Recently I got a call from a friend, not just to say “hi”, but to let me know she had found something for me! She had run across this cabinet and just knew I could make it useful again. As soon as I saw it, I knew that it would make the perfect bar.
The bottom was falling out and needed a little repair. I glued it back in and added an extra brace for the back panel, an easy fix for what it would become.
I stored it for about two months when I started daydreaming about what it should look like. I wasn’t sure so I started searching for stencils and photos for inspiration and came across an eye chart stencil. The stencil was a bit pricey so I decided to purchase a digital download to make a transparency. I chose American Paint Company’s Rushmore and Freedom Road colors to give the appearance of a vintage piece of paper. I then used my overhead projector to project the image onto the piece and traced and painted it.
I thought the hand painted lettering would give it that vintage touch and keeping with that theme, I used a mix of dark and clear waxes to give it more of an aged look. I originally applied too much dark wax and after wiping some off, I decided to use some clear wax to thin it even more and get the look I was trying to achieve. That’s one of the things I love about the APC dark wax, it is so easy to use and you just can’t make a mistake with it. I can always play and add more if I want a deeper vintage look, lighten with some clear wax or age the finish even more with American Grit powder. The products are just really versatile.
I love a bit of quirkiness for my pieces. I want every one to be a conversation piece and be utilitarian at the same time. Life is too short not to have a bit of fun in our everyday mundane lives. And frankly, the thought of opening this cabinet while entertaining and sharing a drink with friends just makes me smile!
I love that the APC paint and finishes are people and earth friendly, easy to use, and I am overjoyed that I have a job where I can create art and be safe while using the products.
So for now, this fun bar is up for grabs in our store! I’m sure it will find a new home soon, where friends can gather round, fix a drink and appreciate the good times life and friendships have to offer.
Post courtesy of Lisa
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