Oh 80’s…you know I love you for the trip down memory lane, but your country blue, hearts, and little gooseys too, all have to go. tee hee! Doesn’t this thrifted gem take you back to BIG hair, stone washed jeans, and even fluorescent everything? Check out how this thrifted country gem gets updated to a farmhouse nail barrel stool.
If you’re just joining me on my Operation 80’s fun utilizing this pile o’ thrifted goodness, you don’t want to miss it. First take a peek at my last post on the country blue benches – it’s a must see.
Today’s project is all about those geese and getting them gone. I mean, they are cute, even my littlest girl thinks so too, but…not my style.
DIY TIME
What to do? Break out the CitriStrip. {{fist pump}}
This stuff works amazing to remove finishes quickly. Simply brush it on heavily and leave it for a few hours, even overnight. First, in order to prevent it from drying out, I wrap it in a plastic wrap during the time it’s doing its work.
After a few hours I gave it a check to see if it was ready to go. Then, I peel back the plastic in batches so the rest doesn’t dry out while I work.
STRIPPING
Last, the old finish and paint come off nicely and we’re on our merry way, goose free. Yay! I let the farmhouse nail barrel dry a bit before wiping it down with a bit of mineral spirits to remove more goo. After that, I grab my sander and take the rest of the finish off.
With the sanding done, I decided to add a bit of rustic, industrial flair with my stencils. I’ve used them in past projects before and find them so handy. The Old World Numbers and Andy Skinner – Industrial Elements stencils work for many styles.
Last, for a finishing touch, I replaced the upholstery with a gray ticking. I also, rubbed the wood down with hemp oil to protect and give the wood longevity. Here it is all ready to go and relieved of it’s 80’s aura.
THE REVEAL
By removing the finish (as well as the silly geese) it now has a rustic appeal that I adore. Did you know this is how nails were transported in days gone by? That is the reason I chose to use the stencils add that authentic touch I love.
While the barrels wouldn’t have had a cute upholstered seat on top, they did have a stenciled wooden lid that would have described what’s inside. You can find the lids and even the stencils in flea markets, on eBay, and such. So fun!
My farmhouse nail barrel got new gray ticking upholstery and is ready to go.
Seeing it tucked in next to my pew along with my grandmother’s crocks and washboard makes takes me back. Do you ever decorate with a story?
I think it makes this piece more functional making it perfect to stash winter gear, dog treats, toilet paper…you get the idea. You can find this barrel along with all my other created decor in my online store.
UP NEXT
In addition, pin and share this fun farmhouse nail barrel makeover. Inspire others to create their own home story.
Up next, last but not least, is this sewing basket. Any guesses as to the outcome? See the after HERE.
Likewise, stay tuned to see and get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
Claudine says
The barrel looks AMAZING! Who would guess what it looked like before? lol I love that wood and the stencils are perfect. The ticking is a great choice for the padding too. Beautiful!
Larissa says
Yahoo! So glad the geese were removable (by force..haha) and that you enjoy my vision. Thank you, Claudine.
Debrashoppeno5 says
Bye, bye geese. The barrel looks so much fresher and more up to date. Great job.
Larissa says
Wahoo!! They just had to go, go, GO! 😀 Thank you, Debra.
Tracey Hiebert says
I’m loving this series! I remember those geese and the country blue! ? what a transformation! Can’t wait to see the sewing basket! (It does make me wonder about some of the “trends” now and what our grandchildren will think of them! ?) Have a good day Larissa! ?
Larissa says
So, so fun for me to do this. I’m having a blast! I’m excited to show you too. So true, Tracey! I think about it all the time. 😀
Della says
Wow you nailed it again!
Larissa says
with a nail barrel! hahaha!! Thank you for the giggle, Della. 😀
Debra Wise says
It’s such a beauty now that the geese are gone. Another great transformation! Especially love the ticking. Great job Larissa!
Larissa says
Just had to give it new life. I have many of those myself and sell them in my shop. I love the rustic vibe they have and so useful too.
Becky says
Whew, that barrel is SO happy to finally unload its geese! : )
Larissa says
tee hee! You know it had to happen. Fun!
Tess Stephenson says
So much better. I love citistrip. Also 0000 steel wool is great for getting the last of it off and makes the finish so smooth. Thanks for the plastic wrap tip. Also love the benches! You are one talented, inspiring woman!
Larissa says
Thanks! I used the steel wool on this and also the tables my husband and I just built yesterday. Works wonders!
Kim Banko says
Wow! I love this transformation so much Larissa! What a great find, and yes, many of the pieces I have in my home tell a story 🙂
Larissa says
I’m delighted to hear it, Kim. Thank you for stopping over and showing love. I bet your home is full of wonderful stories.