Tina gave this vintage bench a makeover. Here are the tools you need to similarly refresh any piece of furniture you want in your home.
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WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• Furniture of your choice
• Rag
• Sandpaper, 220 grit or higher
• Primary paint color of your choice (Tina used Sherwin Williams
“Festoon Aqua”)
• Paint brush or sprayer
• White paint
• Stiff brush for white paint
• Cardboard to wipe your paintbrush on • Chalk paint (Tina used
Waverly “Truffle”)
• Paper towels
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
1. Wipe the piece down with a rag. If it has more dirt than a light coating of dust, clean it with soap and water, then allow it to fully dry.
2. Sand the piece with the sandpaper. Depending on the paint you use, you may not need to completely remove the old paint or stain, but if you do, be thorough. Wipe down the piece again when you’re finished.
3. Paint 2-3 coats of your primary color with the brush (or sprayer) onto the entire piece. Let it dry fully between each coat.
4. Get your white paint, stiff brush and cardboard. Dip the tip of your brush into the white paint, then wipe the brush against the cardboard until the brush seems like it’s almost dry. Gently apply the tip of the brush to the piece, following the contours of the wood. Make sure you’re drying the brush before application to get a very light coat of color. Let it dry.
5. Mix the chalk paint with water to thin it out, then apply it in small amounts to different places on your furniture. Immediately wipe off any excess paint with paper towels.
6. Let it dry and enjoy!
“I rarely buy anything new—I like to hunt for treasure at antiques stores, flea markets, thrift stores and auctions,” she says. “I can often get inspiration from a piece of furniture or a collection of found objects.” This continues the truly vintage feel of her design, and adds more to the charm of each space. “When people say they feel comfortable as soon as they walk through the door, that is the ultimate compliment,” she says.
This antique European prayer bench is one of Tina’s favorite pieces. “I’ve had it for many years and have never seen anything else like it,” she says. “It’s definitely a statement piece and adds character to this space.” She repainted it using two different colors to give it a distressed look. “It was the perfect fit for that wall, and I enjoy seeing that pop of color when I’m in the kitchen,” she says.
Here in the primary bedroom, Tina added antique barn beams as well as shiplap to the ceiling. Everything in the space was renovated save the walls and windows. “The horsehair plaster walls are original and are throughout the entire house,” Tina says. “Every wall in this farmhouse was covered in wallpaper, which took me the entire summer to remove. We then had to hire someone to skim coat every wall to smooth them and fill in the cracks.” The charming floral bedding adds a pop of color that gives the room a cheery disposition.
(above, left) The primary bathroom was originally another bedroom that Tina converted into part of the primary suite. “The two rolling doors are functional,” she says. “When opened, they create a statement on the wall behind the tub; when closed, they offer privacy for the shower to the right and the toilet to the left.” While the tub is new, its timeless look fits seamlessly into the space. (above, right) Tina completely gutted this guest bathroom and updated all the features to make it farmhouse friendly. The tile flooring was inspired by a Pinterest find. Every detail is thoughtful, and meaningful as well. “The sink and double faucets are reminiscent of old schoolhouse lavatory sinks,” Tina says. “I have been a teacher for over 30 years and that is why I wanted to use this style of sink.” (right) A black and white color palette gives this guest bathroom a classic look and feel. Tina chose the penny tile flooring as a nod to the style that was popular at the turn of the century. The clawfoot tub is brand new, but continues the vintage vibe. “I love the charm of this bathroom,” Tina says. “The design is in keeping with the age of the farmhouse.”