Sometimes the farmer’s wife at the barn where I sell has pieces she has found that she asks if we are interested in purchasing. When I was there setting up Monday, I found this cute little bench. OK, so it wasn’t so cute to start with….
It was a little rough and worn, but I was up to the task!
That day I had also delivered two chalkboards I made out of antique frames to a friend. I had asked her if she would just trade me for paint, so I came home with 2 full cans of paint, and I told her to surprise me with a fun sample size. She gave me Annie Sloan’s Florence, which I had not yet used even though it’s such a fun and “me” color. I thought this bench would be perfect for a fun pop.
First, I got dressed in my painting clothes. I looked in the mirror and thought to msyelf, “Damn, girl, you need to start a fashion blog, because this look is HOT!’ See what I mean?
I know what you are thinking… Where can I get those ripped up, paint splattered jeans? Let me tell you, they just take time and love and hard work, and then you can have a pair of your very own.
OK, back to the bench.
I gave it just one coat of paint, distressed it with 160 grit sandpaper all over, especially on the edges, and waxed it with Annie Sloan clear wax. I allowed the wax to dry and gave it an all over buffing. I took it to the porch to stage it for pictures and that is where the magic happened. Also know as zero profit margin. Or taking a loss. Economics, my friends. (And I struggled through that class, no surprise!) It looked too perfect on the porch and will be staying there. For now.
Here it is…
And that adorable pillow is from the adorable etsy shop, Drop Cloth Designs.
Here’s a shot to give you perspective. The front door is just to the right, where you see the piddly light that needs to be replaced one day.
And let’s check out the details…
Here is where it was staged originally for my pictures. I wanted to still share this picture as it shows the side view best.
I like it. I will love it and squeeze it and call it Benchy. At least until Benchy’s novelty wears off.
Do you want to see something else cool? Of course you do.
Check out this brick that is on our porch made of marble with the original owners last name engraved (FYI, the photo is not cut off, but the brick is built into the right corner of the house)….
I am thinking we should change our last name. I don’t think Bustamante will fit on a white marble brick.
Happy Wednesday!
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