The Painted Cupboard

~merry christmas~

2011-12-26T15:35:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has had a Wonderful Christmas....

My family and I sure have enjoyed our time together. Jeff took the week off work and it was really nice to have him home. We also gained a TEENAGER in the house this week! Our oldest son, Jackson, turned 13 on Dec. 20th.
It was so nice spending time with family and watching the kiddos enjoy a fantastic Christmas.

Although, we have also had a lot of heartbreak as well :(

We lost our sweet baby to a miscarriage. I delivered our precious little guy on Monday Dec.19, 2011.

He was so little but so perfect...
We named him Sawyer Robert Francom.
He was named Robert after my dad who had a birthday on that same day.
We are so grateful for the time we had to hold him and love him...
The hospital also provided us with some wonderful memories to have such as pictures, a mold of Sawyer's hand, hand and foot prints and a blanket. They were so good to us.
We were able to bury him too which was so important to me.
Although, more than anything, I am thankful for the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Plan of Salvation and for the knowledge we have of Eternal Families. It is so comforting to know that we will be with our sweet little Sawyer again.
We love you our sweet angel...

Happy New Year to you all!

~featured~

2011-11-01T05:52:00.000-07:00

I am being featured today over at

Do It Yourself Duo

Go check it out!

Thanks again ladies....

~thank you~

2011-10-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Thank you

to everyone who has left me such nice comments on this blog!

I am so sorry it seems as if I am not responding BUT, for some reason, that I can't figure out,

I can't even comment on my own blog!!!! It is so frustrating!

So Thank You!

*****P.S. Lara, What a neat piece you found...

I would definitely paint it. I just love how paint can transform a piece.

Best of luck to you!

~plasma tv console #2~

2011-10-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

This will be the 2nd one I have done in the last week!

This console is for my friend Christine. She found it on KSL, here in Utah.

It has a few issues I will need to fix such as a WARPED door :(

The plan is to just build 2 new ones...

I will also be adding beadboard and new hardware.

I plan on having it finished this week.

*Before*

~exciting news~

2011-10-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

I have some very exciting news to share....

We are expecting our 5th baby here at the Francom household!!!

Everyone is very excited, I'd say I'm a LOT overwhelmed but, it will be great :)

At least I will have a lot of help. My kids' ages are from almost 13 - 3 years old so it shouldn't be too hard.

I still plan on working as much as possible before the little one arrives...so,wish me luck!

Have a great weekend!

~finished plasma tv console~

2011-10-14T20:59:00.000-07:00

I think this is now my NEW favorite piece :)

I wish the picture quality was better...these were taken right at dusk and again I have NO photography skills :(

I found this on KSL and my neighbors just so happened to be looking for something to

house all their tv components so, it was a win win!

It was painted Antique White (Four Chairs), distressed and polyurethaned.

Once again I stripped the top and stained it with several coats of walnut stain.

Beadboard was added to the doors as well as new hardware from Hobby Lobby.

*Before*

Thanks again Michelle and Josh !

Linking To:

Remodelaholic

The Idea Room

~upcoming~ $150

2011-10-13T06:22:00.000-07:00

SOLD!!!

This plasma tv console will be available this week.

It's being painted antique white and will have a walnut stained top and new hardware.

If interested please email me @ aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

~antique buffet~ $280

2011-10-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

SOLD!!!! Thank You!
I think this is by far my favorite piece...

It has been painted Society Hill Blue (Four Chairs), then distressed and glazed with walnut stain.

Several appliques and some moulding were added to the doors as well as new hardware. The top was also stripped and given several coats of the same walnut stain. It still even has it's original casters....love!

48 W x 54 H x 19 D.

If interested please email me @ aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

*Before*

Thanks for looking...

Linking To:

Remodelaholic

The Idea Room

~buffet~

2011-10-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

This is one of the many projects I am working on this week.

The weather is going to be a bit warmer so that makes me extremely happy :)

This antique buffet (it has 2 top drawers that I had already pulled out prior to taking the picture) can be painted in your color of choice or if not, it will be painted Society Hill Blue (Four Chairs) and then glazed with a walnut stain.

It will also be given new hardware, appliques and moulding on the doors and will be listed for $325.

If interested please message me! Thanks

~love~

2011-10-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

I LOVE with these tables...

I just refinished these for my friend Kallee. We were trying to mimic her GORGEOUS kitchen table set from Four Chair's, here in Utah.

I don't normally strip furniture to the bare wood because it can be quite tedious but, I'm sure glad we did!

The contrast between the wood and the painted legs is perfect.

Honestly, these pictures do not do it justice, I for sure am not a photographer by any means :(

They were all painted Linen from Four Chairs, stained walnut, and polyurethaned.

The coffee table top was also stained walnut and then espresso to deepen the color, all from Four Chairs as well.

*Before*

*After*

Thanks, Kallee

~Tv Console Table~

2011-09-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry, this is not for sale... :(

I just finished this tv console table for one of my neighbors.

It will sit below their BIG flat screen to house all their components!
It was painted black, sanded, distressed, stained and polyurethaned
for added protection.

*Before*

*After*

Thanks KC and Alyssa!!

Linking To: Stephanie @Under the Table & Dreaming's Sunday Showcase Party

~for sale~ Shabby Chic Toddler Bed Set - $140

2011-09-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Sold!!!!
Just Finished!!!

This darling set has been painted parchment white, distressed, glazed, and polyurethaned. Each piece has been given their own "special" treatment as well...

If interested please email... aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

*Before*

*After*

Thanks for looking!

Linking To: Stephanie @ Under the Table & Dreaming's Sunday Showcase Party

~for sale~ Black Toddler Bed $65

2011-09-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

SOLD!!!

This darling toddler bed was painted black, sanded and distressed, stained and given several coats of

polyurethane for added protection. I also added some cute moulding to give it an updated look!

*Before*

*After*

If interested please email me... aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

Thanks!

Linking To: Stephanie @ Under the Table & Dreaming's Sunday Showcase Party

~fixed~

2011-09-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

This is what I was up to yesterday...

(please overlook the messy laundry room!!!)

Unfortunately my washer decided to give out over the weekend. I went against my husband's strong wishes to call a repair guy and just let him "deal with it". Instead, I FIXED IT!!!

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER AND STRENGTH OF A WOMAN!!!!

I found http://www.appliancepartspros.com/ , ordered the new part and then watched the short video explaining how to fix it...that's it, easy as pie!

I have definitely learned, now that there is a mountain of laundry to do today, that my WASHER is the only appliance I cannot live without!

Have a great day

~updated antique~

2011-09-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous antique is one I just recently redid for my neighbor... sorry it's not for sale :(

I Just Love It!

It was painted antique white and then sanded, distressed and polyurethaned.

*Before*

*After*

Linking To: Stephanie @ Under the Table & Dreaming's Sunday Showcase Party

~for sale~ $450 for the set

2011-09-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

SOLD!!!!! Thank You!
I'm kind of going backwards here....

Long story short, I single handily destroyed my now 5th cell phone and our digital camera all in one weekend with a sippy cup of milk!

Me + any kind of electronics + liquid = TOTAL DISASTER!!!

So, I have lost quite a few "before" pictures of the projects I have been working on this summer but this cute furniture set is one I was luckily able to recover....

There are other pieces I have finished way before this but, I am going to go ahead and start with this one.

*Before*

(I apparently don't have a before of the armoire) :(

*After*

This will be SOLD AS A SET ONLY for $450

It was painted Heirloom White, sanded, distressed, glazed and given several coats of polyurethane for added protection. Damask paper was added to the armoire doors and toy chest. Also, beadboard was added to the back of the armoire and a cute wooded applique was added to the bed. Finally, darling glass knobs were added to update the pieces. Message me if you are interested. Thanks!

Linking To: Stephanie @ Under the Table & Dreaming's Sunday Showcase Party

~update...~

2011-08-08T05:41:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to get around to this post for several months now (I sure hope I remember how to do this!)... I am very happy to report that life is going extremely well for me and my family!!

Just a quick overview as to what we have been up to over the last 9 months (WOW!!)...

As I last posted in October, my husband and I did actually separate for a total of 9 weeks. That was a very difficult and challenging time. I honestly did not think I was going to make it through so much stress and uncertainty but, I am elated to report that we are back together and fully committed to our marriage and family! Honestly, if it wasn't for my faith, family, marriage counseling, incredible neighbors and ward members, the power of prayer and most importantly the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ, I don't think I would have survived!!! I have definitely learned to lean on my Savior and his Atoning Sacrifice for strength, answers and for the ability to forgive.

Now that we are in such a wonderful place in our lives...it is now time to become an Eternal Family! We are in the process of preparing to be sealed for Time and All Eternity as a family in the Manti Temple...

I can't wait!

This summer has also been crazy, busy with 4 active boys!!

We have spent lots of time using our season passes at Lagoon (Utah amusement park)

We attended Stadium of Fire. Brad Paisley was AMAZING!!!

We have also spent a lot of time bike riding, hiking, swimming and much, much more...

And now that school is about to start, it's time for... WEST LAKE THUNDER FOOTBALL!!!

So, as you can see we have been pretty busy although, I have definitely found plenty of time to squeeze in lots of furniture refinishing too...I will post about those projects a little later.

I hope that everyone has had a fun, safe and eventful summer too...

Now, I had better get back to painting!

~stressed~

2010-10-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finding myself in the throws of a divorce...unfortunately, I am not at all surprised by this, it should have happened years ago :(. So, at this time I am frantically looking for a job to help support my 4 kids. Preferably one I can do from home so I do not have to leave my 2 year old with a caregiver as well as go back to school full time. I have decided I finally need to get that degree I never received because I got married, had kids and supported him for the past decade. Oh well!!!

To say I am stressed is a complete understatement but we will make it. I truly have felt each and every prayer from my family and friends and know that my Heavenly Father has blessed me in many ways...thank you. The fact that I am FUNCTIONING is a true testament to that.

I will continue to keep this blog, as crafting and redoing furniture is a wonderful creative outlet for me. I'm just not sure how often I will post. Who knows, I may actually find I have more time when my stress level subsides :).

Anyhow, thank you and if anyone happens to know of a great job opportunity, please send it my way!

Thanks, April

~sorry~

2010-10-23T00:50:00.001-07:00

I'm sorry, to all my wonderful followers, that I have been seriously neglecting this blog. Sadly enough, there have been and still are some very important family matters to tend to at this time. Therefore, I will be taking a break for awhile. Thank you for understanding...April

~halloween~

2010-09-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

This is my sister Jenn

who lives, with her darling little family, in our home state of Ohio.

She is a WONDERFUL stay at home mom to her four little kiddos, wife to her husband Josh, cookie decorator, party planner and an avid home decorator among other things!!

She loves to decorate for every holiday as well as host many, many parties for family and friends.

Here are the pictures of her Halloween decorating for this year that I just SNAGGED off of facebook...I did ask for her permission!!! :)

She is so creative!!

Although, apparently her little 2 year old has been walking through the house with her eyes covered because she's scared!! The skeleton in the carriage freaks her out the most!!

POOR thing :(

I would cover my eyes too!!!

Linking to:

Curly Q Crafts

~finished chairs~

2010-09-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

Aren't these GORGEOUS???

My client Nicole (check out her FANTASTIC photography blog!) and her SUPER talented sister Shelley (custom slipcover blog) applied this super fun fabric!!!

I absolutely LOVE how these turned out!

Nicole, thanks so much for sharing the finished chairs!!

I hope you and your family are enjoying them :)

~client chairs~

2010-09-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

WOW! I am a HORRIBLE blogger!!!!

Has it really been that long????

Sadly, our family blog has been suffering just as much :(

I promise I have been busy working although, I do feel like I have been only going in circles lately...

Thank goodness I do have one finished project!!

Can you believe my client purchased these chairs from D. I. of all places???

I only seem to find JUNK whenever I go :(

Anyhow, she wanted them painted cream, lightly distressed and stained.

I am beyond thrilled with how they turned out!

Have a look...

Before:

After:

Thanks for looking...Have a great night!

~pictures~

2010-08-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

I know this has nothing to do with furniture but, I just couldn't help myself...

I am in LOVE :)

I received these today from Katie Dudley, a photographer here in Utah. She did an amazing job! Tate was being quite a little stinker that day and thank goodness you would never even know it!

Thanks Katie!

~repaired~

2010-08-01T20:07:00.001-07:00

Of course a woman CAN DO this - HA!!

For a couple of weeks now our dishwasher has been making this terrible crunching sound when the food disposal thing is running...

I thought the noise might possibly be a nut or seed or maybe even a small piece of hard plastic that had broken off of something. I gave it a bit to see if it would actually crunch and dissolve on it's own but, it didn't seem like that was going to happen.

So, after running the dishes through this morning and listening to that awful sound once again, I decided I had to see what was causing all that noise!

~it only took a couple of minutes to disassemble it -super easy!~

And this is what I found...a rusted screw!

I know it looks kind of GROSS but, I promise it really IS one :)
Problem SOLVED!

~hmmm~

2010-07-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

We had a very fun and eventful day celebrating Pioneer Day (a Utah holiday). We spent the majority of the time at This is the Place partaking in their many activities for the kiddos...their favorites were the candy cannon and the pie eating contest!

We also ate dinner at Red Robin - YUM!

Finally, we ended the day by going to IKEA in search of a couch.

I have to say that I am not quite sure of that place...it seems to be a cross between a ZOO and a furniture AMUSEMENT PARK!!!!

My kiddos sure had fun jumping from couch to couch! YIKES :)

Anyway, I do know that I have never seen so many people carrying measuring tapes in one place before! And that it is WAY too modern for me...

I guess the search continues...

~Have a great evening~

~UH OH!~

2010-07-21T07:27:00.001-07:00

This is what happened Monday night when the cable to our door broke!And this is what I am HOPING for....

My FAVORITE :)

Choosing one seems to be the hardest part!

Thank goodness our HOA's only requirements are:

It has to be a solid color.
It has to be an earth tone color.

~Have a great day~

~For Sale~

2010-07-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention...all the Cabinet Doors are for sale! They are $35 each and if you are interested please send me an email - aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

Thanks!!

~Cabinet Doors~

2010-07-18T14:08:00.001-07:00

See what you can do with a few of these...

Several of these...

And a visit to Hobby Lobby...

VOILA!!

LOVE this paper...

Isn't that crown just ADORABLE???

This paper too...

~Have a great day~

~SCORE!!!!!~

2010-07-16T23:03:00.001-07:00

Look at what I SNAGGED today!!!!!

Isn't it just FANTASTIC???

Can we say I LOVE fireplaces????

Can we say I LOVE people who sell BEAUTIFUL fireplaces on KSL????

I am so excited I can't stand it...and yes, I am going to PAINT it.
When I said that to my neighbor today, she kind of looked at me like I had two heads!!! LOL!
Yes, it's very beautiful the way it is but...I paint EVERYTHING!
Sadly enough, before my mother in law passed away 7 years ago, she made me PROMISE to NEVER paint the GRAND PIANO my husband was inheriting and I said absolutely, I PROMISE :). Therefore, everything else is free game!
Now, I just have to figure out what color...
~Have a great night~

~So Sorry...~

2010-07-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry for the lack of or actually NO home improvement projects thus far...:( I hope I am not BORING you to death!!!!!

I figure I might as well take advantage of this warm weather to get all my furniture pieces painted and then tackle the inside when winter comes????

So far, I feel like I have only scratched the surface... UGH!!

Fortunately, I still have a bit until it gets colder :).

My plan right now has been to paint/work on things during the day while the kids play then when EVERYBODY is in bed (including my husband - he keeps Netflixing good shows for us to watch! DARN HIM! LOL!) then I go back out to the garage until about 2-3am. It is soooooo nice to work without ANY interruptions :)

Although, I sure do pay for it with the 6-7am wake up call from the baby - good thing he his ADORABLE!!!

LOVE that cute guy :)

Anyhow, I do have a few cute projects I have almost completed with some cabinet doors and they will be for sale too! As for the nursery set I started a few weeks ago....can we say NIGHTMARE!!!

I decided to make the crib into a bench and that is where I went wrong! I have had issue after issue and we both need a break from each other or I will admit DEFEAT and the crib goes to D.I.! :)

~Have a great day~

~I'm being Featured~

2010-07-11T14:20:00.000-07:00

YAY!!!

Kierste over at Brown Paper Packages was so very kind to ask if I would like to be featured on her blog!! Of course I said YES!! Who wouldn't want too...her blog is amazing :). Although, I'm a bit nervous because this is my first time EVER creating a post for someone else so here goes...

My name is April Francom and I live in the BEAUTIFUL state of Utah with my husband and 4 darling and active little boys. Not only am I so very lucky and blessed to be a stay at home mom to these great kiddos but, I also get to refinish furniture and be creative on a daily basis! I would say my husbands only compliant is that he would LOVE to get his garage back!! LOL!

I began this furniture refinishing adventure a little over 10 years ago when I became hooked on HGTV and I kept telling myself "I can do that"!

We were so very poor, as my husband was finishing school, so I scoured the local D.I. and yard sales looking for cute pieces to re-do for our cute home.

Little did I know how much I would actually love doing this sort of thing and that it would soon become a small business and hobby for me :).

Through much trial and error I have found many techniques, types of paint, tools, ect. that have helped me create some really beautiful pieces.

Sadly, I had no idea what a "BLOG" even was back then and of course it never occurred to me to take "before and after" pictures so, all I have to show you is what I have done since starting my blog The Painted Cupboard not quite a year ago.

Here are a few of my favorite pieces and techniques so far...

~Fireplace~

here and here

~Headboard and Nightstand~
here

Lastly, my favorite products and must haves for re-doing anything include...

An orbital sander.
Black sanding blocks (several different grits).
Vinyl gloves (so you don't stain your hands too !).
Scott brand towels for everything! -cleaning furniture, staining, polyurethaning, etc.
Minwax Walnut Gel Stain.
Minwax Wipe On Satin Polyurethane.
Foam brushes for painting if you are not spraying - it is so nice to just toss them!
I also use plain old latex house paint in a satin finish. Walmart's Antique White is a great color too.
I have found that a good sanding, cleaning and several light coats of paint, stain and a few coats of polyurethane can update just about anything!!

Finally, my advise to anyone who is thinking of refinishing a piece is to "JUST DO IT"!! It's only paint. Start with something you don't really care about so, if you do mess up then you can just haul it back to where you found it in the first place:) Trust me I have done that many times myself!!! LOL!

Thank you Kierste for having me...

~For Sale~

2010-07-11T10:06:00.001-07:00

24 x 20 Pink Shabby Chic Mirror - $35 - SOLD!!! Thank You!

58 1/2 x 22 1/2
Antique White Message Board (chalkboard on the bottom half)- $75

~M.I.A.~

2010-07-09T06:59:00.000-07:00

WOWZER'S

This has been a CRAZY, BUSY summer!!!!

Chasing after and keeping these kiddos entertained has left little time for painting furniture but lots of time for FUN!!

This is what we have been doing the past few weeks...

~Hanging out in Provo Canyon~

~Westlake Football Camp~

~Lots and Lots of Swimming~

~Lessons~

Finally...

~Stadium of Fire~

~Carrie Underwood was AMAZING!!!!!~

~The Fireworks were pretty great too!~

~Our own Fireworks show!!~

Hopefully this week will be a little more productive??? :)

We'll see...we are having too much FUN!!

~Have a great week~

~For Sale~

2010-07-01T22:23:00.001-07:00

$65/set - SOLD!!! Thank You!

$75

~A Day of Organization~

2010-06-25T23:52:00.000-07:00

This was a crazy busy day...starting with dental appointments for the kiddos and ending with cleaning this AWFUL storage unit!

The appointments took much LONGER than I had anticipated so we were in major crunch time in order to get this place cleaned out. This storage space is where I store most of the unfinished furniture I will either be selling or keeping as I re-do it. It is a 10x16 size and has worked quite well for the past couple years although, I haven't been using it's vertical space very well until today!

My goal was to pull EVERYTHING out with the help of my 11 year old (he's one tough guy!!) while the other 3 kiddos played ( yeah right! - I should say...cried, whined and fought!) and then stack things appropriately so that I had a little space left over to store finished pieces waiting to be sold.

Unfortunately, because we were behind on time...I completely forgot to take a before pic. You will have to trust me that there was about a 1/2 inch of space between the door and the last piece of furniture. I could not fit one more thing in there!

It took us 2 hours in this horrible Utah heat (west facing of course!) but,

here it is now!! I have about a 4x4 ft space to work with. YAY!!

Thank you Jackson!

~For Sale~

2010-06-24T04:31:00.000-07:00

Chair $155 - SOLD!!! Thank you!

24x30 Message Board $50 - SOLD!!! Thank You!

24x30 Message Board $50 - SOLD!! Thank You!

If interested...e-mail me @aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

Thanks!!

Nursery...

2010-06-22T10:11:00.001-07:00

This is what I have planned for this week...and NO I AM NOT ANNOUNCING ANYTHING!!! 4 little kiddos is PLENTY for me :)

Anyhow, this crib was given to me for free (YAY!!) and I bought this corner cabinet off KSL in hopes of refinishing it to go somewhere in the house. Although, it has sat around for quite a while so I decided maybe they would make a perfect pair :).

I am thinking antique white with a glaze??I am also considering doing another scrapbook paper, decoupage treatment to the door too??

~Have A Great Day~

Bar stool Re-do...

2010-06-21T20:26:00.001-07:00

These 2 little bar stools have been in my kitchen for several years. They were just the right size for helping little kidlets get into everything!!

Well, I decided since I am over the crow (they are stenciled on top) thing...they needed a little update. Enter...Rustoleum Heirloom White spray paint. Now, I have never used spray paint before and since my lovely air compressor is BURIED in the back of the garage I figured "what the heck"!!

So, to begin...

I sanded them to "rough" up the existing finish and cleaned off the sawdust.
I then sprayed them with the spray paint. I gotta tell ya, I really liked it :). It was super easy and fast!
Next, I stenciled them with the number's 3 &5 to update their look (I custom make my stencils - super easy).
Then, I sanded them with a 120 grit sanding block.
After that I stained them with Old Dad's Old World stain. I made sure to leave some of the stain in the grooves to create that aged feel.
Finally, they received 3 coats of poly for added protection.

Before...

After...

Linking to...
Tools Are For Woman Too
Kuzak's Closet

Silhouette GIVEAWAY!!!

2010-06-21T00:54:00.000-07:00

Jen, over at Tatortots and Jello is having an AMAZING giveaway!!!!! It's the Silhouette Craft Cutting machine that hooks up to your computer so you can make whatever you want...fonts, cute designs, and fun images. It even comes with software for you to create your own designs so there are no more cartridges!!! How cool is that! Even better it is worth more than ****$325****!! HURRY, GO CHECK IT OUT!

Cabinet Reveal...

2010-06-18T20:46:00.001-07:00

This was an easy, basic re-do...I love those :) I decided to work with the "blue" so I began by sanding and cleaning it first. Then I gave it several coats of Old Village Rittenhouse Ivory. Next, I sanded and distressed it with a hammer and nail - this creates those nicks, dings and worm holes that make the piece look old and well used. I then glazed it with Old Dad's Old World stain. Finally, I gave it 3 coats of polyurethane to seal it.

Before...After...

Linking to:
Tatortots & Jello
Remodelaholic
Under The Table and Dreaming

Kuzak's Closet

Tools Are For Woman Too

Project of the week...

2010-06-15T13:23:00.001-07:00

I scored this little guy off KSL for $5...gotta love that! He received a good sanding, wipe down and a 1st coat of paint this morning. I hope to have him finished in a few days...fingers crossed :)

~Have a GREAT day~

Finished Nightstand - YAY!!

2010-06-14T21:55:00.001-07:00

Before...

I have FINALLY finished this nightstand for my son's room... This summer break thing and 4 little kiddos (20 months - 11 years) is proving to be rather difficult... I can't get anything done!!! But at least we are having FUN because mom hasn't been working :).

Besides all the fun we are having, I did managed to refinish this piece in a few minutes of my SPARE TIME following the same steps and techniques as the fireplace. I also sought some inspiration from here too.

I continued to use the Linen Milk Paint from Old Village paints as the base coat but I switched to Valley Forge Mustard from Old Village paints as the top coat. This piece also has a lot more distressing as I wanted a very "chippy" look to it. I am very please with how it turned out. Now I just need to finish his bed!

After...

Linking to:
Tool Are For Women Too

Someday Crafts

Featured!!!

2010-06-09T13:58:00.000-07:00

I am so EXCITED!!!...I've been featured again over at Stephanie Lynn's Sunday Showcase Party. Thank you sooooo much. I feel very honored!! If you haven't checked out her blog Under The Table and Dreaming then you are missing out! She is one talented lady and you need to see all the inspirational projects she has featured.

~Have a GREAT day!~

Wedding Gift

2010-06-04T16:55:00.001-07:00

Today was the last wedding...for a bit!! My husband has 1 niece who recently returned home from her Mission to Chile, and 1 nephew that just graduated from High School left but, it may still be awhile :). Anyhow, this is the gift I made for Sarah and Neal and I am LOVING this scrapbook paper. I may just have to make another trip to Hobby Lobby next week.

~Enjoy your weekend~

I received a request about "how to make this frame" so here goes....it is SUPER easy :)

First, I painted the unfinished wood frame Antique White (Walmart brand) - don't forget the sides too!
Then, I sanded and stained/glazed it. I used Old World by Old Dad's (sorry, they are out of business but I did find some at our local Unfinished Furniture store - it's worth a try) because it is a really nice darker stain. I think Dark Walnut by Minwax would probably work really well too.
After that dried...I took a 12 x12 piece of scrapbook paper and traced the inside opening of the frame on the wrong side and then tore/ripped the paper around the pencil marks. Don't cut around the opening because you want that torn look (I did make a hole with the scissors to get started) and if you cut it first then you have removed to much paper. Also, tear the paper around the edges too.
Next, decoupage the paper to the frame. Let that dry for a few minutes then put another layer of decoupage on top of the paper to seal it.
After that layer dried, I lightly sanded the surface with a 150 grit sanding pad to remove any rough spots from the decoupage. Then apply the same stain as in step 2 all over the front of the frame and paper. Wipe the excess stain off leaving some to give that "dirty/ old world" look.

That's it!

I'm linking to:

Tools Are For Women Too

Shanty2Chic

Someday Crafts

Antique White Furniture - Round 2!!!

2010-06-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, so normally I would NEVER take the time to do a piece of furniture twice but...for some reason the more I looked at it, the more I kept thinking it needed "something else"-UGH! I figured maybe I would take advantage of the Raised Panels?? Anyhow, I went to Hobby Lobby and found scrapbook paper that was just perfect! I then decoupaged it to the panels, glazed/stained the whole piece and applied polyurethane - again!

Remember the Before....

The Next Before...

The Finally Finished After...

I LOVE IT!!

I'm linking to:
Mustard Seed Creations
Remodelaholic
Under The Table and Dreaming

The Girl Creative

Tools Are For Women Too!
Shanty2Chic

Thrifty Decor Chick

Kuzak's Closet

Sneak Peak...

2010-06-02T22:56:00.001-07:00

This darling little cabinet is what I have been working on this week. Well, trying too that is... School is OUT so, we all know how well that is going!!! :). Anyhow, I am refinishing this to use as a nightstand for my son's bedroom. I also have a queen 4 post bed in the works for the same room so I thought this would be just the perfect height. Gotta love KSL!

And... I also have another little update on this lovely set coming soon.

Busy Busy Day!!!!

2010-05-27T19:36:00.001-07:00

WOW! 2 posts in one day... thank goodness for nice weather, a garage full of toys and neighbor kids to KEEP my kiddos occupied while I work :). This "not so pretty" headboard and nightstand were just several pieces I received for FREE from a friend's mother. She was going to haul them off to D.I. but called me instead. Thank you!

Before...

After...

I sanded, cleaned and prepped it.

I applied several coats of Walmart (yes, I said Walmart!) Antique White in a satin finish.

I sanded and distressed it.

Then, it received 3 coats of polycrylic (I use this on lighter colored furniture so it doesn't "yellow" the finish) for added protection.

Finally, I added new hardware from Hobby Lobby to update it a bit!

I'm linking to...

http://missmustardseed.blogspot.com//

http://www.remodelaholic.com/
http://www.poppiesatplay.blogspot.com/

http://www.bystephanielynn.com/

http://toolsareforwomentoo.blogspot.com/

We've been framed...

2010-05-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to frame our family pictures that we had taken nearly a year ago for a while...GASP!!!! Although, I needed 5 frames and I found some that I really liked at Four Chairs (http://fourchairsunfinishedfurniture.com/art1.html) but at around $79.00 a piece that is waaaaay over of my budget!! So, I had the lovely guys at the Wood Connection make me these frames for $20 a piece ( the overall size is about a 25 x 25 frame with a 12 x 12 opening). I then went to Home Depot and bought moulding to make them look a little more substantial and professional looking. My total cost for the frames and moulding came to $40 a piece...much better!!

Before...use this trusty guy to mitre your cuts...

wood glue, tape and heavy paint cans to attach the moulding

don't forget to putty your gaps/mistakes!!!
Then I painted them black, sanded, distressed (nails and hammer), stained and polyurethaned them.

After...

I still need to hang the other 4.
I love them so much I will be making a few more...

I'm linking to...
http://missmustardseed.blogspot.com//
http://www.remodelaholic.com/
http://www.poppiesatplay.blogspot.com/
http://www.bystephanielynn.com/
http://toolsareforwomentoo.blogspot.com/
http://shanty2chic.blogspot.com/
http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/

Thank You, Thank You!!

2010-05-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, today has been an Exciting and Fantastic day!!! Not only was I FEATURED on Remodelaholic (http://www.remodelaholic.com/) but I also received the Versatile blogger award from One Life Many Journeys ( http://onelifemanyjourneys.blogspot.com/). I was SOOOOO overjoyed I called my husband at work screaming in excitement...!! I am very honored and flattered to be recognized because this blog is still very new. I also greatly appreciate the many wonderful comments from all of you lovely ladies...they sure do help to make ones day :).
Well, from what I understand, I am to tell 7 things about myself and then pass it along to 15 other Versatile bloggers. Here goes...

I am a 34 year old wife to my husband and a mother to 4 fantastic little boys!
My oldest son is just 2 months older than my little sister!!! My parents had an oops baby in their 40's. Therefore, there is a 23 year gap between my two sister's...CRAZY!!
I was born and raised in Ohio but now reside in Utah.
I twirled baton from 1st - 12th grade and competitively most of those years.
I never finished college and I am kind of glad I didn't because I would have hated my career.
I am not very social...I actually like being alone.
I like things to be very neat, clean and organized but, I hate to clean!!

Now, I am passing this along to the 15 that I follow and enjoy...(no particular order)

Please make sure to visit these inspiring ladies...they have so much talent!

Snow!!!

2010-05-24T08:44:00.001-07:00

Seriously??? It's the end of May...

~random pics~

2010-05-23T00:44:00.000-07:00

I am not quite finished with my latest project so...I thought I would share some of the things I have refinished for my own home. Unfortunately I didn't take any before pictures over the years because when I started re-doing furniture nearly 10 years ago I was usually in a hurry to begin a piece and then of course I didn't even know what a blog was back then -Oh well!!

So, here is my home...as much as I love all the beautiful "white's" that many people are decorating their homes with all over blog land... I am really drawn to color. Well, muted color that is. I decorate my home in a mixture of Farmhouse, Colonial and Early American Style. So, I love barn reds, creams, black, blues and mustard's. I also love anything that is "chippy" and looks to be over 1oo years old!

Enjoy...

~this holds some of my favorite crocks~

~I love fireplaces~

~cabinet~

~cookbooks~

~grandfather clock~

~child's bench~

~nightstand~

~end table~

~Kiddo's step stool~

~sign~

~message board~

~door~

~peg rack~

~update~

2010-05-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

It is in and let me tell you...this thing was HEAVY!!! There was no way I could possibly wait for my husband to get home from work to help me so...I did it all by myself!!! Which is what I normally do anyway :) (I can't even begin to tell you the things I have carried and lifted while being pregnant - I know pretty stupid)! Well, although it nearly KILLED me going up a flight of stairs, I made it and I love it. And the best part is that it looks exactly how I had pictured it would and I am so thrilled. I do need to finish accessorizing it (project and pictures coming soon) and I need to paint the room but that is going to have to wait because there are a few more projects in line first...

Finished!!!

2010-05-13T20:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is finally finished...I can hardly believe it myself!!! And I must be CRAZY for showing these awful pictures but, here is a sneak peak anyway...These pictures were taken in my garage with terrible lighting so it is really hard to see the true paint color ( more of a taupe/khaki) and finish. As soon as it is moved into the master bedroom, I will take and re post new ones.

As far as the finish goes...I love it! As I stated in an earlier post, I was trying a new technique and was a little worried about it and although, it isn't exactly like the Caromal Colours finish, I am very pleased.

So, how did I do it??

I sanded, cleaned and prepped it.
I cut to size Luan (very thin wood) and wood glued it to cover the more ornate details along the front sides - it was a little too fancy for me.
I then wiped Minwax Paste Wax over the areas where I wanted the wood to show through after the final sanding ( it helps to make the paint look like it is "chipping" off).
I "smooshed", "glopped" on or whatever you want to call it, the first coat or base coat of paint. I used Linen milk paint by General Finishes. You can find it on the Internet or Four Chairs in Lindon, Utah. *It actually looked like I had let my kids paint it!
I then brushed 2 more coats of the same Linen paint to make sure I had even coverage.
I applied another round of paste wax to the areas where I wanted the base coat to peak through from under the topcoat.
I then put 2 coats of the topcoat Rittenhouse Ivory by Old Village Paints, again from Four Chairs.
After it had dried and "cured" for a day or 2, I sanded and distressed it using a hammer and nail to make "worm holes" and "nicks and dings" paying particular attention to where normal wear would occur. I really wanted this to look like it had been around for a long time and had several layers of paint underneath.
I applied Old Dad's Old World Stain like a glaze...leaving it in all the "nooks and crannies" to make it look old and aged.
Finally, I put 3 coats of General Finishes polyurethane on for added protection.

Before:

After:

I'm linking to:
http://www.poppiesatplay.blogspot.com/
http://www.missmustardseed.blogspot.com/
http://www.theshabbychiccottage.net/
http://lifeaslori.blogspot.com/
http://romantichome.blogspot.com/
http://toolsareforwomentoo.blogspot.com/

http://thecsiproject.com/

http://www.bystephanielynn.com/

http://beneathmyheart.blogspot.com/

http://shanty2chic.blogspot.com/

http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/

http://blog.kuzakscloset.com/

Update..

2010-05-07T19:39:00.000-07:00

It was a GORGEOUS day here in Utah - FINALLY :) and I had the opportunity to work on several projects. The fireplace is near completion - yeah! I have struggled quite a bit with it because I am trying a new technique. I love EVERYTHING "chippy and old" so when I came across a product called Caromal Colours (www.caromalcolours.com - sorry, I can't figure out how to make this a link?) I knew I had to try it. Although, it is quite pricey and since I like to do things on the ol'cheapo side, it for sure was a no go! Instead I improvised with paint from Four Chairs here in Lindon, Utah. I did however try to replicate the same look and that is where I ran into trouble....the perfectionist side of me wanted to apply the paint very carefully making sure their were no drips, runs, or brush marks. In fact it was killing me not to use my paint sprayer (LOVE IT!). The Caromal Colours technique is to slap it on, smoosh it and basically make a mess of it in order to make the piece look like it has years of old paint on it. I told myself to just finish it and then decide if I like it or not....I can always strip it and start over - UGH!! I should have pictures in the next day or so :)

I was also working on several picture frames today. My neighbor took our family pictures last July (tell me about it!) and I am FINALLY getting around to framing them! Tate, my baby doesn't even look the same! Oh well, better late than never :) I had the frames made at the Wood Connection here in Utah. It is located off 7200S (go east off the exit and turn left on 300W - it's just a little ways down on the left hand side) and if you haven't been there you are missing out! The have tons of wood cutouts, frames, etc. They even custom cut just about anything you could want just as long as you have a pattern. I then went to Home Depot to pick up a few pieces of moulding to "BEEF" them up a little. I still need to paint them black and distress and stain them but I should have those pictures in a day or so too...Well, I sure am happy it was a sucessful day!!!

Snow!

2010-05-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately the lovely state of Utah, which I live in, has been experiencing a little bit of Swinter this past week (spring + winter - I love Phineas and Ferb :)!!). Soooo, I have not started painting the fireplace yet because I HATE snow and being COLD!!! Next weeks weather looks to be a bit more promising....fingers crossed :). Until then...have a great week!

Fireplace

2010-04-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

This is what I have planned for the week...It is an electric fireplace. I know kind of corny but hey "you do what you gotta do" if you can't have a real one :). I love the ambiance of fireplaces and when we built our house almost 5 years ago, Jeff and I didn't even consider adding one because this wasn't our "forever" house. So this will have to do for now...
Before... I had already removed the electric insert before these pictures were taken....

I sanded, cleaned and prepped it today and hope to purchase paint and other supplies for it tomorrow. It figures that the one color I want to use...I am out of!! Off to Four Chairs it will be! I love their paint although it is a little pricey. I hope to have it completed soon...

Changes...and what a MESS!!!!

2010-04-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

As promised in an earlier post I have decided to make a few changes to the The Painted Cupboard. When I started this blog back in August of 2009, I thought it would be a great way to help advertise and sell -which it was ( I also sell on KSL) the cute furniture that I have been refinishing for years....Although, during my long winter break, I had quite a bit of time to reflect on the direction I want this blog to go in...
Therefore, I have decided to make it more of a "decorating" blog than a "furniture selling" blog. Let's face it, it's about time I openly ADMIT that about 98% of what I refinish ends up becoming MINE anyway!!!!!!
Don't get me wrong...I will continue to sell some things (especially adorable little girl pieces that with only having little boys, I for sure don't need!) and if you happen to see something I have posted and just can't live without it....send me an email and maybe, just maybe I will let it go!!! :)
Hopefully, focusing on "decorating" will kick me into gear and I might actually clean up this MESS!!! * If you think this is bad....I also have a 10 x 16 storage unit in Lehi that is just as FULL!!

What can I say.....I love furniture and a great bargain too!

So, what I hope to accomplish from this change...is for me to finish all the projects I have going on in my house, my garage and my little head and document them all for you to see!
I guess I had better start getting BUSY!!

Weddings, Weddings, Weddings...

2010-04-25T06:29:00.001-07:00

Last night we attended one of three weddings (the next ones are in May and June) for my husbands nieces and nephew. It was sooooo much fun. My kiddos had a blast dancing and they did a great job as the little "gift" boys. Everything was decorated beautifully (sorry, I didn't bring my camera) and Staci was just gorgeous! Best of luck to you, Staci and Dave!

These are the gifts I made for them and I love how they turned out!

Finally, here are my handsome boys just before we left....Oh, how I love them!!

Linking to:

Someday Crafts

More Furniture.....I've been busy :)

2010-04-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

I just completed these darling message boards. One has been painted the same antique white with baby pink showing through as the chair and also has the same beautiful fabric. This next message board has been painted a bright white with apple green peaking through and has a fun, bright fabric. Both measure 24 x 30 and come with 6 clips for hanging notes, pictures, etc. as well as given 3 coats of polyurethane for added protection. They are too cute!!!! Thank goodness I don't have any girls or I don't think I could let them go... :) $45 each

Finally, this last message board is a biggie...It measures 58 3/4 x 22 1/2 inches (it's pretty heavy too!). (Sorry, still trying to figure out how to upload pictures and text correctly - it's the one at the top!) I painted it a barn red, glazed it and then gave it 3 coats of polyurethane. The top half has burlap, chicken wire and 4 clips for hanging messages and the bottom half is a chalkboard!!! I did keep one of these for myself! :) $125. Email me if you are interested...aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

Shabby Chic Chair

2010-04-15T07:24:00.000-07:00

Hello!!

Well, I am finally back after a long winter's break!!! It was very nice to spend the past few months with the family but now I need to get back to work :). Although, I did have quite a bit of time to reflect on the direction I would like to take this blog in .... more on that a little later.

But, for now this darling chair needs a home. It has been painted a creamy antique white with just a hint of baby pink peaking through. I had the cushion professionally made by a local seamstress (because I can't sew !) to help complete this adorable chair. Finally, it has been given 3 coats of polyurethane for added protection. $165. If interested please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com Thanks!!!

Black Distressed Cabinet

2009-09-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

This cabinet would look darling hanging on the wall or placed on top of a counter in a Country or Rustic kitchen. It has been painted black, sanded, distressed, stained and polyurethaned. It measures 36W x 13D x 38H and has 2 shelves behind the glass doors as well as an open shelf for displaying. $125. Please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com if you are interested. Thanks! SOLD - Thank You!!!

More Shabby Chic...

2009-09-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

This queen bed has been painted antique white, sanded, distressed, and polyurethaned. $325. Please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com if you are interested. SOLD - Thank You!

This darling Shabby Chic
storage bench has been painted a bright white, sanded, distressed and polyurethaned for protection. It measures 48W x 17D x 30H. $150. Please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com if interested. SOLD - Thank You!!

Signs

2009-08-28T12:41:00.001-07:00

"Say your Prayers"

$16

Baby Blue/Chocolate Brown lettering

Bright White/Purple lettering

"I am a child of God"

$20

Bright White/Hot Pink lettering

Bright White/Purple lettering

"Kindness Begins with Me"

$24

Baby Blue/Chocolate Brown lettering

Bright White/Baby Pink lettering

Baby Pink/Chocolate Brown lettering

Please continue to check back often as I will be adding signs soon....

I will continue painting furniture until the weather becomes too cold and then I will make the switch. Also, please remember that I hand cut each stencil so I am able to create custom signs.... Thank You!!

Antique Black Dresser

2009-08-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

This antique dresser has been painted black, sanded, distressed, stained and polyurethaned. It measures 44W x 22D x 34 1/2H. $275. If interested please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

SOLD - Thank you!!!

Barn Red Nightstand

2009-08-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

I just finished this 3 drawer barn red nightstand. It has been painted, distressed, stained and given 3 coats of poly for added protection. It measures 19 1/2W x 16D x 25H. $95. Please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com if interested. SOLD - Thank You!!

Distressed Ladder

2009-08-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

This ladder has been painted an antique white and then distressed for that time worn feel. It measures 14W x 52H. It would look darling displayed in a little girls room with a quilt. $32. If interested please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com

SOLD - thank you!!!

Odds and Ends

2009-08-18T18:44:00.000-07:00

I have been looking through my pictures on the computer today to show some ideas of my stenciled wooden signs...sorry these are kind of random. They are just some pictures of ones I have used to decorate my house with through the holidays, etc. If you see any you would like or have an idea for me to create just email me!!!! aprilfrancom@hotmail.com. I can also ship these to where you live...so be thinking of Christmas gifts, weddings, baby, kids, etc.

Shabby Chic Dresser

2009-08-18T18:20:00.000-07:00

Hello, I am new to the blogging world as this is my very first post... so here goes!!!!

I just finished this darling shabby chic dresser today. It has been painted a bright white over a creamy yellow which I then distressed a little to allow it to peak through. I also stenciled a damask pattern to 4 of the 6 drawers for a cottagey look. In addition, I updated the hardware with new white ceramic knobs and gave it 3 coats of poly for added protection. It is 34W x 20D x 46 1/2H. $175 If interested please email me at aprilfrancom@hotmail.com Thanks!!

SOLD - Thank you!! (good luck with your new baby! )