I always have a hard time getting refocused after a big event or project. I seem to work at my best when there is a date looming, but at the same time, I dislike the pressure of deadlines. So, I’m conflicted. I love and hate due dates. To combat the unfocused work approach, I decided to knock out a few projects that have been on my list for some time. I grabbed the bench at the table in our family room and dragged it out to the car, so I could take it to the studio to paint. (I have a knack for moving furniture by myself when I’m determined enough!)
Remember this pine bench that we gave to my mom as a mother’s day gift when we lived in Germany?
I like the shape of it, but the pine was a little too yellow and shiny for me. I painted it in a paint product I was testing out, but the pale blue color was blending into the wall and I really wanted the character that I love so much from milk paint, so I slapped on a coat of Boxwood one morning. While Boxwood is a gorgeous color, it wasn’t working in the room. I tried sanding it heavily to allow the pale blue and pine to show through. It was even worse. I hated it.
The bench has a Swedish shape to it, so I looked to antique benches in a similar style for some inspiration. I am always inspired by Maria’s home, so when I spotted this on her Instagram feed (which is non-stop eye candy, by the way), I knew it was the direction I wanted to go with my bench.
Well, of course I had to buy the book, then! My mom will probably want one, too.
I’m hoping to get some more sewing and painting done in the studio tomorrow…
17 Responses
Marian- now all you need is an adorable little dog for that bench ! I vote for a black pug ; )
I so relate to the needing a deadline/dreading a deadline! Owning an occasional store that is only open 4 days a month is perfect for my dilemma; I can ramp up, accomplish a lot, and then crash after before doing it all over again. It’s the best of both worlds!
Yep, Mom wants one :).
I was just thinking that I haven’t heard much about “Mom” lately!!
I have the same bench! Random story. Was driving by a yard sale and nearly gave myself whiplash. Drove around the block and my sister bought the bench for a family gathering then gave it to me for keeps!
I too, have painted the bench a few colors in hopes of finding the right look.
Looks like I have a project for next weekend/
Love the look!!!
The fabric you used for your pillow is gorgeous. Where did you get it?
We carry it, Nancy 🙂 You can get more details and see more photos of it here: http://www.onlinefabricstore.net/richloom-darjeeling-blue-stone-fabric-.htm Let me know if you have any questions at all!
the bench looks lovely! i love the color it ended up. mj
Lovely, as usual. I have a very similar bench, but I bought it unfinished–not sure what color to go with. I love your choice. Our seat lifts up and stores school supplies.
I’m amazed by the different looks one can achieve with milk paint and that I can easily paint indoors in the cold Michigan winters.
Wow – I LOVE this! Such a fantastic transformation!
Color Bergere looks SO good on that bench! I like the texture, too.
Oh, and what kind of bread is that among your props? Pumpkin bread maybe?
I haven’t tried milk paint yet but I am now inspired and the first color will be Bergere! Can’t wait til it comes out.
Not sure how I never really noticed that bench before in your photo shoots. It’s such a cute shape. Looks great in Bergere!
Gosh! It’s just gorgeous. It looks so much bigger too. The new color Bergere is so pretty. As soon as I receive my order of Miss Mustard Seed’s paint, I’m into the kitchen and beautifying my space! Kitchen Scale cabinets. Stamped tin back splash and Grain Sack on the walls. I’m excited! I believe I have just stepped into a whole new world of decorating!
That color is awesome. I can’t wait till January. It’s just the right blue with the gray undertones…love it especially topped with the antiquing wax!
The bench is gorgeous! Love the color.
I absolutely LOVE this paint color! It looks like the perfect blue gray that I can’t ever quite find but am always searching for! Luckily I have until January to find the perfect piece to paint… maybe my guest bed that’s been dying for some attention? I can’t wait! Love the bench by the way, I love when sentimental pieces get a new life.