Glossing Over Things

Poor Stephen, there he was in bed and the next moment he gets up and I am painting the kitchen and talkng about having won a dresser top for the walls - which, by the way, will need to be collected, painted and hung on the wall.

It all started with the cat string holders in the last post.  I was all set to pur them up, but decided that the walls were too grubby.  You can guess the next.  As well as the walls, the ceiling and woodwork needed painting.  One very long day later, they were all finished.

I just couldn't leave it that though.  Hence the next two purchases from e-Bay.

(Not my photo as I am going to collect it tomorrow).  I decided that this would  be fabulous instead of the giant framed Breakfast at Tiffany's poster that is above the cooker.  Thankfully it isn't too far and will fit in my car - that's a relief for Stephen!

I also bought a vintage French coat hook/rack.  I'll have to take a photo of that when it's painted.  Nothing too big, just large enough to go on the kitchen wall and hang my peg bag on.  That's once I've made the peg bag!

The other item that has been painted it the mirror that I bought from the boot sale last weekend - originally from a dressing table.

I snuck that into the bathroom when everyone was out!  To keep this paining theme going, I also have my eye on a display cabinet on e-Bay.  I haven't quite worked out how to "sell" that one to Stephen.

But I would like some advice, if anyone can help.  I have painted the items in Farrow and Ball waterbased eggshell.   Obviously these need to be protected and am sure that I have read something about putting a wax on them.  I just don't know where I saw/read/heard this.

Does anyone have any suggestions/tips or pointers please.  I have to make these look as good as possible: for Stephen's sake and mine!

Comments

[kim]

Hi Samantha, it all sounds great. I didn't realise that you were using F & B eggshell, thought it was just emulsion when you asked me. I've used their eggshell on my bathroom tongue and groove and was assured by F & B (I rang them up) that it was strong and protective! It's been fine and subjected to daily soakings!
Kimx
Love the mirror too! Good luck with the cabinet

[Daisy Steiner]

Wow, lovely finds. That mirror is gorgeous.
I am afraid I have no tips when it comes to waxing etc, but I hope you can find someone to help you out.
Have a nice bank holiday.
x

[Kristy]

I usually add a layer of clear wax to the top of painted furniture etc.I have used Briwax in the past but at the minute I'm still working my way through a bottle of Coloron liquid wax! It just gives that extra layer of protction and makes things easier to clean I find.

[Ruth]

Some great finds! I have used F & B water based eggshell and oil eggshell, both are good wipe-able finishes. I believe waxing comes in when using an emulsion to give a harder wearing finish.

[paula luckhurst]

Lovely things.

[juicy fig]

oooh, lovely finds! Mum n dad gave me two of the pine wall units just like yours when they were doing up the kitchen, dad even came and installed them in the workshop. they fit fat quaters on verrrryyyy nicely indead...

Kath
x

[pipany]

Great finds Sam and you don't need any finish with F&B paint unless yoyu want to in which case wax is good. You do have amazing luck with your bargains whereas I haven't hit one for a while xx

[Gail]

I love everything you are doing! I too have been on a painting binge... there must be something in the air. I too seem to bring things in when everyone is gone, it's just easier that way :)

[muffin]

Use a colour as base which you like then when it's dry rub over parts using a candle where the 2nd coat won't 'take'. Paint your 2nd coat colour. when that's dry use sandpaper to rub [quite gently] over the areas you used the candle on. Now use lots of furniture wax and polish the whole thing with a soft muslin. I've done this on a few occasions and have had lots of nice comments - not believing I could possibly have done this myself because it's such a good finish ...