Mockingbird Hill Cottage

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Before & After: From Curbside Freebie to Pretty Desk

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Our little freebie, found on the street, has been transformed.

This was the before:

After:

I covered foamboard with vintage fabric from the 40’s to disguise the unsightly holes in the back. I wasn’t sure what to do with the slide out shelf, which was originally covered in this yucky contact paper:

I almost ditched the shelf, but at the last minute I decided to cover it with the rest of the vintage fabric.

The two different levels will be handy when I’m doing research and need a lot of books. Or for when I’m using the laptop and it’s not on my lap.

The only things I spent any money on were the two baskets, which were on sale at Michael’s for a few dollars each. Everything else I had on hand: primer, paint, fabric and accessories. The desk was found on the street. Total cost: about $8.00. Frugal has become my middle name.

Some of these photos were taken yesterday morning and some in the late afternoon which explains the difference in the light. I’ll probably add some reference books to the middle shelf as I have another Shakespeare project coming up. I also want to think up a neat way to hold business files. I need to find a lamp, as well. But this will do nicely for now.

When I first saw this piece, I was thinking, “What did Don bring home now?” It’s not at all what I’m usually drawn to. But, now I really like it. It’s the perfect size for this little corner. And it’s a little off-beat. I’m sure ours will be a beautiful relationship!

I’m driving to New Haven today for some more work on Macbeth. See you tomorrow!

Comments

  4. Both the desk and the shelf are fabulous! Isn’t wonderful when you take an old thing and make it new? I have always loved re-doing an item.It makes it more special. Love the series you do with Brenda. Have a great day.
    Hugs….

  10. Claudia I really love your new to you desk makeover! I would have never thought to use fabric on a piece like this! What did you use for adhesive?
    I also love that you have your new display shelf above the desk as well as your chippy blue piece displayed on the deask top.
    May you enjoy many hours in your cozy new little corner.
    Can’t wait for your new series too!

  12. Looks adorable, sweetpea!

    Suggestion: when editing in iPhoto, using the “shadows” feature will lighten up dark areas like the floor or shadows. Try it if you haven’t and see what happens.

    xoxo,
    Connie

  19. It’s the best $8.00 makeover ever Claudia!!!!
    Looks really lovely and will be very useful in the corner – know you’ll enjoy it and always recall this as being the best furniture bargain EVER!!!

    Stay safe in New Haven.
    Hugs – Mary

  20. ah…MAY…zing!!! Perfect…nothing more needs said…A match made in …hmmm….your creative mind!
    Thanks for sharing…you supply SO much inspiration.!!

  21. My dear Miss Frugal…I am loving that little shlf above your new desk. It all looks very nice together. Be proud. Smiles, Susie(She Junks)

  24. Dear Claudia, it has become very beautiful, what a great job, you did- –and I see you have found a little danish :nisse-how cute he looks there–I also love your old piece of wood.
    Hugs, Dorthe

  26. What a score!! I’m always stopping and checking out curb throwaways….My husband doesn’t say anything anymore…

    Great job Claudia…but I have one question…Where does that door lead behind the desk?….Just being curious..lol

    bunny

  29. I love Before and After Pictures of projects, and always enjoy looking at them. but THIS is the best ever!
    I am uber impressed with your skills!
    And Free? Roadside?
    Wow.

  30. Wow!! That’s a really neat job. It’s so pretty :D As is your little shelving unit. Now that really is Claudia’s corner !

  35. Your desk is wonderful. And isn’t it fun to be frugal? I love the creativity in this specific life style. That’s why it’s so satisfying.

  37. Sorry to be dense but did you staple or glue the fabric on to the sliding shelf? It looks so cheerful, I may go walk the streets and see what’s out in my neighborhood.

  39. Hey Girlfriend,

    The curbside finds are usually the best, and give you unbelievable bragging rights! You did an amazing job on it, and I’m so happy you now have your own little corner office.

    Love ya’
    Meri

  41. I love it! Especially the fabric.
    If you are going to add some books, maybe moving the baskets to the shelf with the cutout would maybe disguise that. It looks like they would fit there.
    Love curbside finds.

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