Lofty Kitchen - You Got the Best of Me

Today, it is with an excited heart and tired paint-stained hands that I share these pictures of our kitchen... before... and after.

This was the #1 spot in the loft I knew needed to be completed first, as it was in pretty bad shape, and I of course, spend so much time there as a loving wife (aka a hungry girl).

I bit off a lot more than I could chew with the stenciling (that was such a great idea in my head). But, being stubborn does come in handy sometimes (though Burley won't admit that)... because I finished and BOY am I glad. Granted, I did have a little late night help from a good friend.

First, Burley helped me tape of the countertops

Then, we started sanding this hordendous countertop. Now, don't get me wrong... I love a chic throwback countertop... but what you can't see here is that this was a horrible paint job that had since been stained and cracked. In addition, the countertop was 2 different patterns... black/red/white on one side & black/white on the other. What?

so we sanded, sanded, and sanded some more

We only had to apply 1 coat of this Rust-Oleum countertop paint (got it at Lowes for about $18 bucks). Be ware... it is oil based and very toxic. We unkowingly about killed Mace Face (Don't tell PITA).

Next, I moved on to the infamous stencil. I decided to make it myself because:

1. I am impatient and didn't want to wait for it to be shipped

2. I thought it would be easy to save $30-$40 bucks on a piece of plastic

3. ALL OF MY THEORIES WERE WRONG. IT IS WORTH THE WAIT AND THE MONEY

I created my stencil out of a plastic folder I had from office max.

• I printed a design off line, blew it up and taped it to the folder.
• Then, I used a craft blade to cut the pattern out. I choose a wonky pattern so that it didn't have to be very precise.
• Then I used Elmers Glue spray adhesive to put a coat on the back of the stencil and started painting!
• It took a while to get a rhythm (about half the wall). However, if you want a WAY better tutorial... Check out Mandy's wall @ Vintage Revivals. 'Twas my inspiration.

However... When all was said and done (and my good friend & fellow Coloradoian came over to do some recon)... The result was delicious.

I also forked out $25 bucks on the updated cabinet hardward. The old ones were made of nasty fake-wood... Totally unacceptable.

This pretty new addition is from Burley's dad and step-mom. A super thoughtul and WELL used gift. Thanks guys!

Well Thriftarians... That is about all I have for today. Tune in tomorrow for some office updates. NO it's not done yet... GEESH. Who do you think I am... My Mom? (She is really good at finshing this stuff super fast...)

BUT... I have made some progress on my new desk.

Till then.. You stay classy

Mrs. Thriftary