Last time, I shared a vintage cubby shelf that followed me home. Well, here is the companion to that cubby shelf I adopted at the same time. Isn’t that how it always works? You go in for one thing, and come home with a trunk full? {{insert innocent giggle}} Many of you know how I either accept those heart-cutouts or remove them. Today, I’m embracing those hearts while I create an upcycled checkerboard into something new and fun.

Maybe you wonder why this would turn my head while in the store? One word…WOOD. It’s made of a solid board that just happens to have hearts cut into it. Consequently, if you skip the wood section of the thrift store, you’re missing out. What is more, stop and use your vision to see what those finds can become – it’s fun and cheap.

While this has a painted checkerboard on it, it also has country blue trim that I want to take care of. Let’s get started!

GETTING DOWN TO BARE

First, I head out to my workshop and grab my sander and take down the checkerboard and the blue edges.

Then, with the checkerboard gone, I’m now able to use a reactive stain to naturally age the wood with a patina. If you want to see the various colors and uses for this type of stain (and why I love it so) HEAD HERE.

Next, as soon as the stain cures (about an hour or so), I use a gray milk paint to give a light dry-brush coat following the grain lines.

Last, before I can call this complete, I totally want to do some ooh, la, la. I create a design using my transfer method technique and trace it onto the upcycled checkerboard.

Then, as soon as I trace my design, I hand-paint it in followed by shadowing, brown wax, and a bit of scrap wood for accent.

80’S TO FRENCH CHIC

Finally, after my DIY fun, I now have this Parisian style sign complete with heart cutouts intact. See…I told you I don’t mind hearts on occasion. These were cut accurately and look nice when some are a hot mess.

Do you see the bits of trim I added from my scrap pile? It pays to hoard at times…just sayin’. As well, the typography is what makes it new. Not only could you do a different graphic, but also a completely different vibe.

Furthermore, I’d love to hear from you and also invite you to take a peek at this sign and more available in my online store.

In addition to leaving some comment love below on this fun upcycle, pin and share to inspire others. I totally create to show that this can be done by most anyone. You can do it too!

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While you’re at it, check out these other fun makeovers like this upcycled checkerboard: