A Painterly Touch ~ New House Design

I'm aware that there are many purists among us, who feel that to paint an antique is a most despicable deed. And...I respect that there is such diversity of tastes in the world.

When it comes to painting vintage or antique items, the Yankee and I consider a number of variables, prior to taking that plunge.

For each project we tackle, we determine the steps necessary to enhance the unique features of the individual piece.

Some antiques have suffered such ravages of time that simple refinishing will not suffice. Those are the very pieces we believe to be the ideal candidates for a painterly touch.

We jokingly say we're in the rescue business. It's not uncommon for us to retrieve items from trash heaps or burn piles, in an attempt to resuscitate them.

If there is even so much as a single breath of life existent in something, we feel compelled to revive it.

I wish I had a before picture of the actual Depression era vanity that we delivered from certain destruction–atop a rather large pile of trash, about to be burned.

Just imagine, if you will, a vanity very similar to the one pictured below, but...IN NOWHERE NEAR THAT CONDITION!

Remember this sneak peek I gave you in the post about the Yankee?

That was a peek at our rescue efforts for the once abandoned vanity we recovered. When we found it, the mirror was missing, and the bridge that connected the two sides was beyond repair. The Yankee cut the piece apart and disposed of the irreparable bridge.

Though one of the sides had some nicks and dings and a few small areas of missing veneer, and two others needed to be replaced altogether, we knew we could totally transform the much neglected castoff.

To most observers, the piece had breathed its last breath. To us, though the breath was shallow, it still existed and was therefore worth reviving.

After the standard thorough cleaning–that was my job–and a good sanding–that was the Yankee's job–the Yankee set about making the necessary repairs.

We are of the opinion that to totally rework a piece–eliminating every little imperfection–negates its vintage character. So, more often than not, we will leave certain minor flaws.

Being the incredibly creative man that he is, the Yankee masterfully designed and crafted new backs from vintage wood.

Once those lovely details were added, I knew we had to adorn the stands with lots of sweet, feminine flourishes!

One of the characteristics I absolutely love about older pieces is the quality of construction found in details like dovetailed drawers.

After the draws were sanded and cleaned, and all structural repairs complete, it was time to decide on the decorative touches.

My favorite part! ; )

We sifted through numerous delicious appliqués in search of the perfect embellishments.

This lovely three-dimensional rose, accented by a delicate scrolly vine, could not have been more perfect for the backs.

With our creative touches, the frames went through a Cinderella-like transformation. They're now dripping with sweet little roses and wildflowers cascading down from tiny ribbons.

The pretty, scalloped apron fronts were also gussied up a bit with the cutest curly ribbon appliqué. It's knot even resembles a rose!

As if all those sweet details weren't dreamy enough, we then painted everything the softest, cottagey white we could find.

That was followed by an ever-so-light distressing, from the top right down to the lovely little turned legs. It was the perfect finishing touch to amplify the delicate beauty.

The result...total shabby sweetness!!!