Hey gang! If it’s in the thrift store, is wooden, is blah…it is MINE. haha. When I spied this vintage writing box I actually walked away from it. I wasn’t really looking for project pieces. However, when I went back around I decided to pick it up.
With the kids in tow, it’s fun to pick up a piece and explain its past purpose and maybe what it could be. Do you see what it was used for? Pen holder on top, surface for composing a letter, and storage inside.
DIY TIME
While I could have stripped it down, I kinda didn’t like the chipboard bottom. So, paint it is. First, I use this soft gray on the base of the vintage writing box.
Then, once that cures, I apply a creamy white to the lid portion of the box. After all is cured, it’s time to add some whimsy. tee hee!
Last, if you’ve seen my past makeovers, I like to add grain sack stripes. You can see my son’s demo tutorial for you HERE. It’s as simple as tape and paint, but there are a few tricks to making it easier. Definitely take the time to measure and mark. Also, you can use a straight edge and a rotary cutter (or utility knife) to make skinnier pieces of tape, if desired.
That stuff can get expensive and they don’t have all the varying widths I need.
Next, I use a beige to paint in the stripes two coats, letting cure in between. Last, I use a frame graphic to add a bit more fun.
THE REVEAL
Here’s my little mini vintage writing box makeover. I’m smitten!
I don’t know about you, but I feel the colors really bring out the uniqueness of this find. Plus, the typography adds that whimsy I was after. You can see how I add typography to my projects in this DIY tutorial.
In addition, did you notice the ink well? I…ahem…have a strong affinity for those little things. I may have a few in my collection.
And…don’t forget the stationary! I just love to grab all the vintage sets I ever find. Also, I do love to send and receive paper letters. There’s no comparison to email…or text. nah. Do you like to send/receive letters?
Not only is my goal to share my passion, but also inspire you to not be daunted by DIY projects. They can be as challenging as you allow them to be…you CAN DO IT! Likewise, you can find items like this available in my online shop.
Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130
In addition, do pin and share to inspire others to give mini makeovers a try too.
NEXT UP
Up next, it’s Trash to Treasure Tuesday. Stay tuned!! Also, a bit of good news! My second feature in a magazine this month. Look for it to hit stands 5/18.
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Also, more mini makeovers like this vintage writing box:
I have learned; if I see something, but undecided; I put it in my cart anyway and if I decide later that I don’t want it, I will put it back; cause if it doesn’t go in my cart and come back for it; it’s gone.
I love that cute little portable desk; the Before & the after. Great job.
Have yourself a wonderful day
haha…I used to do that and end up with oodles. 😀 This one was fun. Thanks, Colleen!
I just LOVE mail!!! It’s such an amazing feeling to know that someone actually went through all the steps to have it end up in my hand. Something tangible. A real live treasure!! It means so much when we think of someone going to that much work to show us we’re worthy. ??. And what better inspiration to write those meaningful posts than this adorable desk!! Good luck with your fight!! Will pray it works out!!! ???
Yes! Tangible love. And you can come back to it time and again. No accidental deleting (ask me how I know…haha). Thank you, Rebecca. Hugs!
Nice! My husband and I built one of these for a daughter for Christmas a couple years ago! I would have LOVED to find one, haha!
haha! I coulda said the same when we build our daughter’s doll houses. Thanks, Becky! 😀
Oh, Larissa! That’s one of my all-time favorites of yours. What a transformation. Well done – I just love that.
And I ♥♥♥ you may collect ink wells. Awesome.
Grats on your publications, too – what a well-deserved thrill and honor!
You are such a kindred spirit, Michele! Thank you for the smile. And for the congrats. Fun to see.
Adorable! Just the perfect amount of distressing!
You are sweet to say so, Barbara. Thank you!
Congrats on the magazine feature, Larissa, that was one sweet dresser repurpose! Love the typography you used on this sweet upcycled writing box. I’ve had the same group of penpals for 30 years and finding one of their handwritten snail mail letters in my mailbox is like Christmas morning! So I can appreciate the history of this writing box and how many newsy letters were written on it over the years. Continue to pray that you win the FB battle because that my friend is absolutely ridiculous. P.S. I prefer following you via my inbox 😉
You are the best, Marie. I just love that you have penpals for that long! It is like Christmas morning. I have family that are deaf and we communicate that way and it brings such joy. I also have fun mailing my followers and sending gifts. Yes, email is where it’s at for blogs. woot!
Well you have done it again; made me drool. I absolutely adore this project. Seeing all these old boxes turned into new memory keepers brings me so much joy. I always try to imagine someone using them and my husband tells me I could write a book with all my “Memory Box” daydreams.
Thanks for indulging me!
You should write a book! 😀 That would be fun for you and I’m sure a blessing to your friends and family. I sure have fun sharing these. Thanks for the smiles, Marietta.