One Life Many Journeys

Throwin' Things Together Family Style

2011-05-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

I get no greater pleasure than working on a project with family.

This little bench is something my brother threw together and then came to big Sis to get help with the finish. I decided to experiment with a technique I have seen in Blogville. We sprayed it red, let it dry (with a heat gun.....impatient) then rubbed it in spots with a candle then painted over it with black. When the black was dry (heat gun again) I rubbed the wax spots with steel wool after heating them with the heat gun.....Ka-Blam! That is the easiest and quickest way to get a worn look without sanding marks. What do ya think???

I had a hard time getting my lighting right....pictures were taken at night.

Cohorts in crime....I mean co-project-workers

Ammo Case To Bench

2011-04-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

This is the first project that my sweet husband has helped me with and I want to thank him publicly. It made the project even more fun to have him helping me. This is an ammo case I got from our local gun & ammo store. The girl that bought my round table set wanted a bench and I told her about the ammo box and she loved the idea. Here it is....

We started sanding and knew that we needed more help so my hubby leaves and brings me back this......pitter patter goes my heart.

He is just the bestest! He really knows what makes me happy....I would rather have power tools any day over flowers.....anywhooo back to the bench... A while later it was looking much better...

After we....well mostly he finished sanding I stained it with some oops black stain from Lowe's....gotta love the oops section for saving some money. Next came lots of sanding to get the desired look, then another rub down with brown stain to warm up the wood that was now peeking through. I then finished it off with a good coat of wood wax. The inside was sanded, stained and waxed.

I almost forgot to mention Joe mad the awesome feet out of 4x4 pine.

I have one more ammo box and I am making a table out of it.......will post as soon as it is done.

Joined the party at...

Can You Imagine What COULD Be Done With This?

2011-02-18T04:34:00.000-08:00

I am trolling Craigslist while sipping my cup of ~~cootie killer~~ Immune Boost this morning and came across an ad for a free 1980's piano. You know you have it bad when all you can think is....I could use those front legs to make some sweet candle stands....could use the 3 panel board above the keys to make a message board.....could use the top piece of wood to make a sign. There is all this old beautiful wood and they are giving it away. I know....I am sure there is someone out there looking at this same ad wondering how much it would cost to restore it to it's glory so they can learn to play. I have been there and tried that....now I see it as a canvas for creativity! What would you do and please don't beat me up....I have a problem and it is called impulsive creativity disorder. LMBO.

Well....What would you do????

Another Goodwill Refab

2011-02-17T11:54:00.000-08:00

I was ~~stalking~~ browsing in a Goodwill in a nearby town and saw these sad little tables. I just knew no one in their right mind would want them except me, of course. I am hoping to change that thought. They were just kind of piled together so it was hard to tell exactly how they would work. You know how GW loves to tape stuff together. They intrigued me so in the car they went.....shhhhhh. I am not supposed to be buying more stuff. My husband thinks I have enough. Is that really possible? Well....anywhoo.... I didn't get before pictures of anything but the drawers. The tops were a mess. The veneer was cracking and coming up. Nothing a little wood glue and wood filler can't fix. I will start the pictures with the drawers and go right to the part we all love....Tadaaa! The after!

After so many coats of primer I lost count.....paint, modge podge, distressing and polycrylic....here is the Tadaaa!

Now they just need a new home......
Updated: Sold....$80.00
linked to:

My Dream Is Gonna Happen!

2011-02-13T06:41:00.000-08:00

First let me say that most of my dreams include spending time with my husband. I have been hinting and out right begging him to hang with me in the basement when I am working on projects. He wasn't feelin' it so I have not spent as much time down there as I would like.

Well that is about to change. He has started building workbenches and shelving for people and is getting more into being in the basement. He even said he would start helping me with some of the sanding and prep work on larger pieces of furniture. WHAT! Shut the front door....I am STOKED! We spent the day yesterday setting the basement up to suit both of us. Sometimes I feel like I spend more time organizing than I do getting anything done. I guess getting your work space right is an ever evolving thin.

Refabbing will be even more fun now....and I will probably get way more done and can start listing pieces on Craigslist to supplement our income.

We all have different dreams and that is mine.....I am a simple girl and it don't take much......just time with my man. 25 years and still lovin' my man.

Check out his new blog Will Build 4 You and if ya got a minute show him a little bloggin' hospitality.

Just a teaser of his handy work

This is what we call "The Wet Work Station" What makes it great is the "Man Sink". It is the best thing we have ever done in our house. We installed it to use with our Reef tank. Well that is gone and the sink remains. Read more about it on his blog.

Don't Stand Between a Girl and Her Caffeine!

2011-02-08T08:03:00.000-08:00

should have taken pictures with it fully taken apart.....scary.

I know this is not my typical furniture post but I have to toot my own horn. You know how I like to save money but what you may not know is I am a coffee snob and am totaly addicted to my espresso machine. Well it started leaking on me and I called tech support and asked about service. Their service fee is $275.00. I know....WHAT! You gotta be kidding me. I know it is a high dollar machine ( purchased at a steal on ebay) but this chick has been out of work for three years and is on a budget. What does a girl with no fear do? If you said start taking it apart you are correct!!
I removed all the sides, back and top.....while husband got nervous. found the leak and started taking it apart to fiure out why it was leaking. Simple.....needs new o-rings. Hubby goes to Lowes and gets what looks like the right size....wrong. They looked exactly the same but did not do the trick, so I called the maufacturer to see if they would sell me the o-rings and no dice. They will not even let any other service companies work on their machines.....snobs!
What do I do....detective work to find a supplier. I found suppliers all over Europe but could not read french. So I go where I should have to start with...my trust allways helpful Ebay. Searched and found a guys who sells and works on this machine.....I won't tell the manufacturer if you don't. He shipped me the o-rings and order is restored in my home. How much money did I save you may be asking yourself right now......$261.00 smackarooooos~ Now that is what I am toalking about! Can you tell I am a little proud of myself? Oh yeah!!
Now I need to go downstairs and take pictures of the table set I just finished......it is too cute but must be sold.

Great Giveaway From A Sweet Girl!

2011-01-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to give you guys a heads up on a great giveaway. Head on over to This Home Of Ours to enter in her giveaway. She makes and sells beautiful tile monograms. I am awaiting one she is sending me and I am so stoked. She has choices in styles and colors. Go on over and get yours or get one as a gift for someone special for valentines!

An Award and A Few Details About Me

2011-01-02T19:30:00.000-08:00

I'm stoked to tell ya that I've received a stylish blog award from Potential Treasures. Thanks Andi!

What a great start to a new year. The Stylish Blogger Award is given to recently discovered blogs. I love blogging and how generouse everyone is with their talents and creativity! Thank you again for a great start to the new year!

So here is what you need to do to receive your award.....

1. Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award.

2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers.
4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award!

1. I am an adult with A.D.D. and am blessed to have a patient husband. It lends itself to lots of creativity and desire to create...BUT......makes it hard to complete anything . I call my husband "The Closer" because he always helps me or motivates me to finish things before bouncing to the next thing that captures my attention.

2. I am ashamed to say I love reality TV. I guess I love to watch a train wreck. Makes me feel like I have it together.

3. I can never follow a recipe without putting my own touch on it.

4. I always have to be doing something. My husband says I can never go to the "Man Place"....which is the place in their head where nothing is going on.

5. I am always on the hunt looking for the next piece of furniture to rehab even though I have lots waiting to be reborn......which gets me in lots of trouble.

6. As I am writing this my husband brought it to my attention that my brain works way faster than my hands.

7. I have been eager to make a slip cover for a chair but am letting fear keep me from just doing it. UGHHHH!

These are 15 awesome bloggers that I want to award:

Second Time Furniture

One The Floppy Cow

The Hott Spott

The DIY Spot

This Home Of Ours

Trying To Get Stuff Done

Sweet Pickins

Ms. Smartie Pants

Younique 727

Curbside Creations

Creative Juices For Decor

Creative Ambitions

Chrissie's Collections

Brandi Nell The Southern Bell

Blissfully Blessed Home

Check out these up and coming Bloggers and show them some support. Make them feel the love of our community.

Crazy Big Giveaway

2010-12-31T04:36:00.000-08:00

You will only believe this one if you see if for yourself. Head on over.....or not. Leave more chances for me if you don't believe me. I know....bad blogger.

I know....crazy right???

Silhouette Giveaway

2010-12-26T06:58:00.000-08:00

Ok people.... I know this is a good thing and a bad thing....for me anyway. Room to Inspire is giving away an amazing Silhouette package. Me posting about this gets me another chance to win but means more people know about it and will enter. Oh well....best of luck to all of us. May the luckiest blogger win!!!!

Here is the link to the give away.....

Ballard Ribbon Sale

2010-12-26T03:25:00.000-08:00

Ballard's has their Burlap Ribbon on sale. Regular price is $12.00 and it is on sale for $3.99. You may need to call in your order because when I went to the cart it said it was no longer $3.99, but was $10.00. I called and they placed my order and adjusted the price. Happy shopping!

New Blog Template.

2010-12-25T19:05:00.000-08:00

I am messin' around with template designer. Does anyone know how to center the header? I would love suggestions on things to make it look better. Thanks!!

The View Out the Window & Cricut to The Rescue.

2010-12-25T18:18:00.000-08:00

This is the First Christmas we have had snow here since 1969. It is a beauty too.

Here is a peek out my window.

This is a last minute gift I made for my brothers girlfriend who is always putting sticky

notes on the kitchen counter. Quick and simple. The pen is attached to the back with

a velcro dot.

Toodles...

Have a Blessed CHRISTmas!

2010-12-24T04:36:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to wish all of my bloggin buddies a very BLESSED CHRISTMAS. I hope everyone takes a little time to think about the reason for the season.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS

Pazzles Inspiration Accessories Listing

2010-12-21T19:00:00.000-08:00

I have a few Pazzles Inspiration accessories (Cricut compatible) listed on eBay for sale. Listed items: Pen Tool, Swirls and Twirls Image CD, 7 Piece Tool Kit and an Engraving Tool.

The Tool Kit and the Engraving Tool are compatible with Cricut. I have one of the Engraving tools and it works with my Cricut. The 7 Piece Tool Kit is compatible as well.

eBay link

http://shop.ebay.com/dragoneyes1998/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=&_trksid=p3686

Antique Snowshoes For Sale

2010-12-11T16:07:00.000-08:00

Antique Snocraft Inc. snowshoes for sale. They are 57"x10". I have always wanted a set but sadly they do not work in my house. They are listed on eBay.

Pottery Barn has sold them in the past for $149.99+. Just wanted to give my bloggin friends a shot at them.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160518273161&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

Brass Lamp Refab

2010-12-11T13:09:00.000-08:00

I have been on the hunt for a heavy brass lamp that I could score on the cheap. I have loved all of the Pottery Barnish refabs i have seen all over blog land. So....I was ~~hunting~~ shopping in Goodwill one day and I heard the angels sing. Could it be......a tall sexy brass lamp. Could it really only be $3.50? Yep! Does it work? Yep! In the buggy it went and I am ashamed to say that anyone who even eyed it got the stank eye from me. I would have took somebody down for this beauty.

I rubbed it down with steel wool, cleaned it up and took out the lighting fixture and wiring.

Painted it with "Oil Rubbed Bronze", rewired it with an all in one kit from Lowe's. Picked up a lamp shade from Wal-Mart and all was good until I realized the harp was too big for the shade. Back to Lowe's and got an eight inch harp and no I am lovin it!!!

Light ~ $3.50

Shade ~ $14.99

Light kit ~ 9.99

Harp ~ 4.00

Grand total of $32.48 ~ Not bad if I must say so myself!

What do ya think?

Linkin up with:

Christmas Art Project & My Favorite Holiday Decor

2010-12-06T19:25:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a project that was inspired by Sarah over at Hennessey House. She is a great artist and has an Etsy site that she sells her work on. Do yourself a favor and check her out.

I have been seeing people using old sheet music and printing on it so I made me a lil' project.

(Picture heavy)

Click to make images larger

Drew the ornament and tree and printed and outlined the "Happy Birthday Jesus"

My pencil tree

This was inspired by Tracy at ,a href="http://tracys-trinkets-treasures.blogspot.com"target="_blank">Tracy's Trinkets and Treasures.

In the corner on the kitchen counter.

The reason for the season!

Just a few of my favorite Christmas decorations.

Party at:

Update on Console Set

2010-12-03T12:04:00.000-08:00

I just had to share with you guys. I am so happy..... if my feet felt better I would be jumping up and down and doing the happy dance.

I have had my first refab sale. The best part about it is a friend who moved away saw it on my Facebook and decided she wanted it. She is going to have her brother pick it up and bring it to her over the holidays.

Whoot Whoot!!!!!! What now!!!!!!

I know, I know......I didn't win the lottery but it is still exciting. I am more excited about someone liking my work than the money, and trust me they are both important.

SOLD $100.00

Console Refab

2010-11-29T07:49:00.000-08:00

I am reposting this refab because last time I posted it I was wanting feedback. This post is simply before and after.

After

Lined the drawers with wrapping paper.

Thanks for looking

Party over at:

Did I Commit A Blog No-No

2010-11-27T06:09:00.000-08:00

So..... I am real excited about the reveal of my first refab since I had double foot surgery 3 months ago. In my last post I write about how the piece started out and add pictures......should I have stopped there. I then added info on how I listed it in Craigslist and asked for feedback on the piece and the ad. I am trying to start selling pieces as I no longer work as a hair dresser because of a motorcycle wreck I was in. That being said I listed a couple of pieces on Craigslist a while back and only got one nibble. That is why I decided to ask for help. I am not good at putting a value on my own pieces because I have put my heart into each piece. I do not have the stamina to do volume so each piece is a labor of love.....and takes me a while.

I guess I should ask two questions and hope for brutal honesty. I can be that way if asked? Maybe it is a curse but I would rather you tell me the piece is crap than say it is the greatest.

So here it is.....Did I do wrong by including the parts in my post about selling it or is it just ugly? I can take it. I learn well from constructive criticism.

Here is the link to the post if you are interested in my quest for education on the ways of blogging.

http://onelifemanyjourneys.blogspot.com/2010/11/2-piece-console-table-reveal-and-need.html

2 Piece Console Table Reveal and Need Advice

2010-11-24T11:39:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to have finished a new piece. I was even able to give Modge Podge a try. She started out a lil' county and now I don't know what you would call it? Any suggestions?

Click to make pictures larger

I painted it barn red and they sanded the edges and glazed it with watered down black paint.

Modge Podged the drawers with wrapping paper.

Now this is where the advice comes in. I need some from you ladies who sell their Refabs. I listed this piece on Craigslist. If you would give it a view and then any suggestions......too much info, not enough info, price up or down. Any help at all would be appreciated.

http://winstonsalem.craigslist.org/fuo/2083160051.html

Party over at:

My Love Affair with Craig(slist)

2010-11-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

Craig is so good to me. Look what I was able to get for a song and a dance.......

I am not a big fan of the whole stained pine country look.

I have started painting it so be on alert. It should be done in a couple of days.

Can't Keep A Crafty Girl Down

2010-10-18T18:48:00.000-07:00

Here it is my friends...I am coming back. This is not a big project but it feels huge to me. I have been sitting for over 2 months letting my feet heal from surgery. I have been itching to do some kind of crafting or refabbing I needed something I could sit and do with my feet propped up because they are still swelling. I was at the local salvage merchandise store the other day on my way back from my post op. visit and found these wooden fence newels and caps for cheap.

Yep...that is $1.95 for the newls and .95 for the caps.

Time to screw the newels to the caps and smear some joint compound all over. I couldn't find my latex gloves so I was using a trash bag over my hand and it gave it a good texture.

The screw in the round one would not go all the way without coming out the bottom so after it dried I screwed it up into the newel.

I primed, then painted them with satin white Krylon spray paint.

Next up is a few coats of Minwax till I got it the way I wanted it.

They remind me of something I saw in a Ballard's catalog. The only thing I wish I had done different is use flat paint. The only time it looks shiny is in bright light. Isn't it funny how just the simplest thing can make you so happy.

Linked to following parties:

YIPEEEEE!

2010-10-18T14:10:00.000-07:00

I don't have time to edit my photos at the moment, but I actually got to do a project today. This is my first project since I had foot surgery on both feet. If they were healed I would be jumping up and down!!!! I will try to post tonight when we get back from eating with friends or in the a.m.

Here Is A Deal For My Sewing Ladies

2010-10-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

Came across a good deal on four Husqvarna Viking 7-Hole Cord Presser Feet.

Works for following Viking Machines ~ (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

I am going to keep one and list the others on eBay if anyone is interested you can check out the listing here.

http://cgi.ebay.com/HUSQVARNA-VIKING-7-Hole-Cord-Foot-w-Threader-NEW-/160493711367?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item255e2bb007

I can't wait to create something with some of the decorative stitching I can do with this foot. I think it would make for an interesting stitch for some quilt blocks.......

Where Did You Get That The Man Asked???

2010-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was having a new mattress delivered this weekend from a local furniture store. The owner was part of the delivery team and he walks into the bedroom and sees this table and askes me where I got it......

I causally tell him that I got it at a yard sale and that it had a rustic southwestern look to it before I refinished it....

To my surprise, he says that it looks just like a Henredon piece that he has sold before.....now he may have been yanking my chain but the room got a little brighter cause I just lit up. I strutted my tail feathers all day!

Just one more thing to make me itch to get back into the swing of things!!!

Need Heed Help On How To Respond To Comment In Thread.

2010-10-10T09:02:00.000-07:00

I have noticed that some bloggers respond to comment right below the actual comment. Does anybody know how to do it and if so can you explain it to me?

THANKS!!

Where Have I been...Thanks for asking!

2010-10-10T07:09:00.000-07:00

I have had a few of my bloggy friends ask where I have been lately. That really touched me!! If you are like me I follow so many blogs that sometimes I don't realize if someone has disappeared for a while. I should pay more attention. Well I will tell you guys why I have been MIA. I have had back to back foot surgeries. I had my right foot done about two months ago and my left done almost 2 weeks ago.

Right foot: bunion fixed, second metatarsal shortened, two hammer toes and a tailors' bunion fixed......all five toes! I sent my brother that lives out of town a picture and he started calling me Franken Foot.

Left foot: Bunion fixed, one hammer toe and a tailors' bunion fixed.

I thought about posting pictures but that just might make some of you sick. Having said all of this....I have been sittin in the recliner a LOT with my feet up. They swell a lot when I get up too much.

I pulled my blog up to show to my brother who just moved in with us. I just thought I missed it until I started showing him my before and afters.......I miss it TERRIBLE!!!!!!!! I even tried to get my hubby to go in the basement and sand something up while I watch. He of course didn't jump. Oh well.....I will continue to live vicariously through you guys! You never know what your blog means to people, so bring it on girls! Following all of my favorite blogs has been my main source of entertainment. So bless you all!!!

Ohhh..... The Milky Goodness!

2010-07-09T05:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not been blogging much lately. I have been buying and listing clothes on eBay and there has not been much energy or brain clarity left. I am having a flare up of fibromyalgia (fatigue and brain fog). This being said I am a trooper and wanted to give you guys a lil somethin' somethin'!

I found this ~~sad~~ lovely lamp with so much character and milky goodness at the Habitat Restore and had to have it.

Plugged her in and...behold there was light!!!

look at that sad silver finish attempting to get off the base!

Blurry, but yes, it is a $5.00 sticker.

I took it apart...as much as I could without cutting the cord and rubbed some stain sealer refinish stuff on the wood and painted the silver parts with none other than ORB. Look at her now all dolled up with a new $1.00 yard sale shade.

Couldn't get it together enough to remember to take pictures as I worked on it. Sorry.

I Broke My Record!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah! I am stoked! I just got back from Harris Teeter grocery store. They are having double coupons up to $1.98 face value. I got $116.89 worth of groceries for....drum roll....wait for it........$46.76. I saved $18.50 with my VIC card and $55.20 in coupons. There was $20.95 of that which had no discount at all. Bam baby!

You would think I won the lottery when I got home and showed the savings to my man! That is what I teasingly refer to as earning my keep. LOL

Seriously people.....if I can do this anyone can. I will not lie. I was in that store for darn near two hours. I used to hate getting groceries but now it is like a game or a treasure hunt. I forget the whole chore thing! Let me hear what you have done with coupons.

Where I am today....Could change tomorrow!

2010-06-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today I have decided not to sell my refinished pieces yet. Threre are two reasons.
1. I listed my table for $100. and had a call and was offered $75.00. That is what I had decided I would actually take for it. When it came right down to it I could not sell. The thing is I need more pieces in my house. I can always start selling after I have completely furnished my home.
2. I have started following My Dear Trash and have been so inspired about the ability to make money on ebay with clothes. I have tried it and in my first 10 days I made a nice little profit.
3. Oh ....I did say 2 reasons didn't I? Well I just couldn't end this without saying how much I love my stuff and can't let it go.....yet! Is that gloating? I am so sorry....but I can't help myself!! :-)

I Listed Them...But It Might Surprise You Where.

2010-06-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

I am gonna keep this short and to the point.

eBay has classifieds and they are free. I know! I couldn't believe it either. But it is true. Just Google eBay classifieds and bam...there it is. I listed my Chalkboard for $45 and my Blue Table for $100. I will let you know what they sell for. I also listed them on Craigslist.

What would you do? Really!

2010-06-11T05:27:00.000-07:00

I posted about this before but think everybody thought it was a re post. I only got 2 responses. Come on ladies you can do better than that. What I need from you is suggestions. Don't be afraid that you will insult me. I want your honest opinions.
In my earlier post I asked for help with best place to sell furniture and decor items. Two in particular. My blue table and my fancy chalkboard. I went ahead and listed the table for $100.00 on Craigslist. I hope this is a fair price.
I can not wrap my head around how much to list the chalkboard for and would it be a better Etsy, Craigslist or eBay listing? Please be honest and help a girl out. Scroll down for picture. I am trying to keep the picture off the Dashboard so that I may get better response. Don't want you guys to think I am bragging about it. LOL

25 x 13.25

Toot Toot. Iv'e Been Featured!!

2010-06-09T21:03:00.000-07:00

Toot Toot? That is the sound of someone tooting my horn! Someday Crafts featured me from their Whatever Goes Wednesday Party. What makes it even better is the great company that I was in!
You should head on over and check out her blog! Make sure you have plenty of time cause there is tons of great stuff to check out!

Thanks Someday!!!

Need A Lil' Help From My Fellow Bloggers!

2010-06-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

OK. I need some help from my fellow bloggers! I am going to try to make a little money off this thing I have been doing since being introduced to Blog ville and all of you who inspire me so much. First I must tell you I am cheap, well lets say thrifty. Now that sounds better. The reason I started out with that is because I want to sell some of the things I have been refabbing. I can't keep it all and might as well make a little mullah doing what I love. Being that I am so thrifty, I have a hard time pricing things to sell. That is where you guys can help me. some of you are experienced at selling and could give me some pointers. Be brutal....don't spare the feelins'
I have two items that I am going to sell

Etsy? eBay? Craigslist?
How much?
Should I tell their life story and share my blog?
I will update on Where I list, how much listed for, and how much they sell for. This should be fun!

All Those Months Of Stalking Blogs Paid Off!

2010-06-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

I had my first invite to Guest Host!! Yeee-Haaa! Thanks Meg! She has a great blog called A Little Knick Knack. She has a lot of great craft projects and kids projects, so go on over and check her out.

A month or so ago I bought a bedroom suit on Craigslist. It was advertised as having a night stand, dresser, mirror and chest of drawers. When I got there I notice a headboard on the front porch. I asked if it was for sale and they said it went with the suit I was getting but it was broke. I checked it out and it was a mess. Not just a mess, but ugly to boot. It was 4 panels hung on 2 runners. Just not right! I had been looking at too many blogs to let ugly stand in my way. They said I could have it. We tried to get it in the truck but it was full. So what do I do???? I asked for tools and started to dismantle it. I didn't want it for a headboard. I just knew I could do something with the panels that were on it.

Let me show you what it started out as.....This will help you to see why I couldn't leave them behind!

Had to cut off a little on the bottom and sand it.

All primed up and starting to show her potential

Taped with Frog Tape and 3 coats of chalk board paint.

Chalk board dried, then covered and sprayed with several coats of white satin Krylon

Sand her up real good. It's OK to be rough.

mixed a little black paint with some brown glaze, looks kinda like grey mud. Slather it on and rub off with a damp cloth. I prefer micro-fiber towels

From white and bright to just right! Just about there!!!

At this point in the journey I finished slathering the glaze on and rubbing it off. When that was done I sprayed a coat of Clear Sealant on it, then pulled of the paper to expose the chalk board! TaDa!

I can't stop here...a few more parting shots.....

Aged to perfection.

I have 3 more of these beauties to do something with!

Great party links:

Painters block solved!

2010-06-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

I found this table at a yard sale and loved the lines and the storage it offered but was not crazy about the southwestern feel it had with the rough pine. I knew I could make a beauty out of it though. I summoned the help of my bloggin' friends as I was having myself a good ole' case of painters block!

My first thought was black...which was echoed by Crystal over at Crystal's Cottage. I then went to distressed white....which was echoed by April at The Painted Cupboard. But then it hit me...the color I keep seeing out there was calling to me. Bahama Sea Blue. Now you must know that blue has always been a color I could live without. None in my house or my wardrobe. But something has shifted! I want it in my house!!!

Let me just show you what we started with ~ then the transformation

I got the cute littel mini cup pulls at Hob Lob and painted them ORB

Let's see how we got there!

Much better. Looks black but is ORB

STOP THE BUS! NO PAINTIN' TODAY SAYS MOTHER NATURE!

Take 2

Now for the goodness! I just can't stand it! Needed a little somethin-somethin.....

maybe some sanding and then.......

WHAT NOW!!!!!!!

A Blue that even a blue hater can love!!!

Linking to these great parties!!

STRIPPER SHOWDOWN

2010-06-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

OK people...if google lead you here for anything other than furniture finish stripping get to steppin'

This here post is about a furniture stripper showdown officiated by my boy Tank......pictured below.

Don't worry we had good ventilation and Tank was lounging in the yard while the work was done.

First thing I must confess is that my ignorance is what lead me to this showdown. I painted a laminate table black. I used Deglosser instead of sanding and that was only the beginning of my foolishness.

It sat in the center of the garage as I moved on to other ~~immediate gratification~~ projects. Somehow it got over spray on it from these other projects....imagine that! Then one day when we were cleaning out and organizing the basement it sat in the hot sun for hours. To my surprise when we brought it in it was hot to the touch and the paint had bubbled. UGHHHH!

Lesson learned....SAND!!!!!

I decided that I would strip it down and start again. I have three different strippers and wanted to know which was best.

Citristrip Gel, Olympic Premium, and Klean Strip

I started with putting Citristrip and Olympic on half of the table

waited about 15 minutes.....very impatient!

Tank says that Citristrip did a better job on the real wood on the edges and the formica top. He noted that it wasn't as stinky either.

He said that round goes to Citristrip!!!

Now the reason we saved one whole side for the Klean Strip is because it says it is #1 and smells like it could eat your lungs. We thought it would melt that paint like butta'!

People we thought we had a winner here....it bubbled up in seconds. The formika came off like butta' so we got a little excited

When we got to the wood it was another story....

What a disappointment! Had to go around the edges with Citristrip to get the rest off.

Tank declares CITRISTRIP the challenge winner!

The bottle says it is safe to use indoors. I believe it....the smell is like an orange grove and it worked like butta baby!

Do you have a stripper that you would like to put up against Citristrip? Bring it!

Lets Play Ball.....

2010-06-06T05:01:00.000-07:00

I purchased this ball at the dollar store and wanted to either put moss on it or jute. So I dug in my stash and pulled out stuff to be inspired by.

I got the urn at GW. Here is the before...HID-E-OUS hideous

I decide to go with moss. I had a bag in a bowl downstairs that I had airing out. I picked it up at the dollar store one day and it was very strong smelling.

I sprayed 3M adhesive on sections and thne mashed it into the moss. I had to hold it there for a minute for it to stick. Once the ball was covered I inspected for blue spots and filled them in with more spray and moss.

Next we move on to refabbing the urn. Dug out all the ugly....

prime and paint....

let's glaze....

Now it is time to plop that ball on top!

Money invested...Urn: 2.00, ball 1.00 and moss 1.00

I had the paint left over from a recent project so that makes this a 4.00 project.

You gotta love that.

Linking to:

He Knows The Way To My Heart!

2010-06-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my 24 year anniversary of being married to the best man ever! I am so blessed! When we woke up yesterday he encouraged me to spend the day doing what I enjoy best. What is that you ask? Being in the basement working on projects and that is exactly what I did. He knows what I like and vice verse.
I did take time out to do some extra house cleaning because I knew that would make him happier than any gift. He is a little OCD. Neither of us are into swapping gifts. We feel that every day we have together is a gift. OK....stop gagging. It is true though.
To top off the day he came home with 5 cans of spray paint that I wanted. GLEEEE! He really knows the way to my heart!!! He may not be romantic but I would rather have tools or paint than flowers any day!!!! Thanks bub bah!

One side note.....should blogging be dangerous? I was getting up on a stool on my knees to take a picture of a project when it toppled over. Scrapped my elbow, bruised the side of my knee and my ankle and feel like I pulled everything on my right side! ARGH! I am such a klutz. Hubby said he would shut down my DIY operation if I didn't start being more careful....not the first injury! Oh well...I will survive. Still a great anniversary day!!!

I HAVE PAINTERS BLOCK!! HELP (EDITED)

2010-06-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

Wildcard color....it will work in my bathroom if it does not sell. I know I should have more faith!!!

this is such a popular color in blogville, will it translate to a sell?

removed the tarnished, dented brass and filled holes the sanded

I have painters block....you know....kinda like writers block!

I found this cute lil' table at a yard sale and thought I would dress her up and sell her. I painted the legs ORB and then couldn't decide what color to paint the wood parts. Any suggestions on what would sell the best? Should the legs be a different color?

I think it is harder because it is not for me!

HELP!!!!

Someone Finds Me Versatile

2010-05-25T05:29:00.000-07:00

I am feelin' pretty special right about now! You ask why? Because Anita over at Going A Little Coastal must think my blog is A-OK! She gave me the Versatile Blogger award! You should check out her blog. As the name of her blog indicates it has a great coastal feel to it and she has beautiful pictures. I could take lessons from her on the photography.

Here is how this award works. I tell you 7 things about myself and then pass it on to 15 other versatile bloggers.

Tracy, you and your trinkets and treasures was going to be top of my list but Anita got to you first...so movin on.

1.All my life peoples first perception of me has been that I am prissy. Boy are they wrong. So I like to look nice and I like makeup, but I will get my hands dirty with the best of them. I fish, I used to ride motorcycles, like gardening, and love to build stuff with power tools. ARGH ARGH.

2. I was on my way to work one morning and was at a stop sign on my motorcycle and was hit from behind by a car doing 40 mph. Was blessed that the only major injury was a herniated disk in my neck that had to be fused. It took me out of my career but I lived to craft another day!

3. I owned my own hair salon for 20 years and was blessed that many of my customers had been with me most of that time.

4. My husband and I adopted our son when he was 15 and he is now 27. He is serving in the Navy and we are VERY proud of him!

5. Nothing makes me happier than to make my husband laugh or smile. I still think his smile is dreamy after all these years. We met in 1984, so that would be 26 years. We will celebrate out 24th wedding anniversary June 1st.

6. At one time I had 1600 gallons of salt water in our basement full of salt water fish and corals. That was one of my favorite hobbies but took too much work and money.

7. My husband has always said I missed my calling. I can do imitations of most people. I can even sing like them when a song is on but can't hold a tune on my own.

Here are 15 that I follow and enjoy! In no certain order.

Remodelaholic : There is a lot of diversity to this blog. She gives great details with her projects.
Hennessey House : She is an amazing artist and has just started up her very own Etsy shop. She cracks me up with her no nonsense attitude.
Keepin' Up With The Moody's : This young one has a lot goin' on. She is creative, bubbly and excited about blogging. Check out her tile monogram when you go to see her.
My Dear Trash : There are 2 friends that write this blog. I have been so inspired by the money that Kelly has made by thrifting and then selling on Craislist. A lot can be learned in this blog.
Nine Is Fine : Nobody knows how to find dumpster finds like this chick! When you go to check her out take a peak at her porch decor. Love it!
Funky Junk Interiors : This girl is a survivor. Read her story and then dig through her archives and see what she has done to her home....AMAZING! She is funny to boot...not fair. When you are poking around her site you have to look at her fireplace mantle
Keepin Up With The Moody's : She has not been around Blog Land long but she has been workin' on those refabbing skills for a while. When you are over there poking around, look for the fireplace mantel redo. OMG. It looks seriously old....not fake old but real old. It is hot.
Under The Table And Dreaming : This lady knows how to throw a party and she can even do great DIY projects
A Little Bit Of Bliss : Her blog is full of family and home decor projects. She made the most beautiful farm table...you have to check it out.

Now ladies....I am usually one to follow rules but I can only sit at this computer for so long and this is a long tedious project. Neck just can't take it so I am cutting it short and passing it along. Please visit these ladies blogs. You will find something to inspire you at each one. I sure have.

Found A New Place To Troll

2010-05-24T05:54:00.000-07:00

I was out last week running errands and came across a new place to troll for ~~junk~~ treasures! The great thing is it is not another GW. It is a thrift for battered and homeless women. ALL proceeds go to the shelter. No one at the store takes a salary.

Wanna see what I got? Let me tell you it was chock full of goodness!

Let me break it down for ya.....

That is a Pampered Chef Chopper....which is one of my favorite things in my kitchen...for $1.00!

NEVER USED!!! Oh my! I would have knocked someone over if they had gotten between me and that chopper!

I think I am developing a new love for all things wire!

What do you think. All this loot for about 36.00. Can I get a Whoot Whoot or a What What?

I Jumped on The Cloche Wagon

2010-05-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

Ok... I would give credit for the inspiration but I wouldn't know where to start. I think I must be the last person to transform a cheese dome into a Cloche! I used a brass candle stand and a Goodwill cheese dome. Primed the candle stand and the base to the cheese dome. After I primed I sprayed on 2 coats of ORB. Used a little silicone adhesive. This has to be one of the easiest projects yet. Low effort big pay off!

Eenie meenie miney moe...which one has to go?

Look at the curves on her...she even has nice feet!

Could you find a more simple project?

Linking to these great parties!

Servin' It Up With Cricut

2010-05-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

This is gonna be short and sweet. Ha ha...I know you have a hard time believing that, but here we go.

I found these two lil' frames at Goodwill

Painted them, sanded them and threw some Cricut luvin' on them!

Hung them in my kitchen and called it a wrap!

Was that short enough?

Ooh..ohhh. If you are into using a Cricut I got this great software called "Make The Cut"

It allowed me to find a jpg. of the spoon and fork on the web and make the silhouette.

Linkin' to these great parties

On Your Mark....Yard Sale Plotter!

2010-05-20T05:40:00.000-07:00

On your mark...get ready.......how? Yard sale plotter! This site is the shiznit! I found way more yard sales with this than anything else. You set your address and it loads them up! You select the ones you want after reading details of sale and print your map and you are off to the race! LOVE IT! The actual name of it is gsalr. Check it out and let me know what you think. Happy hunting!

Sharing a Favorite

2010-05-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share one of my favorite Blogs with you guys. I saw her link on several link parties and noticed I was seeing her pop up in comments on lots of blogs I follow. I know....great minds think alike.

Her posts contain great photos of her projects and she gives great instructions. Check out this great outdoor lamp she made. How clever!

Check out this sweet birdcage that she put together. I told her I wanted to compliment her by doing one like it and she thought that was a great compliment.

You should check Tracy out at Tracy's Trinkets and Treasures.

Plan on having plenty of time to poke around and be inspired.

Thank you Tracy for inspiring and sharing! ;-)

Yay! She Loved It!!!

2010-05-16T19:45:00.000-07:00

Well I took my Niece the desk on her birthday and she loved it. It was a hectic day and we didn't get to do pictures. The very next morning was when my Mother in law had her wreck....hence the late update on how she liked the desk. I finished the chair and added the shelf for the PC but didn't get pictures for original post. Everything is now complete and updated. Here are the pictures without further rambling!

Do ya think she looks happy?

Ok....I have posted about this desk twice now. I will cease and desist! I shall move on!

Missing in Action!

2010-05-13T05:34:00.000-07:00

I am not one to share much of my personal life on my blog but just wanted to let you guys know that I will be MIA for a week or two. My Mother-in-law was in a auto accident this past weekend and I will be busy helping out. I will try to view and comment on my fellow bloggers posts but will not have time to do any projects. Keep my family in your prayers. She has a long recovery ahead of her. She is in good spirits and I feel this will have a positive effect on her recovery.

My Labor of Love For My Sweet Niece

2010-05-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

This is the desk I have been going on about and teased you with yesterday. My Mom got this at a yard sale 10 years ago for $8.00.
I still was not up to doing the clear coat, but I did get the keyboard drawer lined with some cute black and white paper.

I hope my niece loves it as much as I do. If only my brother didn't know I was doing this for her I could keep it....you think....that would be so wrong! OK I will give it to her.

I couldn't get the hubby to help me bring it upstairs to stage it. Argh! That means bad lighting and garage door background. Here is the before and some during pictures.

Shop mascots....my babies

holes filled with wood filler

My sweet hubby cut out the front of the drawer for me...gonna be a keyboard drawer.

All prime up.....

I primed with Gripper primer because the top is Formica. Let me tell you this stuff is thick. I brushed it on and had bad brush strokes on everything. Sand, sand, sand , and sand some more.

Next is the first coat of paint.....brushed on. Look at that! I had to do heavy sanding after the first coat. Drats!!

When I taped up the drawers I used the top of the desk to prop them on.....of course I covered it....I had just primed it the day before. When I was done taping I removed the heavy paper that I had covered the desk top with and SHRIEK I had chipped out big chunks of primer. Breath...breath....breath.

Rushed into stripping without taking pictures until I was almost done.

OK...at this point I re-primed and sanded the top. I then decided to throw caution to the wind and pull out the spray gun that beat me down when I tried to use it on another project I am working on. This time the difference is I am using latex and last time I was using latex enamel.

I just luuuuuuve power tools...

It actually worked pretty good.

Here she is all dressed and ready to go.

Bad lighting....it is white.

Lined the drawer with scrap book paper.

This is my first distressed piece. Please tell me what you think.

Linking up to:

Disappointed About NO Reveal

2010-05-03T12:49:00.000-07:00

OK.....it's like this. I was so excited about finishing up the desk for my niece's birthday and revealing it today. Between the rain and the pain in my neck from over doing it for the last few days it will have to wait till tomorrow. I have had two disks fused in my neck and should do a better job pacing myself but I let my excitement cloud my judgement. I guess I could take pictures of it without the clear coat but then it would not be staged. A girl needs to stage her pieces....right? Oh well there is always tomorrow...Tooo-morrow, to-morrow..... I'll finish you... too-morrow....it's only a daaaay aaaa-way! Lol...were you singing along?

This is the sad before....just a tease

What Do You Use?

2010-05-01T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have purchase a gravity feed HVLP spray gun from Lowe's. Can I just say I did not do enough research. It looks like they are not good at spraying Latex paint. I tried brushing a small desk and due to injuries and surgeries in the last couple of years I am not going to be going that direction. Too much pain and numbness.

I used spray paint in a can on my Gun Cabinet Rehab ....well I should say I used LOTS of spray paint. Using so much made me decide that maybe I should get a spray gun to put on my hubbies compressor. Let's just say I am impulsive sometimes. I always want the simplest....quickest way to do something....You know box cake instead of sifting all those ingredients....the same applies to crafts and DIY stuff. Right? Well it does if you research! That is what this post is about. Why not go to the people who do the same kind of projects? Any suggestions? What do you use? Should I just stick with the cans? HELP!!!!

Can you say........SCORE!

2010-04-30T10:28:00.000-07:00

I couldn't wait to get home and show this to my people! I went yard saleing today with one of my buddies.

There was one listed in Craigslist the was a double estate sale. We called the lady and she said we would need about 2 hours to see it all. Can you claim false advertisement for a tag sale? There were pictures of things that made me and my friend salivate. When we got there it took less than 5 minutes to see it all. My friend was looking for old pedal cars that were pictured in the ad. Half of the pictured stuff was not there but would arrive at 1:00. We drove 25 minutes to get there at 6:45 and it all wasn't there?????? Let me just tell you this...they were very proud of their stuff. They had everything priced with antique mall prices. I was not a happy camper!!!

So.....we came back to the house and found a web site that listed yard sales and set out again. I am so glad because I scored big. I found an antique buffet at a sale that was packed with cars. We thought we were probably too late but there she was.....whispering to me....."take me home"! "Joe will not be mad for long" I saw no price on her and quickly looked for the seller. She directed me to a busy little man and he barely looked up and said "$35.00". I replied with buggin eyes "SOLD". I paid and loaded her up as quickly as I could for fear that he would tackle me and say he had made a mistake.

You wanna see her?

Is-n't she love-ly....Isn't she won-der-ful....yes I am singing!

The next picture is of a newspaper that was in the side compartment...

She was a traveler! How do I know this? Because I don't live in Virginia! Duh!

Here is the find that my buddy picked up at the first ~~false advertisement~~ sale.

It steers with the feet peddles and you push and pull the handle to go. Neither of us had ever seen one of these before. They had a couple rusted out tractors but we liked this one because it is more unique.

Off The Cuff

2010-04-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

This is a new kind of project for me to share with you. I am a diverse crafter. I get bored doing just one thing and have always jumped from one thing to another. It drives my hubby crazy. Today I will show you a simple sewing project. I literally cut the cuff off of a thrift store shirt that I loved in the store....but hated on me when I wore it.

Didn't do step by step because this was pre-blogging.

Thought it would give you a sense of scale to see my hand. Just big enough for license and necessary cards when doing out for the night or quick run to the grocery store.

The only sewing was to stitch binding and clear plastic for pockets and handle.

The funny thing is I have never used it. Wanted to make up some stash for Etsy. Do you think this is Etsy worthy......

Who Me? Featured? Oh My!

2010-04-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

Time to give props to a few friendly bloggers out there who made me feel special!

On Thursday, Lori, over at Life as Lori has a "Get Your Craft On Thursday Party". I was thrilled to find out that the "Spray Paint Art" piece that I did for a friend's apartment was featured. She features her favorite few projects the next Wednesday after she reviews all of the entries. Check out the party and poke around a bit. She has a great blog. Lori, Thanks for hosting a great party and for showing me some bloggin love for my project!

Over at the The Speckled Dog Kristi has a "Weekly Faves" post where she picks out her favorite projects from all of the parties she participates in. Let me tell you it is so worth it to check out her site. She has the greatest header I have ever seen! She also has a lot of great rehabs. Thanks Kristi for choosing my Gun Cabinet Rehab.

On Wednesday there is a great link party over at Just A Girl with more of the great thumb nail pictures. She has a fantastic blog with tons of stuff to keep you busy for hours. Sunday is "Show and Share Day" where she shows her favorites and get this......she even gives away prizes! Gotta love that.
Thanks for exposing my "Gun Cabinet Rehab" to the masses.

The Madness Must Stop!

2010-04-24T09:32:00.000-07:00

I think my husband is about to ban me from Craigslist. I am collecting furniture and projects faster than I am refinishing! As frustrated as he gets every time I bring something else in he sees how happy it makes me and he gets over it. I will not push my luck tough. I have enough......ooooh I think?

As I mentioned in a previous post we organized the basement. I told you I would post pictures, and I will, but I can't even get to all of it to take pictures because it is all pushed in together. He bought casters to put all of the big stuff on so I can push it out and start on it without him being around. My man is genius!

Here are a few pictures of the things I could get to.

Freebie from Mom!

Hard to tell but there are 2 desks under that pile of stuff. That makes 3 desks that need to be fixed up!

Another freebie from Mom...don't hate me cause I am blessed with a junkin Mom!

She didn't even know that there was a drawer in it....

sorry it is blurrrrrry......I think the paint fumes from earlier in the day took a tole!

This next grouping came from Craigslist.....I LOVE IT SO!

Dresser, night stand, Chest of Drawers, Mirror and part of the headboard. Can you just see this now painted white with black hardware? Swoon! I will show you the panels from the headboard later! I have a project in mind that will be flippin great!!!

This gives you an idea how tight it is packed in. there are more pieces stacked in there that I will show later.

Should I feel anxiety with this much stuff to do? Got a new spray gun and I am eager to use it!

Will Work For Freebies!!!!

2010-04-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

I helped my Mom last weekend with a yard sale. I have to admit I was not looking forward to it. Don't get me wrong....I love spending time with my Mother, but I would rather be shopping yard sales than working one. After this experience I will be volunteering to help at her next yard sale. Let me just show you a couple of things I walked away with FREE of charge!!! Did you get that...... FREE!

Ooooh...look at that rustic goodness on the side. Flowers are purrty too!

ummmmm....what will I do with this?

I think it needs to go on the front porch with some purrytness in it....flowers!

She gave me this plate that no one wanted.....I was planning what to do with when I first layed eyes on it. It was mine!!!!

Can you guess what I did with it??? Can ya huh huh?

YAY! It got a little Cricut lovin rubbed on it!

How's that for FREE.....I don't count the vinyl because I already had that!

She also gave me a great camera tripod but it is not pretty enough for pictures.

Wait a minute....I just remembered that I also came away from that sale with work to do! Still worth it because the work is just a table that needs to be reworked. Just a little sumpin' sumpin' to build my skills!

EDIT: Can't believe I forgot this piece.....my hubby loved it and has claimed it for his foot stool!

Freebie! Yay. Mom didn't know it had a drawer. Can you say remote control keeper???

I've Been Featured 4 the 1st Time & A Little Sneaky Peak!

2010-04-20T05:04:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah...oh yeah....did ya see that cute little button over there on the right? I must say I think Stephanie Lynn over at "Under The Table And Dreaming" has splendid taste! Wait....my mom would scold me for bragging. Please don't hate me I am just having a moment of hysteria from the excitement!!!!!! If you could only see me now.....twirling around the house, smiling from ear to ear. I would be calling all of my friends and family if it were not early.
I know... calm down.....it is only a blog. Only a blog? No, I say it is fan-tab-u-lous!
Ok....I think it is time to get going on the next project.......wanna peak? I knew you would!

See that little piece peeping out between the bottles???

Ummm-huh...oh yeah........

I am all over this one!

ALERT! ALERT! Major Prize Giveaway...

2010-04-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

You gotta go check out "One Cheap B*tch"! She is having a giveaway to celebrate having 400 followers. She has a great blog with lots of creative ideas. I look forward to all of her posts.

Copy and post the link into your address bar and have fun!

http://onecheapbitch.blogspot.com/2010/04/officially-400-let-giveaway-commence.html

Building Dreams

2010-04-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

Now.... I will tell you up front that there are no pictures in this post.....so if that is what you are huntin' I am sorry. I spent the day with my best friend (my hubby)! He didn't think my work area in the basement garage was organized enough. At first this stressed me out cause quite frankly I could work in the wake of a hurricane! He is slightly OCD but this is a good balance because he keeps me from total chaos and I keep him from getting too uptight. I guess that is why we have been together for 24 years.

I have to say he is "the man" when it comes to organizing. I can't focus long enough to do it....projects.....projects.....projects......they neeeed me.......they call me! YIKES....I almost forgot to tell you the best part! I got a spray gun to go on the compressor. I am thinking this will be more cost effective than spray paint. I went through about 7 cans on the gun cabinet.

Anywhooo....we took everything out of the garage bays and he set me up a work bench, a tool bench, my air compresor and we went to the store and got moving dollies so I can push the big pieces of furniture around when he is not here. Ummm tomorrow I will take pictures of all of the pieces I have to work on.

When I get started doing something I like I dive in and take no prisoners......wait.....I could think of the sad pieces down there as prisoners and I will set them each free with a little .....well for some a whole lot of TLC.

Today I picked up my Grandparents antique buffet and table. These two pieces will be keepers. I think the rest will sell if the good Lord is willing. That is my goal.

Is it normal to dream about projects.....because if not I am in trouble!!!!!

I have to give my husband kudos for keeping his calm every time I have come home lately with ~~really...this is the last piece~~ a DIY project. Clutter drives him crazy and it looks like a moving truck gave birth in the basement. I hate it makes him crazy but it makes me giddy!!! Not clutter itself but what the clutter is........

First Furniture Transformation

2010-04-14T19:31:00.000-07:00

TADA!

This project has taken me way longer than I would have ever dreamed. I hear others in blog land talk of doing projects in a weekend....what is up with that. Maybe some day I can be more efficient.

I bought this gun cabinet from a lady on Craigslist. Her dog tried to bite me but it was so worth it.

Are ya just itchin to see it? Ok I will stop teasing. Her she is in all her faded glory.

She is a little rough around the edges. I am sure she had seen better days.

I took her apart to make the sanding and spray painting a little easier. Time for sanding.....

I sanded the whole thing down and filled in deep scratches and chips with wood filler......I kinda missed some picture taking opportunities here. I added crown molding to the top. After sanding I primed everything and then decided to add two slots for baskets.

I remembered to take the most random pictures. This is the basket box that I was building.

Just a little peep

The drawer pull and knob were both ORB and did not show well so I gave them a spattering of silver and now they pop and match the chicken wire!

Oh...I know....GET ON WITH IT!

I junked the pressed stuff that was on the back and replaced it with bead board. I painted it white and then glazed it. There was no glass for the door so I stapled and stapled and stapled....oh sorry....chicken wire. Did I mention that it took a billion staples for the chicken wire and that I can attest to the fact that it will eat your knuckles off.

BEFORE

AFTER

Just a couple more angles cause I just cant stop!!!

This one helps you see the glazed bead board goodness!

Ain't she a beauty? Just as I envisioned her to be!!

Would you have done something different? Let me have it.

Update: I just have to say that the best part of this project has been the end. Let me explain....Every person that has come into our home has been escorted by my husband to see the cabinet. I think he is a tad proud. Makes my heart go pitter patter!

Linking to:

No It's Not Cutwork Silly.....It's Spray Paint!

2010-04-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

This is another project that my friend and I did for her daughters apartment. I know.....I wish I would have had someone to do this kind of stuff for me when I was young and on my own. I got this idea from Frugal Home Ideas

I have seen many different versions in blog land.
Here is my version. I just wanted to add a lil sumpin sumpin! You know girls...you always want to put your stamp on it. So here she is all curly and purrrrty.

I did not get photos of the process as we made it but will be making another one.

I may use it as a headboard. I will do a tutorial then or you can check out the tutorial at Frugal Home Ideas. I was asked by a girl that saw it if it was cutwork?

Spray paint baby!

If you didn't notice what the difference is .....I layered mine...well overlapped the middle one on top of the 2 outer ones. Went to Lowe's and got some cute screws and washers.

Don't you think this would make a great headboard???????

Party Links

One Journey DONE!

2010-04-08T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today was the close of one journey in mine and my husband's life. I was hit on my motorcycle (HD Street Glide) 2 years ago. That is the event that changed the path of our lives. A simpler cheaper life. You have to look for the good in everything. I am now able to stay home and craft and be the doting housewife that I always dream of being as a little girl.

I did not replace my bike after the wreck as I had a long recovery. My husband continued to ride, but not often like we used to. Well today we sold my husband's Road Glide. No more riding. Stop jumping up and down Mom......I know you are thrilled. I took it around the block last night for the first time since my wreck and remembered the joy that I used to get from riding.

I am finding new ways to get that same thrill...high....excitement! Rehabbing others cast offs. I am hoping to start and Etsy site soon........Time to start a new journey!

Candle Sconce Makeover

2010-04-07T05:54:00.000-07:00

I have to start out with telling you that I get too eager and forget things.....like taking pictures and not realizing that there is no flash card in the camera. Having said that....I do not have good before pictures. Just imagine 1980's glazed terracotta color with a brass candle holder thingy.

I got this shabby old thing at, you got it, Goodwill! No surprise there. It is cast metal with a brass candle holder. I must start taking pictures of my treasures when I first get home because once the vision hits there is no turning back. So here is as close to before as I could get.

As you can see I primed it and the gave it a spray of RED....squeal

Next I used black paint mixed with a little water and just brused it all over. Then used a damp microfiber cloth to remove most of the black paint.

Not enough.......One more coat of black and wipe....

Now that is the goodness that I am lookin for!

Ooops...forgot about the candle base...

Love me some ORB goodness but held it up to the sconce and it was not working....next

Flat Black...now that is right on time!

Let's put this baby together....

Better view of the color.

Pieces with mirror are my nemesis. I can't get a good shot of them. Any tips?

Linking up with:

Couponing

2010-04-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

This is not my usual craft stuff but it is what is going to allow me to enjoy my thrift splurges.....saving money that is.

I feel like such a nerd. Not because I am starting to use coupons but.....because I am so excited about a free class I am taking tonight on couponing.

I think I am off to a good start. I went to the grocery store last week and saved $22.00 and only paid out $18.00. Shazam!! Now that is what I am taling about. Oh yeah...I love saving me some M-O-N-E-Y honey!

Padded Headboard

2010-04-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

This is a headboard that me and my friend made for her daughter's new appartment. I have several other projects that we made as well that I will share in a later post.

The lettering above the bed was one of my first big Cricut projects.

The bed was made from 12 18inch square pieces of thin plywood. Lowes cut them all for us.

We then padded, wrapped with fabric and stapled and stapled and stapled...oh sorry. The memory is of the stapling going on FOREVER! Anywhoooo. Then we covered some bottons and tufted them in.

She will probably have to repair the walls when she leaves because we use commercial velcro on each square. I know! We were in a hurry and didn't think that prt through. There is always next time!

Reworked Arrangement

2010-04-05T19:38:00.000-07:00

I bought this arrangement at Goodwill....

I didn't get the whole glittery pinecones and christmas greenery with Daffodiles????

Is it just me? So I ripped everything out. I had to use wire cutters because whoever did the original designe used all of the hot glue in four counties. I am just sayin'.

Painted the wire black and watched the remaining styrofoam melt away.

Now to get rid of that silvery color. I know silvery in not a real word, but it does describe it perfectly.

Here comes the HW spray paint.

At this point I could really see the vision and got so excited I forgot to take pictures of the rest of the process. I added a little glaze and let her rip.

Tada!

Spanish moss, birds nest, eggs, and a bird were added.

Isn't it so sweet. I will never be able to sell anything on Etsy because I

want to keep it all....

Linking up with..

http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/

Who Needs Goodwill When You Have a Junkin Mom

2010-04-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

Oh I am so excited.......I could not wait to come home and post about my SCORE!!!!

I wanted all of blog land to know what a great Mom I have. Ok....so I only have 3 followers at the moment, but I know if I just post it they will come! Wait...I think the line in the movie was build it and they will come. A.D.D, A.D.D, A.D.D. Back to my rad Mom. Please don't hate when you see the goodies I came home with when I went to plundering at her house!!!!!

The desk is begging for a little lovin touch. And I am feeling pretty good about just how to do that!

Can't wait to show you when it is done....oh yeah.

The chicken wire is going to be used in a project I am working on now. I was very happy to find this because I did not want to buy a whole role. YAY!

I am either going to modge podge the wood box or give it some Cricut lovin!

As I read over the post to make sure my typing was keeping up with my A.D.D brain I notice that it sounds like I have a serious problem....well better this than drugs or alcohol!

Oh yea, oh yea......gonna have some good times!

Wanting Validation

2010-04-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

I am going to keep it short and sweet today so I can ~~finish~~ work on my gun cabinet......will it ever be done??????

I started this blog as a way to share my projects and find some validation in my life. As I mentioned in my first post, I no longer work and that is where I found my self-worth....I know....stupid! I am learning.

I have been posting away and getting really excited when I get comments and squealed when new people became followers.

Well last night we had friends over for dinner and when they left they went out through the garage so the men could check out my main squeeze's jeep. My friend and I stopped and checked out the progress on the gun cabinet. She liked it and gave me encouragement......but the real VALIDATION came from my husband! I noticed him walk our buddy RJ over to the gun cabinet. When I saw him pointing out the details of the transformation with just a wee bit....well a whole lot of pride...I melted inside. No one's recognition is as heartwarming as his. Don't get me wrong ladies....bring it on.

He comes in every day and checks out my posts and anything I am working on. I am a truly blessed woman. He rearranged the basement so I can have more room to work. I know....you didn't think such a perfect creature existed, but he does and he is all mine!

So much for short and sweet? I just can't help it when I start talking about my best friend in life! I love you Joe!!!

Wood Vase Rehab

2010-04-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

I had these 2 old wood vases that were just hanging around in my closet waiting to be discovered

and get a make over.

I pulled out my Heirloom White and Flat Black and a lil hemp twine and

this is what they became...

Primed, painted with HW and did a little distressing

Primed, sprayed with flat black. Let it dry and wrapped some hemp around it and painted some twigs with WH.

I promise I will not burn the candles with the twigs!

Linked with :

Goodwill transformation

2010-04-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love a good bargain. I was at Goodwill and saw this ~~ugly~~ group of candle bases. What got my attention was that they were half price....I know.....I had no idea that they ever did half price.

The sticker was 6.00 so I got it for $3.00 squeal

If you guessed that the next thing to happen was grab a can of ORB you would be correct!

Ok....here comes the goodness...oh my

I know! I love hemp too! around...around....around.....around

I know...there is plastic still on the candle. That is cause it is one I am going to use for this fall.

I liked this one so much that I rushed back to get as many as I could ~~snatch away from anyone~~ buy.

To my sadness others too thought they were either pretty or had potential, so I was only able to get two more. Here is what I have done with one of the others.

Tada!

This may be what I start my Etsy site with. What do you think?

linking with:

OUCH THAT HURT....

2010-03-31T12:03:00.000-07:00

I am so mad at myself. It is 70 degrees and sunny and I planned to work on the gun cabinet project, but....

I pulled out the table saw, for only the second time, and made my second cut and let the wood kick back and slam into my finger. Remember Fred Flinstone's throbbing finger in the showes beginning? That is what I am feeling now that I can breath again. The blood has stopped coming out from under the nail and I hope that I will not have to put a hole in it to relieve the pressure.

My hubby is going to ban me from power tools unless he is home.....I just know it!

Ok.....I am just being a wimp. I am going to suck it up and go back out there and not let it beat me!

The cabinet will so be worth the dog snapping at me and the saw beaating me up.....

Update: I managed to use the saw without any further problems but......At some point in the day I was spray painting in the basement and the sun started coming in so I lowered the garage door slightly. Can you see where this is going? I was coming in with the dogs and WHAM.

I hit the door on my right on the hairline of my forehead. Dang It! That hurt too.

Lucky for me a friend called and envited us over for dinner. I told her she saved me from myself.

Candle kissed pillow

2010-03-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

I made this pillow to match a headboard that me and my friend made. I will show you the headboard in another post.

When I made the pillow I forgot that there were big flowers in the comforter. I only remembered the stems and leafs. I was thrilled when we got to her place and realized that the flower was PERFECT for the comforter.

I wish I woud have had enough extra fabric to have made it larger.

I saw a tutorial somewhere a while back on burning fabric to make it curl. I wish I could remember who did the tutorial......if it is you....let me know and I will give credit.

All I did was cut out wonky circles in gradually smaller sizes. I heated the edges with a candle flame till they curled and then layered them and secured with a sterling bead cap.

Linking up with:

Transformation Thursday

http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/

From Brass to ORB Goodness

2010-03-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

I promised in my I Almost Missed The Bus post that I would tell you about the candle stand. So here goes.

My Mom is into junking and sells things in an antique mall. I have always groaned when I go to her house and see all the ~~junk~~ treasures. I should say the veil has been lifted from my eyes and I am my Mothers child! Ok...so anywhooo....I was digging around in her stuff one day when my husband was doing some house repairs and found this.....

It is brass and this sucker is heavy but I could see the vision as soon as I laid eyes on it.

In my excitement to introduce it to My good friend ORB I forgot to take process pictures. But I will get to the during momentarily. Without further ado....

Isn't it dreamy.

These two cheap Goodwill finds were jealous and begged for the same treatment! So I agreed with glee!

First I primed them with Auto body primer.....did the same to the big boy too.

YAY! ORB Goodness!

Here they are tucked in with my Spring goodness.

Can you believe I only paid .75 for the tall milk glass vase and .50 for the small one.

Shaz-Zam!!!!

Thanks to all of the great blogs out in Blog land I will never look at anything without thinking .....

WHAT COULD I DO WITH THAT???

I almost missed the bus!

2010-03-29T14:20:00.000-07:00

So I have been looking at all of the beautiful blogs showing everyones Easter and Spring decor. I was not going to do anything this year because I have been distracted by other projects. Well I changed my mind the other day when I was cleaning and can you imagine I went off on a bunny trail.

I pulled out a few Easter things I have not put out in years and went to the Dollar Tree and picked up some glittery eggs and some great green moss rocks. I think my rocks are my best find there of late.

I waved my magic wand.....no I mean I rushed around and changed a few things up and here it is.

The eggs came on wooden sticks with the bows attached. I removed the eggs and bows and scattered the eggs around and placed the bows on the candles.

close up of left side

close up of right side

My sweet Mama gave me this lil bunny.

Ahhhh

More glittery Dollar Tree eggs. I think there were 5 to a pack and I got 2 packs

Another sweet bunny from the Goodwill. I will tell you about the candle stand in another post.

The last of my purrty glittery eggs.

I hope you enjoyed....better late catching the bus than to miss it all together!

Just another lil tease

2010-03-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

No long story today.....just another picture to peak at the transforming gun cabinet.

Sneak Peak

2010-03-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

I thought I would give you ~~my one and only follower~~ a sneak peak at what I am working on. I should be done with it in a few days if the weather will hold out. Check back and I will give you more clues along the way.

This is a simple gun cabinet I picked up off of Craigslist for ......wait for it......$20.00.

It is pine and dirty and has missing glass, but that is A-O-K cause I am gonna get creative.

The lady who I bought it from had 2 dogs outside and they were having a fit when I arrived. I went in and we headed to the basement where I first saw my treasure. It was love at first sight. It is a little rough around the edges but hey I like a challenge. I asked the nice lady if I should introduce myself to her dogs because we were going by way of the back yard to carry it to the car. No problem she says, they will not even come near me. Well....famous last words. I wasn't 3 feet out the door when one of them nipped my hand and then my rear. I was not going to let that beast stop me from taking my treasure to my car. She shooshed it off and to the car we went.

YAY.....victorious!

It is worth the $20 and the dog snips. Can you say woman on a mission.

P.S. I will toting dog spray on my future treasure hunts.....cause my hubby says so!

Check back for more peaks......

Ragu to Fabu-lous

2010-03-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

So I was cleaning the bathroom and grumbled to myself about how much I hated the ugly bath therapy bottle that sits out all the time on the tub. Needs to be handy, but it is so u-g-l-y!

Then I had a lightbulb moment.

Cricut to the rescue!

All I needed was a jar, vinyl, oil rubbed bronze paint for the lid and my Cricut.

OK....this is what my husband calls going off on bunny trails.....remember I was cleaning the bathroom. Do you think I waited till I was finished? Heck no! I digress....

Upstairs I run to throw this ~~quick~~ project together. Once again I underestimated how long it would take...forgot to allow time for paint to dry and this is only the third time I have used my (Cricut) fav-O-rite new toy.

Well here it is....what do you think. Me thinks it is purrty!!

Link Party at

The begining of yet another Journey

2010-03-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

This blog is just another path in the journey of my life. I feel sometimes as if I have lived more life in 43 years than some 20 years my senior! As I figure out this whole blog thing I will fill you in on some of my experience's in life.
My goal in blogging is to share my many interests with you and I hope to inspire someone along the way. I think life experiences should be shared to inspire, motivate or to lift someone up who needs to know they are not alone in their journey..........
I will also be posting my thrifty creative trials. Good or bad......and bad is what I am working on now!!! Breath!!!! I think I actually saw the whole table in splinters in my driveway at one point or another.....oh well that is what stripper is for!