How to Change Your Old Decor into a New Style

Are you ready to change your decor style? The good news is you might not have to buy all new furniture! Today's project is a good example of how to update a style specific piece and make it work with a different style. 

The project I am featuring today is a sweet country bench. I think it looks fine as-is and a quick reconditioning of the wood might have brought it back to life. But the painted country design is very style specific, so I decided to paint it to appeal to a wider audience. If you currently have country-style furniture and want to update your decor without buying all brand new furniture, then I hope this post inspires you.

The painted design is slightly raised, so it wouldn't have a smooth finish if I just painted over it. I used my orbit sander (affiliate links) to give the painted area a quick sanding to smooth out the painted design but didn't sand all the way down to bare wood. Then I applied two coats of paint, sealed it, and it was done.

AFTER:

The bench still has a casual feel, but the new blue painted finish doesn't limit it to only a country decor style.

I painted two coats of Deep Lagoon (previously labled Aubusson blue) over the entire bench except for the seat. I left the seat the natural wood, but freshened it up and reconditioned the wood with a couple of coats of hemp oil. 

Remember that chalk paint needs a sealant and normally I use clear wax. But to keep the project simple I also used the hemp oil to seal the paint! Easy-peasy!

Prior to sealing the paint, I lightly distressed the painted finish to allow the original wood finish to peek through.

The new bench color works well with so many different colors. The manufacturer describes the color as "Jolie Paint in DEEP LAGOON is the perfect color for chic, sophisticated interiors. It looks great on accent walls and cabinetry when you’re looking for a less traditional neutral for your space."

Thank you for stopping by The Black Sheep Shoppe today. I hope you enjoyed seeing the before and after photos.