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Sunday, February 26, 2012

Vintage Writing Armchair






Thomas Jefferson used one. So did Mark Twain. Probably a few other people as well, since this little piece of history has been in existence since the 18th century (well, not this particular one, of course, or otherwise it would be reflected in the price) The writing armchair is a cousin of the more recognizable schoolchair, but there are subtle and critical differences. Notice that the tablet arm accommodates easy sitting as it does not extend in front of the chair. That is a subtle difference. Notice also that the price--$65--reflects a vintage piece of literary history as opposed to a $10 plastic schoolchair. That is a critical difference, and one that works well in my favor.

I wish I knew more of the assuredly fascinating story behind this whimsical chair. I do know a few facts about it: it was at Goodwill, I bought it, wrenched off the stained and tattered blue mock velvet seat, and did a whole lot of stripping, sanding, priming, painting, distressing, and recovering. The bits and pieces of the story still missing will have to be filled in by the imagination. I imagine it was probably used at one point by Jane Austen as an alternate writing chair. No doubt Jane sat here dreaming up Mr. Darcy in cheerful abandon. So considering its possible history, this price is even more of a steal.

This chair is gleaming with a slightly softened white color scheme and no glazing to keep that fresh, clean look. There's a perfect little compartment under the seat to house your monogrammed stationary for daily correspondences. Beware, left-handed writers--this piece is a little hard to use. Also beware to right-handed writers who would think about using this for anything other than an amazing statement piece--it's a little cramped to write a novel on. Stick it in your entryway and stack some insightful books or a telephone on the arm. Mark Twain probably used a larger version. To keep the vintage from screaming precious vintage, I replaced the cushion and reupholstered the seat in a modern, bold pattern to give this chair a truly vintage chic appeal. Thanks for looking!--$65

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Sold! Peacock blue coffee and end table






This is the newest transformation from Hazelnuts. A solid wood, very durable set which had seen better days took to this color and glaze fabulously. I applied the black glaze with a heavier hand this time, resulting in a toned-down blue and increased jewel tones. Time to add a dose of whimsy! Remember to Like Hazelnuts on Facebook for %10 off...

Monday, February 20, 2012

Coffee table transformation!






Sometimes I find a piece that's too old to be fashionable...but too new to be vintage. Such was the case with this chunky, outdated coffee table. It was in great condition for how old it was (probably because it was so ugly that no one could muster up the resolve to use it), so I started scheming how to transform it back to useful...and cute. A cream color lightened up the gravity of the wood. Topped with a dark glaze and careful distressing, this piece really started to shine! I added baskets to double for the cuteness and practicality factors, and recruited the DH to install the antiqued hardware. Fresh flowers and a cup of tea complete the look--as if that will last long with Hurricane Hazel rummaging around. This is my favorite transformation yet!
















Sunday, February 19, 2012

French gray dresser--Sold!




This adorable little five drawer dresser was a practice run to get an idea of a project I'm working on for a friend. I love how the French gray (with the tiniest hint of blue) with a light tea-colored glaze turned out. Add in the distressed edges and drawers and behold a shabby-chic staple!

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Sold! Queen Anne coffee table


These victorian coffee tables aren't terrifically popular these days, but that's something that can be changed! The classic lines and lovely legs just need a little upcycling flair to switch grandma's stuffy parlor table into a very chic accent. Top this with a few old books and a bud vase and you are on your way to whimsical perfection!

Shabby chic white chandelier--sold!



A fabulous transformation of what once used to be a tired, garish bronzed chandelier. It had green snakeskin shades with gold braid. Can't believe I didn't take a picture when I first got it to prove I'm telling the truth. Many processes and paint layers later--voila! This chandelier has six arms, delicate scrollwork with light distressing, and some extra glamor with the crystal drops. It's about two feet tall and around the same across, with plenty of chain to drape this gorgeous piece from your ceiling. This shabby-chic dream would look amazing in a bedroom, foyer, dining room, or anywhere you could use a dose of whismy!

Sold! This dramatic piece is going to grace a bath in a custom dream home! And I met a fabulous new friend in the process=)

Sold! White mini chandelier


A charming white mini chandelier upcycled from a pretty hideous dining room fixture. This ended up in a sweet bathroom for a little girl! Chandeliers are one of my favorite elements for adding a dash of whimsy or drama to any room. If it weren't against the laws of home decor, I might have one in every room...

Sold! Peacock blue end table

This is a lovely peacock blue chest or end table with an aged black glaze and great vintage hardware. It was my first time using a black glaze, and I loved it over the striking blue color! Some lucky girl got this as a Valentine's gift from the guy who bought it. Yes, furniture makes an amazing and romantic gift!

Keeping track

This is my space for sharing what I am currently working on, have for purchase, and have transformed in the past. Feel free to browse current transformations as well as stuff that has already sold to get an idea of what I can help you find!