Re-purposed Scrapbook Paper:

I had purchased these vintage wine plaques/frames a while back.  There certainly wasn't anything wrong with them, but they were really dark and the store only had two different types.  I needed six of something, at least that was my vision.

They aren't true frames, as they don't have glass or come apart in any way.

Step 1:

I gave the black and gold frames a super quick paint job with a semi-gloss white paint.  I didn't sand and I wasn't worried about the old colour coming through as I thought it would give them some character.

Step 2:

I placed a 12 x 12 scrapbook paper in each frame with spray adhesive.  You could do an epoxy spray after on the paper to make them a bit more durable but I left it as is.  I wanted to keep it as simple and cheap as possible.

Total cost:

plaques/frames - $1.99 each

paint - left overs from shelf product

scrapbook paper - .75 cents each

Total for this project - $16.44

No splurge items on this project. Yeah!

 

Painting Laminate:

Painting laminate:

This shelf has always been a thorn in my side, I didn't like the color nor did I know what to do with it.  But the lines and structure had some potential.

Step 1:
A quick sanding and one coat of primer - not so pretty looking.  I thought for sure I had ruined it.

I used a foam brush and foam roller - I HATE brush marks with a passion.  I buy my foam brushes from Michaels when they are 10 for $10 and my foam rollers are from the dollar store (a 3 pack for $1).  LOVE those!  No fussies to pick off your painted surface, totally recommend!

I also used some old paint cans to lift the entire shelf off the floor so I could paint but you could use anything.

Step 3:
I did about 4 coats of a white acrylic semi gloss paint.  Though I would recommend filling in the holes, I wasn't certain at the time where I was going to put the middle shelf.

Oh, and wear gloves if you don't want paint all over your hands.

A bit of white paint and some repetitive shapes gives it a whole new look.

I always have to be careful with decorating.  I have two cats that would demolish any sort of real plants so I had to go with faux.  Plus these don't collect cat fur.  Baskets would be really nice too.


Total cost:
book shelf - $30
paint and supplies - $20 (at the very, very most) A gallon of paint can go a long way on small projects around the house
plants - $6 each (my "splurge" item)
Total cost for this completed project: $82


I usually like to have some sort of splurge item in each project, but you can do it for cheaper.