Thursday, April 30, 2009

Project Friday

This week I'm joining 'Project Friday' hosted by Sugarplum Cottage.
I don't know about you but I have a hard time finding designer tissue boxes that go with my decor. I have been wanting a box holder for awhile and happened to find this one for $2.50 at a household sale. I had never seen one like this.
I decided to paint it dark green to go in my bathroom. I lightly sanded it because it had a varnish on it. Then I painted it with 2 thin coats of acrylic paint. Remember 2 thin coats is always better than one thick one. Don't worry if the paint appears too bright. Sanding will soften the color.
When completely dry I sanded the edges with fine sandpaper. Since this piece was stained before, I just sanded to let the stain show thru.
This process also works with layers of color like in this tea box. You can see stained wood and a dark blue under the red.
This crayon box has a layer of dark green as an undercoat.
If your sanded wood doesn't have enough color or the final color isn't dark enough, cover the entire piece with a water base stain and wipe until you have the shades you want. This process will also darken the areas where the wood comes together to add a more antique look.
I added a star to cover the hole for hanging and a candle I got at a craft show last weekend. This whole process can be done in a very short time. The most important thing is to make sure the layers are dry before adding the next layer or sanding.
For more 'Project Friday' posts go visit Rosemarie at Sugarplum Cottage. She has shown you how to make a beautiful, quick and easy hydrangea wreath today.

10 comments:

Unknown said...

You are way to creative!! I love it...

Cedar ... said...

Jean, I'm always amazed that you take time for these kind of projects. How nice! I do like the dark green.

abnsigoslady said...

I love your project. You are right, it is difficult to find just the right tissue cover. Mine usually stay hidden for that reason. Great idea and beautiful too. :) Laura @the mansion

Heather said...

the tissue box looks amazing! love the candle and star!

Paula said...

Love your containers! I think I need to figure out my decor style so I can add charming things like this - garage sales here I come!
Paula in Idaho

Rosemary said...

What a transformation.

Sugarplum Cottage said...

Love this idea, I've seen these tissue holders before but it has been a long time. I too love to paint and scuff, you had a wonderful project. Thanks for joining today. Rosemarie

Connie said...

Nice job!! Really looks WAY better than before!

Barbara Jean said...

I love how your designer box turned out. thanks for the tips on staining.

Blessings,
Barbara Jean

Barbara Jean said...

PS Love the script font you use.
How did you get that choice??

thanks,
Barbara Jean

PSS Who or what is the lady bug wandering around your screen? Something new to me.