villabarnes

Gorgeous Grey

2012-02-23T18:02:00.003-06:00

You'll remember this table from my "Quick Table Project" post. I've been dying to give it a little something extra. Inspiration struck yesterday.

I love deep shades of grey. You've seen it as an undertone for my "Old World" finishes. Well, this time I did the reverse. I have my original white undertone,

with a deep shade of grey as the top coat. I tranferred one of my favorite vintage images to the top, and gave it a little sanding.

I'm loving the gorgeous grey.

I've received lots of emails asking me about my images. I've collected ephemera for many, many years. The images I use are from my own collection.

More projects await. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
Chic on a Shoestring Decorating: Flaunt It Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
The Charm of Home: Home Sweet Home

Fleur de lis Sign

2012-02-22T12:15:00.034-06:00

I created this sign with a discarded piece of wood, thickened paint, wood filler, a fleur de lis stencil, and vintage rubber letter stamps. I used wood filler for my dimensional fleur de lis images. You can review the dimensional technique HERE.

I applied multiple layers of black paint first. I then followed with two coats of white paint, to which I added a thickening agent. Next, I gave it a little sanding, to show the undercoat, and highlight the fleur de lis.

It makes the fleur de lis look like it's embedded in the surface.

After stamping "Fleurs" with black archival ink, I sealed the surface with wax.

I'm off to make more, and finish up a few furniture redesigns.

Sharing With:
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday

The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday

Vintage Linen Redesigns

2012-02-21T20:22:00.010-06:00

I'm still having posting and editing issues. I can only post in the "old" post editor. Arghhhhh. I spent way too much time trying to resolve the situation, and I'm done. So, instead of taking a revolver to my computer, I'm going to take a deep breath, and show you what I've been doing today to clear my mind.

I have a pile of vintage tea towels, napkins, runners, etc., I've picked up over the years. I decided to transfer some of my graphics to them. Yes, I used my blender pen (tutorial on my sidebar). Some of them will become pillows.

I love the way my graphics work with the original designs.

When I say I have a pile, I mean like boxes full.

I have about four or five other designs I'm playing with. I'll be sharing. More furniture redesigns are in the works too. See ya soon. Hopefully with things back to normal.

Sharing With:

Savvy City Farmer: Thrift'n On Thursday
Someday Crafts: Whatever Goes Wednesday
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays

Passionately Artistic

Blog Issues

2012-02-21T09:37:00.006-06:00

I'm having trouble with Post Editor. I can't post or edit. Has anyone else had, or is having this problem? I'm using the Old Post Editor for this, which I hate.

I'll be trying to figure this out today. Pulling my hair out. If anyone has any suggestions, let me know.

Old World Birds

2012-02-19T17:32:00.001-06:00

I was half way through this transformation, when I realized I hadn't taken a before photo. These birds are syroco composition, and were painted gold. They had great details that weren't being highlighted. They were perfect candidates for my "Old World" finish.

Layers of grey, with a wash of gesso. The finish brought out the intricate details.

They're a good size. The tall one is over 13".

I love the way they turned out.

I have several variations to this technique I'll be sharing with you, including multiple colors.

Sharing With:

My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Knick of Time: Knick of Time Tuesday
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase

GIVEAWAY #5 Winner

2012-02-18T10:34:00.000-06:00

Once again, a sincere thank you to all who followed, participated, and shared. I will have another giveaway this month. More from me to you. So, stay tuned.

Here is the winner of GIVEAWAY #5

The winner of my vignette,

is, and early bird:

Lesley at The Homeless Finch.

Congratulations Lesley. Email me with the address you would like your packages sent to. I will ship it ASAP.

Lavender and Metal

2012-02-18T08:55:00.001-06:00

I've been trying to relax today. Something that's hard for me to do. I didn't work on any major projects, but I found myself playing with vignettes. Here's a simple one I put together with two of my favorite things. Lavender and metal.

I've had this timeworn clock face for a while. I love the chippy weathered finish.

My little urn is not an old one, but I love the shape. It's traveled all over the house, holding everything from pens, to candles. This is what it looked like back in the Fall.

Well, I wanted the urn to look a little more like the clock face. So, I took a razor blade to it, and went over the details with a coarse sanding pad. Throw in a little lavender, and they make a nice little vignette on my bedroom dresser.

Relaxing tonight. Hunting, gathering, and redesigning tomorrow. See ya soon.

Sharing With:

Faded Charm: White Wednesday
A Stroll Thru Life: Tabletop Tuesday
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday

Old World Stand

2012-02-17T09:33:00.002-06:00

I was in a zone with this redesign, and didn't take step by step pics. I do that a lot.

This is where I started.

See the lovely hole?

I covered that up with a fleur de lis, and added a little floral dimension to the drawers. I applied a layer of light grey primer, followed by a brush of glue here and there to create crackling. You can review my tutorial for using glue as a crackle medium HERE. I used a thicker layer of glue on the top.

The grey topcoat is a custom mix of mine, combined with a little gesso for texture. I scraped the surface in spots with a razor blade. My "Old World" wash followed.

I lightly transferred a chandelier image to the top. I wanted it to fade into the finish. My transfer method can be found on my sidebar. The crackling and imperfections are enhanced by the gesso wash.

I stenciled a mirror image of the floral on the upper corners as well. I think the crystal knobs are more at home with this finish.

On to the next redesign.

Sharing With:

Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday
Primitive and Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
Chic on a Shoestring Decorating: Flaunt It Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
My Repurposed Life: Catch as Catch Can
2805: Potpourri Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday

A Little Floral Dimension

2012-02-16T07:11:00.001-06:00

I didn't realize just how many sewing machine drawers I had till I uncovered a few I forgot about yesterday. So, I gave another one some personality.

Here's the before.

I used the same technique shared in my "Adding Dimension" post, using wood filler instead of dimension paint, and one of my favorite stencils. I decided on an all over floral pattern. My "Old World" finish was next.

On the side with the lines, I stenciled "Create" in the center, with the floral design on either side.

I attached an ornate handle to one side.

I love this piece. I think I may do a couple more with this design.

I'm finishing up a few furniture redesigns. I'll be sharing one in my next post. See ya soon.

Sharing With:

Someday Crafts: Whatever Goes Wednesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
Tatertots and Jello: Weekend Wrap Up Party
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
My Repurposed Life: Catch as Catch Can
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
The Vintage Farmhouse: Creative Things Thursday
Savvy City Farmer: Thrift'n On Thursday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
The Brambleberry Cottage: Time Travel Thursday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party

Isn't It Romantic?

2012-02-14T15:19:00.000-06:00

You can consider this my Valentine post. It's not conventional, but then neither am I. I'm going to share a few of my favorite photographs I've taken of roses. Nothing says romance like roses, and you don't have to water these.

I've used silverleaf on many metal roses.

I applied roses to this basket. You can see how in my "Shabby Basket", post.

The roses were enhanced in my "Aged Cherub" post.

I gave one of my favorite frames a little "Gesso Magic".

Can you tell I love painting metal roses? This one I painted white, and chipped it up.

I hope you have a HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY.

Sharing With:
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday

Cherub Hanger

2012-02-13T18:04:00.000-06:00

Okay, this is the cherub plaque I showed you in my last post.

I made this piece with one of my wood plaques, and a plaster cherub. I made the cherub with a soap mold, and plaster of paris.

I just poured the plaster in, and let it harden.

After attaching the cherub to the plaque, and filling in any gaps, I did my thing with my "Old World" finish.

"Dream" was applied with my vintage stamps. I made the flip side pretty too, with vintage wallpaper.

There you have it. Gotta get at furniture today. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
DIY by Design: Winter Blues Wednesday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday

Dreamy Basket

2012-02-12T21:04:00.000-06:00

I just finished this basket.

I painted the basket using my "Old World" finish (tutorial on my sidebar). The original color was green. You can see traces of it here.

I gave it multiple layers of grey gesso, followed by a white gesso wash.

I loved the finish, but wanted to add a little something extra. I picked up a bag of these wood plaques at a garage sale last year.

In my "Adding Dimension" post, I showed you how I used dimensional paint and a stencil to add a raised relief design. Well, I used the same technique, but used wood filler instead, because I wanted it to dry really fast. So, if you don't have dimensional paint, improvise. Anything that will harden and can be sanded will work.

So after adding "Dream" with one of my stencils, and a few decorative details, I gave it my paint treatment. I then sanded the finish back a bit to enhance the raised details.

It looked really pretty hanging, and I will be making more like it for that purpose. However, this one I wanted for my basket. So I clipped the wire in half, and slid it through openings in the basket. I just twisted the ends to secure it.

It's now residing in by bedroom, on top of my chest of drawers.

It's great for holding mags.

I have a lot of ideas for variations. I've already made another plaque for hanging.

As you can see, I love to dream. I'll do another post on this one.

Sharing With:
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday
Domestically Speaking: Power of Paint
DIY by Design: Winter Blues Wednesday
House of Grace: Twice Owned Tuesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
A Stroll Thru Life: Table Top Tuesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up

GIVEAWAY #5

2012-02-12T10:11:00.000-06:00

Time for another giveaway. I had so much fun with my giveaways in January. I promised I would have more, because I so appreciated your enthusiasm and participation. Since I can't give everyone the prize, I can at least provide multiple opportunities for each of you to win. So, here is GIVEAWAY #5. Everything you see here was redesigned, or designed by me.

The winner of this giveaway will receive, this redesigned sewing machine drawer, to which I applied a weathered finish and handles. Perfect as a corral for toiletries, small towels, etc.

One of my altered bottles with a transfer of cherubs.

A "Paris Chandelier" sign I designed.

One of my plastered roses.

From me to you, another vignette.

If you would like to enter this giveaway, here's how:

You must be a follower of VILLABARNES, and let me know you would like to enter. Leave a comment letting me know if you are already a follower, or if you've just joined me.
Follow me on Linky Followers (Located below Google Friend Connect on my sidebar) for an extra entry.
For additional entries, share this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, etc.
Leave a separate comment for each entry. Example: If you share the giveaway on your blog, FB, and Twitter, that's three additional entries. Don't cheat yourself out of an entry.

You have till Friday, FEBRUARY 17th at 12:00 midnight, CST

***TO ENTER***

The winner will be picked by Random Number Generator

***GOOD LUCK TO ALL***

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

A Few Projects

2012-02-09T18:30:00.000-06:00

I've been painting and altering all day. Just wanted to share a few of the projects I finished today. "Old World" finishes, "Splendid Transfer", and "Dimension" paint seemed to be the theme. I gave this chandelier (including the light sleeve) an old world finish with a grey undertone and gesso wash.

I made more raised relief tags with my dimension paint and stencils.

I decoupaged the flip side with vintage paper, added a fleur de li, and washed it with gesso.

This Paris Chandeliers sign I designed is a combination of methods. I added dimension designs to the corners of a piece of masonite I cut. I followed up with an old world finish, and applied the image and lettering with my splendid blender pen. I gave it just a hint of dry brushing over the image.

I think I'm done for today. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Domestically Speaking: Power of Paint
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
The Delectable Home: Show and Tell
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
Simply Designing
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
Chic on a Shoestring Decorating: Flaunt It Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday

Magnetic Garden

2012-02-07T22:31:00.000-06:00

This is what I do with vintage garden tools without handles? Turn them into cool magnetic boards.

First of all, I had to make sure this piece was magnetic. It was.

Then I roughed up the surface of these magnets.

I white washed the metal with white gesso, and painted the magnets blue. When I white washed the magnets, I noticed that they looked like tiny pieces of slate. COOL. I used my vintage stamps to spell "le jardin" (The Garden).

I attached blue string for hanging.

Love it, love it, love it.

Sharing With:
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
My Repurposed Life: Catch as Catch Can
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
No Minimalist Here: Open House
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
DIY by Design: Winter Blues Wednesday
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Knick of Time: Knick of Time Tuesday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

Adding Dimension

2012-02-06T07:25:00.000-06:00

A local artist supply store in my area closed it's location, and I picked up some dimension paint for 25 cents a tube. GOOD DEAL. I've used dimension paint before, but I also know how to create the same effect without it, so I hadn't used it for a while. This weekend, I've been playing around with it, using my stencils. Since I love giving small items great personality, these wooden tags I made were great candidates for transformation.

I just troweled the paint over my stencil,

and removed it, to reveal this beautiful pattern.

Next came my "Old World" finish. I love the way the gesso settled into the crevices.

A different pattern. I added extra texture to the background before I stenciled these.

I even added a little embellishment to this masonite sign I created.

There are so many variations on this. I've also used wood filler to create this effect. I'm going to be super busy this week. I have many, many items to transform. I'll be sure to share some of them.

See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
Hope Studios: Tutorial Tuesday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase

GIVEAWAY #4 Winners

2012-02-04T14:02:00.000-06:00

I've had so much fun with my giveaways. I love being able to share something from me to you. Another thank you to all who followed, participated, and shared. I will have more giveaways this month. So, stay tuned.

Here are the winners of Giveaway #4.

The winner of my vignette is,

MICHELLE @ Petite Michelle Louise

The winner of my birdie box is,

TAMMY@ Homespun Happenings

Congratulations to both Michelle, and Tammy. Email me with the address you would like your packages sent to. I will ship them ASAP.

Easy Chair

2012-02-03T10:17:00.000-06:00

My easy chair needed a little freshening up.

I love the upholstery, but the tired wood finish was starting to bug me.

So, I added a little embellishment to the arms.

and gave the frame my "Old World Finish".

The finish is similar to my "Weathered Chair",

I added a pillow to soften the appearance a bit, and compliment the lighter frame. I transferred the lettering and image onto muslin to make this pillow. Yes, I used my "Splendid Blender" method.

and the Paris theme continues.

Now, I have to decide what I'm going to do with these recent finds.

See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Primitive and Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday NIte Special
Be Different, Act Normal: Show and Tell Saturday
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
The Charm of Home: Home Sweet Home

CHA, CHA, CHANGES

2012-02-01T14:12:00.000-06:00

I'm in the process of switching from "villabarnes.blogspot.com" to "VILLABARNES.COM". I'm also going to be making a few other changes.

So, if things are a little weird here for a few days, that's why. Right now, I'm not seeing my blog list. What do you see when you view my blog? If something seems out of whack, give me a heads up. Let me know, if you can comment, follow, etc. THANKS.

***UPDATE: I'm rebuilding my blog list.

Plaster Review

2012-01-31T22:21:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, while checking my blog stats, I will see a huge surge in traffic for an old post of mine. Recently, one of those was "Plaster Roses". Back in September, I showed you how I dipped silk roses in plaster of paris to give them a sculptural look. You can review the technique HERE.

The reason for the surge in traffic? My post was pinned (Pinterest) a bunch of times. I went back to my post,

and thought, I would show you a couple variation on the same idea. You can do the same thing with plastic fruit? I had a few pieces that were part of a PLASTIC arrangement in a very nice vase I purchased at an estate sale.

Make sure the surface is clean. I gave this orange, and pear a light sanding as well. I used the same technique, with a couple twists.

The pear has a smooth surface. I gave the orange an imperfect look by, well, doing a bad job. I just wasn't as meticulous with the dipping, and I banged it around a bit to create lots of air pockets.

I gave the rose a little more character as well. After it dried, I knocked off some of the plaster, revealing nice texture in spots. If too much plaster came off, I just touched it up with white gesso. They each have a slightly different look, but work well as a nice sculptural vignette.

So, grab some silk or plastic, and create a little sculptural interest.

Sharing With:
Hope Studios: Tutorial Tuesday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Be Different, Act Normal: Show and Tell Saturday
Tatertots and Jello: Weekend Wrapup Party
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholic Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
Sassy Sites: FFA Friday

Chandie Footstool

2012-01-30T09:22:00.000-06:00

This footstool received my "Old World" finish, and a "Splendid Transfer" onto grain sack.

Here is where we started.

I had a vision for it immediately. I applied shades of grey paint, and white gesso. I used wax to seal the finish. The grain sack received a chandelier transfer. The stripes compliment the paint finish.

On to the next project.

Sharing With:
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
The Brambleberry Cottage: Time Travel Thursday
Savvy City Farmer: Thrift'n On Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Primitive and Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday
Knick of Time: Knick of Time Tuesday
House of Grace: Twice Owned Tuesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase
Sassy Sites: FFA Friday

GIVEAWAY #4

2012-01-29T08:18:00.000-06:00

Here we are. The last Saturday in January. As promised, I have put together another vignette to giveaway. The hardest part about having these giveaways, has been, not being able to give everyone the prize. I sincerely appreciate all of you. There will be more giveaways in the months to come. This is too much fun.

So, on to GIVEAWAY #4. Fresh off my work table.

I've put together a vignette made up of the things you seem to respond to the most.

A message board. To give you some idea of scale, the frame is 22" tall. I hand painted this ornate metal frame, and covered the cork board in drop cloth material. The lettering and image I applied with vintage stamps. The fleur de lis tag is included.

A framed transfer art piece. Another hand painted frame, and transfer with hand painted background.

A hand painted metal cherub frame, given my "Old World" finish.

I gave this little cherub a similar treatment.

You get it all.

But wait, there's more. As a SECOND PLACE PRIZE, I'm giving away this bird box. I created this box with a vintage silverware box, and cuckoo clock part. I gave it a muted finish in shades of grey and white. I lined it with vintage wallpaper.

So, there you have it. Two prizes this time.

If you would like to enter this giveaway, here's how:

You must be a follower of VILLABARNES. Leave a comment letting me know if you are already a follower, or if you've just joined me.
Leave a comment, letting me know you would like to win.
For extra entries, share this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, etc.
Leave a separate comment for each entry. Example: If you share the giveaway on your blog, FB, and Twitter, that's three extra entries. Don't cheat yourself out of an entry.

You have till Friday, FEBRUARY 3rd at 12:00 midnight, CST

***TO ENTER***

***GOOD LUCK TO ALL***

*****THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED*****

GIVEAWAY #3 Winner

2012-01-28T12:01:00.000-06:00

Once again, I would like to thank everyone who entered, shared, and became a follower. Don't forget, I have another giveaway coming later today.

Now for the winner of GIVEAWAY #3.

The winner of this vignette,

IS:

VICTORIA @ Slightly Shabby

Congratulations Victoria. Email me with the address you would like your package sent to. I will ship it ASAP.

******* Get ready for GIVEAWAY #4 *******

*******

Latest Creations

2012-01-28T00:12:00.000-06:00

I've been busy. Quite a few of my small ornate frames have been anxiously awaiting my decision. I knew I wanted to do something decorative with them. Since I'm on a roll with my "Old World" finishes, and "Splendid Transfer" method, this is what I'm doing.

I have a lot more to finish, in addition to new designs to share. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Sassy Sites: FFA Friday

Footstool w/French Touch

2012-01-26T15:33:00.000-06:00

When I said I was working on a footstool to go with my "Weathered Chair", you probably didn't expect this.

I didn't want a footstool that was a typical match. I wanted something that would compliment it. So, I went with an advertising look.

The Paris theme is still there, and so is the grey. However, the design is different, and so it the shade of grey. This is how the little stool looked originally.

I added appliques, and alternated layers of white gesso, light grey, and dark grey paint. If you look really close, you can even see a hint of a fleur de lis. I did a lot of dry brushing, washing, and rubbing back to get this muted look.

I used my "Splendid Blender" method to transfer the lettering I printed,

and the chandelier image.

A little distressing, and I had the look I wanted.

I think I'm done with my frenchy corner. For now.

Sharing With:
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
Primitive and Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
The Delectable Home: Show and Tell Monday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase Party
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Be Different Act Normal: Show and Tell Saturday
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
My Repurposed Life: Catch as Catch Can

Old World Message Boards

2012-01-25T17:39:00.000-06:00

My "Old World" finish, cork board, drop cloth, vintage stamps, and black ink. That's what I used to make my message boards.

I gave two vintage frames my "Old World" finish.

I cut cork board to fit each frame, and covered the board with drop cloth material. I applied the fleur de lis, and lettering with my vintage rubber stamps. I wanted the images to be a tad faded, so I just applied light pressure with the stamps. I painted the wooden tags to match.

See ya soon.

Sharing With:
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
The Brambleberry Cottage: Time Travel Thursday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
Savvy City Farmer: Thrift'n On Thursday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday

Quick Table Project

2012-01-24T17:12:00.000-06:00

Here is a quick project I did this morning. I made this table with a discarded table base, and a left over table top.

I found this table base, about to be tossed, at a garage sale. It's been sitting in my garage, and I thought it was time to make a table out of it.

In my "Evil Cherub" post, I replaced the table top below with a smaller one. I knew I would eventually use it.

They made a good match. After applying glue to the base top, I used my power drill to countersink a screw right through the top of the table, and into the middle of the base. I made sure the screw went just below the surface of the tabletop.

I added wood filler,

and sanded it smooth. After giving it a grey base coat, I applied multiple layers of white gesso.

I like it.

Sharing With:
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
From My Front Porch To Yours: Treasure Hunt Thursday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Primitive and Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday
Faded Charm: White Wednesday

Panel Play

2012-01-23T11:45:00.000-06:00

I wanted to show you how you can use variations on the same idea to create a different feel.

Back in October, I did a post entitled "Redesigning With Parts II", in which I made a decorative rack using a salvaged panel, and old window sash locks. I gave it a heavily distressed finish.

The sash locks served as hooks, and the feel was somewhat rustic.

This past weekend, I gave one of the other panels my "Old World" finish with a blue/grey undertone, and white gesso wash. I used crystal knobs as the hooks. Instead of a hanger on the back, I added a chain with eye hooks. I didn't do a lot of distressing. I just lightly sanded the swag details to reveal some of the white underneath. This one has a softer, romantic feel.

You can see the panels in the lower left hand corner of this photo. Originally, I gave them a solid white finish. They were just going to be decorative wall hangings, but I decided to make them functional.

Two panels, same idea, different looks.

So, which look do you prefer? Rustic? Romantic? Solid White? I will probably do something completely different with the other panel.

Sharing With:
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
Someday Crafts: Whatever Goes Wednesday
Passionately Artistic
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Sassy Sites: Trash to Treasure
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

GIVEAWAY #3

2012-01-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

Okay, My First Giveaway, and Giveaway #2 are history. Thanks again to everyone who entered, and shared. On to GIVEAWAY #3. I have put together another vignette. This one has a french touch.

The teaser I showed, was a message board.

I made this message board with a vintage frame, and cork board. It's 24" tall. I gave the frame an aged white finish with grey undertones. The cork board was whitewashed, and stamped with fleur de lis images.

I've also included a cherub wall hanging. You saw it in my "More Weathered Finishes" post. There is an opening in the top, which could be used for dried floral, keys, etc. The vintage apothecary jar has a fleur de lis impression. You will also get the white metal rose, as well as the wooden tag I painted and stamped.

If you would like to win this vignette, here's how.

You must be a follower of VILLABARNES. Let me know if you are already a follower, or if you've just joined me.
Leave a comment on this post, letting me know you would like to win.
For extra entries, share this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, etc. Leave a separate comment for each entry.

You have till Friday, JANUARY 27th at 12:00 midnight, CST

***TO ENTER***

*******THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED*******

Remember, there's one more giveaway the last Saturday of this month. It's going to be a big one.

GIVEAWAY #2 Winner and A Teaser

2012-01-21T12:07:00.000-06:00

First, I want to give a great big "Thank You" to everyone who entered, and shared.

The winner of GIVEAWAY #2 is:

***KATHY @ Creative Home Expressions.***

Congratulations, Kathy. Email me with the address you would like your package sent to. I will ship it ASAP.

I will be back shortly with GIVEAWAY #3. I think you're gonna love it. Here's a teaser.

Weathered Chair

2012-01-19T12:53:00.000-06:00

Is that snow in the background? Well, yes it is. I thought it made a pretty setting. No, I didn't leave my chair there.

Here is the photo I took before the snowfall.

I decided to keep going with my "Old World" finish. I applied two shades of grey on the frame, followed by white gesso. You can review the technique HERE. I recovered it in drop cloth material. I made the little pillow with a grain sack fragment. The lettering and image were stamped on.

(Update: I stamped the lettering and image on with vintage stamps. Didn't make that clear at first).

Simple, casual, and comfortable. I'm working on a footstool to match.

*The beautiful magnetic board on the left was a giveaway prize from Bella Rustica*

Sharing With:
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Primitive and Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday
House of Grace: Twice Owned Tuesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Sassy Sites: Trash to Treasure
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
My Repurposed Life: Catch as Catch Can
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
The Charm of Home: Home Sweet Home
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday

More Weathered Finishes

2012-01-16T17:59:00.000-06:00

I've been applying finishes similar to the one you saw in my "Old World Love" post. Here are a few of the pieces I just finished with various shades of grey.

Way back in June, I did a post entitled "A Romantic Mood". In it I shared a pair of corbels I painted a soft pink. They received a makeover.

This was the first makeover.

I applied layers of deep grey, followed by a wash of white gesso. After some rubbing back, and a little dry brushing, I had a new look. I finished it off with wax.

Here is another pair.

I gave this composition cherub a lighter grey finish.

With the proper preparation, the finish can work on glass as well. After applying the finish to these bottles, I added the numerals.

Then I added rusty stars.

With paint and gesso, you can add so much character to simple objects.

I'm finishing up a few furniture pieces. I'll be back to share the results.

Sharing With:
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Someday Crafts: Whatever Goes Wednesday
Domestically Speaking: Power of Paint
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

GIVEAWAY #2

2012-01-14T21:55:00.000-06:00

For those of you who did not get in on my first giveaway, you have another opportunity. Here is GIVEAWAY #2.

Everything in this vignette was hand painted by me, with the exception of the silver plate stand. It includes two of silver leaf metal roses.

I have also included another transfer art piece, ornate frame, silver plate stand, ornate embellishment, and ornate rose mirror.

The silver stand could also be used as a support for a bowl, plate, etc.

The ornate piece in the back has a hanger, and would make a nice embellishment just about anywhere.

If you would like to win this vignette, here's how.

You must be a follower of VILLABARNES. Let me know if you are already a follower, or if you've just joined me.
Leave a comment on this post, letting me know you would like to win.
For extra entries, share this giveaway on your blog, or Facebook. Leave a separate comment for each entry.

You have till Friday, JANUARY 20th at 12:00 midnight, CST

***TO ENTER***

The winner will be chosen at random, and announced Saturday, January 21th. Two more giveaways to follow this month.

*****GOOD LUCK*****
*****THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED*****

Sharing With:

Homemaker on a Dime: Market Your Biz and Giveaways

GIVEAWAY WINNER!

2012-01-14T15:15:00.000-06:00

I just want to thank everyone again for the amazing support of my FIRST GIVEAWAY.

I never expected the turnout I received, or the shares. To be fair to the entrants, I had to delete comments that were not part of the giveaway. They completely understood. So, there were 311 entries. I had my son video tape the random drawing.

The winner of my vignette is #229. Chandee Chidester

Congratulations, Chandee. Email me with the address you would like your package sent to. I will ship it ASAP.

GIVEAWAY #2

As promised, I've assembled another vignette. I've enjoyed putting it together for you. Check back later today if you would like to enter. I will take entries then.

See you tonight.

A Pleasant Surprise

2012-01-13T17:02:00.000-06:00

Quite often, one idea leads to another with me. Such is the case with this large candle holder I just put together

The base is one of three rusty ice cream stools I found in a salvage yard.

I gave one a good scrubbing with a wire brush, cleaned it, and sealed the finish. I considered making another seat, but changed my mind. One way I thought of using it was as a table, with a silver plate tray as a top. They both had great patina, so it kinda worked.

Then I put a candle on it.

The candle made me think about my large glass bowl I was using as a candle holder. That lead me to this next idea. I inserted the glass, and it was a great fit. The pattern in the bowl seems to echo the twist on the legs of the stool. Notice another cool thing happening?

Just like the graters in my "Peaceful Vignette" post,

I was pleasantly surprised when I put the stand in the corner, and turned the lights way down.

More beautiful shadows.

Now, if only I had two more large glass bowls with the same pattern.

Sharing With:
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Knick of Time: Knick of Time Tuesday
Sassy Sites: Trash To Treasure
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special

Peaceful Stone

2012-01-12T15:33:00.000-06:00

If you've been following me, you know by now how much I love stone and statuary. It's inside and out around my house. I've always found it to be very calming, and peaceful. This morning, I took a few photos to share.

You saw where I put two of my four seasons cherubs in my "Christmas Vignette" post. The other two are on either side of my large black cabinet.

Right after the Christmas decor was taken down, I changed the vignette on top of the chippy cabinet in my studio. Right now, I have a vintage window, cement fruit basket, and, an imperfect (don't mind that) fountain. My candle is sitting on a silverplate tray and is surrounded by walnuts.

Just outside my backdoor. I need to straighten things out. No wide shot, it's scary.

My two broken cherubs are leaning against the house right now.

Remember how I found them on the ground in my "Estate Shopping" post? I couldn't leave them, plus they were stupidly cheap.

I'm thinking of creating some sort of stand for them. How? I'm not sure yet.

Yes, I'm a stone addict.

There's a lot going on this weekend at villabarnes. So, I'm going to chill a bit today, see what some of you are up to, and get some organizing/cleaning done. See ya tomorrow.

Sharing With:
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday

The Perfect Easel

2012-01-10T15:48:00.000-06:00

I have the perfect easel for the piece I shared in my "Old World Love" post.

Actually, the original function for my easel, is as a corbel.

I gave this pair of corbels my old world finish.

It's very similar to the last finish I shared with you. I just alternated two shades of grey. The final layer was a dry brush of white gesso. After they were dry, I turned them upside down on the table. Hmmmm, they looked like easels. I put a couple postcards on them to see how that idea would work.

When I brought them inside, I grabbed my last project, and it was a perfect fit. Since the finish is similar, they look like they started life this way. It's sitting on my side table.

LUV it. Not sure what I'm going to put on the other one yet.

More ideas coming your way. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
A Stroll Thru Life: Table Top Tuesday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
From My Front Porch To Yours: Treasure Hunt Thursday
Savvy City Farmer: Thrift'n On Thursday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
Someday Crafts: Whatever Goes Wednesday
DIY by Design: Winter Blues Wednesday
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday

More Giveaways and Thanks

2012-01-09T18:06:00.000-06:00

I'm going to do it again.

I honestly didn't know what to expect when I hit the publish button to announce my first giveaway. I just wanted to do something to say thanks. It really is my pleasure to give this vignette to one of my followers.

<><><><><><><><><><><> <><><><><><><><><><><> <><><><><><><><><><><>

CLICK ON THE PHOTO ON MY SIDEBAR TO ENTER CURRENT GIVEAWAY

I'm overwhelmed with the response. Thank you for the blog posts, Facebook shares, pins, and overall exuberance. I wish I could give the prize to each and every one of you. Since I can't, I've decided to assemble three more vignettes. Next Saturday, I will not only announce the winner of my first giveaway, I will have another one. I will be giving away a different vignette each of the remaining Saturdays in January. My first photo is a peek at what will be included.

So, check back this Saturday when I announce the winner of my first giveaway, and see what I've assembled for giveaway #2.

Thanks again for all your support. I'll be back with more redesigns to share. See ya soon.

Old World Love

2012-01-08T18:27:00.000-06:00

One thing you are going to see a lot more of from me this year, are old world finishes. I shared many finishes in my last post of 2011, but this look is really my first love.

It has such a warm vintage feel. The finish I used on this small frame is one of my favorites. The frame was gold. Sorry gold lovers. I love gold too, but I wanted a different look.

I gave it a generous layer of dark grey. No priming necessary, the finish was very dry.

Next, I slathered on a coat of white gesso.

Then I wiped back the excess until I was happy with the finish. My favorite thing to wipe back with is an old t-shirt, or something similar.

Mmmmm, love it. The image is a copy of one of my old postcards. It's the Fontaine Estrangin in Marseille.

You can eliminate the dark grey step, and achieve a finish like this.

I'm off to create more variations. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
Someday Crafts: Whatever Goes Wednesday
Domestically Speaking: Power of Paint
Home Stories A to Z: Tutorials and Tips Party
Not Just A Housewife: Show Me What Ya Got
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Sassy Sites: Trash to Treasure Tuesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesday's Treasures
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up

First Giveaway and Many Thanks

2012-01-07T15:24:00.000-06:00

I've been getting many offers for giveaways on my blog. I will be having quite a few, but I wanted my first giveaway to be something from me to you. So, I'm giving away this vignette. Yep, the entire vignette.

I'll tell you how to win in a minute, but first, I could not go any further into the New Year without giving a special shout out to my top referring sites.

I'm so grateful to all my readers and followers, but without these ladies, many of you may not have found me. Next to Google, they have been my largest traffic sources since starting my blog last year. They all have link parties I participate in regularly, and so should you. Each of them have also featured my work, either on their blog, or Facebook page. I'm very grateful. Click on the buttons below to visit these generous, and inspirational women.

Marian, at Miss Mustard Seed

Kim, at Savvy Southern Style

Courtney, at French Country Cottage

Donna, at Funky Junk Interiors

Kathleen, at Faded Charm

THANKS LADIES

xoxoRosemary

Okay, I also wanted to say thank you to my followers with a giveaway. This vignette consists of one of my redesigned sewing machine drawers. I added the applique, and gave it a weathered finish. It would be a great corral for so many things.

I have included one of my framed transfer art pieces, an ornate frame, two alabaster birds, and a vintage bottle with chippy metal rose.

If you would like to win this vignette, here's how.

You must be a follower of VILLABARNES. Let me know if you are already a follower, or if you've just joined me.
Leave a comment on this post, letting me know you would like to win.
For extra entries, share this giveaway on your blog, or Facebook. Leave a separate comment for each entry.

You have till Friday, JANUARY 13th at 12:00 midnight, CST

***TO ENTER***

The winner will be chosen at random, and announced Saturday, January 14th. This is just the first of many giveaways I'll be having this year.

GOOD LUCK

******THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANKS TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED.******

Before Blogging

2012-01-06T16:55:00.000-06:00

Although I've been buying and selling for nearly 20 years, before I started blogging, I seldom took before and after photos of my redesigns. I only took photos to keep track. They were usually group shots that included finished redesigns, and finds. I came across a few, and thought it would give you a good idea of just how much I go through in any given year. I'll share more in another post.

The mirrors, and table in this next photo had a dull wood finish. I painted them with soft shades of white. I added the applique to the chest, and painted it a soft blue. The large cloche was vintage. In hindsight, I wish I'd kept it.

Gesso painted tables, frames, oil paintings, etc.

See that rusty galvanized piece on the left in the photo below? I used my Splendid Transfer method to add the Eiffel Tower and Paris to it's surface.

I added the weathered stone finish to the pedestals, and the swan.

I painted some of these pieces, and recovered the bench.

I've used soft blue on many pieces, and occasionally black.

I painted most of what you see in this photo, and covered the chair seat in burlap.

Iron and stone are definitely constants.

My white painted tables are always popular.

The lion, plaque, and chest received a white washed treatment. I recovered the seat of the bench with grain sack material.

I painted the mirror and table. The other pieces I left alone.

You can see my Splendid Transfer on the table in front.

Now I have to get to work on the finds, and redesigns waiting in my studio, and garage. See ya soon.

Horsing Around

2012-01-05T11:13:00.000-06:00

What better way to get moving on some of my first projects of the year than to play in the mud. These seahorses were another purchase from the sale I shared in my "Estate Shopping" post. They're made of cement, and are over two feet tall. I found them hanging on the patio wall.

This is how they looked when I found them.

To add a little more depth, I did a finish similar to my "Aged Cherub". After painting them white, I hauled them outside, and "painted" them again with a mixture of mud, and grass. I let the mixture soak into the paint a bit, then wiped off the excess. Once dry, the added patina is pretty much embedded.

I'm finishing up several redesigns to share with you. Check back soon.

Sharing With:
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
Sassy Sites: FFA Friday

Peaceful Vignette

2012-01-02T18:43:00.000-06:00

Do not run through life
so fast that you forget
not only where you have been,
but also where you are going.
from "Peace", author unknown

Happy New Year. Relaxing a bit since Christmas week, and taking a stroll down memory lane with my 2011 reviews, allowed me to focus on why I started blogging. I wanted to share my experience, and create a journal. I was reminded of my true passions, and gave a lot of thought to where I wanted to go in 2012. It's going to be a busy year, but I'll be taking chill breaks to maintain my perspective. So, as I chill a bit more tonight, I wanted to share a simple vignette I put together with garage sale finds.

Do you know what these are?

I didn't think about what their original function was when I purchased them, but they are vintage graters.

I knew right away what I wanted to do with them though.

Look at the really cool shadows they create.

I have a piece of foil protecting the base.

They now reside on the desk next to my front door. With my vintage mirror behind them, they look so peaceful.

Even more so in the dark.

I'll be back with redesigns, finds, tutorials, and more. Lot's of fun stuff coming up.

Sharing With:
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
A Stroll Thru Life: Tabletop Tuesday
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Knick of Time: Knick of Time Tuesday

Finish It

2011-12-31T13:51:00.000-06:00

Finishes are what led to the name of my blog. A customer of mine said my weathered finishes looked like they came from an old chateau or "villa". This was some time ago. I started using "villabarnes" as my email address. When I started my blog, that's the name I went with. Here are some of the finishes I shared in 2011. You'll be seeing more this year. Click on the title to review posts.

WEATHERED and WORN

FINDS and FINISHES

I've dripped,
ARTSY CHERUB URN

washed,
GESSO MAGIC

bleached,
BLEACHED MIRROR

plastered,
PLASTER ROSES

layered,
SHADES of GREY

OLD WORLD CHALKBOARD and GESSO

laced and transfered,
LACE and BOTTLES

glazed,
GLAZED CHANDELIER

dirtied,
AGED CHERUB

cracked,
WORKING WITH CRACKLE

stoned,
MORE STONE

and appliqued.

BACK TO WHITE

I can't tell you how many pieces I've worked on in 2011,
FRAME LOVE

RANDOM VIGNETTES

EXHAUSTED

However, I will be sharing many with you in the coming year.

Like how I use everyday items as inspiration,
FALL DECOR

and duplicate the look. I just finished this guy.

Wishing all my readers and followers a very Happy New Year.

Sharing With:
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
Sassy Sites: FFA Friday
These Peas Taste Funny: Link It Up Thursday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Domestically Speaking: Power of Paint
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
From My Front Porch To Yours: Auld Lang Syne
Beyond The Picket Fence: Favorite Things

Fave Furniture Redesigns

2011-12-29T21:17:00.000-06:00

After my last post on statistically popular furniture redesigns of 2011, I was going to do a post on my favorite finds. Although some of my faves were on the list, several were not. So, I put together a list of a few personal favorites I've shared since starting my blog. Neither of these were statistically the most popular, but I do realize that's partially due to the fact that I didn't have the same readership when I posted some of these. So, many of you may never have seen them. Which is another reason I wanted to revisit. Again, click on the title to review the post.

OVER THE TOP

SUPER BUSY

BLUE TRIO

MARBLE TOPS

CIRCLE OF ROSES
You really need to see the before on this.

The Footstool in FOOTSTOOL and BENCH

FEMININE FLAIR
This was from my first month of blogging.

I may have one more post in me before the New Year. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Beyond The Picket Fence: Favorite Things
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Miss Mustard Seed: Favorite Furniture of 2011
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
Chic on a Shoestring Decorating: Flaunt It Friday
From My Front Porch To Yours: Auld Lang Syne

Year End Review Part 3, Popular Furniture Posts

2011-12-28T19:27:00.000-06:00

Tonight, I'm sharing my top ten furniture posts, according to stats. Redesigning vintage furniture is one of my passions. I also love to give newer pieces a vintage feel. So, here are the redesigns that seemed to get your attention. CHIPPY STORAGE is actually number one, but I already shared it in the last post. Once again, I was surprised by some of these. Several of my personal favorites aren't on the list. Click on the title to review.

Number ten, VANITY BENCH

Number nine, MIX IT UP

Number eight, FRENCHY and GRAPHIC

Number seven, WHITE on WHITE

Number six, A DIFFERENT LOOK

Number five, NICE DETAILS

Number four, LACED AGAIN

Number three, HAVE A SEAT

Number two, FIRESCREEN TABLE

Number one, PLASTERED

Okay, next I will be sharing some of my favorite finds. I did a lot of hunting and gathering.

Sharing With:
Thrifty Decor Chick: Before and After
The DIY Showoff: DIY 2011 Recap Party
Miss Mustard Seed: Favorite Furniture of 2011
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
The Brambleberry Cottage: Time Travel Thursday

Year End Review Part 2, Most Comments

2011-12-28T12:02:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I shared my top three popular post. Today, I'm sharing the ten posts I received the most comments on. Since you already know that SPLENDID TRANSFER , SILVER and WHITE, and GLAZED CHANDELIER are on this list, I added the next three most commented on. Honestly, the response I received to some of these surprised me, especially number one. I never know what to expect when I hit publish, and I really appreciate you all taking the time to let me know what you think. Remember, you can click on the title to review the original post.

Number ten, MULTI-PURPOSE
My magazine rack as side table.

Number nine, SURE, WHY NOT?
You didn't think I was nuts to turn a fan blade into a towel rack.

Number eight, GIFT WRAPPED FOOTSTOOL

Number seven, HINT OF BLUE
This was one of those redesigns that sorta took me where it wanted to go.

Number six, CARRYING ON
Vintage box redesigned with horseshoes and curtain rod parts.

Number five, REDESIGNING WITH PARTS
I didn't know what to expect when I did this post. The response surprised me.

Number four, MORE VIGNETTES
I love playing with vignettes.

Number three, FINISHED THE TREE....MAYBE
This was my first Christmas as a blogger, and it was a blast to visit all of you. Glad you checked out my little tree.

Number two, CHIPPY STORAGE
Sometimes I get a great surprise when I distress an old piece.

Number one, REDESIGNING WITH PARTS III
The response on my little carrier really surprised me. I almost didn't do this post. This was the first time I showed you how to use horseshoes as handles, but not the first time I did it. I wish I could show you the carriers I did before, but they are long gone, and I didn't take a photo.

I'll be taking a look back at furniture redesigns next. See ya very soon.

Sharing With:
The DIY Showoff: DIY 2011 Recap Party
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Southern Hospitality: Top Projects 2011
Ivy and Elephants: Auld Lang Syne What's It Wednesday

Year End Review Part 1

2011-12-27T18:00:00.000-06:00

Time is winding down on 2011.

Although I haven't been blogging for a full year, this is my 148th post. So, I had more than enough to put together multiple year end lists. For the rest of the week, I'll have statistical lists, thematic lists, my personal faves, and whatever else I can get in before 2012.

Today I'm sharing three popular posts. These are the only three on both my top ten most viewed, and most commented on posts. You can click on the title to revisit the post.

Number Three, SILVER and WHITE
This was a fun post, and included one of my favorite photos. I'm not a photographer, but every now and then I surprise myself with a really nice one.

Number Two, GLAZED CHANDELIER
I enjoyed working on this chandelier, and again, I was happy with the photos.

Number One, SPLENDID TRANSFER
I've enjoyed sharing tutorials with you, and the reception has been quite overwhelming. Not only with comments, but with many personal emails, and link backs when some of my blogging friends have used the techniques.

Next, I'm going to share my top ten most commented on posts. Some of them surprised me. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday
Faded Charm: White Wednesday

Transfer Art and Projects

2011-12-26T17:23:00.000-06:00

Since I'm still recuperating from yesterday, I thought I'd share a transfer project I finished just before I went into Christmas chill mode, and some projects I worked on today. These are all things that have been lying around my garage all summer. Time to get at them. This transfer art was created using my Splendid Transfer method. The frame was a combination of my "weathered finish" , gesso, and a light grey wash.

I started with this.

Originally, I was going to make a chalkboard, but I was bored by that idea. So, I did multiple washes of grey and white gesso over the chalkboard to create a background before I did the transfer.

I used various shades of white, and grey paint on the frame. I then did my weathered finish, washed several layers of gesso over it, and finished with a wash of light grey.

The wash over the weathered finish makes for a nice aged effect.

I've been painting frames various pale shades.

I'll be back at it tomorrow. I also have a few end of the year thematic posts to share. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
House of Grace: Twice Owned Tuesday
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday

Roll Me Away

2011-12-26T13:14:00.000-06:00

Hope your Christmas was a great one. We woke up early, opened presents, had eggs with spinach/garlic sausage, and attended a one hour service at church. Once home, we chilled a bit, gave thanks for our blessings, and ate, A LOT. I prepared a meal of glazed ham,

mashed potatoes, green beans, buttered rolls, candied yams, sweet potato pie, egg nog ice cream................Oh yes, two of my presents were boxes of chocolates. Roll me away. I'm recuperating, getting back into project mode, and doing some jumping jacks. I'll see you a little later today.

Merry Christmas and Thank You

2011-12-24T09:44:00.000-06:00

As I celebrate the season with my family, I just wanted to let you know that you are truly a gift to me. Thank you for being a part of my life. Thank you for your support, and inspiration. I appreciate each, and every one of you.

Another Christmas Vignette

2011-12-22T16:52:00.000-06:00

Yes, I'm still in chill mode. All I've been doing, is playing around with my decor. I wanted to share a vignette I put together this morning. I knew when I purchased my cement cherub family you saw in my "Estate Shopping" post, I would be using them inside. I replaced the vignette you saw here, with this one. Everyone loves it. This is how I built it.

I created this vignette with my winter and fall cherubs. The stone base in the center is another purchase from the same estate sale. It was the base of my small fountain.

The glass bowl, from the same estate, had a metal stand that went with it. It fit inside the stone base, with a little space left over. So, I filled in the gap with jingle bells, and inserted a pillar candle. For the backdrop, I layered four vintage frames. The three white frames I painted a while ago. The center frame took me about five minutes to silver leaf. I consider it my wreath. I placed some jingles bells on my cherubs too.

Hmmmm, I almost stopped here, but it was just too bland. So, I added a cherub runner, a Jay Strongwater ornament (bought for an insanely cheap price at a garage sale), sprinkled more jingle bells, and one more pop of red.

Sharing With:

Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday

Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers

Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special

The Rose Garden in Malevik: Christmas Party

Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous

My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday

The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday

French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday

2805: Potpourri Friday

Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday

The Charm of Home: Home Sweet Home

Ivy and Elephants: A Very Ivy and Elephants Christmas

Overdrive or Chill

2011-12-21T10:11:00.000-06:00

Are you in chill mode, or overdrive this week leading up to Christmas? I have a tendency to be in overdrive all year long. However, if there is one person who can get me to slow down, it's my 16 year old. Even before he was born. I was an administrative assistant when I was carrying him. When I was approaching my eight month, my doctor thought he may be coming a little early, and put me in the hospital for observation. Nothing happened, but she suggested that I take maternity leave right away. Weeks passed, and he just chilled. I went to full term. A healthy, happy, baby boy was born. When I told him this story many years ago, he said, "I just wanted you to rest". Well, he made me promise to take it easy this week. So, no major projects, no working non-stop. I gave him a ride to school today, and after stopping at our local bakery, this window display caught my eye.

One of my favorite things to do as a child was drive around with my family and look at Christmas decorations. I've been so busy lately, that I hadn't even noticed this display. I'm glad my son reminded me to slow down.

This window is so festive.

So, I'm going to continue to chill, focus on the reason for the season,

and enjoy the simple things surrounding me.

Are you in overdrive, or are you in chill mode?

Sharing With:
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday

My Cement Angels

2011-12-18T15:05:00.000-06:00

This cement angel wall hanging is another piece from the estate sale. It's a newer piece, but has great detail. It's two feet tall and quite heavy. I could have left it alone, but I wanted to give it a little more depth.

This is the before.

Not bad, but I wanted a layered look with more variation in color. I probably washed over it about ten times, alternating watered down white gesso, black paint, and grey paint. I dabbed with a dry cloth in between washes.

Now, you can see various shades of white and grey.

I think it has more character now.

I have it under the Christmas tree, leaning against my firescreen table.

My angels will be surrounded by presents soon, cause I'm not moving them again for a while. Did I mention they're heavy?

I'll be sharing more items from the sale, and a bunch of other things. I can't believe Christmas is only a week away. This month seems to be flying.

Sharing With:
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
SavvyCityFarmer: Thrift'n On Thursday (On Monday)
House of Grace: Twice Owned Tuesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesdays Treasures
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Dittle Dattle: Amaze Me Monday
The Girl Creative: Just Something I Whipped Up
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special

Estate Shopping

2011-12-16T16:00:00.000-06:00

Want to go estate sale shopping with me? You know my passion for urns and statuary? Well, here is a look at the exterior an estate sale my hubby and I went to today. Since it's just like me to buy cement in the dead of winter, some of it came home with us. Can you guess what?

This lady is over 5 feet tall.

Love these.

There were a couple of these broken beauties.

Another life size statue.

Love the color on these.

This little fountain is so cute.

So, what came home with me?

That's right, my cherub family. I also purchased, the broken beauties, metal chairs, the little fountain with the birds, the poodle, and.....

I didn't care that this was broken. This base would look great displayed inside or out.

This grouping was in the front of the house. The two pedestals are about the perfect size to hold a couple cherubs.

The fountain and life size ladies are still a contemplation. We're planning to go back tomorrow. I'll have to take shots of my other buys from this sale. I have finds from a different sale to share as well. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
The Rosegarden in Malevik: Saturday Showoff
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
2805: Potpourri Friday

Gift Wrapped Footstool

2011-12-13T15:53:00.000-06:00

I've been adding festive touches today, and this footstool was in my path.

I picked up this footstool at an estate sale.

I really didn't mind the silvery blue fabric, but wanted to give it a little something extra for Christmas. So, I did a silver leaf treatment on the legs. I used the same liquid leaf I shared here. I intentionally left untreated areas for a worn effect. This takes a little practice with your brushwork. You have to vary the pressure with the brush, from heavy to barely touching. The fact that the legs had imperfections and indentations helped.

I thought about making a festive slipcover at first, but remembered this green burlap ribbon I had in my material stash.

I cut two strips, and wrapped my footstool like a gift. The strips are held on underneath by tacks, so they can easily be removed later.

I gave my green easy chair a quick update to compliment the footstool.

Although they matched fine this way, I wanted to inject more of my silvery touches. I just draped another garage sale find over it. I love this champagne and blue fabric, and I think it's quite festive.

My retro throw rug is one of seven I had packed away. More garage sale finds, they were never used, and too cheap to pass up. I like the shaggy white texture. I've been sprinkling them around. I guess they're my snow.

Sharing With:
Under The Table and Dreaming: Sunday Showcase Party
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
Miss Mustard Seed: Furniture Feature Friday
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
Ivy and Elephants: What's It Wednesday
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Holly Bloggy Christmas
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
From My Front Porch To Yours: Treasure Hunt Thursday
SavvyCityFarmer: Thrift'n on Thursday
Passionately Artistic
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
DIY by Design: Fall into Fall
Primitive & Proper: Piece of Work Wednesday Furniture Link

Tarnished Silver and White

2011-12-12T21:29:00.000-06:00

Just in case you haven't noticed, I love the look of tarnished silver. You've seen it in many of my posts. Way back in May I showed you a gold mirror frame I was contemplating changing to silver. Well, I did it. It took a while for me to decide. I thought the look of tarnished silver would look nice with the worn mirror. The brass frame was painted gold by someone long ago, it wasn't gilded. I don't paint over vintage gold gilding. I just don't. I removed a little more of the silvering, and added black paint behind the mirror before I put it back in the frame.

To refresh, this is what the mirror looked like when I got it.

I used liquid leaf to paint it. It goes on easily, and you don't have to use very much.

After leafing, I did a dry brush of black paint, and wiped it back with a dry cloth.

Here it is on the table next to my door, along with another of my nativity sets. I'm continuing with my silver and white Christmas.

On to the next project.

Sharing With:
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday
At The Picket Fence: Inspiration Friday
Common Ground: Vintage Inspiration Friday
No Minimalist Here: Open House Party
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesdays
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesday's Treasures
House of Grace: Twice Owned Tuesday

Heavenly Glow

2011-12-11T19:41:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share one of my nativity sets. It's small, and made of frosted glass. I loved it when I found it, but wasn't quite sure how to display it. It seemed no matter where I put it, it just wasn't grounded. I finally had an idea for it

I laid a vintage loaf pan on it's side to create a stable. It makes a nice rustic background and is the perfect size for my little nativity. I also placed a tin star behind baby Jesus. I may add hay, but right now I like it this way.

The set has a beautiful ethereal quality against the dark metal.

It's on the side table in my living room. I love that heavenly glow.

I can't believe this is my 138th post since starting my blog in April. I have so much to share with you still before the end of the year, including reviews, thematic posts, and how-to's. See ya soon.

Sharing With:
Sassy Sites: The Nativity
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Holly Bloggy Christmas
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia: Tuesday's Treasures
Coastal Charm: Nifty Thrifty Tuesday
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Dittle Dattle: Amaze Me Monday
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers

Finished the Tree....Maybe

2011-12-08T16:07:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure if I'm actually finished with my Christmas tree, because I have a tendency to change things constantly. I've already done it several times. You'll notice things magically appearing and disappearing throughout this post.

I had to let my former tree go. It was time. This tree is smaller, but I loved it the moment I spotted it. It was the perfect size for what I wanted to do.

It's sitting on top of my firescreen table. I covered the base in gauze, and added lights behind the table.

My ornaments include copies of vintage sheet music I reduced, attached to manila tags, and hit with glitter spray,

I also have vintage crystal prisms, silver bells, light pink acorn ornaments, tinsel, and silver glittered birds.

You can also see the glitter bottles I made. See how I made them from old bottles here.

My tree, firescreen table, accent tables, and planters, create a nice vignette in the corner of my living room. I hung iron crosses behind it.

Wait, where did the clock face go? You can see a peek of in the the lower right corner, but I changed the little vignette under the tree. The clock face is going somewhere else.

I have two flower pots stuffed with gauze, holding pine branches. The hint of snow on the branches is a brush of gesso. You had to know I'd get gesso in somewhere. I also painted the pots with it.

The pots are sitting on tarnished antique silver trays I placed on top of two small table bases.

Like I said, I'm not quite sure if I'm done, but it's not bad so far. The two tables will be moved, and replaced by presents. We can pile them high.

Sharing With:
Between Naps on the Porch: Metamorphosis Monday
Dittle Dattle: Amaze Me Monday
Homemaker on a Dime: Creative Bloggers
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Funky Junk Interiors: Saturday Nite Special
The Girl Creative: Creating Christmas
Be Different Act Normal: Show and Tell Saturday
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
2805: Blogger Block Christmas Tree Party
Common Ground: Christmas Block Party, Vintage Inspiration Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday, Holiday Vignettes
Thrifty Decor Chick: Christmas Tree Party

A Cute Idea and A Peek

2011-12-07T15:06:00.000-06:00

I'm in a cute mood today. Can you tell what this is?

How about now?

While organizing my hardware, I came across some of my crystal knobs.

I thought they would look cute as tiny crystal vases. So, I added sprigs of pine.

They're sitting on the gauze on top of my chippy cabinet. Don't they look like ice?

I'm almost finished with my tree. Here's a peek.

See ya soon.

Sharing With:
The DIY Showoff: DIY Project Parade
Be Different Act Normal: Show and Tell Saturday
Remodelaholic: Remodelaholics Anonymous
My Romantic Home: Show and Tell Friday
The Shabby Nest: Frugal Friday
French Country Cottage: Feathered Nest Friday, Holiday Vignettes
Beyond The Picket Fence: Under $100 Linky Party
The Shabby Creek Cottage: Transformation Thursday
Faded Charm: White Wednesday
The Charm of Home: Home Sweet Home
Savvy Southern Style: Wow Us Wednesday