Monday, March 31, 2014

Adventures in Painting Fabric!

 As I continue experimenting and trying out new products & ideas I decided to dabble with painting fabric. I had seen this technique discussed in Annie Sloan's Color Recipes book so I decided to watch some videos & research a bit online.

This fabric bench was in need of a transformation so it was the perfect piece for me me dive right in.




I decided to use Annie Sloan's Chalk Paint in French Linen.  This is a great neutral color that can blend in with any color scheme.  I filled a spray bottle with water first and lightly sprayed on the area I was painting.  You really have to get the paint in there because it does absorb a lot.  It took 2 coats to get a nice even look.  It took the whole quart of paint as well.

I let it fully dry for 2 days & it definitely felt really course & rough.  My next step was finishing it with Annie Sloan wax.  I did little sections at a time making sure to rub any excess off.  




After this dried the texture definitely changed.  It now has a more leathery feel to it once I buffed it. I decided to paint the legs in Annie Sloan's Chalk Paint in Antoinette ( a very light pink).


This would be the perfect piece for the end of your bed!



So my first try at painting fabric was a success in my eyes.  I loved this transformation.  

Below is the links to my Facebook page & Etsy page.  Please follow for updated items & blogs.



Thanks,

Mary

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

The world of Etsy....

Hi Everyone,

Just a quick update to let you know that I have finally started my Etsy shop.  I am just at the beginning stages but would love for you to check it out.  I'm looking forward to the warmer weather & getting out to estate sales & auctions to see what interesting antiques & collectibles I can find.

What started off as a little hobby has now transformed into something bigger for me. I am enjoying the process and hope you will follow my journey & be a part of it as well.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/theunderground4?ref=l2-shopheader-name

Here is the link to my facebook page as well where I update frequently..

https://www.facebook.com/UNDERGROUNDfurniture

As part of this blog I am going to be posting some "How to" blogs on painting & waxing with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. So if you haven't already don't forget to follow my blog.

Thanks,

Mary

Monday, March 3, 2014

Oscar Fashion



I have always loved watching the Oscar's. I love movies & I love fashion. So Oscar day is spent on the couch for hours watching the fashion pre-show & the awards for many, many hours. I lay on my sofa curled up with my pug Ralph critiquing these actors while wearing my pajamas (and eating a bowl of jelly beans). We know we all do this.

Below are my top picks for best dressed...

Emma Watson in Vera Wang.  I love this look, simple but classic.  This is what I would choose to wear when I am invited to the Oscars!



Kate Hudson in Versace.  I missed Kate at the beginning but when I saw her she immediately came on my list.  She looks lovely.  If she only dressed like this when she was nominated for "Almost Famous" instead of looking like a poodle. 





Cate Blanchett in Armani.  This is my favorite dress of the night. I personally probably would never wear it but Cate looks perfect & now has the golden statue as an accessory. Love!



Naomi Watts in Calvin Klein.  I feel like Naomi gets it right every single award show. She has such great style without trying to hard. She is so pretty but at the same time looks so not Hollywood.




Charlize Theron in Dior. Not much to say here she is stunning. 


Jennifer Garner in Oscar de la Renta.  I love Jennifer Garner she seems so normal & laid back.  I love this gown & the simplicity of her hair & make-up.


I do have to say that Jared Leto was my favorite of the night. Talented actor & singer. He will always be Jordan Catalano to me.  Ellen did a great job hosting & kept the long show moving, lots of laughs!