Monday, October 4, 2010

Decisions, Decisions

Using the old wood that I used for my 4 in 5 projects, I made myself a narrow bench for my entry.  This is really simple construction and took about 45 minutes total to construct.
 But now I am stuck.  I can't decide what to do as a finish.  I was going to wash some paint on it like I have done with my other pieces, but I am loving the raw wood. 
Except the rustic, raw wood isn't my style.  Hmmm, paint, stain, upholster it, leave it???  I know I will have to make the final decision that is best for me but I am taking your suggestions--thanks in advance for your input.
find more DIY ideas at Shanty 2 Chic!

17 comments:

  1. If you love the wood (and it is gawww-geous the way it is!), how about topping it with a long cushion? This way, you could change the cushions out - maybe have one for colder and another for warmer seasons. You could do dressy/modern/whatever kind of fabric to juxtapose with the raw wood. Just my two cents :) Love your blog, thanks for sharing your creativity!!

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  2. Maybe just a rub of wax, and a couple of cushions...
    I love it as is, but it may need sealing.Im sure you will do a great job, no matter which way you go!

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  3. I agree, I love the raw wood! However, it kind of makes the backs of my legs hurt to think about sitting on it that way~ splintery? So you could either seal it, or make a cushion to go on top?! It is a great piece!

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  4. stain the top dk walnut, paint the rest white. :)
    I love that look!
    great job on the cute little bench!
    gail

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  5. Maybe just a whitewash to give it a bit of color, but still rustic. And a few small pillows if you need some softness. ... But it really looks good just the way it is!

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  6. Have you ever dry brushed, it will show more of the wood than whitewashing it. That is what I would do and then a couple of little cute pillows would be so cool, something colorful. I love high contrast up against this wood, kinda like opposites. Does that make sense?

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  7. I would stain it dark. But then I'm wanting something similar to that (think a half of a trestle table) as a vanity in my bathroom and that is the look I want.

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  8. 45 minutes? I'm in awe! I like to just lay a big ol' feed sack along the top of my primitive benches and let them hang over the edge a bit. Keeps the back o'the knees from gettin' those durned splinters.

    Jan

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  9. I like Gail's suggestion....paste wax is another option....several coats over about a week's time will seal it and bring out the rich color, but leave it smooth.

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  10. I'm for simply wax, or leave it as is. That way you can give yourself time to see if it grows on you, and if you chose at a later time, then add color. It does look fabulous against your chocolate wall!!

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  11. Whitewash and cushion it up! Love it, well done!

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  12. I think I would just wax it and make some painted bins for underneath. You're right, it's a great piece as is; good job!

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  13. Becky...Love the natural wood on the bench! It looks great... I say leave it and use a cushion. But I know how it is when it doesn't go... it will be great no matter what you do I'm sure!

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  14. Although I tend to paint everything I can get my hands on, that wood is BEAUTIFUL!! I might leave it & see how it grows on you...if you end up dying to paint it, go ahead!

    Interestingly enough, I just started on a credenza which I had every intention of painting white and distressing...but the wood is so gorgeous, I think I'm just going to wax it. Very unlike me :)

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  15. Love this! I would wax it and let the patina develop. If it was mine I would be trying different pillows, throws, fabrics to get the best combo. Bins beneath if they aren't in the way. You are so consistently clever it boggles the mind.

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Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, I really appreciate your kind words!