The B$#CH Is Back...

and better than ever. You may recall this bench that was a real "you-know-what" to sand and refinish. This is what she looked like when I last showed her to you.

I left her alone for several weeks before trying, once again, to convert her into the sweet piece of furniture I knew she could be. I scraped and sanded her within an inch of her life, until I got her to look like this.

As you can see, that awful black paint was still soaked into part of the seat. There were also a few small areas where the varnish wouldn't let go.


I have been wanting to try the Annie Sloan chalk paint for quite some time, and several of you suggested I use it for this project, so I figured this bench would be my guinea pig.

I originally intended for the bench to be painted black so I chose "graphite," which is described as a soft black.

I loved the way it covered. It was very easy to work with and dried very quickly. It did take 2 coats (more in some spots), but I still have 3/4 of the paint left over. I used the brush recommended for chalk paint use, but got frustrated with the way it was shedding and switched to my good ole Purdy brush. 


This is how she looked when the paint dried. 

As you can see, the chalk paint leaves a very matte finish. In this light, it does appear to be a soft black. I used wax to protect her from the inevitable dings and scratches that 4 boys leave in their wake.

I haven't worked much with wax, other than occasionally applying it to my pine farmhouse table. I didn't really know what I was doing, so I just put some on the brush and worked it into the bench. When I was done, I started buffing it with a rag and noticed that it seemed tacky. Lint from the cloth was also sticking to it. 


I sent the paint stockist, Patty from bestfurniturepaint.com, an e-mail asking her what I had done wrong. Apparently, the wax should dry for at least 24 hours before buffing. OOPS!


I suppose I could reapply the wax and buff again, but I actually think she looks fine the way she is now.

In this light and with the sheen of the wax, I would describe "graphite" as a gray with blue undertones.

Can you hear my sigh of relief?  I am so glad this project is finished! 


I'd love to know... Have you boarded the chalk paint wagon yet?




Sharing at ...

Debbiedoo's Newbie Party
Metamorphosis Monday
Tuesday's Treasures
Sizzle into Summer
Wow Us Wednesdays
It's A Party at A Creative Princess
Transformation Thursday at  The Shabby Chic Cottage