With it's earthy colors, layered paint, and sun-baked look, I refer to this finish as Tuscan.
To get the look, I stripped away the old old finish and applied a new Old World finish. The paint was chipping and the veneer beneath was severely damaged. The inside however was in perfect condition and smelled fabulous --- who doesn't LOVE the smell of cedar?!
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| after |
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| before |
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| chipped paint |
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| damaged veneer |
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| more damaged veneer |
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| beautiful inside |
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| slowly but surely |
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| repaired holes from veneer |
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| primed and ready |
After I primed the entire outside, I sanded and distressed it in a few areas. I then painted a creamy white base coat. Then I tried something new..... I used a wood stain, just as I have on bare wood, to create depth. The stain settled in the beautiful carved details as well as any areas that I had sanded down to the wood. I wiped it down and Voila!
This is making me long for Italy! Here are a few fabulous Tuscan spaces where this little piece could live comfortably (who couldn't??)
Finish inspiration....
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| old world finish |
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| i love cypress trees all in a row |
I had to laugh..... as I was searching "Tuscan spaces", MY design for Ballard Designs Tuscan Corner Media appeared!! I had forgotten about this little guy but it made me smile to think about that experience :) Believe it or not, it was quite a challenge to make him work with the existing side shelves!
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| Ballard Designs Tuscan Corner Media |
Have a fantastic weekend and don't forget about Mommy!! ;)