I think that sometimes it is important to look at color and design and not necessarily see the setting or the object, but rather explore the sensory qualities, the emotional appeal it may generate. I also think this experience is entirely unique for each individual because we each come to this vision with our own set of values and criteria and expectations. Think about color and light in a new way, explore the vast possibilities. They are infinite, just like a snowflake.
I found this screen at an estate sale. I think screens in a room are beautiful as well as functional. I knew this one could be painted in ASCP and re-wallpapered to give it a whole new life.
I had purchased some very old French wallpaper about a year ago in one of the antique malls and it had some form of French identity on the back. I saved that part. I made one lampshade and sold it on etsy, one I featured recently in Pinterest, but I wanted to use the wallpaper in something larger to show the beauty of the design.
I painted the frame in Old Ochre and waxed it, but now I am thinking I will add some dark wax and distressing to give it more character to match the old French design.
I have many design books in my collection and this has currently become my go-to book for inspiration. If you can find it, it is well worth the investment to own a copy.
Annie Sloan keeps a book like this primarily to show the gradations of color change when Old White is added. She also puts in inspiring photos as well as fabric swatches. Ever since I saw hers, I determined to make one too. Currently I am writing down paint recipes. I buy the thicker mixed media art books so the pages can be painted. It is a great way to remember inspiring paint combinations too.
Recently I took a trip down to the delightful community of Aurora that has the most charming collection of antique shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. I seldom get a chance to get away and do this, but it was Sunday morning, and I did not have to be back to open my store for two more hours. My errand was to pick up a ladder in one of the antique malls, South End Antiques and Collectibles, that I wanted to use for my store display (they also have great things!). I also popped into Main Street Merchantil to take a quick look and found this French chair. It was marked down, and I probably paid too much for it, but I could not leave it behind. The carving and patina is beautiful. The upholstery is simply dreadful.
I am always drawn to chairs for some reason. They have a certain presence, perhaps a touch of some kind of mysterious persona. In a room they seem to settle in and make their presence known in a very discreet manner. 
I will definitely get rid of the upholstery. This chair is far too elegant for a velour-type of fabric. Yet, I am having a certain dilemma.....
How do I decide to finish the rest? Do I paint it (my original intent)? Now that I look at the carving as well as the natural wear and patina, is it simply too good to paint over? I could scarcely do it justice by painting it and trying to create this kind of perfection. Maybe I will just re-do the upholstery.
How could one not possibly fall in love?
I love looking at photos that feature the transformation of a piece of furniture that is nice but not particularly eye-catching. This is my newest favorite color, 3 parts Aubusson Blue to 1 part Antibes Green. I showed it in the previous post, but did not show how it was originally.
I created a green from Antibes Green, Arles, and Chateau Grey. I loved the color and will use it on a piece for Spring, but this piece was meant for that blue jewel-tone. As Annie says, a piece will tell you what it wants to be if you give it time just to evolve. I had this piece for a few months and just kept staring at it thinking about the color.
This is the back.
This is the side. It really has great lines and I love the curves as well as the straight legs. I painted the inside two drawers in Emile so it is a nice surprise when you open the drawer!
I have always loved collecting really lovely old textiles, very old. I thought my addiction would never change. Now I am on the hunt for furniture....not just any furniture but furniture that has some distinction as in the category of "would it be good enough for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint?" In effect, details, good bones, character. I am very picky, but it seems as if there are some pretty good options in the world of worn-out furniture ready to be transformed! This piece is painted in Annie's newest color, the color that is featured on Annie Sloan's Tour coming in mid-March. It is a beautiful, soft pink called "Antoinette" and I have to say it is romantic and warm and very appealing.
This little red table has been through many paint transformations, but it is now dressed in a base coat of Primer Red with a top icing of Emperor's Silk. Well it doesn't get any better than that. Finished with a combination of clear and dark wax. Yum.
I have to say this is my current favorite. It is 3 parts Aubusson Blue to 1 part of Antibes Green. I waxed it with clear wax and then did some accents with the dark wax. I have to say it is just the most amazing jewel tone and once you paint it on a drab piece you simply want to paint everything this color.
Here she is back in my shop and ready for a space that defines and celebrates her.
And last, these are some of my painted pieces that I displayed in my space at Junk Salvation this weekend. My husband is standing in the truck with only his legs showing because he does not want to be the featured one, although he deserves it more than you could possibly know! It was a great show!!
Embrace the winter blues....Annie Sloan's perfect blues as in Duck Egg Blue, Louis Blue, Napoleonic Blue, Aubusson Blue, Provence, Greek Blue, and Old Violet. Come take a look at the blue furniture, the paint, and the beauty and serenity of Annie's blues and wipe away any winter blues you may have!
I am returning to Portland from the East Coast today.....
and will be at The Purple Pear tomorrow to begin a new year of creative endeavors. 
