  • Darlene Carson Darlene Carson on May 05, 2014
    Well beautiful job on the chair also...I'd paint the wash stand to match...even though people will freak out if you paint it...love it all painted or not!
  • Funnygirl Funnygirl on May 05, 2014
    Love your treasure,if you want to put it outside you will need to protect it from the elements check with the local hardware store
  • Karen Wallace Karen Wallace on May 05, 2014
    Make a fairy garden with it. Lots of good ideas here and on Pinterest.
  • Cheryl P Cheryl P on May 05, 2014
    Love it the way it is,,,,,
  • Tamara Tamara on May 05, 2014
    You are lovely and I hope you don't mind if I "follow" you. Best, T
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 07, 2014
      @Tamara Thank you so much for the compliment - and I don't mind a smidgen if you follow me just hope you aren't too disappointed as I don't do too much on here too often. Happy Hometalking
  • Linda Linda on May 08, 2014
    I just love this, as it is, no changes necessary. But I would definitely protect it from bad weather. I would bring that stove in that matches, and keep them both together on a covered porch somewhere. This would make a beautiful planter in my opinion. Have fun!
  • Rae E Rae E on May 09, 2014
    Does anyone have any idea how I could make a knock off of this to put at corner of house by the new vegtable garden for me and the family? Love this idea great piece ya got there @Lorraine
    • Lorraine Lorraine on May 09, 2014
      @Rae E Thanks Rae. This could be along story but I will edit it way down - do you ever find any old iron sewing machine legs at garage sales etc.? They are few and far between up this way - but my original plan was to use the stands as the support, add a counter top with flashing to waterproof and then cut a whole in the top of the top to hold a sink ot a bucket - can't find the stands around here and this thing appeared at just the right time. Also the old galvenized washtubs and stands would work as well. Keep me posted I am curious to see what you find, Thanks again.
  • Annie Mac H Annie Mac H on May 30, 2016
    I have two of these. One blue, one pink. They're in my garden at the moment & I'm worried about them rusting too. X
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