Thursday, February 3, 2011

Paris Map Bench




Last weekend was my 10 year anniversary and even though I am not supposed to go to any yard sales until I finish my pile, Mr. Rubbish took me to a couple estate sales he found on Craigslist.  One of the things he bought me was this bench for $2. What a perfect anniversary gift! 


 It was old, ugly, and beat up, but I love little benches like this.  The finish was already sanded (or worn) off and it was ready for a custom paint job! I took the dirty old cover and padding off and added thicker, foam batting.


I wanted to create a distressed, white-washed finish, so I mixed my white paint with water (about 50/50) and brushed it on.  After brushing the paint on, I used a clean rag to rub the paint into the surface and allow some of the natural wood to show through.  Next, I sanded the legs, so even more of the original wood showed through on the turned legs.  The final step was applying Ralph Lauren glaze (smoke color) and rubbing it off with another clean rag.






To reupholster the seat, I chose this linen, Paris map fabric from my local fabric shop. I actually purchased this fabric to redo my friend's chair and I had extra to cover this bench.  She lived in Paris for a while and I know she will love the print.  I will post pictures of her chair when it is complete.





This little bench is on its way to the shop!





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15 comments:

A Vintage Vine said...

Great job! I really like the finsih...no, I really like the seat cushion..wait, I really like them both! Such a cute piece it is hard to decide what part is best!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Oh, I just love that! And the fabric works perfectly!
You have a great eye for design.
Cindy

Renee {Shabby, Chic and Charming} said...

Oh my... simply gorgeous!! Love that fabric!

Mom in High Heels said...

Tres magnifique! I adore that fabric!

michelle said...

Happy Anniversary and what a wonderful hubby to take you! The bench turned out beautiful! I love the linen you chose!!

Sommer said...

Oh I LOVE this! I have been waiting and waiting on doing a chair for my sewing table and now I know THIS is what I want! I would be delighted if you would link this up to my VIP party today =)

http://designergarden.blogspot.com/2011/02/vip-party-3.html

Audrey Pettit said...

Wow! Love it! What an awesome score for only $2. Now it looks like a million bucks. Love that Paris print, and love your shabby chic, whitewash paint finish. TFS!

. said...

What a great find!! $2 is awesome!

You did a great job refinishing it! The fabric is neat! :)

kluless said...

This is a gorgeous rescue. I'm always so pleased when I run into another blogger who sees things for what they CAN be and not what they are. Great Job!

Jenni said...

That is a fabulous deal for two dollars, and your bench turned out wonderfully! I love your painting technique that you used on it, too. :) I have not used glaze on furniture, but think I am going to need to try it out soon! :)

I hope you are having a beautiful weekend!

Blessings,
Jenni
belle & sparrow {Beautiful Nest}

Courtney ~ French Country Cottage said...

It's so darling Amanda! I love the finish on it and the fabric you chose is perfect and so sweet! Thanks for sharing this week at Feathered Nest Friday! :)

Debra@Dejarenew.blogspot.com said...

Hi ya, new follower here as of today. Found ya on the web. I posted your chandelier make over in a post about chandelier makeovers I did. I would love to have ya swing by. Please feel free to join me as well.

Take care
Deb
http://dejarenew.blogspot.com

Vintage Gal said...

LOVE,LOVE,LOVE the paris map bench ~ wow ~ just found your blog through Inspire me Heather. I'm your newest follower ;-)

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous! I may love herbs but a bundle on this bench would just make my day. I am now your newest follower :)
Rosemary...

Jane @ Jane's Junk and Treasures said...

LOVE IT!!!!
What a great make over!

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