One of my favorite inspiring child-hood stories is The Ugly Duckling. A little swan cygnet is mistaken for a duckling and is assumed to be ugly because it doesn’t look like the other ducklings. After time passes, that “ugly duckling” actually becomes a beautiful swan instilling the idea to not judge by outer appearance. Similarly, I’m giving this tired looking wooden goose a transformation into a shabby chic swan.
Meet Edward. I’ve lovingly named this goose because…well…why not? I name things, do you? So, Edward has an artsy-craftsy vibe going on. That wooden heart with grapevine wreath necklace have got to go.
*post includes affiliate links so you can find the products I love to use too. (see full disclosure)
DIY TIME
First, I take off the extras and set those aside in my #trashure stash. Then, I lightly use my sander to give the goose tooth. Now that it’s prepped for paint, I break out my black spray paint and cover both sides.
When I acquired the goose, I noticed a hole at the bottom for a stand of some sort. So, I pieced together a base and stand from hardware store goodies.
Once I have my shabby chic swan started, I just need to give it a whitewash with a dry brush method.
Last, but not least, my swan isn’t shabby without some decoupage. I use this these collage paper rolls to apply them to the front in a random, rustic fashion. This stuff is cool. It comes in a pack of three different papers. You get eighteen feet (six feet each) of thick tissue paper perfect for creating.
However, before I call it done, I also wanted to add one last little thing using my rivet tool. I tell ya, my motto is #toolsoverjewels.
THE REVEAL
Here’s my little ugly goose turned into a beautiful swan. Edward is now stylin’.
And, of course, what is a shabby chic swan without a crown? tee hee. I used a piece of scrap flashing and tin snips to make this. Then, obviously, my rivet tool helped me pin it together for a perfect fit.
So, Edward and I would love to know what you think? Are you as smitten as I am? I love it!
If you’d like to make Edward a part of your home, you can purchase him in my online shop. (SOLD)
My goal is that you are truly inspired to see past the obvious and have some fun creating DIY art for your own home. In addition, do pin and share my shabby chic swan. Inspiring others is what I’m all about. You can do it too!
Up next, these two leftover hooks have inspired me for a new project. See the new purpose HERE.
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
Also, more projects like my shabby chic swan:
‘Edward’ how cute; crown and all. With the crown, does that make him the Burger King goose? :}
Edward sure looks like he’s strutting his stuff. :-}
Have a great day and enjoy your evening
He’s such a fun guy. haha. Now he’s a swan worth looking at.
Edward, I would have thought you a lost cause….. Fortunately, you were spotted by someone whose creativity knows no bounds!!!! A project Hans Christian Anderson himself would be amazed and inspired by! ? ?
aww…how fun! Thank you for the smiles from ear to ear, Rebecca. 😀
Well, I have to admit, I saw absolutely no hope for this goose! But Edward looks great and I wouldn’t be embarrassed to have him on my porch! Another job well done!
tee hee! Such fun for me to share, Gwen. Thank you!!
Thank you for giving him back his dignity. Beautifully done.
I couldn’t resist his prim state. haha. Thanks so much, Sigrid. 😀
King Edward! He is definitely regal; a splendid swan indeed. Another lovely transformation. The Ugly Duckling was a favorite of mine too. Thank you for sharing!
Just too fun to pass up. Thanks, Paula! 😀
Edward is certainly the “spruce goose”.The ? was the finishing touch!! Great redo.
haha…I love it! 😀 Thank you so much.
King Edward is a very good looking dude! He would make a great porch sitter!
tee hee! He is a fun guy. Thanks, Mary.
Edward is lovely, Glad you saved him!!!
aww…thank you. Just so fun to dress him up. 😀
I love him, such a great way to update him!!
aww…how fun! Thank you so much, Cheryl (from Edward and I …haha) 😀
Haha! Perfect for that space than needs a little quirky/formal humor!
haha! Exactly! 😀