Sometimes we have that one thing we just can’t let go of for whatever reason. That isn’t the case with this piece I find at the thrift store. However, I can relate to a decorative piece being so functional that you want to hang on to it. That’s what brings me to this vintage shelf makeover.
Not only is it NOT high end, but it also handmade (which kinda makes it high end for me).
Seriously, though, it’s made of solid and ply pine and well-built at that.
While I can totally see it hanging on my wall with antique ironstone or similar as-is, I felt that this may be like some items we find or get handed down to us. Dark, dated, and needs to match what I’m after.
Ever had something like that in your home that you want to keep but just doesn’t pass muster any longer?
Notice the ply that someone didn’t finish filling in the holes… tsk.
MAKEOVER TIME
Instantly I see oodles of ways I can upcycle this from taking it apart (as I considered for my bathroom makeover) to simply dressing it up. You can all see dozens of shelves I’ve redone before in these past posts. For today, because I am swamped with work, I choose a simple update with ooh, la, la.
First, I take my sander and not only remove the poly drips, but also give the surface tooth for paint.
Since it’s been a while, I use this favorite green shade to soften the overall stance this piece presents.
Once I let two coats fully cure, then I take my painter’s tape to make stripes using small bits of tape as spacers as shown.
Next, using a light coat of white, I remove the spacers and paint in between the stripes with one coat.
For a final bit o’ fun, I use my stencils to create a French vibe on my vintage shelf makeover.
REFRESHED
Last, but not least, I finish with a bit of distressing and here is the shelf refreshed and ready to go anywhere in a home.
What room would you hang it in for style and storage?
I could add a dowel for towels or even cup hooks for even more storage. Making pieces like this tell your own story is fun!
SHARE
Now it’s your turn. Would you have nabbed it at the thrift store? Leave some comment love below, likewise pin and share to inspire others too.
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While you’re at it, check out these other projects like this vintage shelf makeover:
Such a pretty refresh! Love the color and Parisian vibe. With cup hooks on the bottom it would make a fabulous mini coffee station for a small kitchen, especially with French country style.
Thank you, Marie. Yes! I thought those or a dowel for towels as I mention in my post. So many ways to use this.
Cute! I agree with Marie, a mini coffee bar in a French country or cottage core kitchen would be perfect. As you know I kinda dig green!
My head is still swimming with all the change in my life right now but it’s nice to have a break and read what you’re up to.
I totally can relate to you and understand the space you’re in right now. Sending hugs!
So cute!!! And it’s so light and uplifting!!! You are amazing as always!!!! ❤️
Thank you for saying so, Rebecca. 🙂
Love the re-do!! So bright and pretty!! If I had the patience, and the shelf of course, I’d add to my small extra room — I’ve reclaimed a huge closet and made it into my mini-cave!
awwww—some!! Thank you, Marti. I love your idea too! I bet it makes the house feel fun and new.
Very cute makeover. I like it so much better than the original. I’m also a fan of that shade of green. The stripes and the Parisian additions make the piece stand out.
You’re so sweet to say so, Joanne. That green, I think, have my heart forever.