My youngest daughter has longed for a desk in her room ever since I did the Green Desk Makeover for her older sister. Many months and Craigslist searches later, I was finally able to find a desk that fit my daughter and her room perfectly. A little bit of elbow grease and some Annie Sloan Provence chalk paint later… and we have a turquoise desk for my litte girl.
This desk was listed on Craigslist but was actually housed in a multi-vendor antique mall, buried under all sorts of other vintage treasures. It’s a Bassett desk from the 1960s and was in great condition, save for some damage to the desktop and some scratches.
I’ll admit it… this desk had me at spindle legs.
Seriously, aren’t they incredible?
After sanding the top and cleaning it well, I painted with Annie Sloan chalk paint in Provence, a gorgeous turquoise blue color that I have used on multiple projects in my home. My youngest really likes to help mama with projects, especially painting, so I gave her a brush and her own tray of paint and let her go to town. Chalk paint is very forgiving because you can sand it, so it was the perfect medium for my little’s brush strokes – any imperfections were simply sanded away before the top coat.
The hardware is all original to the piece and was in perfect condition as well. I liked the contrast of the bronze and blue so I just gave it all a good cleaning before I reinstalled it.
The spindle legs are still my favorite feature – it’s unusual to find a piece such a traditional piece with this type of leg. (Please excuse the focus on these photos… my eight year old Canon rebel is starting to act up on me.)
Here’s another view of the turquoise desk in its entirety. Tell me those legs aren’t incredible! Pair it with a pink chevron wall and I’m smitten ;).
The desk actually has a coordinating hutch (see below) that goes on top but it felt a little too serious (especially with the eagle medallion) so I haven’t yet painted it. I do like the additional storage it offers so maybe one day I’ll add it, but for now I’m happy with the desk as is.
My youngest is very excited for this new homework space in her room. We’re still working on adding little desk accessories, but she’s already enjoying it for reading, writing, drawing and creating. I imagine it will see lots of this activity in the years to come.
If you have any questions about the turquoise desk makeover, let me know and I’ll be happy to answer your questions!
Have you tried chalk paint yet? Would you be brave enough to let your child help you with it? I’d love to hear your experience!
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Super cute!! I haven't personally used chalk paint, but a friend of mine transformed my bedroom furniture with it. I love it!
ReplyDeleteI really love the color! I have used homemade chalk paint. I like the way it covers. I personally don't care for the chippy look which is why I love your desk.
ReplyDeleteLove that color! I have used homemade chalk paint in the past on desks. Love the way it covers. I personally don't care for the chippy look which is why I love this desk! Great Job! I am going to try ASCP when I find a store close to home.
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