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.
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.
find more DIY ideas at Shanty 2 Chic!
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!!
ReplyDeleteMaybe just a rub of wax, and a couple of cushions...
ReplyDeleteI love it as is, but it may need sealing.Im sure you will do a great job, no matter which way you go!
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!
ReplyDeleteI vote stain it or paint it.
ReplyDeletestain the top dk walnut, paint the rest white. :)
ReplyDeleteI love that look!
great job on the cute little bench!
gail
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!
ReplyDeleteHave 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?
ReplyDeleteI 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.
ReplyDelete45 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.
ReplyDeleteJan
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.
ReplyDeleteI'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!!
ReplyDeleteWhitewash and cushion it up! Love it, well done!
ReplyDeleteI 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!
ReplyDeleteBecky...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!
ReplyDeleteAlthough 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!
ReplyDeleteInterestingly 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 :)
Stain :0) The wood grain is beautiful!!
ReplyDeleteLove 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.
ReplyDelete