It ain’t every day that a gal gets inspired by hearts. Or maybe I should say inspired by the challenge to remove said hearts. I’m not heartless, by any means, but when I spy a thrifted wood bin like this one below, I say game on. If you’re new here, you may not know that geese, cute Amish, and hearts are on my radar. Soooo many pieces that still showcase this vintage vibe but can have a new lease on life. In fact, you can see my past 80’s hearts makeovers HERE.
This particular bin kinda gripped my heart when I lift the lid and see this etched marking.
A certain loving father gifted this to his 24-year-old daughter, Patty, on her 24th birthday (or possibly anniversary) in 1987. Isn’t that sweet? Handmade gifts always show heart – pun intended.
MAKEOVER TIME
First, I think this is kinda cute as-is. However, let’s say you find this or have this tucked away somewhere because it doesn’t suit your decor. What to do? Give it a new look. I begin by tracing over the heart using a plastic sour cream tub and my builder’s square.
After that, I cut out my shape using my jigsaw and a steady hand. Then, as soon as I cut and sand, I bring it in and start to use my barn red milk paint to coat it all. Notice who’s thinking milk pain smells pretty good. Good enough for licking – blucky. Loula is a hoot.
Last, after the milk paint cures, I add my own typography for an added antique-ish touch.
By the way, you can see these other red barn milk paint pieces.
- Farmhouse Bench Makeover
- Ironing Board Cabinet
- Upcycled Wall Clock
- Farmhouse Desk Rescue
- Vintage Drop-Leaf Table
THE NEW OLD
Finally, after my DIY adventure, here’s my thrifted wood bin now with a different style of prim Americana.
In addition, I left the inscription on the inside for future owners to have that piece of history.
Best part… while the “heart” of the creation is still there, I remove the cutouts and have these openings as well.
SHARE
Finally, are you feeling inspired yet? My goal is to get you to think outside the bin at what could be. Likewise, let me know in comments below if you would have bought this and what you’d do with it.
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While you’re at it, check out these other makeovers like this thrifted wood bin makeover:
It’s lovely but kind of sad for whoever Patty was. Did you leave that inside I couldn’t make it out. X
Her memory lives on inside. I mention that in my post. 😉
Very cute Larissa!
Despite Ivan throwing things at you and getting chased up a tree, and errands to run- car doors to unlock, and a power outage it looks like what the enemy meant for evil the Father made work for good. In other words major crisis averted.
I am a sucker for anything “Americana” so this cute little box in barn red with the black typography is causing my patriotic heart smile. Loula licking the paint gave me a chuckle as well. Praying for better days ahead for you my friend! God bless.
Thanks! Some may not understand your reference to my troubles as not everyone gets my newsletter, but yes… God is in control. As for the box, you got exactly what I was after. 😀
So happy to hear that prayers were answered!! God moves in mysterious ways and it’s hard to trust his plan sometimes. But, your faith, hard work and huge heart aren’t missed!!! You, like this project, are being reimagined while keeping the good memories marked inside your heart. Great job on both!!! 🥰😍🥰
Yes! Just got confirmation on that answer to prayer via phone, so I’m counting my blessings. Thank you, Rebecca.
I like this so much better. I also am not crazy about geese, cute amish and hearts, but I have to add bears to that list for me . I very much like red, every thing you redo or repurpose looks great.
Vickie, I’m so glad to hear it. My hope is that people like “Patty” can keep these handcrafted items but make them their own or just for folks to see things outside the bin. 😀
As ever, I’m so impressed by your ability to see outside the box (or beyond the bin 😄)!
I love your vision and positivity to make things beautiful!
This little red bin is inspiring me to get out some Americana decor and get ready for the 4th of July! I love it! Sending happy thoughts to you!!
aww… I could hug ya, Jill. Thank you for a much-needed smile today. Hugs!