Ever find something when you’re not even looking for it? I was at the thrift store to find (and found) a curtain panel for my mudroom entry when I spied this below. At first, I walked past. Then, after a second glance I pull it out and decided to trug it home for an updated bread box adventure.
Just for reference, I have had quite the fun with my past bread box makeovers and upcycles:
- Repurposed Bread Box Charging Station
- Pretend Play Grill from Upcycled Bread Box
- Bread Box Makeover with Typography
- Vintage Bread Box Makeover
- Upcycled Charging Station Bread Box
- DIY Bread Box Makeover
- Thrifted Bread Box Makeover
So, as you can see, I think they always have potential.
This one, however, is really nice as-is. But what if you want a little more style?
That’s where some DIY elbow grease will make this makeover party pop.
COLOR WASH
First, I use basic rubbing alcohol to lightly wipe down the entire box to get rid of residue, build-up, and grime. And this also weakens the finish just a bit.
Once completely dry, I use a sanding pad to remove the finish fully.
Also, I’m only working on the exterior for this updated bread box project. That way the original accordion door and the pull-out cutting board are left natural.
Then, I take about one quarter cup of paint and one tablespoon of water and mix. By the way, this is a color called Clay Mask from a new gallon my daughter found set by the trash at her workplace. ding, ding!
My goal is to create a paint wash finish so the grain can peek out beautifully while giving this box a new look.
Simply brush on following the grain and then instantly wipe off with a lightly dampened cloth.
To see this method at work, you can look at all my past projects in similar style HERE and even on my own garage door HERE.
WASHING AND WASHING
Here’s a take at what the first coat looks like.
While this is pretty, I want a bit more of the color present. Additionally, I apply another coat of wash which does hide a bit of the grain, but you can still see it.
Next, I apply a soft wax finish to seal it in.
SOOTHING FINISH
Last, my updated bread box project is complete with a glimmer of color.
While I used this subtle green, any color would work. Black would really make that wood pop.
Or how about white for a fresh feel?
What color would you use, or would you paint the entire thing?
Since I like to keep my spaces for my food as clean as possible, I didn’t paint the interior or the cutting board. However, I did add contact paper so it can be wiped out and not have staining AND can be replaced at any time.
It looks happy in my kitchen, doesn’t it? And I can happily say that the faucet I recently installed is a blessing.
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So, tell me… would you have bought it in the first place? If so, would you give it a makeover or repurpose it? Leave some comment love below. What is more, share and pin to inspire others with this DIY paint wash and updated bread box tutorial.
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While you’re at it, here are more thrifty makeovers like this updated bread box:
You are amazing! Your artist’s eye knows when just a small change would make such a difference!! I would have walked right past it….. 😵💫❤️
I debated on using my Dremel to put details into it, but a badly sprained thumb said NO. 🙁 Thank you, Rebecca.
Yes, I would have bought it! I like the bonus cutting board. Such a good idea to have with a breadbox. And yes, I would have painted/washed it and left the tambour natural.
Right? I’ve never seen one like that before. Glad to hear I’m not alone, Fran. 😀
That color is wonderful. It looks so fresh now.
A real keeper.
Just hoping to inspire someone to dress up what they may already have or to keep “trashure” out of the rubbish bin. 🙂 Thank you.
I like how the paint wash gave an instant update to this drab but fab bread box with the very handy pull-out cutting board. Nice score – perfect makeover!
Thank you, Marie. I was happy to find it and then working on it was easy enough with my sprained thumb. I’m so thankful for healthy thumbs! 😀
Ahhh, what’s better than fresh baked bread from a pretty but simple bread box?? I don’t know if you baked that bread or not but I can smell fresh bread and it is delightful!! Keeping the bread box easy peasy adds to the minimalist style you are headed towards.
Fresh bed is da BOMB! Yes, I do make my no-knead bread (recipe linked), but no this loaf. I’m selling this one, but I do love minimal for sure. Thank you, Niki.