Preorder Move Slow & Make Things, and enjoy a collection of thoughtful bonus content created just for you!

You’ve Got Mail


For some weird reason I love these old tole painted pieces. Whether it’s a hamper, waste bin, a tray, or one of these little…what are these, exactly? Anyone know? Whatever it is, it looked dark and depressing in this state. I pick it up at a thrift store for a couple of bucks.
I sprayed it in a periwinkle blue and added decorative painting that lightened it up and clearly stated its new purpose.
As you can see, the design was done free-hand and kept loose and informal. I know, the oval is a little wonky, but I like things to look hand painted, not cookie cutter. It’s just an example that imperfections can give an accessory personality.

You are no longer left scratching your head, trying to guess what this piece is good for. Defining the use of a piece can sometimes be the key to selling it.
I am nearly bursting at the seams to start painting in our new shop! We begin tomorrow and my mom decided to fly in to help. It is going to be a very exciting few days and I’ll be sure to take lots of pictures.

Make sure you come back for my Furniture Feature Friday link party. I just received pictures of the giveaway that was created just for the winner and it is stunning. You won’t want to miss out on this one.
Miss Mustard Seed

Marian Parsons 

Paint Enthusiast | Writer | Artist | Designer

you may also like

19 Responses

  1. I love it! That is a very pretty blue and I like the way the white stands out on it. Nice design {even freehand} and you're right, I think labeling it's use will help it sell. Very exciting stuff going on for your shop! I hope you'll take us for a tour at some point when you're done.

  2. I love tole pieces, too. I have several, including a piece like yours with a handpainted cardinal on it. Sort of crudely painted, which makes me love it even more. I love what you did with your piece.

  3. I have two little trashcans I've been wanting to make over and this has inspired me to get started soon. I love that yours is so personal and not cookie-cutter, my kind of style!
    Hugs!
    Judy

  4. Oh that is so cute… I love it… very pretty blue and your freehand painting makes me so envious… it's stencil only for this girl…

    Good luck with your shop… I am so excited for you and I am sure it will be a great success…
    Hugs… Deb

  5. Tons of personality on that cute little tin now! And a great idea for incoming mail. I never seem to have a good place for it.

    You also have me VERY intrigued about the prize for FFF… 🙂

    Donna

  6. So cute. You're so talented. I can't wait to see what you do with the butterflies. I think my mom has some of those in her china hutch.

  7. Very cute and I agree that it having a purpose makes it easier to sell, but I have a very soft spot in my heart for black/tole painted items of any kind.

    Janet @ Housepeepers

I’m Marian, a painter, writer, and lover of all things creative. From art and antiques to home projects and everyday life, I share my journey in hopes of inspiring you to embrace your own creativity and make beauty in the spaces you live.

next art sale

May 20th, 2026 at 1pm EST

Now Available for Preorder

Move Slow & Make Things

A book about creativity, intention, and making things with care. Sign up to receive updates, preorder details, and exclusive bonus content.

From the Studio

Artful pieces for your home and everyday life.

From original paintings and art prints to Pup Club releases and curated goods, each piece is created or chosen to bring warmth, creativity, and character into your home.

From the Studio and Home

Shop the Feed

A handpicked collection of items styled and shared throughout posts, projects, and social feeds. Every product is thoughtfully chosen to reflect a timeless, collected aesthetic.

Recent Video

Spring Posts

Explore the Shop

Explore the Blog

Categories

Looking for more encouragement?

antique portrait in the kitchen

Remember the portrait I found at the Lucketts Spring Market earlier this year?  The one I saw a couple of years ago at the fall market, thought about, wished I had bought it, and then came face to face with it again?  The woman in the blue dress with the

Read More

four things | eighty-one

The weather has turned hot again, which is expected since we’re halfway through July and in the thick of summer.  Hot, humid weather means I skip my morning walk, don’t stay on top of the weeds in the garden beds quite as well, and generally stay inside except in the

Read More
error: Content is protected.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This