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Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Channeling my inner Gigi

Estate sales depress me.  The bargains I often get there are great, but there's just something about seeing someones half used bottle of shaving cream for sale that causes me to dwell on my own mortality.  But I digress.  I have found quite a few awesome pieces at estate sales and today's post is about one of those deals.  I call him Gaston.  (yes, I love the movie Gigi.  Don't judge me)

When I found him it was obvious he'd had a hard life.  His top was peeling and had some major finish issues and there were quite a few dings and scratches.  But you can't hide style, and Gaston had it.  I snapped him up and took him home with me.  I'm afraid the garage accommodations were a bit low brow for him and he had to fraternize with some less distinguished guests, but he managed.



After a quick sanding up on top and a good clean, he was ready for painting.  I made up colors similar to old ochre and Louis Blue in my homemade chalk paint and got started - no primer needed with chalk paint!  I loved the wire on the side of Gaston but I have to say that painting all those little wires was sort of like herding cats.... with rabies.




I think what makes Gaston such a looker is the highlighting with the Old Ochre and the dark wax.  I can just see him nestled in a Parisian flat, sipping champagne and cheating at cards.  And then he gives me a beautiful diamond bracelet and we live happily ever after together.  I mean, then I sold him to someone and he lives happily ever after at their home.  I think I may need to lay off Turner Classic Movies for awhile.



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9 comments:

  1. Schawnie, we have this wonderful consignment shop up here, and I think of you every time I go in there. They get the best old pieces that are in real need of YOU. They just got in two fab end tables, much like your Gaston. I got my dining room table and king bed there, but I sure wish you were here to chalk paint some more goodies for me. And I love that wire on Gaston...gives him some character, in the best ole way!!!!

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    1. So tempting Liz!! Love hearing about your new life in Alaska.

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  2. Beautiful.. Dee from My Painted Stuff

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    1. Thanks Dee. Can't wait to hop over and check out your blog!

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  3. Lovely...and I love his background story! I am seeing more and more "frenchish" pieces in used furniture stores and thrift stores. They always paint up so beautifully. Very nice find!!

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    1. Suzan, I keep hoping no one else catches on and starts snapping up my frenchy pieces!

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  4. looks fabulous!

    smiles to you.

    michele

    p.s.
    would love to have you stop by and/or follow http://hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com!

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  5. Outstanding, he is! I think it was worth the effort of chasing those cats with rabies!

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