Vintage Secretary – From Ugly Duckling to Beautiful Swan (SOLD)

When I first saw this antique secretary, I knew a beautiful swan was waiting to emerge.

Her serpentine drawers and cabriole legs hinted at the beauty to come.

img_3606

And a writing surface and cubbies only added to her charm.

img_3598

Hidden under dirt, grim,

img_3597

and layers of pealing and cracking paint

img_3600

a beauty began to emerge!

img_3601

On the outside, “Tricyle Red” milk paint from Miss. Mustard Seed

allowed the imperfections and character to shine through.

img_3720

While”Driftwood” by General Finishes provided great coverage and durability on the inside.

img_3722

 Damask and french script stencils add the final touch and

secretarywatermark

The Transformation Is Complete!

And that’s how an Ugly Duckling transforms into a Beautiful Swan!

paintedsecrtarypicmonkey

 Thanks for stopping by! Love Nicole

From Plain Jane to Pretty in Teal (SOLD)

Teal is everywhere these days. From fashion to furniture, it’s the must have color this season.  So I decided to take the plunge and try CeCe Caldwell’s Thomasville Teal and see what the rage is all about. My test subject for this project is this “roadside rescue” my husband found. It’s a plain Jane dresser with good bones. For me, “good bones” means its solid construction, it’s functional and has lots of potential!

Say hello to “Plain Jane”

CeCe Caldwell has a great blue/green paint called Thomasville Teal.

Thomas meet Jane!

0004_thomasville-teal-b

After a few coats of Thomasville Teal, “Jane” is still looking plain. It’s like she has on a pretty dress but no accessories to complement her dress.

 

So, I added some accessories. The numbers add character (like a scarf ) but the black is to subdued. She needs some bling!

img_3417

You can always count on gold for some bling. And, it really pops against the teal.

img_3448

After a little bit of distressing and some gold knobs (earrings), Jane goes from plain to Pretty In Teal!

teal-dresser-watermark

I could see this in a nursery with sweet little baby clothes, or for a toddler just learning to count, or as a lingerie chest in the master bedroom. The possibilities are endless!

Dresser Before                                            Dresser After

Have a great day!