Before and Afters:It doesn't take a lot of $$$ to get a look you love!

An $8 book shelf and some scrap fabric and $3 curtain rods make this project a steal at $11. I just used some paint from my collection!



It's safe to say this piano project has been my largest undertaking! I found it used on line in our local classifies and all in, after buying it, paying for it to be moved twice, and supplies , this project cost a grand total of about $350... I say that's pretty fantastic for a working, charming, one of kind piano and piece of furniture! I'll spend more on piano lessons to learn how to play it!

This dresser I scored from a tiny store that was packed to the ceiling with random stuff. I payed $15 for it and it quickly made a home for itself in my heart and in my dinning room as our beloved buffet!

Yard sales at there best result in great finds like this! This Pottery Barn coffee Table came with a side table as well. I paid $25 for both! I used a crackle finish and now have this totally fun, random blue table in my family room! The best part of using a crackle finish is it makes the wear and tear my kids put on it look intentional! Gotta' love that!
This project was a blast! I had to gut the entire inside of the bottom section so I got to use a saw and a little elbow grease to get this charming storage unit! I used the removed drawers to make ribbon organizers...I'll post that fun project soon!! total cost: $20




I wish I had a before picture but I don't... I was an average oak desk begging for a little love! $40 get's you a lot when you put in the time and effort!The hunt is half the fun! I love yard sales, thrift stores and online ads! I look at furniture with a whole other eye. Everything has potential!

Here is my basic guidelines when it comes to my refinishing projects:

• has to be a quality piece to begin with!Sturdy and solid and no veneer!
• buying Oops paint,or what they call mistint paint is always a great way to cut cost! You can buy mistint paint for $1-$5
  
• Oil based primer will save you from having to sand down your project when you fist go to paint it!!! One coat of primer is all you need!
• take before and afters! You'll never believe how ugly a piece started out as once you finish it!
• A good antique glaze always adds depth and texture! It's my favorite! I never just paint a one flat treatment! I love personality in my pieces and glazes, crackles and rubs will add just that!

This is the perfect time of year to try your hand at a refinishing project! So hit up yards sales this weekend and get busy!