Junk Furniture Makeovers Part I
This is a story about diamonds in the rough (and this would be diamonds of the peach-colored splatter-painted, needlepoint-embellished variety).
I like old stuff. I like finding weights in the hems of vintage dresses and thoughtful little details like toggle-snaps that marshal bra straps. I like craftsmanship and pintucking and punch bowls. A friend of mine asked recently, “Do any of your clothes come from an actual store?”
It must be said, however, that I treasure a bargain. And my heart literally soars at the thought of a high-quality rummage sale. What’s more: there’s nothing more gratifying than having a dignified 85-year-old woman look over the vases/silverware/monogrammed napkins you’ve picked out and nod with approval.
But what about the rummage sale rejects (is that redundant?). After the Golden Girls bamboo furniture gets carted away, the Eames wannabes go home with Rachel Zoe wannabes and what’s left is truly hideous?
The pictures don’t show how truly ugly this Cracker Barrel-esque tray-and-waitstand combo appeared in person. It was practically the last item standing. But I liked the shape and imagined it as useful.
So I snapped it up, attacked it with metallic silver spray paint, and laid a piece of metallic Indian fabric under the glass. I would have made the tableaux look more interesting, but I have much to learn on the styling front.
The receipt:
$15 for the table
$4 spray paint
Debating with my husband over whether or not spray paint would leech toxins into the air long after it dried? Obviously the highlight of my weekend.
PS Today is Katy’s birthday. Let’s all head to the comments to tell her just how happy we are she was born! -Sarah
Sarah: Wow, talk about a makeover! I’ve always wanted to try those metallic spray paints, and I’m glad to see they look so awesome.
Katy, you are absolutely the most fun, stylish, wise sister a girl could have. You give the best reading suggestions and have an unmatched eye for potential. I’m so glad you’re part of Pink of Perfection — you add so much!
XOXO2 years ago
Suzy: Katy–Happy Birthday! Have a delightful day! Is it a milestone? Hope your hubby doesn’t get you a lawn mower like my hub got me two years ago (which turned out all right since he took me to Italy for my next birthday to make up for it). Then again, you’d need a lawn mower in NYC like a hole in the head. Just…have a great day!2 years ago
Anon: I to am an occasional furniture salvager/makeover artist. It’s a beautiful table and I love the fabric and glass with the metalic paint. Your “table dressings” are pretty festive too.2 years ago
Sarah: Yeah, I could use me a Corona right now like a trip to Italy!2 years ago
Wendy Bussell: Happy Birthday Katy! and fabulous job on the tray!2 years ago
cz: Happy Birthday Katy! Not to be negative but how about that makeover that just doesn’t quite make it? I’ve had a few missteps and would enjoy hearing about other’s.2 years ago
Sue: Katy — you and your sister could write about the lint you found at the bottom of your laundry dryer and I would read it with relish! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us!2 years ago
Allison Conley: Happy Birthday, again, Baby Kate! The tray looks fabulous! XOX MOM2 years ago
Mary Carroll: Happy (late) birthday Katy! I hope you indulged in more than a few nips of that Pernod.2 years ago
Lauren: If I could, I would high-five you for this entry. Happy birthday babe!2 years ago
Gail: Katy - What a great article, and what a great makeover…and a very Happy Birthday. I personally loved Sue’s comment and look forward to the piece on dryer lint!;>)
Thanks to both you and Sarah for the continuing lift! Gail2 years ago
Zann: Katy: Girlfriend, I don’t even know you, but I do know that TODAY IS MY BIRTHDAY, TOO, and I’ve always found it fascinating to find a birthday-twin. Wooo-hoo, who knew? And on top of that, you and your sister are both smart, snappy, and relentlessly hip in your own very wonderful ways…kinda cozy-with-an edge, or resourcefulness with flare. You did a great job with that little tray you rescued — a real find. It’s a jungle out there & what better mission than to find beauty in cast-offs? Have a wonderful, sparkly day!
–Zann2 years ago
Katy McColl: So sweet! Believe me, I have plenty of project disasters on my resume, but a 100% success rate with enamel spray paint–it’s just so damn easy.
But speaking of being clueless, anyone have a nice recipe for Pernod?2 years ago
renee: happy late birthday! please keep the great ideas coming!2 years ago