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painted primitive cabinet

Does this cabinet look at all familiar?

How about now…?

I bought it to sell at the Market on Chapel Hill and I originally didn’t paint it, because it had a pretty patina.  But it didn’t sell and it felt like a bit of a black hole, so I decided to lighten it up with paint.  The outside is painted in MMS Milk Paint Farmhouse White and the interior is Shutter Gray.  (Can you tell which colors are my favorite these days?)

I think this piece was once the top of a hutch, but it’s all on its own, now.  I put it on top of the counter-height farm table I found for a great deal a couple of weeks ago and the pairing seems to work.

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I liked it unpainted, but I love it so much more painted.  You can really see the character of the boards and the wearing of the wood.

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I decided not to apply a topcoat.  The matte finish of the milk paint looks perfect for this primitive piece.

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I’ve been working mostly on freelance projects, my parent’s room makeover and Christmas stuff, but it’s nice to fit a little furniture painting in here and there…

Marian Parsons 

Paint Enthusiast | Writer | Artist | Designer

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10 Responses

  1. I love the way your furniture distressing always looks so natural–just the right amount. It’s so much better painted, and the colors are the perfect combination.

  2. It did turn out lovely. It pairs perfectly with the table. I think I need to find a couple pieces like this for my studio. The cabinet would work well to store my paints and the table for a work surface. Now on the hunt for them. I may have to build the cabinet to get what I want but tables are easier to find. I really do love the new farmhouse white.

  3. Yes, I like it better painted, too. It gives it a lighter, less somber look. You did an especially nice job of distressing on it too. Nice piece.

  4. It’s beautiful. I can’t wait for farmhouse white to come out! When you don’t use a topcoat, doesn’t the paint get all over your hands every time you touch the cabinet? Thanks

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.

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