Friday, August 24, 2012

Harlequin Benches

I started a group on Facebook a few months ago that is supposed to be a garage sale online.  Dealing with people's "issues" however, became way to much for me and I passed the administrator duties on to other unsuspecting folks.  Anyway, it's been GREAT to not only sell my "sittin' in the corner, taking up space" stuff and also I've acquired some fine items as well!  Like these benches - a super sweet lady I met on the sight traded me this benches for two dining chairs.  Oh my, I was ecstatic.  I've been wanting benches at my table FOR-EV-UHHH!!!
 I mixed up some of my good ole' home made chalk paint since these need to be able to take LOTS of abuse.  My recipe?  Just dump some Plaster of Paris into white paint and stir real good.  Apply, and sand when dried.
Then I used this harlequin stencil on the top using  a sponge wedge (which went much faster than the stencil brush I typically use) and then I used polyacrylic to seal it all in and make it durable and easy to wipe clean.

I'm still undecided however if the bold harlequin pattern really flows with the rest of my house?!  From this angle I'd say it ain't bad, however, if you scroll back up to the very first photo.... WHAT DO YOU THINK?!  I'd really rather not repaint them, but I'm interested in your opinion!!


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As always, thanks all you sweet readers, for your input!  Have a GREAT summer day!!!!  Going to be in the 90's here - woo hoo!!!!!!!

And YO?  If you haven't entered the giveaway happening now for your chance at winning one of TWO $50 Target Gift Cards, then what on this crazy planet are you waiting for?!  Click HERE to enter!!

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20 comments:

  1. Hey Kam, It's doesn't look bad. But it is a completely different style. It's retro and your style is more shabby chic. Id say the stencil would have looked better with a grey or creme color. Otherwise I'm not sure the bold black and white goes.

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  2. Was wondering if the sides of the bench should be painted black b/c the table legs are black...otherwise I like them!

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  3. I agree w/your mom AND Debra. Maybe the black legs would tie in the black and white design and you wouldn't have to redo that. How about a different pattern - maybe swirley like the lamp and chair fabric?

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  4. A little whimsy is always good.
    But maybe Kimberly has a good suggestion...paint the bases black to blend a little more with the table.
    But I love them.
    Kelly

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  5. Oh Kammy they look gorgeous!
    Beautiful job - but the bases need to be black to match the table ( not even comfortable putting in my 2 cents on someone else's makeover )but there you have it
    Big hugs
    Suzan

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  6. Black base for sure! That would be easier than refinishing the top! Or make cushions for the top of the benches that blends better with your style, even then I think a black base would be better than white. You're a sharp cookie, you will figure something out!!

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  7. I love them and the fact that they contrast with the black legs of the table. If you paint the bottoms black, I don't think that you'll have the wonderful contrast. Leave them as they are!

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  8. Oh my goodness, these benches are beautiful! I say leave them as they are too! I like the contrast against the table and the black chairs, so pretty, you are amazing :)

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  9. These look pretty good! I sure do wish I had them!!
    JoAnn

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  10. Wow, these are so pretty. Glad I found your bog. I am following you. I would love for you to stop by My Dream Canvas too. Have a great week Anu.

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  11. This is adorable!!! I love the classic black and white... great choice! Now following!
    Samm @ LittleHouseintheBigD.com

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  12. I love the bold pattern. It adds so much character to the room. If you get a chance I would love for you to come link up your transformation at my Pin Party.

    http://sarahdawndesigns.blogspot.com/2012/08/pintastic-monday-link-party-6.html

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  13. Don't you dare change a thing! These are PERFECT!

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  14. Love, love, love the benches!! No need to repaint! I just found you today and I'm lovin' your blog as well! New follower~I hope you will stop over for a visit!
    Angie

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  15. Great job--keep them this way! I LOVE harlequin diamonds! Stopping by from Kristin's.
    ~Christy @ 11 Magnolia Lane

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  16. they look fabulous- love the bold graphic design!

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  17. I think they look great, but you could put a real deep brown glaze on them to darken them up to tie more into the table top keeping the graphic but dirty the white so not such a stark contrast of legs?

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  18. I think they look great - don't change them! I love a mix of textures and patterns. This really adds graphic style to the room!

    I would love if you would post it and share it with my readers! Join the Community and share any of your creative project!

    Susan @ Oh My! Creative

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  19. Those look beautiful! We'd love for you to share this at our party! http://housewivesofriverton.blogspot.com/2012/09/riverton-housewives-round-up-31.html

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  20. Oh Kammy! Those are just darling! You did a fabulous job!!! Thanks for sharing! ~Tammy

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