A Thrift Store Quick Fix

So again, thrift store hunting (now it may seem like I go a lot, but in fact I just go occasionally and buy a few things each time) and I came across this.  I knew right away what I wanted to do with it.  Give it a chic finish and eventually put some geraniums in it (when I find some for a good price).

Here is the before:

I added some gold craft paint that I had on hand, then added black once the gold was dry.  While adding the black I had a wet rag that I would wipe certain areas with to allow the gold to show through.  I was happy with the result.  I also had some semi-gloss varnish that I applied, but wasn't too happy about using it.  I had to put it on with a brush which wiped more of the black off, and let even more gold show through.  Some unexpected added bubbles to the finish (oh well),  next time I will just use a spray varnish.  

But it all worked out in the end.

It looks great on my fireplace mantle in my bedroom.

Notice the colour of the wall in the background.  That's a sneak peek of my husbands and my effort this weekend towards our bedroom makeover.  More to come later.  We have lots to do to it still.

A peaceful resting spot.  Thanks to my thrift store for providing a new feature in my house, and for $2.49!