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A Simple Thrift Store Makeover...

One good thing about cold winter days is getting projects done indoors!  This week I worked on a simple makeover of  a thrift store find!


I found this old wood tote.  I liked the styling, but it was made of plywood 
that didn't have a great look.  So it was perfect for a little makeover...


I did want some of the wood to show through the paint, so I started by rubbing a candle over some areas of the tote where I wanted the paint to come off easily...


I used DecoArt Americana Decor Chalky Finish in Relic for the paint...


After painting it, while it was still not quite dry, I took a damp paper towel and rubbed the areas where I had used the wax resist technique. No sanding!



On one side, I used a stencil I had from 
Angie at Knick of Time's Vintage Sign Stencils...
she has some fun stencils for projects like this!


I just used part of the stencil, painting very lightly to give the look of an old crate label.  I then sealed the tote with DecoArt Media Ultra-Matte Varnish. 
I love this varnish...water-based, non-yellowing, and fast drying...
it has a great look when you want durability without gloss.


I used the tote to hold some pretty plants for Valentine's Day...


 a maidenhair fern, a cyclamen, and a heart fern.





This tote will be fun to use in many ways throughout the year!

I am part of the DecoArt Blogger Outreach program and was provided with the products used in this post...all opinions are my own.

Before I go, thank you for your comments on my last post!
The winner of the Valentine ephemera is~
Kris @ Junk Chic Cottage


Until next time...

30 comments

  1. Linda, You are a clever girl. I love the way it all looks . Now I want to go thrifting.:):) My grocery store has some pretty cyclamens. Blessings, xoxo, Susie

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  2. You reminded me I need to get some valentine projects done today.
    Your tote box looks great of course

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  3. I just love it when I find a blank, boring piece in a thrift store that's so easy to give a makeover like yours, Linda. Yours looks amazing now - so pretty! I love how you used my stencil on it - it was the a great idea to use just part of the stencil. It turned out perfect.

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  4. I love it when something "everyday" gets turned into something with vintage charm! I haven't tried the candle thing but I am going to soon. Much less messy than distressing! Looks great, love the plants you chose. xoKathleen Charm Bracelet Diva {At Home}

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  5. Not blank or boring anymore!! Very nice job!

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  6. That turned out pretty! Love the cyclamen too!

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  7. Your tote turned out to be a darling spot to plant a winter garden, Linda! I'll have to remember the trick with a wax candle next time I'm trying for a weathered finish. Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!

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  8. Sweet project! I, too, grab totes whenever + wherever I see them! I stencil mine with a stripe +/or name +/or number, + we sell them at our markets here in the Midwest. I just found your blog! My name is Kay -- it sez I am anonymous??

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    1. Oops. I misspoke re: anonymous. Sorry!

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  9. Very cute - I love totes!

    Thanks for the stencil link - I've been looking for a good place to get some from.

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  10. You did a great job! And the plants and flowers help keep us going until spring. Bet you smile every time you pass it.
    Brenda

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  11. Love your tote and the way you painted/stenciled it is perfect. Pretty plants too especially the cyclamen!

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  12. Linda, this is just lovely! Funny thing, I started a wood tote project myself, today! Great minds ;)

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  13. This tote is so pretty Linda. Love this. Have a great weekend.
    Hugs,
    Kris

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  14. A very nice transformation, Linda! Love the wax technique - I'll have to try that one. They sell that paint at my local craft store. I think I'll pick some up! Love the pretty plants and your lovely table runner, too :) Sending hugs xo Karen

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  15. Cute project and thanks for the candle process tips!

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  16. Love what you did.... great tip with the candle. Pretty plants too.

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  17. Linda, this turned out so cute! I love how the candle wax resist gives it a more natural look than sanding! Very nice!

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  18. What a great redo. Can be used for so many things. Love the flowers!

    Judy

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  19. This is so cute, Linda! I'll remember the products for sure. You made it all sound so easy! Love the way you arranged everything, too.

    Jane x

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  20. I love a good painted toolbox! And that cyclamen is beautiful. I stopped in to my local Bachmans a week or so ago and they had some really pretty ones, now I'm tempted to go back and get one!

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  21. This looks lovely Linda! I really like the lettering, and it looks so pretty filled with plants.
    Helen xox

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  22. Wow! What a difference. Turned out so lovely. The stencil really makes the piece. Love it!

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  23. Wow!! its look amazing.. you truly turned the trash into treasure.. XOXO

    Please visit: http://from-a-girls-mind.blogspot.com

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  24. Lovely! Love that grey colour...great work!
    Have a great day, take care :)
    Warm hug from Titti and a snowy countryside

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  25. Another lovely makeover, Linda, and the plants are the perfect finishing touch.
    Amalia
    xo

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  26. Like you I love the winter months for getting the things done you can do in doors. Great thrift find and with a little love you have it looking great.

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  27. Love!

    Debby
    Debbygoesshabby.blogspot.com

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