The Twenty Eight Year Old Temporary End Table

This end table has been with us since 1988 when we were issued government furniture after moving to Germany.  At that time, the government didn't allow us to take all of our household goods over there because they provided the furniture.  When we left Germany in 1991, we could buy any of the furniture we were interested in keeping for a very small fee.  I ended up keeping two end tables, a coffee table, a sofa, three bookcases, a chest of drawers, and two twin mattresses.  I never really intended to keep any of it for long.  We just needed something until it could be replaced with what I really wanted.

We kept all of the furniture until 2006 when we moved into our current house.  That army furniture is strong sturdy stuff, let me tell you.  When we moved, we gave away the sofa, coffee table, and two of the bookcases.  We got rid of the mattresses and I kept the end tables, a bookcase and the chest of drawers.

I was never thrilled with this table.  It was functional but it did nothing for me otherwise.  I decided I had nothing to lose if I painted it.  The color I chose was Arles.  It's kind of a butterscotch color.

I chose old white for the accent color.  After painting I used clear wax for finishing but I wasn't loving it.  Since I had the 'I have nothing to lose' attitude, I got brave and used the dark wax too.  I was really delighted with how that turned out.  The table finally had a used, aged look.

After all these years I finally like this end table that was supposed to be temporary!  But my favorite part is this...

That pop of Emperor's Silk red when you open the drawer!  It just makes me happy!

I think I'll be keeping this end table for a while longer!

My First Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Project

I have finally jumped on the Annie Sloan chalk paint band wagon!  It took a while, but after visiting with Janet at The Empty Nest I came home ready to get started.  She assured me that my fear of the waxing process was nothing to be afraid of.  After a quick demonstration, I was sure even I could do it too.  

There are quite a few pieces of furniture in my house that I would like to paint.  I started out with a small table I bought back in the early 90's.  Something small and simple.  I was surprised at just how easy it was since I've never done anything like this before.  It took two coats of Old White paint which dried super fast, and the waxing with clear wax was a breeze.  No elbow grease required!  The distressing was my favorite part.  Who knew that would be so much fun!

I love how this little table turned out.  This one is going in the entryway from the garage to hold the key basket.  I have another one just like it in the guest room that will get a makeover too.  I'm totally hooked!  I'm looking forward to trying different colors and techniques.  The possibilities are endless!

Have you painted furniture before?  What was your experience like?

Have a fun and safe holiday weekend!

xo Annette xo

314.  people who encourage and inspire

315.  trying something new

316.  learning to just do it