Campaign Dresser 3.0

So, I'm here again.  You know when I said that there are times where I do shit, and I can't leave it alone.  There is something off about it, or something I half-assed (let's get real here), and you can't appreciate exactly what you did until that little thing is fixed?  Have I rambled enough?  I think so too.

These campaign dressers.  Man, I knew they were going to be something that would require work. Who knew I would be talking to you about their third update.

Just to recap - remember when?

Not terrible.  I was clearly very excited at the time. But, let's get back to half-assing.  I never actually got around to attaching the wood.  In the two years or whatever, the wood slid around, scratched up the top and my ego.

Then I had an epiphany.  These dressers were never conjoined in the first place.  So why dress them up like they are?  It was time for these sweeties to part ways.

They got a new paint job - different colors.  And were encased (or topped) with some good quality poplar wood, stained and secured with brads.  The hardware got a new metallic paint job too.  If you can make your original hardware shine with a little love and elbow grease, by all means.  But this brass hardware went from pretty to dingy in a month.  Plan B.

Spray Painting Hardware Tips:

For perfect hardware the first time and every time, pick up some Clean Metal Primer by Rust-Oleum. This is one serious heavy metal ass kicker.

Give your hardware a nice, even coat of primer and let dry.  Flip hardware over and spray other side.  Any knicks or debris can be sanded with fine grit paper.  Spray additional light coats as needed. Once your primer is set, any paint type, color, sheen, you name it, will be flawlessly applied.  Let dry.

While the hardware was basking in the sunshine, I began sanding away flaws that I overlooked the last time I decided to "fix" these dressers.  I noticed there was still a lot of leftover laminate stuck in various spots.  The medium-coarse grit sandpaper and orbital sander took care of that.  With the wood settling over the years, there were some tight spots.  A little buffing allowed for the drawers to glide a bit more easily.  Once the sanding was done, I took a damp shop cloth and wiped down all surface areas.

Onto the painting!  I did two different colors for two dressers - I used Rust-Oleum's 2X Ultra Cover in Antique White, Satin finish, for the babes room and Stone Gray in Satin for our bedroom.  Hardware was painted in Rust-Oleum Universal Pure Gold.

When it came to the wood, I can't remember if we went with a large slab of poplar (my favorite), or pine.  The wood was cut to size, sanded, and stained.  I ended up applying a few coats of poly to the top of the babes dresser - just in case convenience factor plays a role, and we use that space for a changing table.  I don't need shit getting into the grooves.  No puns here.

Otherwise, the wood was stained with Minwax in Puritan Pine and Natural.

The babes dresser was completely encased in wood.  Only a top and bottom trim piece were added to the dresser in our bedroom space - it's interesting how much room an inch takes up when you have limited space to work with.  Small brads were used to secure the wood to the dressers.  We opted to carry the dressers inside before securing the wood slabs.  One of the smarter choices we've made - because those dressers are heavy AF with the added wood. 

Here's a little snapshot of the beans dresser:

And ours:

Same same but different.  But still same.  On that note. 

Happy fall!

Exploring Deep Space - Faux Fireplace Overhaul

I started this project on a whim, with no plans or expectations.  As you may have read in my previous post, Color Spotlight: Gray Owl, the entire upstairs got a paint job.  Well, most of the entire upstairs with the exception of this little faux fireplace built-in.  Behind all of that was a big, patchy, multicolored mess from all the years of painting and repainting.  

To be truthful, when the faux fireplace was installed four years ago?? it was never actually completed.  There was a lot of trim work that was missing because, eh.  

I really loved the concept of having said faux fireplace bookshelf thing, but to be honest, it was way too crowded in our living room space.  Initially, the faux fireplace bookshelf worked within the space, however, when Shane built the Tree Rings cabinet, the space got pretty jammed.  Now, being the minimalist I am, the cramped space totally bummed me out.  So much that I found my nutcase self moving the other pieces of furniture around on a weekly basis, only to move it back, then back the other way.  Last week I finally came to my senses, realizing that the living room was never going to look right until I did something about the giant mass sitting dab smack in the middle of the room.  So, I did what any loonie would do on their lunch break; I grabbed the rubber mallet and gave the fireplace a few knocks.  By the time my break was over, the shelf was successfully removed.  

Board by board, I deconstructed the built-in until I only had the mantle part remaining.  The mantle itself had absolutely no support, wiggling and wobbling, ready to snap under the weight of the top. So, I leaned it up against the wall and called it quits.  Because, well, no plans or expectations.

Time had passed and I still didn't have a clue what I was going to do with this mantle.  I really wanted to utilize it somehow.  I love a tiny house, but lately I am realizing how quickly we are running out of space for unique additions such as this.

I made a trip to the garage and found some wood scrap pieces; reconstructing the base of the mantle.  But even after adding the scrap pieces, the mantle was still movin' and shakin'.

After sorting through the pile of extra wood from disassembling the faux mantle, I found a few pieces that would aide in increasing support, and secured them to the back of the mantle with a nail gun.

The mantle went from 20 pounds to 50, I swear.  But, it wasn't going anywhere.  I mean, literally.  It just hung out.  It wasn't until Big Bull Gretzky spotted a crow in the tree eight houses down, freaked out and bumped the mantle.  In slow motion the mantle leaned farther and farther and because I am such a badass, I ran to rescue the 50 pound tipping mantle, catching it with my now bruised bicep. Girl power.

The mantle was in fact heavy AF.  My bruised bicep told me so, but it was certainly not secure.  The final decision on location needed to speed up, which resulted in the mantle sliding two feet, right into the dining room.  A few anchors and furniture wall straps later, the mantle was secure.  This time it really wasn't going anywhere.

The faux fireplace has seen it's share of dings and dents.  After some patching and sanding, the mantle was looking a little hot and a little messy.  Since I conveniently ran out of the Gray Squirrel paint by Benjamin Moore (it molded), the opportunity to explore other colors presented itself.

Side Note: My husband loves outer space.  He told me once (several times really) that if we never met, he would have been first in line for the Mars Project.  It's close, but I'd say he loves me more than the solar system.

Up until this very moment, Shane just thought I was crazy for moving shit around, again.  He's right.  And to thank him for putting up with me, I wanted to incorporate a color just for him.  I present to you, Deep Space by Benjamin Moore.  It's a very dark, slate-like blue.  Needless to say, he was a fan.

So was I.  Now we can make routine visits to deep space anytime! And seriously? Check out that sexy trim job.

I really liked the idea of having shelves in the mantle, but as I said before, it was just too much noise in such a small area.  The noise was accompanied by anxiety when it came to decorating, and more to dust.  Now, I can still decorate the mantle for all seasons, but it isn't hoarding space in the process.  Just clean, simple, lines.  The best part is the mantle is officially portable, which means endless possibilities!  Maybe I'll move it somewhere else in a week?  The odds are always good.

The mantle is more or less a piece of wall art now; similar to the chair at the Walker that's adhered to the wall with two legs and a tissue box sitting on top.  Seriously.

The other side of the room is a different story.  I'm currently on the hunt for a decent MCM or Danish inspired credenza/media console that doesn't cost a mortgage payment.  Until then, the remaining built-in piece is going to have to hang out until I'm ready for it.  It's a start anyway.  Wishing you all a fabulous first day of spring! 

Ten Stupid Simple Craft Ideas

When November hits, I quickly remember how expensive the next two months are going to be.  Between Christmas presents, donations, food, ornaments, Christmas trees, blah blah blah, it adds up.  And it adds up to a lot.  By the time you get a grasp on your expenses and, like, not having a single moment to yourself on the calendar, those personal touches can fall to the wayside... just a bit.  Unless you have 20% off home decor and gifts on Cartwheel.  Then, and only then, is additional spending necessary.

In no particular order, here are my picks for crafting materials to have around the house during the holidays (and non-holidays) to save you from a bind.

1. Brown Paper Bags 

Create your own door garland with some scissors, tape, and a little imagination.

2. Perel Beads

I like Perel Beads because A. they are super colorful B. They are cheap if you consider how much product you can make and C. The sky's the limit with these suckers - legit secret santa/teacher gifts and totes adorbs gift tags.

3. Popsicle Sticks (various sizes) 

Create some big ass (or small ass) snowflakes by gluing some sticks together.

4.  Kraft Paper + Sharpie Pens

These cheap materials make awesome last minute greeting cards, you know, for that family you forgot about that didn't forget about you.

5.  Mason Jars + Petite China Dishes

This trend has been sticking around, and it won't be leaving anytime soon.  Load up on these bad boys.  Look for coupons at Hobby Lobby and Michaels for deeper discounts.  As far as trinkets go, check out places like Etsy for vintage finds, or your local thrift shop.

6.  Cardstock Paper 

Make no sew paper bunting garland with scissors, string and tape.  If you're feeling extra ambitious; make a fireplace to hang those stockings with care. A hot Toddy or two and maybe some cuddles... just not the struggle kind... is all you need to stay warm on those frigid nights.

7.  Craft Paint + Canvas Paper

Unless you are planning on painting a masterpiece, my advice is to check out brands like Folk Art and Apple Barrel for your painting needs.  I have done plenty of paintings on canvas using these vibrant hues -  for a fraction of the cost of those other super expensive acrylic paint tubes.  A single tube of craft paint will cost you around 92 cents.  And oh, the color options!

Instead of wrapped canvas, opt for canvas paper.  It's frameable, and fits nicely in your favorite gallery frames.

9. Gold Leaf Paint

With a little gold paint and a lot of imagination, you can add shimmer and shine to everything from christmas ornaments to mini figurines to canvas gift bags to black river rocks to terracotta pots to... I'll stop there.

*Recommendation: Liquid Leaf - Apply using dry bristle brush*

10. Felt

Felt has always been a tried and true crafting medium.  You can stitch it, cut it, glue it, paint it, snap it, work it, quick, erase it. Technologic. Technologic.

As far as time goes, all of these crafts took less than one hour leaving plenty of time for all of those other things that fill up your schedule.  The best part is, these crafts and materials are simple enough for you and your family to participate in.  And having three glasses of wine, minimum, will really get those creative juices flowing.  Happy designing, folks and have a splendid New Year!

Wood Boarding Flowers

Nice days in MN are a rarity this time of year.  Thankfully we've been in a bout of sunny days, and today was no exception.  I even got a little sun.  Now my veins aren't so bright.

I've been meaning to paint a little somethin', somethin' for a friend and his fam who is moving to St. Louie, and doing it outside was probably the best decision I have made all day.  The vitamin D is much needed.  Instachipper.

This blog has been fairly limited to "house projects," but sometimes I don't feel like doing them.  Like, at all.  It would be nice to maintain the blog, and not desert it as often as I do, so if  you wouldn't mind, I'm going to start showing off a little artwork here and there.  If there is ever a piece that strikes your fancy, I work off commission, and thrive on custom, uniquely you ideas.  So, don't be shy.

I've also added an Instagram ticker, so you can see what I've been up to.  If you like what you see, feel free to follow me @slothahontas.  Heart!

 For this piece of artwork, I used a cheap-o board I picked up from Hobby Lobby for $3.00, and some leather lace.  I grabbed some finishing nails and pounded them into the side.  I love pieces that are no fuss, simple, and don't require some crazy-expensive matt and frame.  Plus, it's nice to do something unexpected once in awhile.

I dunno, kind of fun, right?

Not on a related note: If you are looking for some elegant pots and planters this spring, look no further than Anthropologie.  All things considered, their pottery pieces are pretty reasonable.  I scored this damn gorgeous Celadon Garden Pot from Anthro a few weeks back, and I'm having a hard time committing the planter to do one thing.  And Pssst.  Right now they are having their 40% clearance sale. Photo courtesy of Trader Joe's, you flower rockstar, you.

Hopefully you are out enjoying the weather yourself today.  As always, thanks for reading!

Best,
Instachipper Jenna

Painted Pillow Swag on a Budget

If my life was measured in pillows, I'd be winning.  It's seriously nutty how many throw pillows I have.  I would also hate to admit how much I paid for those said pillows.  The issue?  I am a sucker for change.  It's okay though, guys!  I finally found the solution.

... Ikea pillow covers.  Bet you saw that one coming.  I am slowly finding "our" style in our home.  Sometimes it is easy to forget that there is a boy living under the same roof, so I am trying to be consciences of that too. Needless to say, there has been a lot of trial and error... and turmoil?  Hm.  Sounds about right. I am quickly drawing the conclusion that I don't have an exact style-- I just like what I like.

For starters I picked up a couple Gurli cushion covers from Ikea ($4.00 a pop), and their down inner cushion inserts ($6.99 each).  I've really been drawn to geometric shapes, not to mention the Swiss cross, therefore, that pattern was a given.

I picked up some fabric paint made by Tulip @ JoAnn fabrics.  Check out their Soft line.  It is ideal for these type of projects.  Next, I grabbed a mail flyer and cut my pattern into it.  Also known as the poor man stencil, make sure your paper is pretty thick.  We aren't looking for soggy here.

Before you begin, it is never a bad idea to iron your pillow cover.  You'll at least want to flatten the deep wrinkles.  For my pattern, I eyeballed it.  I love the idea of something being slightly imperfect.  Use your paintbrush or foam brush (both will work) and blot the area.

Move your stencil to another section and start again.  Keep going until you think you got it just right. Then, order a Topper's pizza and eat it.

Here is another quick pattern I did for reference.  I just used some tape and filled in the center with gold paint.  The options are seriously endless.  From simple to complex, you can do it all.

After a little drying time, you end up with some pretty cool ass pillows.

Another Day, Another Dresser

Hey fellow project do-ers,

Wasn't yesterday absolutely gorgeous?  My goodness.  It made for a great outdoor project day.  With the weather turning colder, I wanted to take advantage of some projects that have been in limbo for awhile before the snow actually fell.

Up next on the chopping block:

I snagged this little dresser from Salvation Army for $10.00.  Not bad.  The drawers slide well and the piece is solid wood.  It just needed a little TLC. Thrifting is seriously underrated.

First things first.  I sanded the pieces and cleaned it off with some tack cloth.  If you haven't used this stuff before when doing make-over projects, it seriously makes the job so much easier.

The dresser drawers had various holes in it that needed to be patched.  I can't imagine the hardware being original, as there were two extra holes not being used.  I decided to fill these holes with a little caulk.  That's what he said...

The Bat Tree (DIY)

Fall is certainly in the air and on the ground.  The two huge trees in our front yard have shed their bright yellow leaves, and I think it is far too pretty to rake them up right now.  I could easily say that fall is my favorite season, like ever.  Actually I should probably clarify that.  There is a 3-4 week window when the temperatures are warm enough to stand, and cool enough to pull out your favorite sweater(s) and riding boots.  Once I see snowflakes, I'm outtie.  I've also had the good fortune of coming up with some of the most kick-ass costume ideas ever.  Usually couple costumes with my hubs and sister is the route I prefer to take.  Here are some of my favorites if you are looking for a little inspiration yourself.

Black Swan/White Swan

Dia De Los Muertos

Wayne's World

Effie Trinket

There's Something About Mary

Enough about awesome costumes, let's get down to brass tacks.  About a month ago I started pulling out Halloween decorations only to find that my Edgar Allan Poe snow-globe didn't make it through the winter, turning all of my decorations into moldy swamp monsters.  Sad story.  Needless to say I took this as a learning opportunity to make my decorations instead of trusting big box stores... bastards.

List of Materials:

A stick with branches (free)

A spool of black ribbon ($2.99)

Foam ($3.19)

White or yellow Puffy Paint ($1.99)

Vase/Lantern (free because I had one)

Vase filler (I used some free rocks)

______________________________

Total Cost: $8.00 and some odd cents

The first step was finding a stick.  Me and Shane came across a brush pile while walking our pup last night.  It was a handsome stick, but Shane was convinced there were bugs on it.  Gretzky was a fan of it too.  Every time I turned my back he munched on it a little. 

I grabbed an amber colored lantern thingy I had laying around the house and cut the foam block down to size to fit into the lantern. Then I shoved my stick into the foam, pressing down firmly.  I placed a few rocks on top of the foam to hold the stick in place.

Next came the fun part.  I loosely tied black ribbons to different branches to give the illusion of bats, and cut the ends of the ribbon at a sharp angle.  Once I was satisfied with the amount of bats I had on my branches, I applied two white puffy paint eyes to each ribbon.  I think you could have a lot of fun with the eye color.  Even green would be kinda spooky!

So there you have it.  A project that costs under $10.00 that I feel adds a lot of pizzazz to your holiday decor, while still being subtle and classy!  Now, go make yourself a bat tree, ghouls.