Month: October 2014

Bathroom Makeover: Plan of Action {Day 1}

Written by Jenna on October 29, 2014. Posted in Bathroom, DIY, Paint, Renovations, Tile, Wallpaper. 4 Comments on Bathroom Makeover: Plan of Action {Day 1}

I’m at it again… another project! And this is a biggie. I know, I know…. I haven’t even waited 0.05 seconds before starting something new, but this project has been in the works for over a year and I’m thrilled that my thoughts + ideas are actually coming to fruition! So the next big remodel… the hall/kids bathroom.

This bathroom got a mini DIY revamp about 3 years ago, but it’s been used & abused by two kiddos, so it was time to put my design expertise to work and create a space that would handle the everyday splashes & wear of two busy bees.

Of course, I can’t start the remodel without a plan of action. So here it is. My creative vision board for the new bathroom space…

I’m thrilled to be partnering with Lowe’s on this bathroom renovation and they’ve put me to the test to create a dynamic, on-trend space using their in-stock products (items that can be found in store versus online). My vision for this revamp is to mix my design style of classic eclectic – classic for the background with bold elements layered in! Since the tile is the dominate feature (shower + 3′ up all the walls) in this bathroom, that’s where I started…

My design philosophy when creating any space is to go classic for the elements that are expensive and/or difficult to change. Similar to buying a sofa (which I typically go neutral in color and pattern), I wanted a tile that could “live” a long time… I DO NOT plan on changing the tile in a year or two (or even 5), so it had to be something that I would like now & in the future. There is nothing more classic and beautiful than 3 x 6 subway tile. The bonus, it’s only .22 cents a tile – one of the least expensive Lowe’s has. But (there’s always a but), I wanted something more. I needed to create a wow-factor. So along with the classic subway tile, I am also going to incorporate a gorgeous herringbone carrara marble. Crossing my fingers that it looks as good on the wall as I envision it in my head {squeal}.

But you all know me, I need color somehow, someway. That’s where the layers in the space come in. I’ve selected a dynamic wallpaper that is really give an incredible contract against the classic white subway. It’s bold. It’s unexpected. It’s me.

The classic and the bold are covered! The other elements in this new proposed bathroom are all going to enhance the beautiful classic and bold selections. The old builder-grade vanity will be headed curbside and a new, more modern vanity in an espresso finish will be installed in it’s place. For the lighting, I wanted to introduce another unexpected element and chose an oversized single exterior industrial-style light fixture.

Here’s the catch… I’m doing 95% of this bathroom renovation on my own. I’m crazy, right?! Nutso, but I’m determined. The part that I will not be tackling is the install of the new tub and shower components. The mister nor I have ever installed a tub or shower fittings and are too nervous to tackle it on our own and want to avoid any possible leaks. We know when to call in the pros and the tub install is not within our skill-set. I am sure we could do it, but who wants to take the chance? Not Us! Beyond that though, it’s all on me. Tile, toilet, vanity, lighting… All DIY baby!

Since this bathroom makeover is almost an entirely DIY job, it’s going to take longer than typical, so our goal is to tackle it in 30 days. 30 days start to finish, complete! Can we do it? Let’s see. I hope you’ll follow along on another crazy DIY adventure…

{Day 1} Plan on Action – Complete! 29 more days to go…

From start to finish, these are all the posts pertaining to this bathroom remodel
Plan of Action
Demo: Removal + Installation of the Tub & Walls
How-To Tile + Grout the Bathroom Walls
Installing Wallpaper
Adding a Tile Accent Border
Creating a Tiled Niche
Bathroom Makeover Reveal
Resources

This post is sponsored by Lowe’s, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I am thrilled (and a bit nervous) about tackling this project, but very excited to be partnering with Lowe’s on creating an entirely new bathroom space. Iâ€™d love for you to follow along on this new project!

China Cabinet Makeover {Reveal}

Written by Jenna on October 23, 2014. Posted in DIY, Furniture, Paint, Paint Techniques, Paint Tools. 6 Comments on China Cabinet Makeover {Reveal}

It’s done! What a journey it’s been for this china cabinet.

Upon finding this diamond-in-the-rough on Craigslist and rescuing it from a dilapidated garage that housed chickens, roosters, and a few other unknown animals (I was afraid to even look around), the once trash-bound cabinet now sits beautifully in my dining room with a vibrant new color & a complete designer makeover…

It has been quite the task of getting her to this point, but she’s complete!

We can’t appreciate the ‘after’ without looking at the ‘before’. Remember what she looked like a few short weeks ago…

>>> read more on The Backstory + Choosing a Color <<<

Like I said, it’s been quite a journey. Let’s reminisce…

I was psyched to bring her home. Once she landed in our garage, I started the prep work by removing all the hardware, the doors, and the shelves.

I cleaned her up a bit + lightly sanded all the surfaces.

>>> read more on Prep + Sanding Wood Furniture <<<

Once all the surfaces were ready, it was time to prime! As I’ve shared over & over, priming is SO IMPORTANT. The purpose of paint is to provide color, but the purpose of primer is to provide the ideal base for the paint to be applied. The paint + primer in one is fine for walls, but a true primer like Glidden Gripper (which is what I used) will block the stain from bleeding through and will provide the needed base for the paint to adhere! If you’re painting furniture, YOU MUST USE PRIMER.

>>> read more on Why & How-To Prime Wood Furniture <<<

After the key step of priming all the surfaces, it was time to PAINT! Finally, right?! I chose the color Red Red Rose by Glidden using the Glidden’s new simplified color palette.This is a real wow-factor color and even before finding the china cabinet, I knew this rosy, raspberry hue would be perfection. Typically I have the piece before choosing the color, but not in this case. The other hues + layers in the dining space are fairly minimal and neutral, so I knew a focal point piece that would be the eye-catcher of the room would make a real impact. It’s all about the contrast and the balance between neutrals and bolds.

The process of painting this beauty was laborious, but O So Worth the time + effort!

>>> read more on How-To Paint Wood Furniture <<<

Once the china cabinet was painted & sealed, I wanted to add a few fun, unexpected details. I chose to add self-adhesive, contact paper to the back of the cabinet interior which provided a beautiful backdrop for all my dishes, platters, and china.

When I couldn’t find the exact hardware I had envisioned, I DIYed it to create exactly what I wanted at a fraction of the cost.

Once the ~~jewels~~ hardware was set, it was time to style this gorgeous gal!

It’s now all filled up with our collected plates, glasses, and platters… Believe me, not one new thing was bought for this revamped beauty.

>>> read more on the Details + Hardware + Styling <<<

a recap of the process…

And then she was complete!

The ‘after’…

Let’s compare one more time…

What do you think? Pretty major change, right?!

Thank you so much for following along on this Tale of a China Cabinet Makeover! I’ve received countless emails, comments, and messages on how the multiple posts and step-by-step breakdown of the process has been an inspiration. From your notes, it sounds like many of you have had the urge to paint that piece of furniture but either didn’t know how, weren’t sure of the process, or didn’t have the inspiration needed to get started. I hope I’ve pushed you enough to make the move!

Here are the many posts related to this before and after
Backstory + Choosing a Color
Prepping & Sanding Wood Furniture
Why & How to Prime Wood Furniture
Tips + Tricks to Painting Wood Furniture
Accessories, Details, & Styling {China Cabinet Makeover}
China Cabinet Makeover {Reveal}

This post is sponsored by Glidden paint, but all thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I am so excited about this project & was thrilled to partner with Glidden paint on this furniture makeover.

E-Design: Online Interior Design Services

Written by Jenna on October 21, 2014. Posted in Decorating.

I’m so bad at promoting myself, not because I’m bad at what I do, but because I never want to be pushy or come across as arrogant (because I’m really not a fan of the in your face, salesman-y, self-promoting type). But after much thought, a need to work, and ~~pushes~~ encouragement from a few friends, I’m writing a post about something other than my blog, which is my Interior Design business.

So along with my blog, you might not know/realize that I also have an interior design business where I work with clients to create spaces that they never thought imaginable. I am so grateful because I have worked with some really amazing people, many of which have spaces/homes that I’ve had the opportunity to showcase in national publications – bonus! The great part about my business is that I not only work with people in my area (upstate New York) but all across the country, thanks to the power of the internet. The web has enabled me to work with people in Arkansas, Florida, NYC, New Jersey, and beyond. I refer to these non-local collaborations as E-Design projects.

What is E-Design?

E-Design by Jenna Burger Design LLC is an affordable design / decorating service for those looking to work with a professional, experienced Interior Designer to obtain a personalized, unique space tailored to meet your style + budget. Whether revamping an existing interior or starting with a fresh palette, I can assist you in making your dreams a reality. Through email, phone, and/or skype, we will work together to create a custom, one of a kind design tailored to your aesthetic and space.

[Kitchen remodel project with an eclectic old meets new aesthetic]

The result…

Why E-Design?

1. No time constraints. The space can come together at your pace. Whether you want to execute the room(s) overnight or take 2 years from start to finish, the room(s) can evolve as youâ€™d like. Once your plan is complete, itâ€™s in your hands. You decide whether to move forward with the exact suggestions or use them as inspiration to find something else. Youâ€™re in control.

2. Itâ€™s laidback + comfortable + unintimidating. Once we correspond via email, you send pictures + dimensions of the room(s) you want to work on, at your convenience. No cleaning or making sure every space is â€˜perfectâ€™. No need to schedule an appointment. No need to be home at a certain time.

3. Itâ€™s affordable. Working with a designer, is often thought to be very costly and only for those with huge budgets, but that isnâ€™t always true. When working with me, you will get the expertise of an educated, professional Interior Designer in a very affordable way. I do the legwork and research to create a one-of-a-kind room and you simply need to execute and wait for the deliveries!

4. You know me. Well kind of. Honestly though, you see my work and design style/aesthetic through what I share on my blog. I’m a straight-shooter and I truly love what I do. If you like what you see from what I share, then you know that’s what you will get for your home.

How it works? The Process.

First, send an email to me – jennaburgerdesign@gmail.com – sharing details about your space(s).

> Are you starting from scratch?

> Or do you simply need help adding the finishing touches to pull a room together?

The more information, the better and faster we can get started. I will email you back with a few more specifics + questions + the cost of the room design. Once the invoice is paid, I get started on the design.

My turn-around time typically takes 2-3 weeks for a complete design. Why so long? I like to take my time to create a room and not start/finish a design in one day. I put a lot of time and effort into pulling a space together so it reflects the person who lives there. I truly want every room to come together organically instead of wham-bam-done. Each room that I design is custom tailored to your style + budget. No two rooms are alike!

What you get.

I offer a range of E-Design services (virtual design) from a one-question consult to full room makeovers (and everything in between). What you will receive in your E-Design package depends on you and what you need. Typically (1) full room E-Design project will be about 25-30 pages and emailed to your in PDF form.

Included are the following:

Initial Consultation via email (correspondence about your space and your scope of work)
Creative Vision Board (a.k.a. mood board)
A furniture floor plan
Room elevation(s) (if necessary for wall treatments / wall decor placement)
Furniture and Fabric selections / suggestions
Accessory selections / suggestions
Suggestions for repurposing existing furniture
Suggestions for DIY projects
Product Resource Shopping List (in excel with direct links to online sources)
Design implementation with complete directions on â€œwhat goes whereâ€
A budget / cost list
Excel file with direct link to product (this makes it so easy for ordering)

> Click to learn more about what is included in a Full Service E-Design Project

How much does it cost.

The cost varies on what you need, the size of the room/project, and the amount of time it will take to create.

I offer services starting at $40 for a one-question consult. From there I have a jump start design package (pricing starts at $200) which includes inspiration to point you in the right direction to get your room started. If you’re looking for a full-blown, every detail, complete design package, my full service design services are for you (pricing starts at $650).

Most projects/jobs fall into one of the above categories, but on occasion working at an hourly rate is easier/best for you and me. Once we start communicating via email about your project, I will provide the cost + specific details on what you will receive. Payment for the entire project is due before the design process can begin.

> Click to learn more about the cost of services

Learn more about my services + testimonials from past clients >>> Click here

View other creative vision boards (mood boards) that I’ve created >>> Click here

Let’s get started! Have questions, don’t hesitate to ask!

Details + Hardware + Styling {China Cabinet Makeover}

Written by Jenna on October 15, 2014. Posted in Accessories, DIY, Do-It-Yourself, Furniture, Styling. 10 Comments on Details + Hardware + Styling {China Cabinet Makeover}

Yes, the paint color is unexpected, but adding a few other unique details to the china cabinet makeover has really made it a one-of-a-kind, perfect piece (in my eyes).

Last week I finished the most tedious part of the makeover which was painting the cabinet. It took a few days and lots of patience, but the effort was absolutely worth the result in my book! Once the cabinet was complete and dry, I started styling the interior. After living with it for a few days (and sharing a peak on IG), I knew it needed something. I loved the overall dramatic color, but I did want to pare it down a bit and decided to add a special something to the back + this bad boy needed some hardware! Take a look…

Most of my china dishes and platters are plain white (with simple detailing on the edges) so I thought sitting against a dark background they’d look great. Unfortunately though, the interior seemed kind of cavernous, so bringing in something lighter for the back of the cabinet made sense. I found this pretty patterned contact paper and thought it would be the ideal addition to lighten and brighten the cabinet.

Details.

This is a similar project/process to when I added the geometric contact paper to my media cabinet…

After finding the center of the cabinet, I started off by adding the contact paper at the top edge. I then slowly peeled off the backing, section by section, and adhered the paper to the cabinet back while pushing out the air bubbles with my hand.

I also made sure it was vertically plumb so it was hung straight.

Once I was towards the bottom, I left about an 1-2″ extra and cut the contact paper with scissors. I followed that by using a straight edge blade and trimmed the paper so it fit perfectly at the bottom. I also did the same at the top…

Once the center panel was done, I added the self-adhesive paper to the other two sides. In the end, just being honest, there were a few air bubbles that I could not get out. O well, it’s not perfect… The dishes and layered accessories will hide those messy spots.

Once that was complete, I was able to accessorize! But before that, I want to show you what I did with the hardware.

Hardware.

Remember at the beginning of this project I wasn’t sure what to do with the hardware… go with new or use what was original? Well I decided on new. Why? 2 reasons. (1) Some of the hardware was missing – good reason for new, right? (2) I really wanted this piece to be a mix of old and new. I adore the traditional lines of this cabinet (old), yet the color and the added details are more modern (new)… thus my style, Classic Eclectic!

For the hardware, I wanted a bit bling-bling, but on a budget. On one of my daily trips to Lowe’s, I found these beautiful octagonal shaped knobs. I really wanted a brass finish, but they didn’t have them, but for $3 +/- a knob, I couldn’t leave them. So I painted them…

Using brass paint (liquid brass gilding, to be exact) that I had from another project, I painted them using a small brush. It dried within minutes and this unique detail was added to the cabinet.

Check out the before and after of the hardware…

As I shared in the first post [prepping & sanding], I removed the existing hardware before getting started on the makeover. To hide the holes that were on the door fronts, I used wood filler and then sanded once it was dry. The holes that are on the sections that look like drawers, but really aren’t, remained and that is where the new knobs were installed.

What a change, right?!

Styling.

The last part of the makeover was beautifying it with all my stuff… my treasures! Instead of showcasing my china + bowls + glasses the traditional way – by the set (plate/dish/bowl/cup) – I went for a more casual, non-symmetrical route of stacking the plates and dishes, and ‘displaying’ the glasses in groups. This allowed me to maximize the space provided, plus achieve a simpler, less tailored look.

When I started the styling process, I began with the large stack of dinner plates and because they were the heaviest (physically and visually), I put those on the bottom shelf. Then on the middle shelf on the other side, I added in some other random larger + smaller plates and stacked a few glass bowls on top. After adding in some wine glasses (groups of 3 or 6 looked best) on the each side , I stepped back and it looked like this…

I then added in some more pieces to balance out what I had started with. Basically, the plates and glasses are mixed together on each side. Neither side is weighted with only plates and/or only glasses.

Achieving balance is key to successful styling or a successful visual vignette!

I saved the center section of the top cabinet for serving pieces, platters, and bowls. I centered some of the elements, which gives a traditional feel, but other elements are off-center which brings a casual, organic feel.

After adding, editing, moving, and contemplating, it was finished. Styling can be a little tricky, but go with what feels/looks right.

For those not-so-pretty pieces or one-offs, I stored them in the closed section below. I love space with doors… perfect for the not-to-seen decor.

Confession time… I tried getting a picture of the overall styled cabinet, but it was impossible without capturing the reflection as well. I’m not the best photographer, but I try 🙂

I adore how the dining space is coming together and looks so beautiful for Fall…

What a transformation, right?! Now that the cabinet is styled, it’s 99% complete. The next post on this china cabinet makeover will be the reveal – yay! Coming Soon…

Follow along on this makeover with these other posts
Backstory + Choosing a Color
Prepping & Sanding Wood Furniture
Why & How to Prime Wood Furniture
Tips + Tricks to Painting Wood Furniture
Accessories, Details, & Styling {China Cabinet Makeover}

Coming up (still to do)
China Cabinet Makeover {Reveal}

How-To Paint Wood Furniture

Written by Jenna on October 9, 2014. Posted in DIY, Furniture, Paint, Paint Techniques, Paint Tools. 36 Comments on How-To Paint Wood Furniture

Prep is done.

Sanding is complete. >>> [tutorial here]

Priming is finished. >>> [tutorial here]

Now on to the painting. This was definitely the longest + most tedious part of the makeover, but absolutely the most important step to focus on. With all the work that has gone in to prepping this cabinet, or any piece of furniture for that matter, painting it right really makes all the difference in the world to achieve a nice looking end product.

This post is completely dedicated to sharing the steps I took + tips & tricks on how-to successfully paint wood furniture.

As I’ve explained and stressed in the previous two posts, the prep work + priming is very important before paint is applied. To achieve a successful end result, a primer is a must. For this project, I used Glidden Gripper primer (a picture of it + more details can be found in the last post). Once the primer is dry, which typically takes little time (about a day), painting can begin.

Before Painting.

The Magic Formula. One of my secrets for painting wood furniture is to use floetrol (<- affiliate link). With all furniture painting projects, I always add my favorite â€œformulaâ€ to eliminate brushstrokes. It works like a charm to achieve a clean, brushstroke-free surface! (And I wasnâ€™t even paid to say that â€“ I truly just love it ;)

The Brush. The brush used for painting really does make a difference. I always use Purdy brushes because they truly make for an easier, better painting result. Yes they are expensive, but it’s worth the cost. Most of the time I use a new brush when starting a project. (Again, I wasn’t paid to say that)

The Color.

The paint color I chose for this cabinet makeover is Red Red Rose by Glidden.

How-To Paint Wood Furniture.

When painting furniture, like this china cabinet, I started on one side of the base cabinet and continued across to the other side while working in small sections. I always continually look at what was just painted to check for drips, which you want to avoid as much as possible!

Typically I will add paint to the overall surface and then go back to smooth it out so all the strokes are in one direction (usually you want to follow the grain of the wood, but it’s not a must since with paint you don’t see the grain).

Even if you try to avoid them, drips are normal. To deal with those nasty, inevitable paint drips, I sand them off once they are completely dry. Using an orbital sander is easiest, but sanding the spot by hand also works. If you catch the drip before it’s dry, then go over it with your paint brush to smooth it out.

I didn’t take a picture of me sanding that drip, but here is one from another section of the cabinet…

Once the paint was dry, I lightly went over the drip to smooth out the section of cabinet.

Another issue I encountered which I didn’t like was the result of the buffet top once the first coat of paint was on. I guess when I added the primer, I didn’t continue my brush stroke from on side to the other, so the top surface looked bumpy. Once the first coat of paint was dry, I lightly sanded the surface. This left the top very smooth and ready for coat #2.

Coat #2

In all the top got about 3-4 coats. All the other areas of the cabinet got 3 coats. Because of the intense color 2 coats wasn’t enough.

Here are some more outtakes while painting…

The cabinet fronts.

The cabinet top.

The base cabinet after one coat.

I will tell you, painting the cabinet took a good 3 solid days of off and on work. It was tiring, but well worth it in the end. Most of the painting took place at night after the kiddos went to bed which is why the coloring of the cabinet in the pictures looks a bit off.

Here’s a peak at what was my crazy life for a few days. Just keeping it real…

Once every surface, nook, and cranny were done, it was time to add a coat of polyurethane.

Applying polyurethane is similar to primer… a little goes a long way. It’s also a lot thinner than paint, so it can easily run creating those annoying drips. Applying a light coat and fanning it over the surface is best. It goes on as a white milky liquid, but as you work it into the surface it will be come clear. And of course it dries clear.

For this cabinet, I used a semi-gloss polyurethane.

And then it was done.

Well almost. The painting is complete, but there are still some details that I need to work on, like the hardware and another secret surprise.

But back to the painting result, here are a few closeups…

You see that one piece of hardware on there? I couldn’t resist giving you a peak at what it will look like once it’s all done.

Next up… styling this pretty gal. Here’s a peak at the start of the process…

Let’s rewind and take a look at where I started and the progress I’ve made.

Not too shabby. More to come. Stay tuned.

Check out the >>> FINAL REVEAL

Fall Tablescape with Gourds Galore

Written by Jenna on October 7, 2014. Posted in Autumn, DIY, Fall. 3 Comments on Fall Tablescape with Gourds Galore

Howdy folks! Fall is in full-swing in northern New York and as we’ve been enjoying the colorful foilage (did you see how we spent our weekend? I posted a peak on IG) , I’m finally feeling the urge to turn the house over for the season. I still have my hands filled caring for my little 3 month old + transforming my latest Craigslist find, but that hasn’t stopped me from adding in a few Fall touches. My perfect spot for the ideal seasonal setup… the dining table.

Alas, this years Fall Tablescape.

Filled with gourds, mums, pinecones, and a few of my go-to styling / decor favorites, my table is all set for the season and will lead us right into our Thanksgiving feast. Don’t you just love when one thing works for multiple purposes + occasions?!

And check out the cute box. I made it. Details on that in a bit…

Everything on my table for Fall is from Lowes, my favorite big box store because it’s my go-to spot for everything I need to build, paint, make, and decorate. Seriously! When this month’s challenge came and it was focused around Fall decorating {mums + ghords}, the dining table was just the spot. And you know I love creating a pretty centerpiece (this seasonal favorite has been pinned over 88,000 times)!

So we all know, I’m a mush for trays. Almost every surface around my home has a tray. Why? Because they are easy to move. Because they’re pretty. Because they create the most perfect horizontal vignette. So this years seasonal tablescape had to have a tray! And an easy one to make, of course.

How-To Build a Wood Tray

My cut list:

(2) 1″ x 4″ x 48″ long
(1) 1″ x 8″ 48″ long
(2) 1″ x 4″ x length TBD (explained in tutorial below)
stain (I used Minwax Special Walnut)
(2) cup pulls (kitchen style drawer pulls work great – I got mine for $3+ in the hardware section of Lowe’s)

1. I decided the length of my tray would be 48″ finished and I determined this according to the length of my table. When people are sitting at the table, the tray will probably be moved, but it doesn’t have to. At 48″ long, there is still plenty of room for people to fit around the table & have enough space at their seat. That being said, if you want to make a similar try, it can be any size you’d like.

I made a mark for my cut and used my circular saw to cut the first piece.

2. Then (without measuring) I layed the 1″ x 4″ x 48″ cut piece onto the uncut piece and marked where to make the cut #2. Following that, I cut the 1″ x 8″ piece (for the bottom) the same way.

3. Using 1″ wood nails (which have a small head), I attached the sides to the bottom.

4. Then I measured the ends and using another 1″ x 4″ board, I cut it to size.

5. Then nailed the ends onto the sides and the bottom.

6. Once the box was complete, I drilled holes at each of the shorter ends for the cup pulls and screwed them in.

One last step… stain!

7. Using Minwax Special Walnut and a lint-free cloth (an old white cotton t-shirt to be exact), I applied the stain and immediately wiped it away because I wanted to keep the look of the box a medium depth (not too dark, not too light) since the table is fairly dark.

The result…

Once the box was complete, within a few hours it was ready to fill. The power of stain can make life quite grand!

I started off with positioning the tall white vase (a recent purchased from Joss and Main) and filled it with branches that I cut down from a tree outside (a non-fruit bearing pear tree to be exact). I’ve been doing this all Spring, Summer, and Fall long and they make the best table centerpiece – they’re beautiful + cost nothing!! They wilt after a few days, but who cares, they’re free. I love the height they bring to the table.

A few days earlier, my kids collected a whole lotta acorns and upon putting them in a tall glass bowl, they made the next perfect addition for the wood box.

Then I added the pretty plum mum. Fall = mums. Am I right?! I had grabbed a bunch in an array of colors for the outside porch a few weeks back and I chose the plum colored one for the box. Deep colored purple, plum, is one of my favorite Fall hues.

Once I had some elements of varying heights and sizes, the base of the box needed to be filled. The colorful gourds and the textured pinecones were the icing on the cake for this Fall Tablescape.

So pretty + colorful, right?! I’m in love. Now that the china cabinet is almost complete, this is the perfect addition to the dining space. More details on the china cabinet makeover coming in the next few days.

Disclosure: I am part of the Loweâ€™s Creative Team and was provided with a Loweâ€™s gift card to purchase items for my project. I was also compensated for my time to use the products. No one told me what to create, what to buy, how to use the product, or what to write. All opinions are 100% mine!

Why + How to Prime Wood Furniture

Written by Jenna on October 1, 2014. Posted in DIY, Furniture, Paint, Paint Techniques, Paint Tools. 5 Comments on Why + How to Prime Wood Furniture

It’s been a busy few days around my neck of the woods. With revamping the china cabinet + another BIG project coming down the pipeline (which I can’t wait to share details about), I haven’t had 5 minutes to sit. No worries though, I’ll sit when I’m old, ha.

So my last post was all about the beginning steps of prepping & sanding a piece of wood furniture. The next step, which is what this post is dedicated to, is priming. Primer is SO important! I can not stress enough that primer is a must when painting something. anything. YOU NEED PRIMER.

Why Prime.

Whether a room or a piece of furniture, paint is truly one of the easiest & most affordable ways to update and/or change the look of something. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do to a wall or a surface. I read once, “Donâ€™t expect paint to do a primerâ€™s job”. The purpose of paint is to provide color, but the purpose of primer is to provide the ideal base for the paint to be applied. Without, the result can fall short.

What does Primer Do?

> Blocks Stain Primers are made to block the natural pigments (tannin) of the wood and/or original stain from bleeding through the new paint.

> Hides Color Priming the surface before painting hides / blocks the previous color from showing through. Using a primer will also sometimes eliminate the need for multiple coats (cost savings!)

> Seals the surface Priming before painting seals the surface so the paint doesn’t get soaked in. The prime provides the perfect base for the paint to be applied. Primer also provides the ideal surface for paint to adhere to. Typically with a stained piece of furniture, like my china cabinet, the original surface is glossy which paint wouldn’t adhere to. Adding a primer to a glossy surface will give the provide the ideal underlayment for a beautiful new color. This same technique can be used for tile, glass, vinyl siding, and aluminum – all slick surfaces that wouldn’t be paintable without primer!

Do you recall when I was painting my laminate bookcase? I failed to prime a spot and the paint just bubbled and didn’t stick to the surface. Here’s a picture…

> Lasting Result Without primer, paint could easily chip or scrape off very easily + quickly. Using one (thin) coat of primer + two (typically, maybe more) coats of paint you should have a long lasting, durable result!

The Right Primer.

There are many primers on the market and the decision on the right one for the job can be tricky. When painting over furniture, you want to choose a primer that indicates on the can that it will block the stain and seal the surface. The primer that I chose for this china cabinet makeover was Glidden Gripper because it truly grips to the surface and seals the stain from coming through. It also created the perfect base for the new WILD color I chose.

Applying Primer.

a how-to tutorial on applying primer. Its so easy…

Note: This is the most important tip I can share about priming (told to me by someone – a pro – in the painting world), primer does not need to be applied like paint. A thin coat of primer is fine and actually better than “globbing” it on. Primer does not need to fully cover the surface underneath, meaning you can still have wood showing through. As long as the surface area has a thin coat (one coat), you are set to paint!

When painting a piece of furniture, I always start at one end and make my way across. Why? Paint dries fairly fast and to avoid drips + brush strokes, it’s important to work in small sections and apply thin coats.

Typically I apply the paint to the surface. Then spread it out. Then go back over it with my brush, using light stokes and following the wood grain.

When painting furniture, the piece is typically vertical, so paint could drip. Around the detailed edges and ornate areas, the less paint the better to avoid paint from dripping. And once an area is done, always continue to look back to make sure paint isn’t seeping down.

For this china cabinet, there were 3 doors, which I removed and are painting laying down. It’s much easier to paint + drips don’t occur as much.

For this piece, it took me about 40 minutes to prime. To me, it’s very relaxing. This is the result…

That’s a wrap… for now.

She’s ready for paint!

Want a peak? Here you go…

I’m off to paint some more…

Coming up (still to do)
China Cabinet Makeover {Reveal}