Monday, July 13, 2009

Point of View

Whatever your style, change bath décor elements for a quick, affordable, and functional new look.

1
CLASSIC
Keep it simple with this fixture (#238544) that features an antique-nickel finish and opaque globes. Complement it with a rectangular mirror (#195276) in a pewter finish.


2
ROMANTIC
Opt for timeless appeal with this fixture’s (#115618) Spanish-gold finish and Scavo glass shades. Pair it with the pretty detailing on this oval mirror (#66654).


3
MODERN
Give your vanity urban flair with the silvery accents and smooth design of this fluorescent bar (#144747). Add a curvaceous touch with an arch mirror (#239697) that’s enhanced with two polishedchrome rails.


4
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Bring in some color by selecting the stained-glass globes and complementary bronze finish of this bar (#163255). Complete the Craftsman look with a fluted wooden mirror (#106511) that features goldtoned highlights.

Light Up The Night

Add a welcoming glow outdoors with a group of paper lanterns.

1. Wrap a string of outdoor lights (at least 6 feet in length) around a 6-foot-long bamboo stake (#56475). Leave about 10 inches at one end of the stake free of lights. Secure the lights to the stake using clear packing tape.

2. Push the end of the stake (that is free of lights) into the ground. Connect an outdoor extension cord to the lights, hiding and securing the cord as needed.

3. Thread five paper lanterns (#237095) onto the stake as shown. Gently bend each lantern’s internal wire frame to clear the stake. You will not need the electrical cording included with the lanterns.

For the horizontal hanging version of this project: Use only four lanterns so that 10 inches at each end of the stake is free of lights and lanterns. Cut and then attach a length of nylon twine (#91114) to each end of the stake. Tie the other ends of twine to porch posts or hooks, making sure the stake hangs evenly.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Come On In


A new entry door can make your house feel like a home

Sure you want a door that adds value and curb appeal, but you also want an entryway with that special something that brings your home to life. It might be the door to the first home you’ve owned, or to the home where you’ve finally decided to settle down. Whatever your future holds, make sure you choose a door that suits your home or style. The right door will increase your home’s value and give your entrance the kind of allure that makes neighbors, friends, and family members want to come inside.

Make An Entrance
You have a lot of options when it comes to entry doors, and you want to choose the one that’s just right for your home. Here’s how.

1 FIND YOUR STYLE AND SHAPE
Numerous choices for glass inserts can truly personalize your entry. Look for:
  • a design style that appeals to your taste and suits your home’s architecture, whether it’s traditional, Craftsman, old-world, or modern.
  • a shape that will let light into your home, yet still provide your desired level of privacy; choose from a wide selection that includes everything from a small semicircle to two full-length rectangles.
  • caming options—in finishes such as platinum, brass, and wrought iron—that will enhance the glass inserts.
2 SELECT A DOOR MATERIAL
Wood, steel, and fiberglass are the materials of choice for entry doors. Each has its own unique set of benefits.
If you want:
  • a budget-friendly door with an authentic look and feel, then a wooden door may be best for you.
  • a hearty door that resists cracking and warping, consider steel or fiberglass. Fiberglass doors are available with smoothsurface exteriors or with wood-graining.
  • an energy-efficient entryway, ask about the door’s insulation and if it comes with weather stripping. These features can help save you money on energy bills.
3 COMPLETE THE LOOK
After deciding on your glass inserts and choosing a door material, add the extras that will customize your entry and pull the whole design together.
Consider:
  • a transom (a glass insert installed above the door) that will complement the shape of your door’s glass inserts.
  • sidelights, which also are available in a range of designs; opt for just one sidelight, or flank your door with a pair.
  • Reliabilt’s flexible design plan, which allows you to choose your features from nearly 11,000 options, and then have your door built to your specifications.

Shingle Style


An ordinary house becomes a classic cottage.


After relocating to the Southeast, this New England native wanted to bring a Cape Cod feel to her new home. She began the transformation with the front windows. Thick casing and cross-shaped panes make a bold statement across the exterior and help to establish the home’s presence.

Next, the homeowner replaced her existing siding on the front of the house with cedar shingles to capture the New England look. She plans to cover the remainder of the exterior at a later date. To expand the existing entry’s tiny stoop, she had a landing built at the top of the steps so that she would have more space when entering the home. The cloth awning was replaced with a wooden pitched roof and post. Also during the renovation, the homeowner’s contractor installed a new wooden railing to replace the small metal support that was not compliant with the modern local building code.

Finally, a new wooden door, painted a calm deep green prior to installation, adds a touch of color to the entry. Finishing touches include lighting and new shrubs with mulch.




Bright and Breezy

1. A locking mailbox adds peace of mind and a new level of home security.

2. This homeowner loves the outdoors. With the addition of large casement windows, not only can she enjoy the sunlight flooding her indoor spaces, but she also can open them for a pleasant breeze— using less air conditioning and saving money on cooling bills.

3. The crisp-white stair rail increases safety and draws the eye toward the side-facing front door.


DOORS AND WINDOWS
casement windows (Pella, Architect, 850 Series, white, special order)
door (Escon Doors, Model OC636DC, special order)

MATERIALS
cedar shingles (special order)
brick (#10298)
octagon gable vent (22-inch, white, #18204)
lumber rated for outdoor use†
beaded-board paneling†
roofing for awning (#10086)

EXTERIOR PAINT
railing paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Polar White 7003-16, semi-gloss)
door paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Cliveden Forest 5006-4C, semi-gloss)

ACCESSORIES
door hardware (Kwikset, Venetian bronze, #34568)
locking mailbox (#57021)
light fixture (Sea Gull, oxidized bronze, Model 8463-46, special order)
doorbell (#231162††)
planter (#20822)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of plants.
**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
Availability varies by market.
††Available by special order in some stores.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Schoolhouse Charm

Although the historic schoolhouseturned-weekend-getaway had great architectural bones and a solid structure, it lacked clear walkways, vitality, and cheerful color. Taking design cues from Upstate New York cottages as well as traditional Greek Revival schoolhouses, the homeowner began the update by creating better access to the front and side entrances via a walkway made with interlocking pavers. With both entrances clearly marked, the homeowner could focus on the landscape. A white picket fence, also reminiscent of traditional Colonial style, creates a border around the home’s lawn and complements the front railing. Small boxwoods were added in front of the railing and along the fence. In the planting beds on the side of the house, the homeowner planted ornamental grasses and shrubs, and finished the look with planters and a trellis. Green-and-white striped awnings over the front windows enhance the color scheme, while yellow paint on the door provides a focal point for passersby. A heavy pitched entry was removed for a fresher look.




Pretty With Purpose

1. Lanterns with a rustic-brown finish evoke seafaring New England charm.
2. These attractive awnings minimize the amount of direct sunlight that enters a room, thereby protecting lightsensitive artwork and antiques.
3. A wooden railing adds interest to the front entrance.




Semi-Custom

1. End pillars with caps were added to the picket-fence panels for a customized look.
2. Seasonal potted plants add color and make the side porch look lush and lively.
3. The homeowner’s trellis provides architectural interest and a spot for a vine to grow. Lowe’s has a wide variety of trellises available to suit your style.


MATERIALS
pavers (Portage, #59765)
picket-fence panels†

EXTERIOR PAINT
door (Valspar Ultra Premium,
Pale Butter 3003-3C, semi-gloss)
fence (Valspar Ultra Premium,
Du Jour 7002-6, semi-gloss)

ACCESSORIES
address plaque and numbers (DeSignIt, brushed nickel; plaque, #41311††; numbers, #55260†, #54940†)
striped awnings (Dickson, Boston Green, Model 7513, special order)
wall fixtures (Portfolio, rustic brown; large, #109415; small, #80551)
terra-cotta pots

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of plants.
**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
Selection/availability varies by market.
††Available by special order in some stores.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

A Small Kitchen That Works

She loved her 1920s bungalow, but the poorly configured appliances and limited work areas caused her to cook most of her dinners in the microwave. By applying small-space solutions and choosing products that matched her budget, she gained all the ingredients of a successful kitchen makeover—and the seamless cottage style is like the sweet icing on the cake.

What She Did
THE CHALLENGE: The kitchen in this home was outdated and far less than functional. The homeowner had only 2 feet of countertop space and inadequate cabinetry.

THE SOLUTION: Moving the water heater from the kitchen to the attic freed up room for a pantry. The homeowner added floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and an extra workstation, gaining much more drawer and countertop space. She purchased new appliances, including a built-in dishwasher to replace the old portable model. Beaded-board paneling, wide trim and moulding, a farmhouse sink, seeded-glass cabinetry door fronts, and wooden countertops all contribute to the kitchen’s updated cottage style.

1 The farmhouse sink was a must-have splurge item for the homeowner, who wanted to retain the vintage charm of her cottage. The complementary
stainless faucet is simple and practical.

2 This freestanding range and a microwave/hood combination, both in a stainless-look finish, were placed together vertically for a more efficient food-preparation area.




1 Easy-to-use cup pulls on the cabinet drawers feature a streamlined shape and convey a vintage look.

2 The wooden butcher-block countertops have a penetrating oil finish. They require special maintenance, such as reapplying oil, but the longevity and beauty are well worth it.

3 An island wasn’t possible in this small kitchen, but a cabinetry workstation providing countertop space plus storage for cookware fulfills the same purpose. The cabinets’ smoky-blue glaze adds a splash of color in the otherwise white kitchen.

4 Seeded-glass cabinetry door fronts impart the feel of a country cottage. Open shelving helps the room seem casual and inviting.





Small-Space Strategies
  • Go vertical. Extend the cabinets up to the ceiling or crown moulding to use all available space.
  • Organize. Choose cabinets and drawers that offer organizational inserts, or add inserts to your existing cabinetry.
  • Consider the use. Think about what you use daily versus infrequently. Open shelving and clear-glass cabinetry door fronts make it easy to see everyday dishware. Upper cabinets are perfect for special china or rarely used appliances.
  • Color counts. While kitchens are all about function, choosing white or a light paint color makes a small space feel airier and larger.
  • Appliance options. This homeowner chose full-size appliances, but there are options for smaller, hardworking refrigerators or ranges.



1 A beverage cabinet above the refrigerator holds wines, ciders, and sodas fit for special occasions.
2 This stainless-look refrigerator has the sleek metal vibe but is less expensive and easier to clean than stainless steel.
3 A water heater once filled this space, which now serves as a pantry. A new, more efficient tankless water heater was installed in the attic.

How To Manage Your Budget
A kitchen remodel is a wonderful investment, but it also can be a large expense. A few simple guidelines will help you contain your cash flow.
  • Expect the unexpected. Figure out the maximum amount you can afford for your kitchen remodel, and then decrease that amount by 20% to determine your budget. You’ll have padding for the unplanned expenses that almost always occur.
  • Pick and choose. Decide what’s most important to you. Do you want new countertops but like your range? Then opt for the countertops of your choice,such as granite or butcher block, and pass on the new range. Alternately, cabinetry and countertops can siphon the bulk of your budget. If you’re okaywith the look of your kitchen but want the latest culinary technology, then replace all your appliances and simply paint your cabinets.
  • Stick to the plan. You can make small decisions that add up to a big expense. Take a step back before adding new items that weren’t in your original plan.

LIST

CABINETRY, COUNTERTOPS, AND BACKSPLASH
cabinets (KraftMaid, Whiteplains Square, white, special order)
seeded-glass doors (KraftMaid, Antiquity, special order)
workstation cabinets (KraftMaid, Briarwood Maple, Beaded, Wedgewood Glaze, special order)
hardware (Amerock, satin chrome; cup pulls, #150264†; oval knobs, #17094)
butcher-block countertops (special order††)
backsplash (KraftMaid, beaded-board paneling, white, special order)

APPLIANCES
refrigerator (Frigidaire, Silver Mist, Model FRS3LR5EM, #247886)
electric range (Frigidaire, Silver Mist, Model FEFL68GM, #7003)
microwave/hood combo (Frigidaire, Silver Mist, Model FMV158FM, #180278)
dishwasher (Frigidaire, Silver Mist, Model FDB1050REM, #226379)
gas tankless water heater (Bosch, AquaStar, Model 1600H, special order)

FLOORING
tile (12-inch-square, Portobello, Ibiza, #121141)
biscuit-colored grout

PLUMBING
farmhouse sink (Barclay Products Limited, Fire Clay, Model FS30, white, special order)
faucet (Peerless, Brilliance Stainless, #100363)
garbage disposal (InSinkErator, Evolution SpaceSaver, #240439)

LIGHTING
6 recessed lights
4 under-cabinet lights
pendant fixture (1-light, Kichler, antique pewter, #166107)

PAINT
walls (Valspar Signature Colors, Earth Elements, Swoosh EE2046B, satin)
crown moulding and trim (Valspar Ultra Premium, Anthem White 7006-24, semi-gloss)
ceiling (Valspar Ultra Premium, Anthem White 7006-24, flat)

MOULDING AND PANELING
crown moulding (45/8-inch, primed white)
baseboard and window casing (41/4-inch, primed white)
beaded-board ceiling (3/16-inch, primed white, #29469)

ACCESSORIES
shelf brackets (5- x 8-inch, pine, #64387)
utensil hooks (#58448)
stand mixer (KitchenAid, white, #213829)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market.
** Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
Selection varies by market.
††Availability varies by market.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

4 Seasons Are Better Than 1


“With this sunroom, we spend more time together than ever.”


The screened-in porch at the rear of this family’s house had one major thing going for it: its size. But it was only usable during the best weather. By adding sliding windows and new doors, the space is transformed into an all-season sunroom. During good weather, the open windows allow air to circulate, blurring the lines between indoors and out. When it’s cold or rainy, the homeowners can close the windows and still enjoy the space. New paint, flooring, lighting, and furnishings brighten the room and tie the look together. And now that this area is appealing to the family as well as to guests, a new hospitality center and adjacent outdoor patio with a grill make it a hot spot when the homeowners entertain.


WHEN TO SPLURGE, WHEN TO SAVE

1. Freestanding storage units—which were constructed from poplar boards, plywood, and beaded-board paneling— create shelving around the TV.
» SPLURGE APPROACH: Design a wall unit with customized kitchen cabinetry.

2. The brick walls were painted a soft cream color for a restful background.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Leave the exposed brick unpainted for an edgier look.

3. Three new ceiling fans overhead keep the room comfortable during the warmer months; their light color allows them to blend more with the ceiling.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Install just one fan, or try out the space without them. You can add them next year if needed.

4. New V-groove pine paneling on the ceiling, coated with a clear finish, emphasizes the casual cottage feel of the space.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Paint the original ceiling a light color.

5. Sconces with an oil-rubbed bronze finish are mounted to each post for additional lighting.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Use a fan/light combination for general lighting, and then add a couple of standing lamps or sconces.

6. Sliding windows transform the porch into an all-weather retreat. They minimize the visual boundaries between the sunroom and the yard.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Take a staged approach. Install new windows this year, and then update the ceiling and floors next year.

7. Repainting the existing furniture was a low-cost way to liven up a set of table and chairs.
» SPLURGE APPROACH: Choose from a wide selection of all-weather furniture from Lowe’s.


WHEN TO SPLURGE, WHEN TO SAVE

1. A blue-and-white striped window awning adds a playful focal point and architectural interest to the hospitality area.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Simply paint an accent wall for a punch of color.

2. The tile backsplash is not only beautiful, but also easy to clean.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Use a less expensive material, such as laminate, for the backsplash.

3. Eighteen-inch-square beige tiles, used throughout the sunroom, supplanted the old concrete flooring. The tiles make for easy wiping of muddy footprints (and paw prints) tracked in from outside.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Stain the original concrete floor with
a new color.

4. Maple base cabinets, painted a soft beige, offer a place to store utensils and dishware. Pulls with a wavy design add a relaxed touch.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Use open shelving for some or all of the
cabinetry in your plan.

5. A stainless sink with an in-stock high-arc faucet will save trips to the kitchen.
» SPLURGE APPROACH: Add more bells and whistles with a double sink,
pullout spray faucet, or hot-water dispenser.

6. The wine chiller and ice-maker add extra convenience when entertaining guests.
» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTION: Choose a compact refrigerator with an ice tray.




Smart Choices
If you like the look of this sunroom but you have a smaller space or budget, consider forgoing some elements or installing them at a later date. For example, the hospitality center is a welcome amenity, but you’ll still have an attractive, functional space without it—and you’ll shave more than $3,000 off the price tag. Similarly, the outdoor patio area can easily be omitted or added in the future.


JUST OUTSIDE


On this small patio connected to the sunroom, a stainless steel grill, with an infrared searing burner, cooks everything from steaks to vegetables. The sand-colored pavers feature an interlocking design that does not require mortaring, which means easy installation and maintenance.

» BUDGET-FRIENDLY OPTIONS:
  • Wait until next season to create this area.
  • Use pea gravel instead of pavers, or stain an existing concrete pad.

MAIN ROOM

FLOORING
tile (18-inch, Ravello beige, #187175)
bone-colored grout

DOORS AND WINDOWS
windows (ThermaStar by Pella, special order)
exterior single door (Therma-Tru, Model S118, special order)
exterior double door (Therma- Tru, Model S118, special order)

CEILING
tongue-and-groove ceiling (12-foot-long, 1 x 6s, southern yellow pine†)
polyurethane

DOOR HARDWARE
knob and dead bolt (Kwikset, Venetian bronze; knob, #34706; dead bolt, #36229)

LIGHTING
wall-mounted sconces (Portfolio, #230092)
ceiling fans (52-inch, white, #153928)
recessed lights

PAINT
walls (Valspar Ultra Premium, Muslin Wrap 7003-11, eggshell)
accents (Valspar Ultra Premium, Lovebirds 4004-5C; Oakmoss 6005-3C; Strawberry Pink 2001-3C; semi-gloss)

STORAGE UNITS
(8-foot-long) 1 x 8s, poplar†
(48- x 96-inch) 3/4-inch-thick birch plywood†
(4- x 8-foot) beaded-board paneling†

DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES
dining table and chairs (Freeport; table, #131832; chairs, #132638)
tile inserts (12-inch, Corinth Brownstone, #58976)
jute rug (#229511)
throw rug (#111168)
wall accent (Celestial Garden Sun, #47126)
paper lanterns (white, #237095; blue, #237089)


HOSPITALITY CENTER

in-stock maple cabinetry
drawer pulls (satin nickel, #224630)
cabinetry knobs (stainless finish, #98575)
marble countertop and backsplash tile (12-inch, #163424††)
bone-colored grout
ice-maker (Whirlpool, stainless, Model GI1500XHS, special order)
wine cooler (Haier, stainless, #43005)
single-bowl sink (8-inch-deep, FrankeUSA, stainless steel, #171199)
faucet with side spray (Moen, Caldwell, two-handle, high-arc, stainless steel, #113117)
cabinetry paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Drumskin 7003-10, semi-gloss)
awning (FutureGuard, Pacific Blue/Natural Splash, Model 4783, special order)


PATIO

pavers (Countryside, sand/tan; 6- x 9-inch, #123162; 6-inch-square, #123424)
gas grill (4-burner, #242608)

* Does not include labor costs or applicable taxes, which vary by market.
**Does not include lead time for special-order materials.
Availability/selection varies by market.
††Available by special order in some stores.

Monday, June 1, 2009

The Grass is Greener


Surprise guests with these lush place mats.


1. Make a 14- x 18-inch template from cardboard.

2. Using a marker, trace the template onto the back of a piece of indoor/outdoor carpet (#151360). Repeat for the number of place mats you need.

3. Use sharp utility scissors to cut the pieces of carpet. (One square yard or 3 linear feet of carpet should yield four place mats.)

Quick Fixes

Change the vanity faucet to give your bath a new look. Here are some of our favorites.

1 CLASSIC
Achieve a retro feel with Kohler’s Bancroft (#188739) in polished chrome and porcelain.

2 SOPHISTICATED
Add a faucet with refined appeal, such as the brushed-nickel Treviso (#185437) from Price Pfister.

3 OLD WORLD
Install Delta’s Victorian faucet with a Venetianbronze finish (#211644) to echo centuries of beauty.

4 RUSTIC
Channel the charm of a cozy farmhouse with Price Pfister’s Ashfield in rustic pewter (#231242).

Sunday, May 24, 2009

From Flea To Fab

WHITE SIDEBOARD WITH A CRISP NEW COLOR AND UPDATED KNOBS, THIS SIDEBOARD BECOMES A COTTAGE-STYLE KEEPSAKE.


Step 1: Sand the sideboard thoroughly, and then wipe clean.
Step 2: Prime and then apply two coats of white paint, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
Step 3: Using a dry brush, add glaze to the edges of the piece where normal wear and tear would occur. Pay particular attention to moulding and raised areas. Wipe off excess with a rag.
Step 4: Brush on a clear protective finish, and allow to dry.
Step 5: Install new cabinetry knobs using the hardware included.

MATERIALS
white primer
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Honeymilk 7003-4, eggshell)
glaze (Faux Translucent Color Glaze, raw umber)
protective finish (Clear Satin Protector)
knobs (Belwith; small, Model PA1117-WOA; large, Model PA1118-WOA; special order)

TOOLS
paintbrushes
sandpaper

*Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.


CHECKERED CHEST


A BASIC THREE-DRAWER CABINET RECEIVES A PLAYFUL PAINT TREATMENT.

Step 1: Sand the chest, and wipe clean.
Step 2: Prime and then paint the outside of the chest in a satin finish. (We used a pale yellow.)
Step 3: Following the manufacturer’s instructions, mix your desired paint color (we used rust in a satin finish) with the clear glaze.
Step 4: Dip the wall weaver brush in the glaze. Run the brush across one drawer. Repeat a few times to get the lines straight and to cover the drawer. Repeat for the remaining drawers. Allow to dry.
Step 5: When the first coat of glaze is completely dry, dip the wall weaver brush in the glaze again, and run the brush in the opposite direction, crisscrossing your previous lines. Repeat for the remaining drawers; let dry.
Step 6: Tape off the edges of the top and the drawers using painter’s tape.
Apply white paint to the edges, and let dry.
Step 7: With a pencil and ruler, mark off every inch on the edges. Using an artist paintbrush, paint every other inch in red. Allow to dry.
Step 8: Brush on a clear protective finish, and allow to dry.
Step 9: Install new drawer pulls using the included fasteners.

MATERIALS
white primer
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium; Delightful Moon 3004-6A; Jekyll Club Cherokee Rust 2011-7; Du Jour 7002-6; satin)
glaze (Faux Mixing Glaze, clear)
accent paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Posh Red 1011-4, satin)
protective finish (Clear Satin Protector)
pulls (brushed nickel, #58649)

TOOLS
6-inch wall weaver brush
artist paintbrush
painter’s tape
sandpaper
ruler
pencil

*Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.


ANTIQUE CHAIRS
A FINISHING GLAZE THAT GIVES AN AGED LOOK PLUS DAMASK SEAT CUSHIONS ADD OLD-WORLD CHARM TO DINING CHAIRS.

Step 1: Using a screwdriver, remove the screws from the underside of the chair cushion. Lift off the seat cushion.
Step 2: Distress the chair using an awl to make worm holes, and beat wood lightly with a hammer, including edges, to give a worn look.
Step 3: Sand the chair thoroughly, and then wipe clean. Prime the chair, and allow to dry.
Step 4: Brush on two thick coats of white paint. Use rags to rub in paint so that some of the wood grain still shows through. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly.
Step 5: Brush on two coats of blue paint. Use rags to rub in paint so that some of the wood grain and white paint still show through. Allow each
coat to dry thoroughly.
Step 6: Rub antiquing glaze onto the edges and other parts of the chair as needed to give them an aged look. Allow to dry.
Step 7: To highlight the edges, apply the accent glaze randomly so that it looks rubbed off in some areas. Allow to dry.
Step 8: Spray on a clear protective finish, and allow to dry.
Step 9: Remove the old fabric from the seat. Lay the seat on a drapery panel, and cut around it, adding 3 inches to the length on all four sides. With a staple gun, staple the panel to the seat from underneath, turning under raw edges. Pull tight, and fold in at corners as if you were wrapping a present. Cut off any excess fabric as you staple.
Step 10: Reinstall the seat from underneath the chair using the original
screws. Repeat for each chair.

MATERIALS
white primer
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium; Statuesque 7002-5; Palisade Blue 4006-3B; eggshell)
antiquing glaze (Faux Antiquing Glaze, asphaltum)
accent glaze (Faux Metal & Patina Glaze, gold metallic)
clear protective spray (#39449)
drapery panel**

TOOLS
staple gun and staples
screwdriver
awl and hammer
utility scissors
paintbrushes
sandpaper

*Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.
**Selection varies by market.


STENCILED TABLE
A FRESH COAT OF PAINT AND AN ELEGANT STENCIL PATTERN LIVEN UP THIS PIECE.


Step 1: Sand the top of the table, and wipe clean.
Step 2: Prime and then apply the base color to the tabletop. Allow to dry.
Step 3: Select your desired stencil pattern found in the paint department at Lowe’s. Use painter’s tape to hold the stencil in place, and lightly stick the stencil to the tabletop. Use the pouncer brush to paint the pattern on the
tabletop. Carefully move and place the stencil as needed until the tabletop is covered. Let dry.
Step 4: For a metallic finish, use the same stencil, and dab a metallic glaze over the painted patterns; allow to dry.
Step 5: Tape off the tabletop using painter’s tape. With a small edger brush, paint the edge of the tabletop with the accent color. Allow to dry. Using a rag, highlight the edge by rubbing lightly with the metallic glaze.
Step 6: Brush on a clear protective finish to the entire tabletop.

MATERIALS
white primer
base paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Romano 7003-15, satin)
stencil**
stencil and accent paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Leather Satchel 3003-7B, satin)
glaze (Faux Metal &
Patina Glaze, gold metallic)
protective finish (Clear
Satin Protector)

TOOLS
pouncer brush
small edger brush
painter’s tape
sandpaper

*Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.
**Selection varies by market.


PLUSH BENCH
A TIMEWORN BENCH IS RESTORED WITH THE HELP OF PAINT AND A NEW SUEDED FABRIC SEAT.


Step 1: Using a screwdriver, remove the screws from the underside of the bench seat cushion. Lift off the seat. Using a hammer and putty knife, pry off the old upholstery tacks, fabric, and padding. (You may need to wear gloves.)
Step 2: Sand the bench thoroughly; wipe clean.
Step 3: Prime and then paint the wood in your desired color.
Step 4: Select a piece of 1-inch-thick foam rubber and quilt batting at your local fabric store. Cut the foam rubber to fit the bench seat. Cut a piece of quilt batting 3 inches longer on all four sides of the bench top.
Step 5: Place the foam rubber on top of the seat board, and lay the batting over it. Using a staple gun, staple the batting to the underside of the seat board, pulling the batting tight. Cut off any excess.
Step 6: Cut the drapery panel 3 inches longer on all four sides of the bench top, and place it over the batting, pulling tightly and stapling it to the underside of the seat board. Fold in the fabric at the corners, and staple underneath as if you were wrapping a present. Cut off any excess fabric. Replace the reupholstered seat board, securing it from underneath the chair using the original screws.
Step 7: Hammer in upholstery nails on all four sides of the bench. We paced
the nails 11/2 inches apart.
Step 8: Highlight raised areas of the bench legs with bronze glaze.
Step 9: Brush on a clear protective finish over the wooden areas, and let dry.

MATERIALS
gray primer
paint (Valspar Ultra Premium, Leather Satchel 3003-7B, satin)
drapery panel (Designables, #170658)
upholstery nails (#58195)
glaze (Faux Metal & Patina Glaze, bronze metallic)
protective finish (Clear Satin Protector)

TOOLS
staple gun and staples
screwdriver
hammer
putty knife
utility scissors
small paintbrush
sandpaper

*Does not include applicable taxes, which vary by market, or the cost of tools.