One of the things I love about old things that are well-used and carry a story, known or unknown, with them, is that their character makes them art in and of themselves. All of the dings, dents, splatters, imperfections, and the warmth that comes only from time, gives them character and interest and makes them worthy of display. From the day I walked into my first antique store, I have been drawn to beautiful, everyday things. And, as a paint enthusiast, it was only natural for me to gravitate towards paint brushes. This includes other paintbrush-like brushes such as those used for paste, dusting shavings off a desk, or cuttings in a barber shop. I have seen that antique brushes of this sort have increased in popularity over the years, so I thought I would share a post on decorating with antique paintbrushes.
One of my favorite ways of decorating with antique paintbrushes happened on a whim. I wanted to make a display for my studio in PA and, as I looked around my stash for some ideas, I found a piece of a broken antique table leaf. I had already repurposed the table, but I didn’t have the heart to throw away such a pretty piece of wood. I didn’t do anything complicated or fancy, but I lined up the handles of the brushes and nailed them into place.
I hung the entire piece from the hinges that were used to attach the leaf to the table. Sometimes having odd things to work with can yield the best results!
In my MN studio, I had a small length of wall beside an oak hutch when I was first getting settled. The next way I went about decorating with paint brushes was to hang them vertically on the wall. Hanging anything small in this fashion from paint brushes and hand whisks to small coin purses and handheld mirrors can create a strong visual display that’s also a conversation piece.
I hung most of the brushes from existing holds in the handles, but, for those that didn’t have holes, I drilled a new hole or hung them by a piece of twine.
Another way I like decorating with antique paint brushes is to use them as an everlasting “bouquet.” I put a group of them in an ironstone sugar jar and they add great texture and warmth to a bookcase.
I don’t have pictures of them, but here are a few other ideas for decorating with antique paint brushes…
Put a group of them under a large glass cloche.
Frame one or a collection in a shadow box.
Hang one from a door or cabinet handle as a “key tassel.”
Any other ideas that I’m missing?
You can find antique and vintage brushes on eBay or Etsy, but they are best to trip across at Estate Sales, Thrift Stores, yard sales, etc.
Boy, I can’t wait to get back in the decorating saddle again. I am definitely playing with lots of ideas in my head, so I’ll be like a racehorse at the gate when we finally get into a house!
In other news, thanks for all of the prayers for my broken foot. At almost four months in, I finally have my bone stimulation treatment approved and in hand and I had my best x-ray yet today! The bone is coming together and I’m able to walk on my foot (in a boot) again as I can tolerate it. It’s not healed yet, but it’s heading in the right direction and I can’t tell you how much I appreciate being able to walk around the house again! I hope I am always thankful for mobility as long as I have it. It truly is a gift and one that is easy to take for granted.
Such an inspiration to do something with my Fathers old paint brushes. A great way to honor something he loved so much. Such a nice Blog you have!
Always loved your paint brushes hung alongside your cabinet & beside your door. So authentic and relative to your studio ! Plus you have a collection of wooden hanfled scrub brushes also ? I believe you displayed them in your laundry room and I remember when you re-did that room on a weekend Jeff was away! Love all your display ideas.
So happy to hear that your foot is finally on the mend!
Your foot news was THE BEST. So glad. Love your brush ideas and it gave me the idea to hang my mothers small leather coin purses. I gave her one each time I traveled they all have the name of the country. She would use each one until I brought another so all have nice wear. So much better than in a drawer.
One step closer to a real shoe. ? Your shoes aren’t going to know what to think when they start getting worn again. By the way, you do know where you packed them, right?haha
This is wonderful news about your foot.
Mobility is definitely not to be taken for granted. I had a hip replaced last August and it changed my life. You truly understand the plight of the handicapped. Glad to hear you got a good X-ray result.
I hear you. I had one last July, and the knee will be soon. And the shoulder was 11 years ago…
Marion, glad you’re getting there.
So happy to hear that your foot is getting better!
Beautiful display of your paint brushes. So creative! I have one hanging in my kitchen, near my wood cutting boards, to sweep up counter crumbs. Love the texture of them.
Good news on your healing foot! I have two displays of brushes! In one grouping above the back door they hang from a gorgeous ole vintage broom. on the other display they hang form an old corn feeder (for squirrels) and at the end is an old big round chimney brush, I get lots of comments on it.
Glad to hear your foot is healing nicely.
Wonderful news about your foot. I love YOUR design eye. I read an article this morning on how the design shows on television have everyone’s home looking the same and I thought of you. Your home is definitely one of a kind. I’m so looking forward to your next house you might think I was the one moving!
Hi Marion
Can’t say enough about how encouraging you have been to me !!! I’ve been following you for a few years now and still get inspired I’ve always always loved your bath makeover with the anthro wallpaper!!!
I know right that’s years ago Pam!! ?I noticed in your post about the paint brushes and I saw your cane back sofa. Love it, I’ve inherited one from my Grammy, and I love your color of paint. What color and who’s paint? (Maybe your milk paint) I love the look with the natural cane back. Also I love the upholstery, mine is pillow form. ?.what a great job!!!!