I am asked if I want this dated carousel horse. I had no idea how big it was, but I spy an antique rocking horse makeover.
When I went to pick it up, I was like…whoa! It’s definitely bigger than a table top decoration I thought it was. However, that just means more fun for me. woot! Funny thing is this poor old horse doesn’t have the get up and go it used to. The hole for the dowel is worn so much that it now rests on the ground. If I pick it up, it falls apart. Time for a makeover, right?
DIY TIME
First, let’s take a look at what I’m dealing with. It looks easy enough to transform. The key is I need to dig into my stash to make this happen.
Then, looky at what I found. They’re leftovers from my upcycled lamp from broken rockers I made HERE in this post.
The only problem is that one is still broken. However, after a little bit of woodworking, I have a rebuilt rocker that is ready to go.
Next, I need to assemble it all. In order to do that, I have to figure out how to connect the rockers to the horse. I think the original dowel will work well for that.
Finally, once all the assembly is complete, it’s time for the finish work. I begin by painting a base coat of two colors, then follow up with the details.
THE REVEAL
Not only did I get to recreate this vintage carousel horse, but I also got to make 3 different projects in one. Here’s my antique rocking horse from reclaimed parts up first.
Isn’t he cute? I had fun with this to the end. Plus, the bonus is getting to use up my stash and have fun art time too. In addition, he even as a twinkle in his eye.
What shall we name him? Rocko? Spot? Let me hear it…
MORE REVEALS
However, before I sign off, take a closer look at two more upcycles. First, let’s see the base of the carousel horse turned art.
You can make one too using a vintage print from The Graphics Fairy. In fact, I use Karen’s site often for may fun DIY creations (seen HERE).
Last, but not least, the wooden heart needs some love. I sand it down and add a bit of typography on a fresh coat of stain. Much better, right?
Now, it’s your turn. Which is your favorite?
In addition to leaving some comment love, do pin and share my antique rocking horse creation so you can inspire others too!
UP NEXT
With this intention of inspiration, I’ve got a hot new project that I’m eager to try and share with you too!
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Additionally, more trash to treasure fun like my antique rocking horse:
From country “EEk” to farmhouse “Chic!!” You are AMAZING!!!! That is the cutest rocking horse!!! Hmmmm…. How about “Paint?” Or “Dapple?” ? ?
bwahaha!! Love your typo! (fixed it. 😉 ) I had such fun with this. I love the names too!
What a great transformation! 3 for 1 got to love it! Name the horse FAWN looks somewhat like a deer to me!
It does! Thanks so much, Vicki. 😀
I never saw that coming! I love that you turned it into a rocking horse!! So cute now, and of course you used all the extra pieces lol. SO creative! XOXO
Those misfit rockers have been waiting for just the right thing…this was it! Thanks so much, Christy.
All three projects are adorable Larissa! 🙂
Yay! Thanks so much, Denise. I had fun! 😀
This is darling, and so perfect on top of an armoire. Great work!
Thank you for saying so, Lizzy. I’m smitten with all 3 projects. 😀
That is so sweet now! Best recycle upcycle ever!
Thank you for the love, Nancy. 😉
So clever, Larissa! I also had no idea how big that horse was! 🙂
Right? In the picture she sent me it looked maybe 12 inches long. Huge!
He turned out so cute! Another one of your fabulous redos!
Thanks for saying so, Susan. Fun to do. 😀
Great ideas! Love the rocking horse on top of your cabinet. Nice choice of colors too! 🩵
I couldn’t wait to lift it up and give it new life. Thank you for your wonderful support, Dale.