Orange Is The New Black

Here is the first (finished) part of Ellie's bedroom makeover a.k.a. "cosmetic fix for tiny, dark, cabin-like bedroom".

I am fairly annoyed with myself because while I was messing with my camera I accidentally deleted the before photos that would show you what a banged up bit of cheap inexpensive kid furniture this started out as. Also you would appreciate all the stickers I had to get off it. But, no use crying over spilt milk paint (ha! I'm funny, right?). First, more pictures, and stick with me to the end for the how to, my review of General Finishes Milk Paint, and what I would do differently if I were doing this project again, 'cause there's no sense in you making the same mistakes I did!

Ellie and I decoupaged this great blue fabric on the inside of the drawers. I love how it adds a hidden bit of sophistication for her to grow into. 

 Initially I planned to spray paint the hardware black or gold, but after I was done painting the dresser it felt like the original finish worked, and it's a nod to the original princess style 1970's furniture-here's a photo from the internet-Ellie's was basically exactly like this only more beat up. It looks like they could be from the same set.

Love the scroll-y feet with the persimmon paint.

Am I using the word "love" too much? This color just makes me so happy. I'm thrilled Ellie chose it, I feel a smile tugging at my mouth everytime I look at it.

Okay, let's get to the nitty gritty of how this cutie went down. I can't write "nitty gritty" without hearing Nacho Libre in my head. It's okay, I like him there. Ahhh, Focus! First a quick rundown of the paint process.

1. Remove hardware and clean with simple green.
2. Prime with oil based primer.
3. Sand with 120 grit sandpaper and wipe with paper towels.
4. Three coats of paint with a really light sand in between each coat.
5. Decoupage drawers with fabric
6. Wash and replace hardware.
7. Admire work!

This was the first time I've used General Finishes Milk Paint and I super like it. Like a lot a lot. I am recommending it to you with vigor. I have no idea why it's called Milk Paint though because it comes mixed in a can and it doesn't chip at all, it also dries with a bit of a sheen that isn't present in regular milk paint unless you seal it with something sheeny. It isn't like chalk paint either. The closest I can think of is maybe latex trim paint in semi-gloss?

Anyway, I am in love with the color choices and it goes on beautifully and dries quickly. It has almost no odor too. I think the reason I like it so much is because no matter how much I love the look of Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paints or Annie Sloan Chalk Paints (and I really do), I always wish they were a little bit shinier and this paint is!

Now, what would I change? First, I drove way way too far to get this piece off of Craigslist. And when I got there I saw that the piece was in really bad shape and not particularly well made. I should have negotiated the price down from the hefty $30 I paid, or maybe even not bought it and waited for something better. I think that driving so far made me feel like I had to get something, so in the future I'm going to narrow my driving parameters. Even though I love how this came out, I wouldn't spend the time and money for supplies again unless it was free or something I already had. 

But since I do have it, let's look and smile one more time (you can see it in her finished room here.)

I have a favor to ask, I'm trying to grow this blog in preparation for selling some of my furniture; if you popped over from Facebook and feel like commenting, would you please do it here on the blog? Maybe we can trick Google into thinking I'm important :-)

I'm linking up at:

The Shabby Nest

Miss Mustard Seed

French Country Cottage

I'm Not a Trophy Wife

Under the Table and Dreaming

Huckleberry Love