Milk Paint Drop Leaf Table

From Disaster to Divine

Warning: MMS Milk Paint May Play with Your Emotions ;)

 

I'd been searching for a drop leaf table for some time, but I could never seem to find one that met my size and budgetary needs, until this one. Purchased through Craigslist (yup, another one of my Craigslist's finds) for a mere $20, it was the perfect piece for me to experiment with the Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint I'd been dying to try.

Since there aren't any MMS retailers near me, I opted to buy online from the retailer who was geographically closest to me, Sea Rose Cottage in RI (a cute shop I can't wait to visit next time I'm in the area). Since I desperately wanted to obtain the "chippy look" (and I'm always trying to save money), I opted to risk skipping the bonding agent (anyone see where this story's going)? For those not familiar with MMS Milk Paint, the bonding agent is a substance that gets added to the paint in the event that the paint doesn't adhere properly to your surface (to facilitate the "bond"). So, I purchased one bag of Eulalie's Sky (the paint comes in a powder form) along with a container of Hemp Oil. Simple enough? Well... so I thought.

Source: Instagram

When I finally got some alone time to spend with my table and my Milk Paint, I was thrilled! I used a paint stick to mix the paint (this was trickier than I thought; I had a hard time getting all the powder to dissolve). Being used to chalk paint, I was surprised at how thin the consistency of the milk paint was, but I had watched a few tutorial videos, so I knew I had to keep an open mind and expect a different experience. And although I heard Marian say over and over in the videos that you can't always predict how it the paint will act, I was hoping with all my heart that my piece + my paint would = my desired chippiness.

After one coat I couldn't tell what was going to happen. It wasn't quite bubbling that much (which would indicate an area that would easily "chip"), but I did see it happening in some areas. So I decided to apply another coat... and that's when it happened. Bubbling overload.

Everything bubbled up (and consequently chipped off as soon as I touched it). And, yes, hindsight being 20-20... I should have ordered the bonding agent. Soooooo, back to the internet, another order (and another shipping charge). And this time I ordered the milk paint mixer, too, because of the trouble I had mixing it last time (the device is basically a milk frother, so if you have an extra on hand, you could use that).

But after receiving the next package, a cold spell ensued (and the table was in the garage). So the cold, mixed with my earlier disappointment, caused the drop leaf table project to come to a halt.

Fast forward a couple months later, and I became determined to finish the project (and this time I moved the table inside). And I'm so happy (and very relieved) with the final results. Here's how it went.

I can't find my original "before" pics, so this is the closest I can get. This is between "Take 1" and "Take 2." I actually sanded the top after the first debacle, so it originally looked a little darker than this.

Steps for Painting the Drop Leaf Table with MMS Milk Paint (and an ASCP Stripe)

1. Mix the paint (and in my case, add the bonding agent). I recommend using the electric frother-mixer.
2. Paint! And paint some more. The paint is thin (although you could adjust this by adding less water, but I didn't have much to work with, so I was stuck with what I had)! After reading the directions, but after mixing the paint (yea, in general, I tend to have some trouble following directions), I found out that you only need to add the bonding agent on the first coat. But I had already mixed it all together (because I only had about half a bag of powder left). So the bonding agent was in the paint for each coat. My mix lasted me about three coats (although certain parts could have taken another coat, but I wasn't going to buy a whole new bag for that).
   
   
   
3. Add the stripe. Although I was happy with the color of the paint, I thought the table was a little boring, so I decided to add a stripe. I had Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Pure White on hand, so that's what I used. I wanted the stripe to be subtle, so I watered down the paint and only applied a thin coat.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Distress. As Marian suggests in her videos, I used a paint scraper to distress the table. Although I had to work pretty hard at it (that bonding agent sure did its job!), I still liked this process SO MUCH better than using sandpaper or nail files (that's what I used on my Distressed Dining Table). I just can't stand how HOT the sandpaper/files get because of the friction when you're working... it gives me stomach-churning goosebumps, the way some people feel about fingernails on a chalkboard. Yuck. I don't even like thinking about it. Soooooo the paint scraper was the best idea I've heard in a while! Nice plastic handle = no friction on my fingers!
   
   
    
   
   
5. Apply the Hemp Oil. This was my favorite part! I used a cut up old tee-shirt to apply the wax, and the consistency was so nice. As soon as it touched the paint,  a lovely hue emerged, making me soooo happy. Before this step I was doubting I'd use MMSMP again, but after using the hemp oil (and a little experience behind me), I think I'm going to give it all another shot! I followed the instructions and wiped the excess oil off after 30 minutes.
   
   
   
   
   

So there you have it... I never knew a paint would have the ability to make me cry, cringe, smile, and shout, but I guess you learn something new every day :) I'll be using the table in our upstairs hallway as our new laundry-folding station (to replace the current "station": B1's bed! Now I don't have to feel guilty if I don't finish folding all the laundry by bedtime!).

Here's one of my laundry helpers ;)

Top View: I'm so happy I added the stripe!

Have you used Milk Paint? What have you used it for? Do you like it? After all this, I need someone to commiserate (and celebrate) with ;)

Follow along on Pinterest and Instagram for more of my DIY adventures!



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Tips for Buying on Craigslist

New to Craigslist? Don't Panic! Here Are Some Helpful Hints.

Shopping on Craigslist got you nervous? Confused? Overwhelmed?

Craigslist is an amazing service, but it can definitely be daunting at first.  You can save money, recycle old items, sell your creations, and all for free!  Sure, the interface is nothing fancy, but it doesn't need to be. It's a free service and you're not being bombarded with ads.  But you do need to know how to work it.  Here is a list of tips I've put together from my Craigslist buying experiences. It's a dynamic list that will certainly keep changing, so feel free to make suggestions based on your experiences, too!

Tips for Buying on Craigslist

1. The first rule of Craigslist: don't forget about Craigslist! Before you go to the furniture store to pick out a new dining room set or sofa table (or really, anything else), check out Craigslist. You can save hundreds and hundreds of dollars on things that are perfectly good.  BTW, If it "grosses you out" to think about reusing someone else's stuff, than just stop reading now, this post isn't for you.
2. Check out your surrounding areas, too, not just your region.  For example, if you live in New Haven, CT, look in the New Haven, Fairfield, and Eastern CT, even RI or MA sections, if you really want something and are willing to make the drive. But know what it takes to get there; I usually avoid searching in NYC because the GWB charges quite a toll!
3. Check out the FREE section! Choose your region, look under "For Sale," and click "Free." Beware, you usually have to act fact here. There are a lot of people who stalk this section! If you want it, contact the seller immediately! And don't ask them to make special arrangements for you. And especially don't tell them you're coming and not show up! Remember, these are real people with real jobs and real families, too!
   
4. There are a lot of dealers who post things on CL, too, and I'm never interested in them and it bugs me to see their ALL CAPS DESCRIPTIONS FILLING MY SCREEN. You can get rid of those listings by choosing "For Sale-By Owner" on the top left of your screen when you're in the correct section (e.g., furniture).
5. When you find something you like and decide to contact the seller, be polite but concise. You don't need to tell them your whole life story, but a few personal details usually don't hurt. I know I scored a free sleeper sofa over other people one time because I mentioned my 3 young kids and their aunt who would soon be visiting and would appreciate a place to sleep instead of the air mattress!
6. People who are on CL a lot can be really picky.  Maybe they only want phone calls, maybe they don't want any phone calls, maybe they want to text.  Whatever it is, just pay attention and contact them in the way they ask. Otherwise, they'll just ignore you.  My point is, there isn't necessarily one "right away" to communicate, just pay attention to the directions in each ad.
7. Think of the possibilities! Don't like the color? You can paint it! Think creatively. My Craiglist Dining Table and Saved From the Dumpster Table didn't look like they do now when I first saw them for free on CL.
8. You can always ask for more pictures if you need more info to decide. You'll probably need to provide the seller with your email address to do this.
9. Don't be afraid to try to negotiate prices. Most people will expect this and have a "bottom line" already in their minds. Either make a reasonable offer or ask them their bottom line. It doesn't hurt to ask (but if you low-ball them you run the risk of losing it entirely. Believe me, I've been there.).
10. If you're feeling nervous, try to talk to the seller on the phone. Often, by hearing their voice, you can get a sense of what they are like and feel better about meeting them in person. But if you get a weird vibe or something, you might want to abandon ship :)
11. When it comes time to pick up your item:

• Be safe: While I firmly believe most people are good, I'm constantly shocked by the evil in our world. So I'd recommend bringing someone along with you when you go to pick something up. 
• Bring muscle: If you can't handle the item yourself, can you rope your husband, brother, neighbor, or friend into helping?  My husband has gotten much less willing to help over time (and I can't say I blame him). If you can't find anyone you know to help, consider hiring someone to pick up the item and deliver it to you (you can find them on CL, too)! And you may be able to negotiate their regular fee if they're having a slow day.
• Ask the seller to meet you outside with the item (obviously this only works with smaller items).  Don't forget, in most cases they're going to be wary of you, too, so they probably don't even want you inside their house!
• Have your cash ready.  Bring exact change. Don't make it an awkward situation by expecting people to make change for you. And don't try to negotiate more if you've already agreed on a price. That's just rude.
• Last but not least, break out those Clorox wipes or laundry detergent, and give your new item a good washing!

And like I said, I will keep modifying this list as time goes on, but I'd love to hear your experiences, too: good or bad!  Give me your comments and help me prepare the Craigslist Newbies!

Some of my Craigslist projects:

   

Want to more CL info?

"Saved from the Dumpster" Accent Table Makeover

Craigslist Accent Table Makeover

It would appear I am filling my home with free CL finds...
 

I mentioned this in a previous post, but since we have moved to our new home, I've struggled with filling it with furniture. It's coming together more slowly than I would like, but I'm trying to hold out and be patient. Sometimes I have the urge to buy a piece just to fill the space because I'm sick of things not looking the way I want... but when I get that feeling I have to remind myself, again, to be patient. And lucky for me, until I find the perfect piece for this particular space, I scored on a free Craigslister's that's going to, at least, be a placeholder for the meantime.

I had been busy a few weeks ago and wasn't checking the Craigslist free section with my usual fervor, so I was a little late on contacting the owner on this one. His ad read, "Save this table from going into the dumpster." I replied to the ad as soon as I saw it, but apparently I wasn’t the first. He took my name and told me I was third on the list. After hearing that, I just assumed it was gone, until I got a call a week later that it was mine if I wanted it (that's the thing with getting rid of free stuff on Craigslist; sometimes people just don't show up, but, hey, good for me!). I happened to be in a Target in his area when I got his call, so I popped over and picked it up. I wasn't quite sure what I would do with it at the time, but I liked its shape, and, hey, it was free ;). I put it in the garage to "save for a rainy day."

Then I found out I would be hosting an event at my house in less than a month's time. And while I'm ok with friends and family (and my kids' playdate friends) in my semi-furnished space, I'd rather be a little more settled with other guests. And so again, that panic sets in: I have to find things, I have to fill this space... I HAVE TO GO TO HOMEGOODS NOW!!!! A few deep breaths later I come to the realization that I have to relax and think creatively; spending beaucoup de cash doesn't have to be the answer. And, hey! There's a free table in the garage. An option? We'll, it's gonna be!
 

I wanted a quick, easy, and cheap fix, so spray paint was the obvious choice. I went back and forth on the color, though. I liked the idea of white or cream against the wallpaper, but it seemed too traditional for me, and I wanted something a little edgier. I decided a metallic finish would be interesting, so at first I went with the silverish tone in the pic here. It looked really nice when I was outside, but once I brought it in, I thought it looked too washed out against the wallpaper. Grr. There goes 2 cans of spraypaint. Another trip to Home Depot, and I decided to try Rustoleum Hammered Brown. I thought the hammered aspect might help hide some of the imperfections in the table, and I think it made a little difference, nothing magical, but it's nice. As a bonus, I only needed one can to cover it this time around. And I'm much happier with the result than my first attempt.

Is this the piece I would pick to last a lifetime? Nope, but I'm happy with it for now!

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Hickory Trail 

Linking up to: Metamorphosis Monday, Savvy Southern Style

Craigslist Dining Table Transformation

Craiglist Dining Table Transformation

You really can't go wrong with something that was FREE to begin with!

There she was, in all her former glory. If you don't know about the "Free" section in Craigslist, you really should check it out! A lot of times there's just junk listed, but there are many times when people just want to get rid of something ASAP because they're moving or getting new furniture. But things in this section go fast, so you need to check back often and act quickly! 

With this piece, I was immediately drawn to the pedestal base. Our current round kitchen table has the standard four legs, and whenever you have more than four chairs around it, someone is always straddling or banging against a leg. I figured paint could cover up any blemishes, so I jumped on the offer... and we picked up this baby (by "we," I mean my husband, somewhat begrudgingly). I didn't like the finish at all, so that's what I decided to change.

Pictured here are some of my main supplies (how cute are my pink work gloves?!). I love Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. I doubt there is anyone who's used it and doesn't love it. And this can of duck egg has made its way through several entire projects, and there's still some left. 

My vision: I knew I wanted the top of the table to be a different color than the base. But that's where it got complicated. Originally, I painted base in duck egg and I painted the top in bright white. I had an image in my mind I was trying to attain, the white was a big mistake. It was so offensive, I stripped it off right away and went a new direction: stain (should have taken a pic, I know). But onto my first attempt at staining.

At the hardware store, it was fun looking at all the stain color samples, and decided on this one: Minwax Polyshades (color: Mission Oak). This line is a "stain and finish in one step." I thought that would save me some time, but it really just confused me. At first, I was wiping it off the way I understood you should apply traditional stain... but it was too light, and I couldn't understand why the directions said I needed to wait 6 hours to apply another coat! I applied one sooner, because it had dried... and not much luck with that one either. DUH. I wasn't supposed to wipe it off, I was supposed to apply an even coat and simply let it dry! Which I did, when  finally realized that. But that "even coat" was really hard to achieve. Especially hard for a novice, and I'll be the first to admit that my tabletop is certainly FAR from "even coated." But I really like the color, and I can live with the mistakes, and it was a lesson learned. Would I use the Polyshade again? Maybe... but I'd need more practice, which means more time... and I'm sorta an instant gratification kind of gal.

Anyway, this is what I ended up with. This pic is without the leaf in the middle (we'll use the leaf when we have guests) but I like the perfect circle look better.


This was a great learning experience project for me. It's certainly not perfect, but it's a big improvement over what we are currently using (and over what it was when I picked it up free from Craigslist, I think)!

Does anyone else have tricks for a more seamless staining experience? Please share! I love the look of the stain, and want to continue experimenting with it, but I'm on the hunt for more tips!

You can also check it out on Metamorphosis Monday at Between Naps on the Porch!

 

Plastic Party Chairs from Craigslist

Great Deal on Outdoor Plastic Party Chairs

Craigslist find! I have been coveting chairs like this--really! No, they're not fancy, but they are practical. Any time we have a party, I want to be sure there's enough seating, but I could never bring myself to pay anywhere from $10+ each! Plus, I hate the idea of bringing more plastic into circulation. So I waited patiently, and then it happened. A great price on Craigslist. The listing said they were selling 10 of these for $20. Not bad... but I'm not satisfied unless I REALLY feel like I'm getting a deal, so I offered them $15, and they took it! I was worried about them all fitting in my car in addition to my two kids who were with me that day; I didn't want to take two trips (it was about 25 minutes away)--but they fit! And the nice couple who sold them realized they had 13 of them, not 10, so they threw in the extra 3 for free. So I really made out on this one--I paid approximately $1.15/chair! Now I just need to plan my next party :)

My creative side is always itching to do something else... what do you think? Play around with these? Paint them? Or just leave them as they are. Has anyone ever painted plastic chairs? How do they hold up?