Category: Furniture Makeovers / Tips & Tutorials

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Petite Antique Dresser Painted in Annie Sloan’s Old White Chalk Paint

Last week, I mentioned we had another piece of furniture almost ready for the store.  Well, it’s finished and sitting pretty at our space in Not So Shabby Antiques & Fine Furniture in Zeeland, Michigan.

This petite gem was transformed into an even more charming chest of drawers.  She had some pretty slick details to begin with; check out the awesome hardware!!  Gotta love it!

Cathy started this renovation by stripping and refinishing the solid wood top with a beautiful antique walnut stain – STUNNING!  But… there was no stopping her there.  It turned out so pretty, she stripped and stained several other parts of the dresser to accentuate it’s natural beauty.
The drawers and base were painted in one of our favorite Annie Sloan colors, Old White.  Cathy used her special ninja forces to distress it in all the right places.  Okay – I have NO idea where that came from – lol, must be my head cold!  Anyway… I think my sister did a bang up job!
This piece offers loads of charm yet is small enough to fit into compact spaces such as an entryway or bathroom.  Just imagine it as a vanity in a small bathroom with one of those cool vessel sinks on top!  Ooh-la-la!!
Since this post, I’ve learned so much.  I worked around the clock for a year using these products but continued to have difficulties achieving a quality finish with their wax.  I tried other several other waxes by different companies, some were hard, other’s were a little easier to blend in and work with but also had those terrible fumes.
I experienced months of recurring respiratory problems and even with my exhaust system, I was advised to remove as many chemical hazards from my environment as possible or find another line of working order to get well.I replaced toxic, hand burning, chemical strippers with citrus based strippers (which work better anyway), pulled chemically laden paints, waxes, glues… and started searching for better products.
That search eventually led me to the products I choose today ~ American Paint Company’s all natural, eco-friendly chalk and clay based mineral paints.  From the first time I tried  them, I was sold.   I know that sounds so dramatic, but after everything I went through, It was a God send.  This type of paint is so much easier to work with.  It spreads easier, covers better, adheres well and the wax and finishes have been life changing for how much work I can accomplish on any given day.
For my style of painting, I can achieve a much more superior finish and can create it much faster eliminating the stress of working so hard to achieve something that’s easy with a chalk and clay mixture.

I love these paints so well that I decided to share what I do with our followers.  We proudly offer American Paint Company Paints locally in the Greater Grand Rapids area and sell worldwide on our Online Shizzle Shop.  

shizzle design paint studio 2018 Chicago Drive Jenison MI American Paint Company CeCe Caldwell's Paints retailer buy chalk clay instructor workshops paint retailer 1

  • Did you know…

    • Shizzle Design is a small family owned business in Jenison, Michigan.  My sister Cathy and I work, paint, ship and teach our chalk and clay paint workshops out of the same space where we paint all our furniture.  We are truly humbled to be known as a leader in the world of chalk and clay paints.
    • Instead of hoarding our knowledge, we empower DIY’ers by sharing our years of experience.  Stop in for paint and we’ll offer you honest and knowledgeable answers for all your chalk and clay paint needs.
    • We are so blessed to have taught people from all over the United States and Canada.  Join us for one of our super fun hands-on chalk and clay paint workshops.  Learn in our casual & relaxed environment.  Click Paint Workshops to see a list of current classes offered.
    • Subscribe to Shizzle Design for tips, tutorials, ideas, pictures, videos for our furniture painted in all natural chalk and clay based mineral paints.
    • Did you know that you can get these sent directly to your inbox and that it’s FREE?  It is ~ what are you waiting for?  Enter your email in the right hand column of our blog to stay in the loop.
    • We have a Shizzle Design Facebook Page.  We share all sorts tips, ideas, photos EVERY DAY and offer special deals (which you’ll only know about if you’ve Liked our Facebook Page).
    • Pin our posts on Pinterest ~ Find all sorts of inspiration here.
    • We sell our painted furniture in our Shizzle Design Paint Studio at 2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI 49428 and at Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture at 2975 West Shore Drive in Holland, Michigan
    • Shizzle Design is an Authorized Retailer for American Paint Company Paints.  We offer a large inventory of chalk and clay paint and supplies at our Shizzle Design Paint Shop /Studio,  2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI  49428.  We also stock several other shops in the greater Grand Rapid’s area, to find out where, click LOCATIONS.  Not from Michigan?  No worries, we ship paint and paint supplies worldwide through our Online Shizzle Shop.

    Click here to see Shizzle Design Painted Furniture Makeovers

    painted-furntire-makeovers3[1]

    Click here to see our Shizzle Tips, How To Tutorials & Video’s

    Shizzle-Tips-and-Tutorials3[1]

    Click here to see Funky Finishes

    Funky-Finishes3[1]

    Linking up to these GREAT Parties!

    Domestically Speaking – The Power of Paint Party
    The Shabby Creek Cottage – Transformation Thursday
    Miss Mustardseed – Furniture Feature Friday
    Redoux – Friday Link Up Party
    Homespun Happenings – Rustic Restorations Weekend
    Funky Junk Interiors – Saturday Night Special
    Silver Pennies – Silver Pennies Sundays
    Knick of Time Interiors – Knick of Time Tuesday

    a hui hou ~ Shelly

A hui hou!

Shelly

Posted on

Vintage Highboy Dresser in Old White Chalk Paint

I’ve been searching for a highboy dresser like this for quite a while now.  I knew just how I wanted to refinish the little gem – just had to find it.  Well… three weeks ago, I found it (along with half a semi full of other great finds).  Many mahalos to Aunt Katie & Uncle Jim; without their help, we never would have got it all home.  You guys rock!
When I found her, she was having a midlife crisis.
Stripping the top piece of veneer was the first step in her facelift.
Next, I busted out my handy dandy stripper and slathered the gel all over the parts I wanted to re-stain.  I let that oopy-goopy messy yucky gunk do its job while I stained the INSIDE of the dresser.
I do that sometimes to give the entire piece a more finished look.  Since the wood on the INSIDE of most dressers is not finished, it absorbs things over the years.  Oil marks from somebody’s hand, splashes of stain from before…  So, if it bugs me, I stain it.  I know, I’m strange.  We all have our things right?
The next day, I scraped, brushed and cleaned all the goopy sludge off the parts to be stained.  Can you TELL how much I LOVE working with strippers?  I didn’t take a picture ’cause my fingers were all sticky – it’s SO messy!!
I refinished those parts with a dark stain three times over the course of three days, lightly sanding between each coat.  The color turned out just how I wanted, but it needed a little more of something?!?
I taped off the stained parts and went to town painting and waxing the rest with Annie Sloan’s Old White and Paris Gray.  I have a hard time painting with just one color and usually end up layering several then distressing here and there until I get the look I’m going for.  You could say I paint like I cook.  A little bit of this plus a little bit of that until its JUST RIGHT.

Here she is all decked out and ret-to-go!  She’s currently strutting her stuff at Not So Shabby Antiques & Fine Furniture in downtown Zeeland.  If you haven’t been there yet, stop by and check it out.  It’s a really neat shop!

Since this post, I’ve learned so much.  I worked countless hours almost a year using these products but continued to have difficulties achieving a quality finish with their wax.  I tried other several other waxes by different companies, some were hard, other’s were a little easier to blend in and work with but also had those terrible fumes.
I experienced months of recurring respiratory problems and was advised to remove as many chemical hazards from my environment as possible or find another line of working order to get well. I replaced toxic, hand burning, chemical strippers with citrus based strippers (which work better anyway), pulled chemically laden paints, waxes, glues… and started searching for better products.
That search eventually led me to the products I choose today ~ American Paint Company’s all natural, eco-friendly chalk and clay based mineral paints.  From the first time I tried  them, I was sold.   I know that sounds so dramatic, but after everything I went through, It was a God send.  This type of paint is so much easier to work with.  It spreads easier, covers better, adheres well and the wax and finishes have been life changing for how much work I can accomplish on any given day.For my style of painting, I can achieve a much more superior finish and can create it much faster eliminating the stress of working so hard to achieve something that’s easy with a chalk and clay mixture.

I love these paints so well that I decided to share what I do with our followers.  We proudly offer American Paint Company Paints locally in the Greater Grand Rapids area and sell worldwide on our Online Shizzle Shop.  

shizzle design paint studio 2018 Chicago Drive Jenison MI American Paint Company CeCe Caldwell's Paints retailer buy chalk clay instructor workshops paint retailer 1

  • Did you know…

    • Shizzle Design is a small family owned business in Jenison, Michigan.  My sister Cathy and I work, paint, ship and teach our chalk and clay paint workshops out of the same space where we paint all our furniture.  We are truly humbled to be known as a leader in the world of chalk and clay paints.
    • Instead of hoarding our knowledge, we empower DIY’ers by sharing our years of experience.  Stop in for paint and we’ll offer you honest and knowledgeable answers for all your chalk and clay paint needs.
    • We are so blessed to have taught people from all over the United States and Canada.  Join us for one of our super fun hands-on chalk and clay paint workshops.  Learn in our casual & relaxed environment.  Click Paint Workshops to see a list of current classes offered.
    • Subscribe to Shizzle Design for tips, tutorials, ideas, pictures, videos for our furniture painted in all natural chalk and clay based mineral paints.
    • Did you know that you can get these sent directly to your inbox and that it’s FREE?  It is ~ what are you waiting for?  Enter your email in the right hand column of our blog to stay in the loop.
    • We have a Shizzle Design Facebook Page.  We share all sorts tips, ideas, photos EVERY DAY and offer special deals (which you’ll only know about if you’ve Liked our Facebook Page).
    • Pin our posts on Pinterest ~ Find all sorts of inspiration here.
    • We sell our painted furniture in our Shizzle Design Paint Studio at 2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI 49428 and at Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture at 2975 West Shore Drive in Holland, Michigan
    • Shizzle Design is an Authorized Retailer for American Paint Company Paints.  We offer a large inventory of chalk and clay paint and supplies at our Shizzle Design Paint Shop /Studio,  2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI  49428.  We also stock several other shops in the greater Grand Rapid’s area, to find out where, click LOCATIONS.  Not from Michigan?  No worries, we ship paint and paint supplies worldwide through our Online Shizzle Shop.

    Click here to see Shizzle Design Painted Furniture Makeovers

    painted-furntire-makeovers3[1]

    Click here to see our Shizzle Tips, How To Tutorials & Video’s

    Shizzle-Tips-and-Tutorials3[1]

    Click here to see Funky Finishes

    Funky-Finishes3[1]

    Linking up to these GREAT Parties!

    Domestically Speaking – The Power of Paint Party
    The Shabby Creek Cottage – Transformation Thursday
    Miss Mustardseed – Furniture Feature Friday
    Redoux – Friday Link Up Party
    Homespun Happenings – Rustic Restorations Weekend
    Funky Junk Interiors – Saturday Night Special
    Silver Pennies – Silver Pennies Sundays
    Knick of Time Interiors – Knick of Time Tuesday

    a hui hou ~ Shelly

A hui hou!

Shelly

 

Posted on

In the Beginning…

Our furniture is now showcased at Not So Shabby Antiques & Fine Furniture in downtown Zeeland.  It’ll take a while before our space is nicely staged with all the “fluff” but we’re getting there.

Our blue mahogany dresser sold immediately.  We moved a couple pieces of furniture in the store that first day.  Cathy and I were literally crawling around on our hands and knees building a wall of doors for a backdrop.  I had a drill in one hand and a screw between my teeth when I noticed a nice young gal and her mom peeking over me.  She said, “I think this dresser will match my comforter”, and sure enough… it did.  When we brought our next load in the following day, it was wearing a big ole’ sold tag – yeah! 

The black Empire chest of drawers click here for details was the next piece to go.




New Ones Take Their Place!  

We brought several more pieces in to replace the ones that sold.  The owner is great about letting us know when large pieces sell so we can keep our space looking top notch.

I’m really excited how this Antique Chest of Drawers turned out; so much personality!  Just check out the details; I really enjoyed doing this transformation.  I have this thing about finishing some parts of a piece with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint then contrasting other parts with stain & glaze.  

We have a smaller three drawer chest that’s just about ready and coordinates nicely with this one.  We should have that one in the store Thursday afternoon.
   
Cathy finished this gorgeous accent chair.  Don’t you just love the fabric?  I tried to sneak it next to my fireplace but she didn’t let me get away with it – sisters! 

I think the patina on this chair is amazing!  Good job Cath!


We have a neat rustic chest with that farmhouse chic look that would make a fabulous buffet in someone’s dining room.   It offers a ton of storage.

Diana shot this AWESOME picture for me.  Of course we had to lug it into the backyard to get the right backdrop – lol.  Thanx Diana – you rock!

Oh dear, this pictures reminds me how much I’ve neglected our yard this summer.
      
I love the eclectic mix of hardware on this piece!  Did I mention I like to paint?

We have lots of other pieces to show you!  Some are in the works, some are ready but I don’t have pictures yet, and some are humbly waiting to be transformed out of their “before-ness” into their “after-ness”.
  

Since this post, I’ve learned so much.  I worked countless hours almost a year using these products but continued to have difficulties achieving a quality finish with their wax.  I tried other several other waxes by different companies, some were hard, other’s were a little easier to blend in and work with but also had those terrible fumes.  

I experienced months of reoccurring respiratory problems starting as soon as the weather got cold here and I had to start working within my workshop.  Even with my exhaust system, I was advised to remove all the chemical hazards from my environment and find another line of work or find green products to work with in an effort to get well.  

I replaced toxic, hand burning, chemical strippers with citrus based strippers (which work better anyway), pulled chemical laden paints, waxes, glues… and started searching for better products.

It was during that search that I discovered CeCe Caldwell’s all natural, eco-friendly chalk and clay based mineral paints.  It’s 100% Naturally Green ~ wahoo!! and I was geeked to find out that it’s owned and operated right here in the USA.  

From the first time I tried CeCe Caldwell’s paint and wax, I fell in love.   I know that sounds so dramatic, but after everything I went through, It was a God send.  This line is so much easier for me to work with; it’s so different than any other paint I’ve ever used.

For my style of painting, I can achieve a much more superior finish and can create it much faster eliminating the stress of working so hard to achieve something that’s easy with a chalk and clay mixture.  

I have so much faith in CeCe Caldwell’s line that I became an Authorized Retailer for them.  I carry a complete line of CeCe Caldwell’s Paints, Clear Wax, Aging Cream, Satin finish, brushes, color charts… locally at our Shizzle Design space within Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture in Holland, Michigan here as well as online on our Online Shizzle Shop here.  Shizzle Design offers all 36 colors in quarts as well as sample size pots.  You can learn much more about CeCe Caldwell’s amazing products by reading through my blog archives in the sidebar.   

If you live in West Michigan, CeCe Caldwell’s Paints can be found at the Shizzle Design booth in 

2975 West Shore Drive, Holland, Michigan here.  
You’ll find our display along side all our hand painted furniture and home decor.

Click here to see some of the furniture currently for sale. It is constantly evolving as it sells quickly.


Wanna See More Shizzle Design?

Thanx for stopping by!  A hui hou!
Posted on

Vintage Desk

Okay… so maybe we’re not really ready for a heap of homework yet, but at least we can prepare ourselves for what’s to come.  This desk and chair combo is ready to help someone get organized.  I love the little cubbies and the book shelf underneath.

The desk was painted, waxed and distressed in Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.  I had worked on the chair a couple years ago when I was doing garden chairs.  I sanded forever it seems trying to remove the original paint, but just couldn’t get anywhere with it.  The chair is solid and I liked the lines of it, so I just set it aside till now.  I layered in a little Annie Sloan paint and wax to the already heavily distressed surface and viola – a perfect match!

The top of the desk is covered with several vintage inspired blue and green papers adding even more personality to an already spunky piece.  I sealed it with several coats of poly for a solid bond.

Stop into Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture and check it out.  (update – sold)

a hui hou!

Since this post, I’ve learned so much.  I worked countless hours almost a year using these products but continued to have difficulties achieving a quality finish with their wax.  I tried other several other waxes by different companies, some were hard, other’s were a little easier to blend in and work with but also had those terrible fumes.
I experienced months of recurring respiratory problems and was advised to remove as many chemical hazards from my environment as possible or find another line of working order to get well. I replaced toxic, hand burning, chemical strippers with citrus based strippers (which work better anyway), pulled chemically laden paints, waxes, glues… and started searching for better products.
That search eventually led me to the products I choose today ~ American Paint Company’s all natural, eco-friendly chalk and clay based mineral paints.  From the first time I tried  them, I was sold.   I know that sounds so dramatic, but after everything I went through, It was a God send.  This type of paint is so much easier to work with.  It spreads easier, covers better, adheres well and the wax and finishes have been life changing for how much work I can accomplish on any given day.For my style of painting, I can achieve a much more superior finish and can create it much faster eliminating the stress of working so hard to achieve something that’s easy with a chalk and clay mixture.

I love these paints so well that I decided to share what I do with our followers.  We proudly offer American Paint Company Paints locally in the Greater Grand Rapids area and sell worldwide on our Online Shizzle Shop.  

shizzle design paint studio 2018 Chicago Drive Jenison MI American Paint Company CeCe Caldwell's Paints retailer buy chalk clay instructor workshops paint retailer 1

  • Did you know…

    • Shizzle Design is a small family owned business in Jenison, Michigan.  My sister Cathy and I work, paint, ship and teach our chalk and clay paint workshops out of the same space where we paint all our furniture.  We are truly humbled to be known as a leader in the world of chalk and clay paints.
    • Instead of hoarding our knowledge, we empower DIY’ers by sharing our years of experience.  Stop in for paint and we’ll offer you honest and knowledgeable answers for all your chalk and clay paint needs.
    • We are so blessed to have taught people from all over the United States and Canada.  Join us for one of our super fun hands-on chalk and clay paint workshops.  Learn in our casual & relaxed environment.  Click Paint Workshops to see a list of current classes offered.
    • Subscribe to Shizzle Design for tips, tutorials, ideas, pictures, videos for our furniture painted in all natural chalk and clay based mineral paints.
    • Did you know that you can get these sent directly to your inbox and that it’s FREE?  It is ~ what are you waiting for?  Enter your email in the right hand column of our blog to stay in the loop.
    • We have a Shizzle Design Facebook Page.  We share all sorts tips, ideas, photos EVERY DAY and offer special deals (which you’ll only know about if you’ve Liked our Facebook Page).
    • Pin our posts on Pinterest ~ Find all sorts of inspiration here.
    • We sell our painted furniture in our Shizzle Design Paint Studio at 2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI 49428 and at Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture at 2975 West Shore Drive in Holland, Michigan
    • Shizzle Design is an Authorized Retailer for American Paint Company Paints.  We offer a large inventory of chalk and clay paint and supplies at our Shizzle Design Paint Shop /Studio,  2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI  49428.  We also stock several other shops in the greater Grand Rapid’s area, to find out where, click LOCATIONS.  Not from Michigan?  No worries, we ship paint and paint supplies worldwide through our Online Shizzle Shop.

    Click here to see Shizzle Design Painted Furniture Makeovers

    painted-furntire-makeovers3[1]

    Click here to see our Shizzle Tips, How To Tutorials & Video’s

    Shizzle-Tips-and-Tutorials3[1]

    Click here to see Funky Finishes

    Funky-Finishes3[1]

    Linking up to these GREAT Parties!

    Domestically Speaking – The Power of Paint Party
    The Shabby Creek Cottage – Transformation Thursday
    Miss Mustardseed – Furniture Feature Friday
    Redoux – Friday Link Up Party
    Homespun Happenings – Rustic Restorations Weekend
    Funky Junk Interiors – Saturday Night Special
    Silver Pennies – Silver Pennies Sundays
    Knick of Time Interiors – Knick of Time Tuesday

    a hui hou ~ Shelly

A hui hou!

Shelly

Posted on

Lane Cedar Chest Transformation

While picking this spring, I came across a 1969 Lane Cedar Chest in disarray.  I know!  Can you believe it?  It actually looked a bit worse than this when I found it!  In this picture, I had already spent a couple hours peeling the veneer off the top and sides.  Halfway through this project, I headed to Menards and picked up a heat gun.

After all that hard work, I looked at the top and said to myself “self” what the heck am I going to do with that?  I busted out my new Annie Sloan Chalk Paints and started to play.  I was after an old world feel, trying to create a patina that shows years and years of love.

I layered several different colors of chalk paint and kept working it
and working it, and working it until I came up with the look I was going for.  I then waxed with both clear and dark wax buffing it with steel wool over and over until it was smooth and had a wonderful feel.

I created a little dry brush technique to the top also using Annie Sloan’s paints and waxes, layering each until it had the look of a reclaimed piece of barn wood.

I contacted lane and they sent me a new child safety lock and key set to replace the original.  Lane will replace your lock and key free of charge for any chest built before 1990, I think that’s the year.  My Lane Cedar Chest was manufactured in 1969.  You can identify the date it was manufactured by reading the serial number backwards:)

The hardware was scrubbed just a bit so it would leave some of the natural patina.  I lightly sanded the inside and back of the cedar chest then refreshed the wood with cedar oil.  Then Cathy worked her magic on the sewing machine and made some great fabric liners to cover the ugly, grass green felt they always put in them.  Did I just type that out loud?  I WISH I would have taken a picture of the inside and back to show you, they turned out SO nice!  But nooo… I can’t show you because it sold as soon as we unveiled it! 

Now THIS is the BEST part of the story….
A gal stopped by Art in the Park while it was raining and really liked it, but decided to come back later when the rain let up.  It didn’t.  She thought the art show was a two day event.  It wasn’t.  She told her sister about it when she got back to Chicago and like any good sister would, she told her to buy it.  There was only one problem… she hadn’t grabbed a business card and had no idea the name of our business.

She contacted someone from Art in the Park and together they figured out who we were.  She emailed me then drove up the following week to get it.  I’ve had two more people call me since who also hoped to purchase it:)

Pretty neat yeah?  I thought it was a happy ending:)

Since this post, I’ve learned so much.  I worked countless hours almost a year using these products but continued to have difficulties achieving a quality finish with their wax.  I tried other several other waxes by different companies, some were hard, other’s were a little easier to blend in and work with but also had those terrible fumes.
I experienced months of recurring respiratory problems and was advised to remove as many chemical hazards from my environment as possible or find another line of working order to get well. I replaced toxic, hand burning, chemical strippers with citrus based strippers (which work better anyway), pulled chemically laden paints, waxes, glues… and started searching for better products.
That search eventually led me to the products I choose today ~ American Paint Company’s all natural, eco-friendly chalk and clay based mineral paints.  From the first time I tried  them, I was sold.   I know that sounds so dramatic, but after everything I went through, It was a God send.  This type of paint is so much easier to work with.  It spreads easier, covers better, adheres well and the wax and finishes have been life changing for how much work I can accomplish on any given day.For my style of painting, I can achieve a much more superior finish and can create it much faster eliminating the stress of working so hard to achieve something that’s easy with a chalk and clay mixture.

I love these paints so well that I decided to share what I do with our followers.  We proudly offer American Paint Company Paints locally in the Greater Grand Rapids area and sell worldwide on our Online Shizzle Shop.  

shizzle design paint studio 2018 Chicago Drive Jenison MI American Paint Company CeCe Caldwell's Paints retailer buy chalk clay instructor workshops paint retailer 1

  • Did you know…

    • Shizzle Design is a small family owned business in Jenison, Michigan.  My sister Cathy and I work, paint, ship and teach our chalk and clay paint workshops out of the same space where we paint all our furniture.  We are truly humbled to be known as a leader in the world of chalk and clay paints.
    • Instead of hoarding our knowledge, we empower DIY’ers by sharing our years of experience.  Stop in for paint and we’ll offer you honest and knowledgeable answers for all your chalk and clay paint needs.
    • We are so blessed to have taught people from all over the United States and Canada.  Join us for one of our super fun hands-on chalk and clay paint workshops.  Learn in our casual & relaxed environment.  Click Paint Workshops to see a list of current classes offered.
    • Subscribe to Shizzle Design for tips, tutorials, ideas, pictures, videos for our furniture painted in all natural chalk and clay based mineral paints.
    • Did you know that you can get these sent directly to your inbox and that it’s FREE?  It is ~ what are you waiting for?  Enter your email in the right hand column of our blog to stay in the loop.
    • We have a Shizzle Design Facebook Page.  We share all sorts tips, ideas, photos EVERY DAY and offer special deals (which you’ll only know about if you’ve Liked our Facebook Page).
    • Pin our posts on Pinterest ~ Find all sorts of inspiration here.
    • We sell our painted furniture in our Shizzle Design Paint Studio at 2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI 49428 and at Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture at 2975 West Shore Drive in Holland, Michigan
    • Shizzle Design is an Authorized Retailer for American Paint Company Paints.  We offer a large inventory of chalk and clay paint and supplies at our Shizzle Design Paint Shop /Studio,  2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI  49428.  We also stock several other shops in the greater Grand Rapid’s area, to find out where, click LOCATIONS.  Not from Michigan?  No worries, we ship paint and paint supplies worldwide through our Online Shizzle Shop.

    Click here to see Shizzle Design Painted Furniture Makeovers

    painted-furntire-makeovers3[1]

    Click here to see our Shizzle Tips, How To Tutorials & Video’s

    Shizzle-Tips-and-Tutorials3[1]

    Click here to see Funky Finishes

    Funky-Finishes3[1]

    Linking up to these GREAT Parties!

    Domestically Speaking – The Power of Paint Party
    The Shabby Creek Cottage – Transformation Thursday
    Miss Mustardseed – Furniture Feature Friday
    Redoux – Friday Link Up Party
    Homespun Happenings – Rustic Restorations Weekend
    Funky Junk Interiors – Saturday Night Special
    Silver Pennies – Silver Pennies Sundays
    Knick of Time Interiors – Knick of Time Tuesday

    a hui hou ~ Shelly

A hui hou!

Shelly

 

Posted on

Not So Shabby Antiques & Fine Furniture

The past four months has been a whirlwind of activity – all because of an idea, one simple thought brought to reality.  As I stood out in the blustering snow sanding down my first dresser, I just knew this was what I was called to do.  During those four months, I became overwhelmed with so many different facets of starting up a business so… I recruited my sister for help:)   Together we rolled up our sleeves and dug in.

Never did we imagine a few months ago, how quickly our business would grow.  We were basically taking one step at a time then looking on to the next goal when we completed the prior.  Last week was Art in the Park, this week was decide on a local store to feature our furniture or list online.

I’ve prayed and prayed for discernment and clear direction with whether we should put our furniture in a local store or if I should list pieces on Etsy.  We checked out several locations around town this week but nothing felt like the right match.  Something kept directing my thoughts to one particular store towards the lake shore.

I had stopped by Not So Shabby a couple months prior and picked up an application to rent some space.  I was told at the time that there was a wait list and I was so focused on creating enough inventory for Art in the Park, that I didn’t look beyond that point.  I took the application and sat it on the end of our counter.

Earlier this week, I looked into Greyhound’s shipping service but didn’t feel very comfortable about how well my pieces would be handled with their service.  I would have to drive downtown and somehow offload a piece of furniture and lug it in to the same ticket counter that everyone purchasing bus tickets lines up at.  Then I was told furniture goes ONLY IF there’s available space left AFTER everyone traveling has their belongings packed.  He said depending on how busy they are, large pieces might sit there a while before they make it on a bus.  I didn’t like the sounds of that!

Then I learned of a company who exclusively specializes in moving furniture.  They recently included Grand Rapids in their service area – but it’s not necessarily a daily thing.  I don’t know if they have regular routes or what, but their service could take 2-3 weeks depending on where it’s going.  So, between the shipping uncertainty and loading and off loading trucks, trailers & vans two weekends in a row, God made it clear to me that a local store was the best choice me.

So, following that lead, I started digging around for that paperwork.  It had sat there on our counter the past two months!  I saw it last week just before the show, but…do you think I could find it?  no.  Tore the house apart all day and nothing.  I called the store that night to see if I could pull the app. online but the gal said I would have to come in and grab another copy.  She recommended I come in on Wednesday because that’s the day the owner is there.

I didn’t want to wait till Wednesday.  Something was really driving me to get in and get my name on the wait list for space to open up.  God was also watching over Kam yesterday morning.  She called and was having a bad day so I invited her to come with me. 

When I asked the cashier for an application, I asked if one of the artists was in.  She went back to check and came back with the owner!  She just happened to be there working in the back.  I just loved her immediately; she’s so cool!  We must have talked over an hour!  She recently added more space and ONE space was opening up, in the exact size I wanted, in the precise store I kept feeling led to.

AND I don’t have to wait 6 or 9 or 12 months, we move in NEXT WEEK!  Yikes!  So much to do!  I need things to stage my booth and divide the adjacent spaces… ahhhhh!  🙂

I’m so nervous and excited!  I’m on such a high right now, I can’t even believe it!  The contract is signed and we’re breaking ground!  Not So Shabby is SO cool, just the interior alone is awesome.  The original exposed brick walls, hardwood floors and tin ceilings – really a neat place.  I feel SO honored and SO blessed to be part of it!

Stay tuned…

Don’t miss any of our hand painted furniture makeovers…

a hui hou! “until we meet again!”
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Shizzle Design Makes It’s Debut on August 201 at Holland, MI’s 42nd Art in the Park

I vividly remember the lady telling me they had never been rained out at Art in the Park

Art in the Park ~ August 2011

but… just as my sister got in the van, it started to sprinkle.  I didn’t say anything but my jaw dropped when we pulled out the driveway and headed toward the lake shore.  Our raindrops weren’t part of a passing shower.  The entire sky was full of rain!

Continue reading “Shizzle Design Makes It’s Debut on August 201 at Holland, MI’s 42nd Art in the Park”

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Antique Empire Dresser with a Rich Weathered Black Leather Finish

A blast from the Past ~ August, 2011

My sister Cathy and I have spent the past few months doing intensive research on how to paint furniture as we prepare for Holland’s 42nd Art in the Park on, August 6th, 2011 and I have to tell you… this piece is one of my favorites.  I love empire dressers!

It would look really cool as a buffet in my dining room but I have to be strong and let it go.  I created the finish to resemble that of a well worn piece of leather using Annie Sloan’s Graphite and Dark Wax but it took forever because the dark wax was a major nightmare to work with.  I spent weeks trying to get the wax right on this piece, pulling my hair out in frustration.

UPDATE 2016 – If I were to replicate this finish today, I’d paint it with Frenchic’s Panther and seal it with their Rustic Wax.  Not only is Frenchic Furniture Paint® a much more superior product line, it’s 95 times easier to use!   There truly is no comparison.

This dresser rests on wooden wheels making this solid built wooden chest easy for anyone to maneuver (the wheels can be removed if you prefer to use it without them).  Just imagine how awesome it would work as a bathroom vanity with one of those gorgeous vessel sinks atop!  Hmmm… it would really look cool in our main floor bathroom…   No, no… I have to focus….  I’m just starting out in this furniture adventure ~ I’m sure it’ll get easier to let go, right?

This Empire Chest measures 43″ wide, 22″ deep and 36″ high and features the original keyholes, wooden drawer pulls and hand cut dovetailed drawer construction.  I switched out two of the drawer pulls to a spice it up a bit then painted and aged them along with the other original wooden knobs.

I love all the different sizes of drawers.  There are two shallow drawers perfect for pens, paper… two small but deep drawers for all those clunky odd-shaped objects and two large drawers for clothes, linens, games… whatever!  Cathy created custom fabric drawer liners out of the most beautiful vintage looking fabric ever.  I just love ‘em!
This piece is truly versatile.  It demands attention and is sure to be the focal point in any room!  What do you think?

UPDATE 2016 – If I were to replicate this finish today, I’d paint it with Frenchic’s Panther and seal it with their Rustic Wax.  Not only is Frenchic Furniture Paint® a much more superior product line, it’s 95 times easier to use!   There’s truly no comparison!  

shizzle design paint studio 2018 Chicago Drive Jenison MI American Paint Company CeCe Caldwell's Paints retailer buy chalk clay instructor workshops paint retailer 1

  • Did you know…

    • Shizzle Design is a small family owned business in Jenison, Michigan.  My sister Cathy and I work, paint, ship and teach our chalk and clay paint workshops out of the same space where we paint all our furniture.  We are truly humbled to be known as a leader in the world of chalk and clay paints.
    • Instead of hoarding our knowledge, we empower DIY’ers by sharing our years of experience.  Stop in for paint and we’ll offer you honest and knowledgeable answers for all your chalk and clay paint needs.
    • We are so blessed to have taught people from all over the United States and Canada.  Join us for one of our super fun hands-on chalk and clay paint workshops.  Learn in our casual & relaxed environment.  Click Paint Workshops to see a list of current classes offered.
    • Subscribe to Shizzle Design for tips, tutorials, ideas, pictures, videos for our furniture painted in all natural chalk and clay based mineral paints.
    • Did you know that you can get these sent directly to your inbox and that it’s FREE?  It is ~ what are you waiting for?  Enter your email in the right hand column of our blog to stay in the loop.
    • We have a Shizzle Design Facebook Page.  We share all sorts tips, ideas, photos EVERY DAY and offer special deals (which you’ll only know about if you’ve Liked our Facebook Page).
    • Pin our posts on Pinterest ~ Find all sorts of inspiration here.
    • We sell our painted furniture in our Shizzle Design Paint Studio at 2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI 49428 and at Not So Shabby Antiques and Fine Furniture at 2975 West Shore Drive in Holland, Michigan
    • Shizzle Design is a U.S. distributor for Frenchic Furniture Paint®, an Authorized Retailer for American Paint Company Paints and Old Town Paints.  We offer a large inventory of chalk and clay paint and supplies at our Shizzle Design Paint Shop /Studio,  2018 Chicago Drive, Jenison, MI  49428.  We also stock other shops in the greater Grand Rapid’s area, to find out where, click LOCATIONS.  Not from Michigan?  No worries, we ship paint and paint supplies nationwide through our Online Shizzle Shop.

    Click here to see Shizzle Design Painted Furniture Makeovers

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    Click here to see our Shizzle Tips, How To Tutorials & Video’s

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    Click here to see Funky Finishes

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    Linking up to these GREAT Parties!

    Domestically Speaking – The Power of Paint Party
    The Shabby Creek Cottage – Transformation Thursday
    Miss Mustardseed – Furniture Feature Friday
    Redoux – Friday Link Up Party
    Homespun Happenings – Rustic Restorations Weekend
    Funky Junk Interiors – Saturday Night Special
    Silver Pennies – Silver Pennies Sundays
    Knick of Time Interiors – Knick of Time Tuesday

    a hui hou ~ Shelly

A hui hou!

Shelly