Upcycling is all about "Second Chances"

We all need a second chance in life don't we?
I know certainly do and sometimes the "stuff" in our lives that we no longer need, use or love could also be given another shot at being something useful.

I found this 1920's mirror covered in cream gloss paint destined for the dump. In the spirit of 2nd chances I decided to try and rescue it.
I have literally spent hours on this piece, painstakingly removing the gloss paint to reveal the gorgeous rich brown wood underneath. Although I could not save the mirror I deceided to transform this into a blackboard.

It has a beaded wire hanger and is big enough for all those messages and things that you mustn't forget!.
The frame has been edged in teal green and has a very shabby chic look thanks to the determined flecks of gloss paint that refused to be removed.
I love this piece and I am so pleased that I have managed to give it another go at life!
Approxiamate size 73.5cm x 53cm x 2.5cm.  This item can be found on our website. Just click the link to view. 1920's upcycled Chalk Board.
Here are some more pictures for you.

 

Please get intouch if you have any questions. Sarah xxxxx

 

Morning World!
Potty Moo's here.......Well, it's still cold and wet out there but in here I am up to my eyeballs in paint, chalk paint to be exact.  Just look at the state of my workshop.  I have commisions to complete before the 9 March because thats when we are hosting our next crafty birthday party.

I have been researching different ways to make chalk paint in an attempt to avoid spending a fortune on the ready made stuff.  This it would seem is easier said than done.  I can find lots of American crafters that do make thier own paints and it all sounds so easy so I will stick with it and see what happens!

Here are a couple of recipes (yum yum!) that I have found so far. So this is where to start of you fancy having a go at making your own chalk paint.

Non-sanded grout
1 cup paint
2 tsp non-sanded grout
water

Plaster of Paris
3 parts paint
1 part plaster of paris
water

I have ordered some plaster of paris off ebay and will keep you posted on how it goes.

Here's a project that I finished earlier! (as they say on Blue Peter!)

 This piece has been painted using Annie Sloan "French Linen".  I must admit that it has come out pretty well and I just love this colour.

This tall chest of drawers is currently for sale in our little shop in Dunmow, Essex.  You can view it on the website too  by clicking this link.  Upcycled Tall Chest. French Linen.

In the spirit of this BLOG which is meant to both encourage, inform and let you have a sneaky peak inside our workshop PLEASE don' throw old stuff away before asking yourself if it can be brought to life with a bit of imagination and a lick of paint!

Our moto of the moment is
"It's the Season to Upcycle!"