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!
I really think this desk is functional and funky~you did a great job with it Claudia!
Looks great! !!!!! Good job
Beautiful job, Claudia. I love that fabric!
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….
Love what you did to this piece. You have great imagination.
You are amazing … you can work magic on anything!
Ooooh, lucky find!! I love what you’ve done with it Claudia! ~tina
I see a long and happy future together for you both!
What a sweet makeover; I’ll bet that little desk wishes its friends could see it now!
Cass
Nice job of the desk! Love that fabric, the perfect touch.
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!
I love it Claudia and it looks just perfect in your home.
xo,
Danielle
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
It has settled right in and is going to be very useful as well as pretty.
It’s lovely!
~Sandy
Oh wow! It looks great. Good thinking outside the box!
I knew it would be great!! I love it!! Enjoy your new desk!!
Hugs, Lisa
Well of course it is lovely!
xx
z
Love that fabric! ~ Maureen
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
ah…MAY…zing!!! Perfect…nothing more needs said…A match made in …hmmm….your creative mind!
Thanks for sharing…you supply SO much inspiration.!!
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)
nicely done, claudia!
so happy to hear you are doing more shakespeare! drive safely.
xo
elyse
Very well done. It is both frugal and fabulous, especially the 40’s fabric.
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
I love it. It’s my kind of desk. Enjoy your creativity. Hugs, Deb
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
Terrific
What a beautiful transformation! You did an amazing job on that sweet little curbside freebie. LOVE the fabric!
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.
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 !
It all looks fantastic, Claudia! A real super idea for some cast-offs. Now why can’t I find anything at the curb but old sofas with the springs sticking out?
Brenda
Looks fantastic Claudia! Exactly as I imagined it would look! Wonderful transformation for so little $! ~Hugs, Patti
Great job. Just like a pro. Love, love, love
Great job. Just like a pro. Love, love, love
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.
That is an awesome transformation, I really like the matching fabric on the back and the shelf.
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.
Love how it turned out. Just the size I need, so I am going to be scouring the streets :)
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
It now is a darling custom piece of furniture that fits perfectly in your home. You have such creative spirit abiding in your heart.
Jen @ Muddy Boot Dreams
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.
I would try for a floor lamp, or an arm lamp to attach to the wall… that way you won’t take up any desk space for lighting. It turned out perfect, Claudia. Love it!
Beautifully done! :o)
What a terrific job you did on this makeover!! Resourceful is your additional middle name ;-) I bet you will enjoy the desk for years to come.