What’s a gal to do when she’s minding her own business shopping for one thing, but then happens upon something that should definitely not leave behind? Please tell me I’m not alone when I find this kid’s rocking chair in the thrift store. Truthfully, I feel that it needs to come home with me. ahem. Well, just so you know, I didn’t bring home both of the chairs that were there…just this one. tsk.
Why did I leave the other behind? Well, both were about the same size, same era, and same worn wear. However, being the smart shopper I am, I turn over the other chair and find that it had an epoxy shoved into one of the tongues of the leg supports holding it to the seat. Red flag right there. Furthermore, I check the gait (the way it rocks) and find it’s a bit off too. Unfortunately, there it stays at the store, while this one just needs TLC.
Moreover, I’d say this one displays time-worn love, don’t you think? Not only is this cute, but I also feel inspired with this simple design. Likewise, being an owner of my childhood rocking chair, I just love when families incorporate something like this for their children in their own home.
MAKEOVER TIME
Okay, so I’ve established in the past, that I adore creating things for kids. With that, I want to bring back a sweet innocence to this kid’s rocking chair while giving it a bit more whimsy. First, I sand off the seat, rockers, and other parts and edges where the finish is flaking or is damaged.
Then, I wipe it all down to get it prepped for paint. However, there’s no need to prime because of the aged appeal I’m after. Next, I use a milk paint, the same paint I’ve used on these past projects, to give the chair two coats, letting cure in between.
While I work, I walk down memory lane over my own childhood while at the same time thinking about my own six children and how fast time flies. What is more, I am also praying over the little one that will find this chair a part of their own childhood story. As soon as my two coats of milk paint cure, I begin to add my own artistic touches, much like this tilt top table, and many other creations seen in my project gallery.
ZZZZZZZZ
By and large, this is the part that is so fun for me…to get to be creative in my own right and just be. In fact, so peaceful that this is what Loula thought of the whole situation while I work. ahem.
Ain’t she a hoot?!? Eventually, I promise to share more in a follow-up post later, but you can read her beginning story HERE.
Okay, so as you can imagine, while lulled by her ASMR sounds, I was able to paint a bit o’ fun. Additionally, notice I don’t need high-end materials to create.
Do you remember the vintage strainer I embroidered (like a nut) with sheep? These sheep should look familiar. Last, but not least, I use hemp oil to not only protect the paint but also deepen it to a soft glow.
BAA, BAA, ROCK
Finally, here is my mini makeover of the thrifted kid’s rocking chair complete with an adorable new vibe.
eep! Isn’t that so cute?
While I truly adore sharing my DIY adventures with you, I’m also all about inspiring you. Maybe you have something tucked in the attic, garage, or basement that just needs some TLC.
Meanwhile, if you’d like this sweet piece to become an addition to your home, you can find it and more in my online store.
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In addition to leaving some comment love below, let’s inspire others by pinning and sharing.
Before you go, take a peek at this antique dresser up for Trash to Treasure Tuesday transformation fun HERE!
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Rebecca - NC says
You are so right about having to “choose joy!” I wake up every morning and tell myself; “today I will love life and choose joy.” It has really changed my life as a widow for the better! 🥰
Speaking of joy, that rocker is soooo sweet!!! I LOVE it when you pull out your artist’s brush. You are such an amazing TALENT!!!! 😍
Larissa says
It really does change the whole outlook of the day. Does it always make the day awesome? Nope. But, it does change my heart to focus on the affirmative.
I sure have fun when I do! One day I’ll have time to really sit and enjoy, but loving my busy family now. Thanks, Rebecca!
Mandy says
The Rocker looks AMAZING. I love it!
Choosing Joy is hard sometimes. Yesterday had some rough spots for me but I stopped myself and went over God’s blessings to keep myself from focusing on the negative.
Thank you for continuing to be an inspiration in both your art pieces and in general life things.
Larissa says
It felt good to have fun with it.
The days are long sometimes for sure! Sending hugs. 🙂
Jo Wolfe says
Everything you do is awesome but I love this rocker. Thank you for being you in every way
Larissa says
I could hug ya, Jo. {{hugs}} You just made my whole week – much needed. Thank you!
Niki says
How joyful!! When I see lambs I automatically think spring, and spring means Resurrection Sunday. And oh the blessing of the perfect Passover Lamb who gave His life that we should spend eternity with Him. So wonderful that you prayed for the child who will get to take this adorable rocker home.
Larissa says
You read my heart…it’s my joy to pray over each and every project I work on and how it affects my readers as well as who will own it (since I typically sell them). Thank you for joining me in my journey, Niki!
Rita says
Absolutely adorable. It makes me think of my grandkids when they were littles.
Larissa says
Time sure does fly, Rita. I miss my kiddos little, but love them as young and adult as well.
Audra says
Adorable! Love your creativitiy!
Larissa says
It’s crazy how time flies! This took me back to many cherished memories. Thank you, Audra.
Marie says
Awe, this sweet little rocking chair won’t last long in your shop for sure – ADORABLE!
Larissa says
Totally fun for me in many ways, as you can imagine. Thank you, Marie.
Mrs. Kelley Dibble says
Adorbs x 18!
And your bobble knitted lamb pillow… Did you make him?!
Larissa says
Thanks! I had a follower knit it for me as I’m mainly a hooker (crochet), but I’m aiming to turn it into a crochet pattern because I’ve made bobble crochet afghans. 😉
Jo Wolfe says
Larissa,never stop believing in yourself. There is so much I could share but a little difficult in such a public forum.. jo
Larissa says
Thank you so much, Jo. Feel free to email me as I get not sharing here. {{hugs}}
p says
Such a sweet rocker reno. I love the sheep !!
You are right !! – this rocker will give a little munchkin some wonderful memories. 🙂
Thanks for being a creator – and for sharing
p
Larissa says
I sure can’t wait to see where it ends up and praying it’s a blessing to a family for generations. Thank you so much!
ColleenB.~TX. says
Rocker is just darling especially the painted sheep. Nice little touch
I’m in my 70’s and still have my childhood rocker.
Larissa says
Thank you, Colleen. I adore my own rocker and am trying to decide who to hand it down to…each of my kids are a blessing!