BEFORE & AFTER

Let's face it. I'm addicted to transformations and nothing satisfies that craving like a quick fix of before and after photos. It's the first page I turn to in a magazine. I devour every detail and scrutinize every change. So it is no wonder I kept a few of my very own B & A's. Although there are many, I have selected just a few that are featured in my bedroom to this day.

This cabinet nicely filled the space between two doors of my bedroom. The shelves are perfect for folded clothing and also provide storage for bins of socks and such. The color, however, was a bit dismal for my taste.

So I applied what is called a seven layer peel. The "peeled paint look" is achieved by applying a substance tinted to the desired color and then removing parts by lifting the substance with paper towels. This process is repeated with different colors to resemble layers of paint that have chipped away to reveal the color beneath each coat. It is quite time consuming but rewarding if you have the patience. (Normally not my strong suit but I can overcome for the right goal.)

I bought this screen sight unseen. A friend insisted I needed it and convinced me she should grab it before it disappeared. I was a bit surprised when I saw what I had purchased over the phone but I rallied and came up with a finish that worked for me.

I painted the entire piece a rather brilliant yellow and then added several washes in varying shades of yellow and peach. Although it has remained this color for several years, I doubt I will part with it in the move. I see another makeover in this little treasure.

I cannot remember how this chair entered my life but I could not wait to give it a facelift. Although the fabric was in good condition, it was "not me." But it is comfy and the the potential was there.

I started by doing an eggshell crackle on the legs and wood base. Then came the fun part of selecting the upholstery fabrics. Yes, as in plural. There are a total of four fabrics on the chair: a toile, a stripe, a solid, and a check. Having an upholsterer who is happy to follow directions no matter how convoluted is the key to success. The stripe and the solid are both used for piping and the back is finished in the green and cream stripe.

Then we have the low bench I purchased from a neighbor when they moved years ago. What is it about that brown? The cabinet shown earlier was not from the same sale but does look like it met the same fate. I guess I saw this piece and knew it too needed rescuing.

I opted to try a few finishes on this piece

including decoupage and stenciling. Although
it is low to the floor it works very well under the

double windows and is another keeper that will

most likely see a reincarnation at some point.



Although I quote "Leave the details to God"

I couldn't resist adding a few of my own.

That's it for now but rest assured, I have stumbled upon

a few more pictures that will be ripe for the next post.