The painting continues. I have this small buffet from the forties that I use in the bedroom – I store a lot of my sweaters inside the cabinet doors. Old house = very little closet space. It’s in the same darkly stained wood that the kitchen island was when it first arrived. The difference being that I painted the kitchen island long ago. But this little bugger was still in it’s badly damaged, missing veneer, yucky state. As it sits directly across from the bed, I would look at it every night as I sat in bed reading and get depressed. Here’s a glimpse of the way it looked:
And this photo somehow makes it look better than it was.
This time I primed first. It still took 2 coats – 3 in some places. Again – Chalk Paint is just okay. I have a gallon of the paint I used on the kitchen island that has been sitting around here a long time. I’ve used it for other projects. I repaint the island with it every year. I still have more than half a gallon left. It cost less than a quart of Chalk Paint.
But I have the can of Chalk Paint. So I’m going to use it.
The painted version. I love the lighter look. That dark piece of furniture just sucked the energy out of the room. Oh, it looks so much better – but in the interest of being totally upfront with you, I must also show you what is on top of this piece.
Our huge, black monolith of a television that we’ve had for, what, about 16 years?
It still works.
So I can’t justify getting rid of it and buying a new one. We don’t watch all that much television in the bedroom – usually only when one of us is sick in bed. But there it is. I have put the framed “Visiting Santa” photos in front of the crazy cable cords until I find a way to hide them.
Now, on to Don’s bedside table, which is really an old oak music cabinet. And his dresser? Talk about missing pieces of veneer! I don’t think every piece will be this color, but they will all be painted. I want this room to look a lot more coordinated.
On to another topic. In the miniature world, there is a well known miniaturist in Paris, Léa Frisoni. Léa constructs the most amazing miniatures and has a shop as well. She has written a book, Le Grand Livre de La Maison Miniature, that I very much want to buy someday. In it she gives instructions on how to create the gorgeous pieces and houses that she is known for. (I almost bought it through Léa’s Etsy Shop, but it’s a big book and the shipping costs were very high.) Someday. Léa blogs at Un Jour à la Campagne (A Day in the Country).
When my dream trip to Paris happens sometime in the future, I will be visiting Léa’s shop, of that you may be sure.
In the meantime, I wanted to have a little creation of Léa’s in my dollhouse. It arrived yesterday.
Long, long ago, I had a French pen pal. She sent me a gift and it was in a paper bag like this. I remember thinking that even paper bags from Paris seemed more chic than our paper bags. And they still are.
Can you spot the new addition to my kitchen?
If you guessed the tray, you’re right! It reminds me of the tole trays that I love so much. Yay! I have a little bit of Léa in my house!
How come my dollhouse looks so much better than my real house?
Okay. Have to go. I have to run lots of errands today because we are getting a mega snow storm tomorrow.
Crap.
Depending on what station I listen to, the amount of snow coming for my area seems to be anywhere from 6 inches to over a foot. The Weather Channel is practically frothing at the mouth, they are so excited. I’m sticking to my little local cable news channel where the weatherman actually seems to be exercising some caution in the area of predictions. He’s not hyping everything. A rarity nowadays. In the meantime, I’m trying to take care of things before the snow arrives.
Update: I deleted the earlier part of the post saying Dad was doing well. He’s not doing so well today. He seems to be in some pain and his lung is bothering him. We’re not sure what’s going on right now. I’ll keep you updated.
Happy Thursday.
Claudia, you are one very busy and productive lady !!!
Your sweater cabinet looks beautiful and I really like the distressing on the legs. When all the painting is completed, will you give us a tour of your bedroom ? I’m thinking it’s going to be just as warm and cozy as the rest of your sweet cottage.
Stay warm and safe,
Vanessa
Well, I hope it will be – we’ll see!
Don’t you wish you could have the enthusiasm of a child for snow? Adults have to think of shoveling, driving, will the power stay on, leaks. Nothing much fun. But it is beautiful. I hope you and Scout stay warm and have lights.
So glad your dad is doing OK. Yesterday I went to visit an old neighbor who is in rehab after hip surgery. Her daughter is in town. We are just three weeks apart and grew up next door to each other. We were best friends before the age of 1 and remain close to this day. We are 64, so lots of years there. So after a visit with her mom, we went to lunch and caught up on our lives. Her mom is 88 and between her two daughters, she is being well watched over. Aging parents=worries. Where did I read that?
Today my dad isn’t doing so well. He seems to be out of it and in pain. Hopefully, they will be able to pinpoint what is going on with him.
Very glad your Dad is fine. Love the makeover of your buffet! It has nice lines which you can really see now that it’s painted white. I still have a can of white chalk paint too – I was not very impressed with it. But maybe I didn’t use it right. I keep reading that there’s a learning curve, so I’ll give it another go.
Hope Winter Storm Nemo (don’t you love how all storms have names now) isn’t too bad!
Yes, Manuela, when did they start naming winter storms? Yikes.
Good Morning Claudia and Miss Scout,
I love the cabinet that you painted. Roger makes most of the wooden furniture in our house so it is made of oak and stained light. Sometimes I see the cute things in blog land people have painted and I would love to try my hand at it. Those things are reserved for the cottage in my mind. I thought about you this morning when they were talking about the snow. Try to be careful if you go out to shovel.
Suzan
Ladybug cottage
Still have no idea how much snow is coming – at least 6 – 10 inches, I guess.
The tray is adorable… oooh la la and I love the painted piece in the bedroom. We finally took a perfectly good huge Sony in to the recycling place just to get rid of it. The new ones are soooo much easier on the eye and to move around. We’ll replace it someday. Good luck with the impending storm — or dusting — what ever it turns out to be. ;)
I don’t think it will be a dusting – at the minimum, it looks like it will be several inches with lots of wind and drifting on Saturday. Not looking forward to it.
Glad your Dad is doing fine! It is so hard when parents are far away. The sweater dresser looks great! What a difference a little paint can make! Hope you don’t get slammed too badly from the storm…we’ve had freezing rain, now snow….you are going to get a lot more than us. Stay warm…;)
We are going to get a lot – at least that what it looks like. Dad, by the way, isn’t doing as well today.
I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers…
I love the dresser. Did you wax it. It looks great just like it is. It does look so much better than the dark.
We had a TV just like that. We used it until it got so dark. We had it inside a cabinet. When we had to replace it the new one didn’t fit. So it is on top of the cabinet. We need our TV’s…….at least it is in your bedroom.
I love the new minature. I also love how each little thing you add is so special. Love the tag that came with it. YOu doll house just looks like yu and your home.
I hope you don’t get all that snow. I hope you don’t have to shovel alot.
Glad your dad is doing okay. Sounds like he is social guy.
((((((HUGS)))))
I did wax it, Debby – but with Minwax paste wax – I had it on hand.
Those tvs look positively prehistoric now!
Hi Claudia!
I was just watching the noon news here in Ft Wayne and they were talking about the storm headed to the New England area. I immediately thought of you. I survived the blizzard of 78 and its was a MESS for over a week and half. PLEASE be as prepared as you can be! TRY to keep on top of an area cleared for Scout. We had a dog back then and we kept shoveling an area and when the storm was done we had an igloo area for the dog to do her business!! You might want to contact a lawn, plowing business and be placed on their list to be dug out. At least you will be on a list!! LOL!! I was still living at home with my parents when the blizzard of 78 hit. I was working at the hopsital here in FW. I opend the door to go to work at 630 and was greeeted with what I thought was a HUGE drift. So I went to the back door and lo and behold there was another “drift” completely covering the door!!! No way out!!! I called the hospital and told them I was stuck in the house!! They pleaded with me to try find a way out, so my dad and mom helped me out the DINING ROOM WINDOW!!!! It took me over an hour to climb thru all the snow to get to a road where there was a snow mobile waiting for me!!!! What an adventure!! I arrived at the hospital at 1030 am on Thursday and was STUCK there until Sun night. Best overtime check I EVER rec’d!!! We had Drs in the cafeteria COOKING! WE all took turn sleeping in empty patient rooms! So please be as prepared as youcan be!! Keep an eye on your garage roof. My mom and dads garage roof collapsed!! What a mess!! The strange thing about the blizzard of 78 was the forecast before hand… 3-5 inches of snow!!! It was close to 20 inches under 18 hours! I will pray your storm is only 3-5 inches. Thats bad enough!!! Be safe and prepared and know many people here in blogland care about you and Scout.
MJ
We aren’t going to get as much as New England and the Boston area. We’ll get several inches for sure, just how much the forecasters don’t know yet. The blizzard is going to be to the east.
Hi Claudia, I’ve missed commenting because I’ve just been so sick, but I seem to be on the upswing now. I don’t think we (here on the CT coast) are going to get a huge blizzard–the air doesn’t feel right. But some snow, and maybe a blizzard in Boston. (See, when I’m sick I change careers–now I’m the weather girl). Glad your dad’s spirits are improving. It is nice to be waited on when you are normally the caretaker. I was thinking of you yesterday, as reading has been the only thing I have been able to do, and even that has been difficult. I read two books–and BOTH had major typos. One book had the lead character’s name spelled wrong throughout the first half, and her name is significant in the story. They used “App” instead of “Mapp.” Mrs. App. And the other one interspersed nonsense Spanish words with English. Have you ever had these words appear on your iPhone with auto spell check? That’s what it seemed like in both books. No human eyes had ever done proofreading! Okay, enough, but I knew you would understand my frustration.
I hope you don’t get the snow, especially as you are alone. Love the Study in Scout.
Linda
Whenever I see typos like that, I am amazed! How can a book be published with so many typos???? You must have been very frustrated! Glad to hear you’re feeling better!
Love the mini tray– really gorgeous. Dresser looks lovely too! Best to your mate!
Thanks, Diane.
Claudia – the small buffet in your room really came out nice after the paint job! It brought out its really nice features. I love the little tray from France – it fits in perfectly in the doll house!! I hope you get some good news about your dad – so sorry to hear he is not doing too well. Let’s hope this snow is not as bad as they forecast, but I am getting the snow shovel ready just in case they are right about it….! Francine
You’d better have that shovel ready, Francine! Be careful.
Hi Claudia. I read your earlier post about chalk paint as well as this one. I’ve never used it before and, based on your reviews, I don’t think I will in the future. Your buffet turned out GORGEOUS! And I love the doll house tole tray your friend sent – how lovely!
I’m very sorry to hear your dad is not feeling well. I will keep him in my thoughts and prayers.
You and Scout stay safe during the storm. They’re predicting 1-1/2 to 2 feet of snow in our area, depending on who you listen to. For joy, for joy.
Donna (who does not love winter)
I think you are going to get more snow than we are – but we may get a foot or more.
Yuck.
Claudia (who also does not love winter.)
What a beautiful transformation! That little buffet reminds me so much of one that was in my bedroom when I was a child, a quasi-antique that held many coats of white paint… I loved it. It was a great storage spot, and general hold-all. I had essentially forgotten abou it until I read your post–thank you for the lovely memories :-)
Your dollhouse is just darling… I really need to get into miniatures again!
They are awfully fun!
I’m sorry to hear about your father, Claudia. I hope he improves soon. That little tray is so lovely. I’m amazed at her work. When I see these images for a moment it does truly look like a full scale home! And I love the cabinet you painted. I have one almost exactly like yours in my den and I’ve been on the fence about painting it for years. I love natural wood but it’s not in good shape. You’ve given me something to think about! The weather predictions we’re getting here are just as dire and accompanied by the same histrionics (see my post today) and I have fingers cross’t that there isn’t much damage. I hope you stay dry and warm and safe in your cottage.
You, too, Haworth! Next week, the temps are supposed to be in the forties! What the heck?
The wood on this piece was so damaged that painting it made perfect sense. I like it so much better now.
Lovely tray, and I like how the refinished sweater dresser looks, too.
Hope your dad is more comfortable soon.
I was running around all day to take of my errands before this storm hits. Not sure what will happen in Queens, but I know that my parents, who live in Dutchess County, will get lots of snow. My dad has a deal with a guy from his gas station to come and plow him out. Maybe, like one of the commenters above mentioned, you can also find someone to help you out.
Thinking warm thoughts!
I plan to shovel in the afternoon – trying to get the first load of snow out of the way. It sounds like it will be the worst on Friday night. Saturday morning I will first shovel a path for Scout so that she can attend to business. Then I will just shovel a bit at a time all day long. I might ask my neighbor to snow blow the area down by the street that the snow plows create.
Praying for your Dad. I love your painted piece. It looks totally different.
Your dollhouse is so gorgeous! That little tray just adds so much to your kitchen. So precious.
Stay safe and warm.
Judy
We’ll try to, Judy. They’re predicting 10 – 16 inches now.
Hi Claudie,
I recently discovered your blog, and have been enjoying reading old posts, as well as new ones that now are set to arrive in my email. Thanks for all the enjoyment! I was interested in this project, as I have a similarly old, shall we say well-worn, cedar chest that belonged to my grandparents. I have always wondered about painting it, as its veneer is beyond help, and chipped away in a few spots. But it is otherwise a lovely piece, and of course sentimental. In places where veneer has chipped away, would you suggest doing anything to prepare the area. I am worried about the loose or rough edges where the veneer has pulled away. Any thoughts? Like everyone else…I am here in New Hampshire closely watching the weather reports…forecasting 18-24 inches. Yikes! A real New England winter after all.
So, clearly my typing skills have failed me…meant “Claudia” not Claudie. Sorry :(
Well, you could sand around those areas or try some sort of wood filler or wood putty to fill them in. Or google ‘how to repair veneer’ or something like that and see what the suggestions are.
You guys are going to get even more snow than us, I’m afraid! Be careful.
Frothing at the mouth!! I love your choice of words! Seriously, be safe. We heard you may have 2 feet of snow, it’s all the talk here.
Your cabinet is just gorgeous. I love the raised pattern on the front. Your painting it made such a great difference. Do not feel funny about your TV…ours is right smack on my dresser across from the bed. And it’s a Sharp, too. And I think we are the only people left that do not have a big flat screen in their living room, just s little thing on a stand. I put large potted plants around it to take the focus off it! :)
Your little tray beautiful. I hope you get that book someday. And visit Lea’s shop. And I am keeping your father in my prayers. Keep us posted.
XO,
Jane
We’re supposed to get between 10 and 16 inches. Of course that may change. But east of us – in Massachusetts, Boston – they are supposed to get 2 feet or more.
That cabinet looks so wonderful painted! I am thinking about redoing my room and painting some furniture, it looks so fresh to me! Love the addition to your dollhouse. So does Lea have a shop in Paris?
Sorry you Dad is ill, keeping him and you in my prayers.
stay warm,
Linda
Yes, Lea has a shop in Paris.
Do hope your dad gets along better soon. Do you read Young House Love? Sherry used chalk paint for the first time and posted about it today … she wasn’t smitten either, it seems. Love the way your buffet now looks (fabulous!). And your new French tray est tres bien.
Mary
I saw that post! Glad to know I’m in good company.
Claudia,
I absolutely adore that buffet you have in your bedroom! and that tube TV? What I wouldn’t do to own tube TVS again.. The TV’s they sell nowadays are SO expensive an they don’t last very long. Before I had to finally replace my last one in the bedroom I looked high and low for a tube Tv, they just don’t make them anymore.. Sadly…….I love the item you received from Paris.. Im with you.. Everything from or in Paris just seems so much more “nicer” I love the bag and the little tray!..I hope your dad is alright.. Please keep up posted..
Our television downstairs is hi-def and it’s about 5 years old and you’re right – the sound isn’t so good anymore and there’s a spot on the picture. It won’t last much longer.
Your cabinet looks like a breath of fresh air now that it’s lightened up. I’ve been doing a lot of that myself around our house. I’ve got that same TV, but it’s hidden in an armoire. I’m not going to replace it util it doesn’t work anymore. I thought the sound was going, but much to my surprise, it was my hearing that’s gone kaput!
It sure is studier and longer lasting than our hi-def tv downstairs.
I’m very impressed with your furniture re-do. Did you sand it at all, or just prime before you painted? And where are you painting since it’s too cold and snowy outside to do so? Did you just do it inside and crack a window? Love your little tray from Paris…heck, I love the entire dollhouse kitchen! It’s so pretty that I want to move in! ;-) Sorry to hear your dad isn’t doing well. It’s so hard to see our parents age and become frail.
I just primed. I paint indoors with a window cracked. It dries pretty quickly and the fumes don’t bother me too much.
We’ve been seeing all the frenzy of the people buying out stores because of the snow-mageddon they’re predicting for your area. I hope it’s not as bad as they say! LOVE your kitchen in your dollhouse! My dollhouse kitchen is the least cool room in my dollhouse – it’s very small and hard to see in it. WHERE did you get the counter with the farm sink in it?? Love it! ((hugs)), Teresa :-)
I really like how the dresser turned out. The color is perfect! I guessed the tray in your little house! Such fun to be decorating.
Blessings,
Betsy
The chest you refurbished looks fantastic. The white gives it a completely different look and breathed life into it. I have a very old TV, too, but while it’s still working very well I cannot justify buying a new one.
I love the look of your miniature kitchen and bathroom floor. I used to collect miniatures for my dollhouse years ago. I often think about getting back into it. It amazes me to see all of the wonderful things that have been made into miniatures from cleaning products to shower curains and more.
Have fun! I hope you don’t get too much snow. We’re supposed to get many inches here in Brooklyn!
Love the makeover of your buffet! It looks just wonderful…and so does the doll house addition…Happy weekend… with love Janice
I’m eagerly awaiting snow photos from you and from my Cape Cod cousins. Hope you are warm and cozy.
The tray from Lea is perfect for your dollhouse! Great choice, and what a fun package to receive! xo Jennifer