Happy Minot Monday! I’m thrilled to be working in partnership with BeLocal Minot to help you live like a local and thrive in our town. Today I’m sharing insider tips on where to get mulch in Minot.
Don’t be fooled by the unseasonably warm weather. Cool temps are coming. Cold temps too. If you’re like me, I’ll be able to find you prepping your yard and exterior for winter. For me that usually means adding a bit of mulch to flower beds and around baby perennials to protect them from winter’s bite.
Here’s where my tip comes in. Let’s talk about where to get mulch in Minot. Did you know you can get FREE mulch here in town? Yep. Free. As much as you want. You actually have two options:
Mulch Mountain | The Forestry Department
Recently I talked with a crew from the Minot Forestry Department. They explained the city turns trees the Forestry Dept cuts down into wood chips/mulch. All these wood chips are piled up into what I’ve deemed, “Mulch Mountain.” Anyone can come by and pick up as much as they want (depending on supply.) You just need to provide a way to transport it–I shoveled some into a large landscape bag in the back of my SUV.
To access Mulch Mountain, go south on 14th St SE (drive past the Forestry Office/parking lot). Then turn east on Central Ave E. You’ll see a lot with a pile for your taking! See a map here.
City Landfill
If you’ve been raking leaves, you’ve probably taken a few bags full to yard-waste collection sites. What you might not know is all the debris from our yards gets turned into mulch at the landfill. Minot residents can go to the landfill and pick up as much as they like. While the pile at the Forestry Dept is mostly wood, this mulch may include lots of leaves as well–making it a good choice for bedding down for winter.
Same rules apply as from the Forestry Dept: bring your own supplies and haul your own. (For more on our landfill and what they offer, see this Minot Monday post.)
One More Thing
Many of you know I’ve started work on a book detailing my experience as a military spouse seeking help for mental health crisis. To support this work, normalize the conversation around mental health in the military and Church–or just more about life in Minot, join me on Instagram (just click follow below.) I’d also love to connect with you through my monthly letter, full of good words and useful bits–see more here.
The following is an excerpt from a journal entry I wrote at the beginning of Derek’s most recent deployment. While he was quarantined stateside (but gone from our home), we had a Zoom meeting with a young couple as part of their premarital counseling. They are the exact ages we were when we got married, 22 and 23. They’d soon be starting their life as a married, military couple. The question we discussed that most stands out to me is, “What is a good thing about deployments?”
Our conversation blessed me. We were two weeks into our latest separation, my first as a mom of two. Honestly, I felt like I was drowning. The clarity this conversation forced on me is exactly what I needed. It was God showing up in the midst of the grief the early days of deployment always bring.
I captured a series of self portraits during the deployment. This one was taken on the day I’d be asked, “What is something good about deployments?”
WHAT IS A GOOD THING ABOUT DEPLOYMENTS?
I glanced at the monitor, amazed that everyone was quiet and sleeping so our conversation could be had in peace. Deployment leaves you a special, unique kind of tired. Today was no exception, but at the same time I was glad to be having this conversation.
“Okay, the next question is…What is something good that comes from times of separation and deployments? Can you tell us a good thing about deployments?” What a wise question to ask.
I was surprised by the answer that was ready on my lips.
“The best thing about being separated from Derek for a season is that it brings clarity about my identity. It forces me to recognize that I am fully complete in Christ alone. My identity does not rest upon being Derek’s wife, or having him around. When he’s gone, I remember that I am fully equipped and capable in Christ to carry on and do what life will ask of me.
“I tend to be a bit of a leech, clinging on to whatever is familiar, especially my people. I had terrible separation anxiety from my parents as a child–then from Derek as an adult. That’s not healthy. These seasons force me to break off any unhealthy attachment and remember that it’s okay to just be Amy. Don’t get me wrong, I hate being away from Derek. But good always comes from it. Good will always come when we more fully submit our identity to God.”
I stand by that. Is it painful? You betcha. Do I wish it could be done a different way? Yep. But this is good. Really good. The kind of good that would be a lot harder to find if I wasn’t forced into a deployment circumstance.
I wish someone had told me that 12 years ago. I wish someone had told me lots of things 12 years ago.
There is hope, there is reason, there is progress. Even in these terribly hard days. It seems like no good will ever come from being forced apart, but with God good things are always probable.
Separation Diary: March 26, 2021
I NEED YOUR HELP | ONE MORE THING BEFORE YOU GO
Recently, I started penning sample chapters for a memoir detailing my experience with mental health crisis as a Christian and military spouse. YOUR help will get the book published. The easiest way is click “FOLLOW” on Instagram or sign up for my monthly newsletter via email (below). Your support demonstrates interest in this story and these words of hope.
Above all, thank you for being here and for your support. It’s an honor to share my testimony with you and I’m excited to see the great things God does through your journey.
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. Today I’m sharing reliable ways to embrace life in Minot. These are the things that took me from newcomer to, “Minot is my town.” For more tips, lists and information on living like a local be sure to follow BeLOCAL.
For me, the hardest part of the military lifestyle has been moving. The seemingly endless uprooting and starting over. That’s part of the reason we requested to come back to Minot. Yes, we love it here–but starting over from the ground up is exhausting. Any military family can attest.
So, if you’re here for the first time, welcome. I’m glad you’re in Minot. I know what it’s like to be new in town. In lots of towns. Of all the places we’ve explored, Minot is close to the top of the list of places we most enjoy living. However, it wasn’t easy finding our place in town when we first arrived in the summer of 2012.
Through luck, a few good acquaintances and my tenacity to figure out how to live like a local, we eventually found our way. The truth is, there’s a difference between living in and deciding to embrace life in Minot. Only you can choose which you’ll pursue. Here are my best tips for settling in and beginning to embrace life in Minot.
Find a Church
Settling in and investing in a church home truly gave us a place in town. We made friends, became invested and contributed our skills to a cause we are passionate about: The Kingdom of Christ. If you are a church-goer, muster the tenacity to keep “church-shopping” until you find a good fit.
If you aren’t a church-goer, that’s okay too. Churches are great places for investing in the community or just forming relationships. Most Minot churches I’m familiar with would welcome a newcomer to town with open arms–whether your beliefs fully align or not. Join a small group, volunteer, play sports. Church is a great first contact for feeling at home.
Mourn Your Loss
If you are moving to Minot from a place you loved, it’s okay to be sad. Take time to mourn your loss. Being uprooted is painful, especially if you didn’t have a choice in when or where you needed to move next. Be sad, but don’t wallow in misery. Allow that wound to heal and intentionally seek ways to begin enjoying your life here.
Be Openminded
I say this all the time: Minot is unlike anywhere else you’ve lived. It’s my golden rule. Don’t expect Minot to be Dallas, Pensacola, Washington DC, Omaha, Shreveport, Salt Lake City, or anywhere else. It’s just Minot. Embrace it for the quirky, sitcom-vibing place it is. Stay openminded about the life you can build here.
Invest in the Community
Find something you love or hate about town and invest there. As a community, Minot is incredibly receptive to new ideas. Hop on board with something you love and are passionate about. Or, pinpoint something you passionately dislike and work to change it.
If you have an idea and plan, chances are others will rally around you. Minot is one of the few places I’ve lived where an individual can have a significant impact, even if they only live in town for a few years.
Be Social
Minot is a social town. Events happen all the time, and the folks who go to one event usually go to others. Start attending and you’ll start running into familiar faces. Keep up with the BeLocal Instagram feed and the Visit Minot calendar to see what’s happening. Be intentional about getting out year round and you’ll start to appreciate what Minot has to offer.
From a mental health standpoint, socializing will offer healing and isolation will only fester your wounds and allow lies and dissatisfaction to breed. I know it can be scary, but truly be intentional about getting out when things are going on.
Introduce Yourself
Making new friends is hard. I get it, but you can do it. Here are ten places I’ve made friends in Minot:
Kids activities (Fun Zone, Story Times, Library Activities)
Group Fitness Classes
Church
Serving on a nonprofit board
Reaching out to people with like interests on Instagram
Taking a class
Volunteering
Military spouse groups/events
Work
Being a regular at a cafe/restaurant/shop
You Can Do This
The season of change is a difficult one. But trust me when I say, Minot is glad to have you. Give it time, give it a chance. Minot might not be a dream home for everyone, but I believe anyone can enjoy their time here.
One More Thing…I Need a Favor
Recently, I started penning sample chapters for a memoir detailing my experience with mental health crisis as a Christian and military spouse. YOUR help will get the book published. The easiest way is click “FOLLOW” on Instagram or sign up for my monthly newsletter via email (below). Your support demonstrates interest in this story and these words of hope.
Above all, thank you for being here and for your support. It’s an honor to share my testimony with you and I’m excited to see the great things God does through your journey.
Happy Minot Monday! This is a very exciting post for me to write for a two major reasons. First of all, today I’m talking about places that offer craft classes in Minot–one of my favorite things. Annnnd…I’ve got something really cool to announce.
Amy Allender is Partnering With BeLocal Minot
I’ve partnered with BeLocal Minot to continue bringing you super-fun Minot Monday content!
You know I have a heart for changing negative attitudes toward living in or moving to Minot. I’ve made it my personal mission to proclaim the quirky awesomeness that is Minot, ND. BeLocal is a newly launched publication that shares that heart and mission.
BeLocal Minot is like a visitor’s guide, except it’s made for locals. It’s a guide to living like a local. It’s a comprehensive catalog of all the things that make Minot a great place to live–things that took me several years to discover the first time we lived here. I cannot tell you what a valuable resource this is for anyone new to our area, prospectively moving in, or people who have lived here a long time but haven’t found their groove yet. It’s a welcome mat inviting everyone to enjoy their life here–not just muddle through.
You can access the entire catalog online. Also be sure to follow along on Instagram and Facebook to join the BeLocal community. You’ll see me around there, too!
Craft Classes in Minot
Now, big announcement aside, let’s get to today’s topic. Craft classes in Minot.
The Foundry
On Friday, I went to a Christmas party at the Foundry’s classroom, the Makery. This was one of the best Christmas gatherings I’ve ever been to. Our group brought snacks to share and spent time visiting at the beginning. Then we all made a welcome mat. Our instructor, Sarah had loads of fun stencils for us to choose from. (Being a noncommittal, plain Jane–I opted to simply stencil the word “Welcome” on mine. But trust me, other people who are more fun came home with mats with colorful says painted in colorful tones.)
(Colorful or plain…the mat takes the edge off of the construction mess currently in the entryway of Acorn House.)
It was such a nice way to spend an evening. And I love my finished product! After we finished we had the Foundry to ourselves for shopping. If you haven’t been, I describe the Foundry as “Etsy in real life.” It’s an adorable shop that offers hand made items from North Dakota makers, found vintage pieces and other unique gifts, home goods and clothing.
The Foundry is one of many places offering craft classes in Minot. Check their Facebook page for upcoming classes. (They range from arranging succulents to welcome mats, signs and gnomes!)
Other Places Offering Craft Classes in Minot
There are tons of classes and meet ups happening for Minot makers. Seriously, our town is saturated with creative types who are willing to share their skills with anyone willing to learn. Every week when I do my weekly round up of events happening (you can see this in my Instagram or Facebook stories) I am blown away by the number of great craft classes in Minot.
The classes offered vary widely. You can learn to paint, arrange fresh wreaths, fuse glass, quill paper, knit, sew, quilt, and just about anything else you can imagine. In my opinion, one of the best features of Minot is that if there is interest and enthusiasm, anything can happen. Chances are, if there is a class you’d like offered (or a class you’d like to offer) you’re only a couple coffee dates away from making it happen.
Here are more places in town that offer craft classes in Minot. I hope you find one that speaks to you!
Market on 4th
The Market on 4th sells locally designed/made home decor, gifts and goods. They’ve got a classroom that regularly hosts workshops. Check their website or Facebook page for a calendar of events.
Creative Dimensions
Creative Dimensions is a quilt academy and supplier. They offer sewing classes that help students make take-home projects as well as quilting workshops. Check their website and Facebook page for more.
Margie’s Art Glass
Margie’s offers paint your own pottery–but they also offer lots of fun glass classes. Workshops teach participants to fuse, blow and work with stained glass. Additionally they offer classes in painting, ceramics and jewelry making. They offer “no experience needed” classes as well as classes for more advanced participants. Check facebook or their website for a schedule.
The Fiber Basket
The Fiber Basket sells yarn and knitting/crochet supplies. Their classes range from “no experience needed” beginner’s courses to classes for more advanced students. They offer workshops in knitting, crochet, and basically anything that is made with yarn. Check Facebook or their website for a schedule.
Nature’s Nook
Nature’s Nook is a children’s toy and book boutique, but they offer classs (for both kids and grown ups) on a regular basis. They offer lots of painting classes and craft classes for littles. Check their Facebook or website for a full list.
Taube Museum of Art
The Taube is right downtown on Main Street. They offer lots of classes–some for adults, some for kids, some for parents to create with their kids. They also offer a program for pre-school aged kiddos called a Start in Art which combines story time or a visit from a zoo friend with a craft. Check Facebook or their website for all events.
Adult Learning Center
The Adult Learning Center offers lots more than just craft classes. However there are lots of good offerings for makers through their community ed programs. I really want to learn the art of rosemaling, so I’m planning on signing up in 2020.
The Libraries
Both the Ward County and Minot Public library offer craft courses and meet ups. A wide range of crafts are offered and there are programs for all ages.
The Spot
You might not think of a pool hall as a place to take in a maker’s class…but the Spot regularly hosts classes in painting, sign making and other crafts as well as the occasional vendor market. See their Facebook for upcoming events.
The Flower Box
The Flower Box offers lots of seasonal workshops in garlands, wreaths, pots and pot gardens. If you’re looking to hone your green thumb skills check out their Facebook for upcoming events.
Souris River Brewing
Souris River Brewing offers occasional acrylic paint-along classes. Some are adult-only and others are family friendly. Check their Facebook page for upcoming events.
There you have it! Did I miss anything? If you know of someplace else that offers regular (or semi-regular) craft classes in Minot for makers I’d love to hear from you! Have a great week here in the Magic City.
Coming up today: A HUGE list of affordable, practical gift ideas for everyone you know, love and are buying for.
I love gifts. Giving gifts, making gifts…getting gifts. Gifts that I’d like to give and things I’d like to ask for when the time comes flow freely through my brain all year. Then, around the holidays I suddenly freeze up. I can’t remember any of the genius ideas I’d thought of. The only thing I can come up with is candles and lotion.
My favorite gifts are never candles and lotion. (No offense if you’ve ever given me a candle or lotion. We can still be friends.)
I like things that I can use. Things that make my life easier, aren’t on my radar, or I wouldn’t buy for myself all make good gifts for me. In recent years my favorite gifts have been a screw-to-the-wall pencil sharpener, a meat tenderizer, and an amazing multi-bit screwdriver. In my opinion, the best gifts don’t have to cost a lot and they don’t need to come from the “gift section” of a store. Practical gift ideas are good gift ideas. When it comes to gifts I’m all about thinking outside of the box. The gift box, that is.
The First Annual Gift Guide
That’s why…for the first time ever, I’ve compiled a giant list of affordable, practical gift ideas. These are things I love. Most are things I’ve been given, have gifted, or I currently have my eye on. I consider them all affordable (there is one big-ticket item, but most items are under $20.) I hope you’ll find inspiration here for someone on your list…or find a few ideas of things you might like yourself.
I’ve broken the list into six categories:
DIYers
Home (think practical kitchen and household items)
Travelers
Grandparents (yours or your kids’…think hard-to-buy for folks who don’t need more “stuff”)
Games
Art and Decor
I’ve rounded up 50+ ideas for you, so let’s get going.
Gifts for DIYers
Last year, I gave Derek a box full of small gadgets that improve the home improvement process. Most only cost a couple dollars. It’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever given. A lot of those items made the list here, along with other items we love.
A panel carrier makes lifting and moving sheets of wood and drywall not only possible, but easy.
Tubes of caulk often come with a tip cover to save a half-used tube. Those are garbage. Buy these caulk tube covers instead.
**On my wishlist this year** I just learned about a Center Point tape measure. It’s a dual scale which allows you to identify the center of what you are measuring in a matter of seconds.
The Vaughn Bear Saw is hands down the best saw I’ve ever owned. I bought my first one in college and have only replaced it once.
A magnetic wrist band holds nails and screws while you’re working. So much better than holding them in your teeth.
Anyone who DIYs should hav a good pair of winter work gloves. I like these classics from Carhart.
A quick change chuck lets you swap out bits on your drill super quickly. Perfect for renos and demos.
Sure, you can cut drywall with a utility knife. That’s what most casual DIYers do. In my opinion, every DIYer should own a jab knife to up their game.
Gifts for the Home
I’ll never tell you to buy a candle as a gift. These are my favorite, practical gift ideas for around the house. An item that changes their life for the better is a great gift. I’ve also combined a few items below if you want to go above and beyond with a package deal.
*On my wishlist this year* This butter knife grates butter so it’s spreadable, even when cold…so your bread doesn’t get ripped apart.
Years ago my dad bought me this meat tenderizer. It’s still on of the best gifts I’ve ever been given.
My dad also gave me this knife sharpener. My knives are nothing special, but people ask me about them often…because they’re so sharp and cut so well. Thanks, dad!
Support small business by buying a locally roasted coffee, like this from Dakota Roasters.
Once I was given a single serve french press, like this one. I still love it.
**On my wishlist this year** A yeti mug that will keep coffee hot for hours…so maybe I can stop making trips to the microwave.
The best gifts are thoughtful. Instead of buying a gift, curate a custom Pinterest board to make meal planning in the new year a snap.
Glamorous Wash makes you think you are waking up in a fancy B&B when you use it on your sheets.
Last year I bought Derek this steamer. It was kind of a joke, but turned into one of the greatest gifts of all time. (It’s basically the gift of never ironing again.)
My favorite sheets are Threshold from Target. They’re fitted sheets are the only ones that stay in place through all my turning around through the night.
There is nothing better than the gift of time. A load of healthy freezer meals is one of the best gifts ever! (Here are some ideas to get you started. Combine this with an awesome cooler–#15 and Crockpot liners for a double gift and easy gift wrapping.)
Gifts for Travelers
We love to travel and explore. These are some of our favorite items for traveling, exploring or day-tripping.
A quick release key clip is handy for trips that require rental keys, extra house keys, etc.
Help travelers actually record a few memories with this journal.
Compression socks like these from Smart Wool may not be something a friend would buy themselves…but they’ll be so happy you did!
**BUY THIS FOR A MOM** A Gorilla Pod has bendy arms that can cling to anything while securely holding a phone. This is the perfect gift for moms…who are always taking the photos and never in them!
Binoculars like these are perfect for anyone with a trip planned for 2020.
Gifts for Grandparents
Grandparents are notoriously hard to shop for. Here are six of my favorite practical gift ideas for the people in your life that don’t need more “stuff.”
Last year my dad bought my mom a gift card for a bouquet of the month club at their local supermarket. One bouquet every month for a year. How fun!
Derek’s grandpa loves sending cards. We buy him stamps. (The price of sending those cards adds up!)
Car wash tokens–especially for those is cold climates.
Photo books–I especially love making 5×7 “purse-sized” books. They come together quickly and are perfect for showing off photos of the littles.
Service gift cards for things like gutter cleaning, window cleaning, snow removal, cleaning, lawn care, etc.
Games to Gift
It took a lot of self control to limit this list. Games always and will always be a great gift.
Our house favorite game: Backgammon. There are few things classier than a nice set like this one.
Deer in the Headlights is quick to learn and easy to play. It’s a great game to play with “non-gamers” and a great gift for those who aren’t into games that take an hour to learn.
Kingdomino is quick, strategy driven and plays well with only two (but can accommodate more).
Splendor is currently my favorite strategy game. It’s great for just two players, but more can join. The pieces are very high quality. Many different strategies can be employed, every game is different.
Port Royal is a compact card collecting game. It’s easy to learn and so fun.
Make ‘n’ Break is my pick for a family-friendly game. Players race to build and break structures. Great for motor skills, spatial reasoning and family game night.
Art and Decor Gifts
Not every gift needs to be useful, right? Here are my favorite, pretty art and decor items.
I’m in love with prints from the Anderson Group. They’ve got multiple collections, including these State Pride prints.
**Pricy** Here is my one splurge gift. A wool blanket is an heirloom item. Amana blankets are made at their mill in Iowa.
Buy a live wreath for someone who is hopeless (like me) when it comes to growing their own greens.
Items from Cavallini & Co look good in any home. They’ve got prints, office items, towels, aprons, etc…all in vintage inspired designs.
Well, the time has come to make an announcement. And no. the announcement isn’t that I’m pregnant. I find mom life much more enjoyable now that Gideon can eat solids, nap without screaming and sleep all night long. I’m not quite ready to shake up this scene just yet.
I’m getting off topic already.
We’re moving…
to…
Minot!!
Yes. Those are exclamation points. And yes, I’m talking about Minot, ND. As in, only the best come north. All the way north to Practically Canada. As you can see, we are basically ready for our migration. We’ve already got the t-shirts (an no, we didn’t buy them strictly for this photo), awkward Minotauros hat and lefse sticks to prove it.
Now, you know I hate moving. And this time around isn’t much different. I’m not looking forward to it. I love our home and community here in Rapid City. My stomach is in knots just typing up this post. I’ve put off making this official for weeks and weeks. Sorry if you’ve recently asked about our next assignment and I’ve changed the subject…or never returned your text. It’s really hard for me to face the facts when it comes to moving.
However, if I have to be uprooted there are few places I’d rather call home than Minot, ND.
Unless it’s Maine. Then, yes, please pack my house up–you can expect me tomorrow.
I hear a lot of grumbling about Minot. Mostly from people who have never been. As I’ve told people in the past, it’s not a vacation destination, but it sure is a great place to come home to. I’m excited to return, not only to reconnect with some of the dearest friends I’ve ever known, but also (hopefully) to help shift the very negative vibes that exist about living there.
The reasons Derek and I like Minot so much are hard to explain. To be sure, it’s not the winters, wind or vast amounts of trees. Minot is the perfect place to pursue passions. People are eager to support new ventures (but not too new….because the locals are really slow on change.) There is community of people there who are striving side by side to make the town more fun, more inviting and more impactful.
It’s a place where an idea can become a reality, because you are usually only one or two acquaintances away from “the person you need to talk to.” It’s a place where you can pick up curling, square dancing, and accordion playing. You can be a story-time reader, an artist, an advocate. You can openly rollerblade without getting made fun of and have a “usual” order at three restaurants in town. I know, because I’ve done all those things.
I told you. It’s hard to explain. I’ll give it my best shot over the next few years.
Here’s a bit of timeline (because I know some of you will be asking.) Derek has to do a training refresher this summer. So, we’ll be headed up in the fall. Maybe before then to do a little house hunting. Basically I’m not sure when we’ll all be up and ready to unpack, but I do know it’s on the horizon.
And to everyone who put off coming to visit us while we lived in a tourist destination…Sorry, Charlie. In about 6 months if you want to darken our doorstep you’ll have to come to Minot.
I’m continuing to pray that God would renew my mind and heart when it comes to moving. So that this transition would be smooth and joyful–instead of wracked with anxiety and grief. I know God can do all things, and that kind of mind renewal for me would be a bigger miracle than Him cancelling our orders and making a way for us to stay put in Rapid City forever. If you are up for a prayer request, I’d love your intercession. While I’m nervous on the surface deep down, I think God has some really, really good things in store for us in Practically Canada.
So there. Now I’ve said it. It’s on the Internet and it’s official. We’re moving north. Uffda! It’s going to be oh-fer-fun!
Tonight I’ve got more from Katie and Sam’s place. If you have a piece of furniture sitting around your house that you have been itching to paint, but are too nervous to dive in…read this post. I’ve used lots of refinishing techniques before…but tonight I’m telling you about a product I just tried that is simple to use and left me with fab results.
I really wanted their home to have a “lived in” look to it, which was kind of tricky…because on many of the rooms we were starting from scratch and building something totally brand new. One thing that really helped give their rooms some character was refinishing and repurposing pieces that they already owned {like that rad grandfather clock} and selectively buying new or new-to-them pieces that looked like they’d been around a while.
Through the process of creating that lived-in look…I refinished a lot of pieces. This was super fun and a great learning experience. I didn’t tell them at the time…but I kind of guinea pigged with their items–trying new techniques and products to see if I could unearth a new product that I loved. And I did!
I could write an absolute love story about how much I adore Zinsser and Rust-oleum products. If you read my blog, you probably know I’m in love with these product lines. So when I was at Menard’s {my home away from home} for the zillionth time that week…and a new, pretty end cap featuring a new paint line from Rust-oleum caught my eye…I was immediately itching like a kid with pox for a project to try it out on.
The product feature was a display for Rust-oleum’s “Chalked” paint line. It’s pretty, chalky colors that go on with the tenacity of chalk paint and dry to a smooth, chalky finish {something that hides flaws much better than a high gloss coating.} Paint comes in brushable cans that can be tinted to lots of colors or sprays that come in limited colors.
When Sam told me that he wanted their fire place painted {because he, like lots of us hates clashing wood tones} I knew this was the perfect opportunity to try out that Chalked line. I loved it. It was so easy to use. It turned out great. If you are thinking of refinishing your first ever piece of furniture…I highly recommend starting with this line–it was that easy to use and the results were outstanding.
Here’s what I used. If you read the post on the grandfather clock–a lot of this will look familiar. Once you’ve got the basics you’ll be set to refinish lots of pieces!
Zinsser’s deglosser. This strips away and dulls furniture’s existing finish so you can repaint without sanding or fully stripping a piece.
Bull’s Eye 1-2-3 Primer. Although chalk paints claim to go on smoothly without primer or any kind of surface prep–I’ve always found that laying a base coat is a good idea. Your paint will go farther and the finish will adhere better.
Chalked in Chiffon Cream–When painting a piece of furniture “white” I always opt for a cream or off-white option. It hides dirt and feels less stark.
Java Brown glaze–I had this left over from my cabinet redo several years ago. A little goes a looong way. You can also use wood stain if that’s more readily available to you.
I tried something new tonight–putting the instructions right on the image. Do you like? I’m kind of torn.
At any rate…it’s just that simple. Follow all the instructions on all of the packages. Do this all in a well ventilated area–or outside on a not-windy day…it’s pretty smelly, and it’ll dry faster. I promise you. If you can follow instructions, you can do this.
The trickiest–most artistic–part is the glaze. But even that isn’t too hard. I think glazing pieces makes a huge difference. Look at the difference between the painting and glazing steps. The glaze defines all the cool detailing on the mantle. Suddenly, the ridges and grooves that were all but lost when it was naturally finished stand out like the star of the show.
If you are spray painting something with a glass front–like this–be sure to fully tape/paper it off so it doesn’t collect spray dust. Let ‘er dry and bring it inside.
Have you used Chalked? What did you think? Is there a product you’ve tried and loved? If so…I wanna hear about it! {And NO–Zinsser and Rust-oleum don’t give me any bribes for plugging their products. I just genuinely love them.}
I start lots of thoughts and stories with the phrase, “Here’s the thing…” And as hard as I’ve tried to think of another way to start this post, I just can’t. So…
Here’s the thing about really gutsy accent pieces. I find them very easy to create for other people…and I’m terrified to make one for myself. Is this because I’m a safe person? I don’t know. I don’t think my mom would use “safe” as the first adjective to describe me. It’s probably that at heart I’m a big scardy cat of commitment. In my house, I stick to what I know–white, white and more white. Or–I just leave a piece untouched and spend months years mulling over what color to paint a ratty old chair.
BUT–I’m a lot more brave when it comes to other people’s things. Especially if they are confident, and bold, and hip enough to want a funky accent piece. Which is exactly the case with Sam and Katie.
Here’s the other thing–usually it’s the wife who wants furniture painted, and the husband is all, “…that’s real wood! You can’t paint that. I like how it is…” Not in this house! In this case Sam was the big, bold, furniture-painting, color-popping machine. When he told me they had an old grandfather clock that he wanted painted in a quirky color, I knew it’d be a fun project…but never in a million years did I imagine just how fabulous it would turn out. I think the moment when the last bit of paint was dry on this bad boy and I peeled off the last scrap of tape was a momentous moment in my life: It was a moment when I shed a little color fear and my eyes were opened to just how awesome something totally bold can be.
This is one of my most favorite things ever. For real. I want to make one for myself. Or steal theirs. Luckily–it was pretty easy. Here’s how we did it.
Shopping List
Here is a handy list of all the supplies I used on this project. I got them all at Menard’s {who should really be sponsoring this blog because I love them so much and I give them a lot of free advertising.} But I’m sure you can get most of this stuff at your local store.
I’ve conveniently listed the supplied in the order they are used. Just use one after the other {follow all package instructions} and you’ll be good to go. Click the links and you’ll be taken to the Menard’s product page.
Paint deglosser from Zinsser {I love their products and trust them all.}
Chalked clear top coat {can you guys tell I’m a huge fan of Rust-oleum?}
Find Your Piece
Step one is choosing a cool piece to accent. The clock came out especially cool because it’s a very classic and formal piece in a totally unexpected color. That kind of juxtaposition makes for a great accent. They had this clock sitting around. They didn’t love it. It wasn’t getting used or looked at. It was a little beat up. It was not a family heirloom, so if it got messed up, they wouldn’t be heart broken. All these factors add up to a good make over piece. {Especially for a beginner.}
Don’t Skip Steps
If you want your paint project to last, don’t skip steps and definitely don’t skip prep! For something that’s not going to get touched very often, or treated roughly you have a little more leeway. Since the clock probably isn’t going to endure a lot of abuse, using mid-grade products and prep will do just fine. For something that will see heavy traffic–like a dining table–you’ll want to go to extremes to make sure your finish isn’t going to chip off.
First I dissembled the clock as much as possible–be super careful with the springs and gears, though! Carefully remove the head and doors and finial. Take out the weights and protect anything that you don’t want painted with tape or paper.
Next, degloss the whole surface. Grandfather clocks are typically pretty shiny/glossy. Dulling that surface down will give you a clean surface to work with–and will help the paint adhere better.
Prime all your pieces using a brush. I did two coats of primer and a light sanding afterward to get rid of any drips or brush lines.
Now spray paint your surface. Seriously, get one of those spray nozzles if you don’t already own one. In my ideal world, I would have been able to find a matte spray paint in the color we wanted…but it didn’t happen. The end result of my spray painting left me with a very shiny, very Barbie-pink clock. To tone it down I added a few extra steps:
After the pink paint had dried {you might need two coats}, I went over the whole piece with deglosser again to get rid of the shine–just don’t rub too hard, or you’ll strip the paint. Then I sanded down the edges of the details {any curved piece, sides of doors, etc} to add a little wear to it and expose the dark wood tone below. Finally, I used the glaze to bring out the detail even further. Using a small paint brush, brush glaze {or use wood stain} into the crevices of the piece–then immediately wipe out the excess…leaving dark stain or glaze in the cracks. I also brushed and wiped glaze off of the sides of the clock to tone down the color a bit.
Then…while all that was drying, I went to work on the inside of the clock. We painted the inside using one of the paint samples that was not chosen for the living room walls {see discussion on paint samples here.} I sprayed the weights satin nickel, and carefully taped off the wood and also sprayed the face of the clock–the gold just didn’t seem to fit with the funky new color.
After it’s all dry, move it inside and bask in the glory of your clock. Awesome, right?
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