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The tough winter we have just endured here in Canada has left me craving all things Spring. I wanted to create spring inspired decor, so I hit my local Ottawa Salvation Army store on Richmond road to see what I could find. I found this fantastic dresser with clean lines and great hardware. It is the perfect canvas for my spring inspired project. The dresser was in great condition, very solid but the finish was tired and outdated. I knew that I could easily transform and update this dresser by painting it. Check out the steps I took to transform this dresser from tired to a gorgeous spring inspired dresser. Click here to watch a video with tips on how to get the best finds when thrifting.  Materials you will need:
 The most important step when painting furniture is to always prep first. Prepping is a 3 step process where you first clean your furniture with TSP- Fusion’s TSP is my favourite to use. Once I gave it a good clean, I used 220 sandpaper to scuff the dresser; scuffing the whole dresser as if I was wiping down my kitchen table. You do not need to pull out the hand sander, way too much work! The final step was to wipe down the dresser with a damp cloth to remove any dust or residue. Click here to watch how to prep your furniture. With the dresser having a laminate veneer, I needed to apply Fusion Ultra Grip in one thin coat to ensure proper adhesion. After 12 hours of curing, it was time to start painting! Click here to learn how to get amazing results when applying Ultra Grip. My inspiration for this dresser was this gorgeous botanical transfer from Redesign with Prima. I have been waiting to find the right piece of furniture to use this transfer and this dresser is perfect for it!  I used Fusion Mineral Paint Raw Silk, a beautiful warm white to paint the dresser. It’s the perfect creamy white to contrast the stunning green botanical transfer. Click here to learn more about Fusion Mineral Paint. After 2 coats of paint, I waited 48 hours before applying the transfer to avoid cracking and ensuring proper adhesion.  I cut each leaf out and placed them individually over the dresser. Once I established where I wanted to place the transfer, I removed the wax layer and gently placed the transfer onto the dresser. Using the applicator, I firmly rubbed the transfer onto the dresser for about 30 to 45 seconds and then gently peeled back the transfer paper.  Once I was happy with the placement of the transfers, I applied 2 coats of FAT paint Clear Top Coat to seal and protect the transfers. The clear coat dries very quickly and I was able to decorate as soon as it was dry. Click here to learn how to apply FAT paint Clear Coat. I found some gorgeous baskets at The Salvation Army thrift store. I hung them to add some texture and to give it an organic feel. This once tired dresser now brings a bright, contemporary spring inspired feel into this space, even when it doesn’t feel like spring outside. Have fun and happy painting!   
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1/31/2019 0 Comments DIY Trendy Mirror TransformationHaving a mirror in your space is a great way to bring more light into a dark area, create a focal point, all while putting your most loved accessories on full display. This is why I was so happy when I found this stunning mirror at my local Salvation Army thrift store in Ottawa, Ontario. Click here to check out a video on how to get the best finds when thrifting.  I was able to look past the outdated gold finish on this gorgeously, ornate mirror because I knew it could be easily transformed by painting it. I love its interesting shape and it’s the perfect size for smaller spaces. This mirror can definitely handle being painted in a modern bold colour. Check out the steps I took to transform this mirror from tired to a trendy piece of art. Prep is a must when painting furniture or decor. It’s a 3 step process that will ensure your paint adheres well and won’t chip off. The first step I took was to clean the frame with Fusion TSP to remove any dirt or oils that may be on the mirror. I then gave it a quick scuff sand around the frame using 220 sandpaper. Using lint free clothes, I wiped down the frame with clean water to remove any residue and dust. Click here to check out a video on how to properly prep your furniture. Once it was dry, the fun began!   Staying on top of colour trends is easy to do when you’re upcycling furniture and decor. Inspired by the Pantone colour of the year “Living Coral”, I chose a similar colour in the FAT paint line called Piri Piri. With it being such a bold and highly pigmented colour, it needed 3 coats to get total coverage. But FAT paint dries quickly, so I only had to wait about 30 minutes between coats. Click here to learn more about FAT paint.   To save the details from getting lost after painting, I used 220 sandpaper to gently distress the mirror, revealing and accentuating the gorgeous details. The original gold finish paired with the stunning colour is the perfect contrast.    I applied two coats of FAT Clear Coat to give the mirror a protective finish and to bring the color to life. Click here to learn how to properly prep your clear coat  After about 20 minutes of drying, the mirror was finished and ready to hang.  I am so happy with the gorgeous results! It’s easy to infuse trendy colours into your space and transform outdated decor into a piece of art. Click here to watch our CTV Morning Live segment on how to get some of 2019 colour trends on a tight budget. Next time you are at your local Salvation Army thrift store make sure to keep your eyes open for decor you can transform. Happy thrifting!
12/24/2018 0 Comments DIY Holiday Centerpiece With the holidays fast approaching, I decided to hit my local Ottawa Salvation Army thrift store to find some decor that I could transform into a holiday centerpiece. One of the things I love the most about thrifting is never knowing what I may find and exploring new ways to use items. Click here to learn my tips on how to get the best finds here. While searching my thrift store, I hit the glassware section and found some wine glasses and a vase. I love the shape and knew that they would be perfect as candle holders!   Here is what you need to make your own holiday centerpiece. Materials:
Wash your glassware in the dishwasher or by hand to remove any dirt or oil residue. Make sure your glassware is fully dried before beginning.  Paint a thin layer of Fusion Ultra Grip to the glassware and let it dry overnight. This will help to make sure your paint adheres to your glass. Click here to learn how to get the best results when using Ultra grip.  Once dry, apply a thin layer of one of Fusion metallic paints. Wait 4 hours and then apply a second coat. Click here to learn more about Fusion Mineral Paint.    Once your glassware is dry, the next step is finding a tray. Trays are fantastic way to give your centerpiece some structure to whatever you decide to put in it. This tray I found on one of my trips to the thrift store and painted in FAT paint in Greysful, a gorgeous warm grey. Click here to learn more about FAT Paint.  I love incorporating the outdoors when decorating, by bringing in cedar clippings from my backyard and Christmas tree, it instantly makes your home feel and smell festive.  During the holidays you can go all out with metallics, I even added some to the ends of the pine cones.  This DIY is an inexpensive and easy way to create your own holiday decor. Adding a few throughout your space will bring festive and warm vibes into your home. Looking for more holiday ideas? Click here and watch my segment on Daytime Ottawa for 5 creative gift and decor ideas. Have fun creating and Happy Holidays!
The holidays are not far away and now is the perfect time to start getting ready for the season. I hit my local Salvation Army thrift store on Richmond road in Ottawa to see what decor and accessories I could find for entertaining over the holidays. Click here to learn more about upcycling. Check out what I found while thrifting and how I will use it! Metal Fireplace Log Holder  This log holder is the perfect piece for the holiday season. Painted in black with either Fusion Mineral Paint or FAT paint, filled with birch logs gives it an modern look. Bringing in a natural element with the birch logs will give a warm and comfortable feel to any space. Inspiration  Add Some Warmth And Texture With These Pillows  When the temperature drops, there is nothing better then being cozied up on your couch with soft, warm pillows. These pillows were only $4.99 and $7.99...a steal! Help Your Guests Feel Welcome  If you are planning on entertaining over the holidays, this seagrass basket filled with cozy slippers is a thoughtful way to make your guest feel welcomed as soon as they step into your home. $4.99 Up Your Entertaining Game And Say No To Plastic   Extra stemware and glasses are must when you are entertaining. Using glass rather than plastic is a way to step up your entertaining game all while being environmentally friendly. These great finds ranged from .99 to $3.99. Tea Or Coffee?   These china teacups are a beautiful way to serve your guests at the end of the night. No need to find a full set, having various colours displayed is a fun way to end a night of entertaining. These tea cups and mugs ranged from $1.99 to $4.99. Holiday Decor   Thrifting is a fabulous way to find holiday decor. I found these cute snowmen and a rustic Santa for $3.99 each. Placing the angels ($4.99 each) on either a mantle or a console table with pieces of cedar and evergreen clippings would create a stunning focal point in your space. I would first paint the angels in FAT paint Snow, a crisp white colour that would contrast beautifully against the green of the cedar and evergreen.
Get the jump on holiday entertaining, hit your local thrift store to find unique and inexpensive finds. Your get togethers will be the talk of your friends and family! Need some tips on how to find the best finds when thrifting, click here Looking for unique furniture and décor for your space? Thrift store shopping is an inexpensive way to upcycle unique finds, paint them and seamlessly incorporate them into your space . Click here to find out what upcycling is and why you should do it. No need to feel awkward when someone asks where you found that amazing dresser; upcycling is on trend and here to stay. Savvy shoppers are hitting thrift stores to find tired but unique, fine quality furniture. Upcycling is being featured in top design magazines and Interior Designers are now incorporating upcycled and repurposed décor into their client’s spaces. Ready to jump into this trend and hit your local thrift store? Check out my 3 tips on how to get the best furniture and décor finds to help get you get started. 1. Shop Often One of the many great reasons to hit your local thrift stores is there is always a constant change over of items. Sometimes you will walk out with nothing but the more often you go the better chance of finding that perfect piece.  Before- Curved legs, amazing hardware and gorgeous details made this desk an amazing find.  After- Painted in FAT paint's Skyline, Gull Grey, FAT glaze and Gold Leaf, transformed this tired desk into a showstopper. A great example of this, is this desk. I walked into my local thrift store just as the staff were walking this piece onto the floor. The curved legs, brass accents and stately shape of it….had me close to jumping on top to claim it even before they placed it on the floor. Even though it was tired and the finish was damaged it was so unique I grabbed it as soon as it was priced and wanted to high five everyone in my vicinity. I walked out feeling like a rock star!  Before- This was not the prettiest piece but something about the details really stood out for me, I could see the potential for a fun slightly kitschy lamp.  After-Painted in FAT Paint's Robyn's Egg and white wax gives this lamp a fun coastal feel.  Before- The hardware was so fantastic that I had to buy this dresser.  After- Fusion Mineral Paint Park Bench was the perfect colour to make the hardware the focal point. 2. When You Find It Grab It I have learned this lesson the hard way. You find something really cool but take time to contemplate it a little more. This is basically a big green light for the person behind you, to grab it while you contemplate. It can be very frustrating losing a great find, considering that unlike big box stores there is not another one just like it sitting in the back. If you are not sure about purchasing it, make sure to take the item or tag with you until you decide, it will save you from losing that amazing piece.  Before- This dresser needed some love but the gorgeous details would be amazing painted.  After- Painted in a muted blue with patina wax accentuate the details and gives it a warm well worn feel.  Before- The legs and the sleek handles of this outdated Gibbard Mid Century is what stood out for me on this dresser.  After- The vibrant green make the legs and sleek handles a stand out. 3.Look Past The Finish One important thing to remember when you are thrifting, is to not get stuck on the finish or its current state. It can be difficult, you will find some interesting things when thrifting but when you look past the terrible colour, the scratches or the horribly dated faux finish, you can open yourself up to finding amazing furniture. If you are new to the upcycling scene, a great way to build your thrifting skills is to stop and take a moment to focus on what is unique about it; the curve in the leg, the fabulous hardware, the ornate details or the shape of the piece is perfect for a technique you have been wanting to try.  A vibrant orange and gorgeous chinoiserie decoupage takes this dresser from tired to sleek and comtemporary. Onnce you have found that perfect but tired piece, you can seamlessly incorporate it into your décor by painting it. I love using FAT paint and Fusion Mineral Paint to refinish my finds, no heavy duty sanding or priming is necessary. Check out what Chalk paint is here and what Fusion Mineral Paint is here. If you are not sure where to start with your project, take one of our courses or workshops to give everything you need to get going. Check out our youtube videos for helpful tips. We love talking about upcycling check out our TV segments on CTV Morning Live and on Daytime Ottawa. Happy thrifting!
1/30/2018 0 Comments What is the difference between FAT Paint and Fusion Mineral Paint and which one should I use on my project?You have decided to tackle the tired dresser that has been sitting sadly in the basement, but uncertain what paint to chose? My two favorite brands are FAT Paint and Fusion Mineral Paint. Both are high quality, easy to use and Canadian-made…which we love. FAT and Fusion paint are very different paints but you get amazing results with both.   FAT paint is a chalk-style paint that adheres to most surfaces without needing to prime or a heavy duty sanding. FAT paint dries super fast; typically within 30 to 45 minutes depending on the humidity. FAT paint being porous needs to be protected with either FAT wax (which is soooo easy to use) or FAT Clear Coat to protect and seal it. Click here to see a video to find out when to use Wax or Clear Coat and here to see a video on how to apply Clear Coat. Click here to read our blog to learn more about FAT chalk-style paint.  Mid Century Modern console painted in FAT paint Casacadia, Lemongrass, Shop Door and Can't See Me Camo  Dresser painted in FAT paint Navy State of Mind from the Amanda Forrest Collection Fusion Mineral paint does adhere to most wood finishes but I recommend using the Ultra Grip first on furniture that is veneered, laminate or metal (always do a test spot first somewhere inconspicuous if you are not sure) click here to see a video on how to apply Ultra Grip. Fusion has a built-in top coat, that’s right… no topcoat or wax is needed and is self-leveling when applied properly. Click here to read our blog to find out more about Fusion Mineral Paint.  Fusion Mineral Paint Park Bench is the perfect contrast with this gorgeous hardware  Mid Century Dresser painted in Casement, Azure, Little Lamb, Copper, Renfrew Blue, Little Teapot and Laurentien. So which paint should you use for your project? Both paints will transform your tired furniture but I have a few points for my clients to consider when they are deciding. Fusion does not require a top coat but needs a few hours in between coats to ensure it fully dries. FAT Paint dries typically within 30 minutes and requires either their FAT wax or Clear Coat. However, one of the most important points to consider is finding the perfect colour for your furniture. Both FAT paint and Fusion Mineral Paint are high quality, easy to use paints, are Canadian-made and have gorgeous colour palettes that you can’t go wrong with. Check out Fusion Mineral paint colours here and FAT paint colours here. Can’t decide between a FAT and Fusion colour, then use both!  This hutch has been paint in FAT paint Gull Grey and paired perfectly with Fusion Mineral Paint Metallic Pale Gold
This is a question that I get asked often by my clients. What is Fusion Mineral Paint and can’t I just use wall paint instead to refinish my furniture? You can, however using Fusion makes the process much faster and no heavy duty sanding or priming is needed. Fusion is very versatile, high quality product that leaves a beautiful finish.  Mid Century Modern Gibbard Dresser painted in Fusion's Casement, Little Lamb, Little Teapot, Renfrew Blue, Copper and Laurentien with a strained and stained stripe in the middle. Fusion is Canadian made, has no VOC’s and has a gorgeous line of colours that work with any design style. Click here to see Fusion’s colour palette. No priming is needed when using Fusion, just a quick prep and you can get to the good stuff…painting! Click here to see a video on how to properly prep your furniture before painting.  Before  After painted in Little Lamb Fusion has great adhesion on wood but when painting veneer, glass or metal surfaces use Fusion’s Ultra Grip first. Ultra Grip is similar to a primer to help your paint adhere but dries clear, perfect if you are looking to distress you furniture.  Creating Seaglass out of thrift store glass. First using Ultra Grip for good adhesion and Fusion Mineral Paint Fusion goes on quite smooth when using a good quality brush and can be almost self-leveling if applied properly. One of the great qualities of Fusion that gets my clients excited is that it has a built in top-coat and requires NO waxing or top coat! That’s right! Fusion typically requires two coats of paint with a recommended drying time of up to 12 hours (depended upon the humidity) but once you have applied you final coat your done. You now have upcycled a tired piece of furniture into a beautiful work of art! Click here to find out what is upcycling and why you should do it. Fusion is quite durable but if you are looking for more durability for higher traffic areas such as dinning room tables, chairs or kitchen cabinets try Fusion’s Tough Coat wipe on matte poly.  Fusion has a fantastic range of products from high quality brushes, metallic waxes, stencils, glazes, everything you need to really up your furniture refinishing game and create the perfect piece. Click here to see Fusion’s line of products. So that tired piece that you have sitting in the basement that you don’t know what to do with…Fusion is the perfect solution. Click here for our location and hours and stop by to see Fusion’s products to get started on your project. Interested in a workshop? Click here to see and register for our workshops. Happy painting!  You have probably heard how fantastic chalk paint or chalk-style paint is and have wondered why you can’t just use a latex paint to paint my furniture? You can, but using chalk paint (chalk-style paint) will make the process faster and so much easier. There is no priming or heavy duty sanding needed…so you can get to the good stuff faster.  Chalk paint has a matte finish, transforming imperfections on older furniture into character. Chalk paint (chalk-style) is versatile, giving you the option of creating a sleek modern finish, rustic, coastal, any style can be achieved. Found something you love on Pinterest? You can most likely replicate it using chalk paint. It dries quickly, between 30-45 minutes depending on the humidity and typically requires 2 coats. Chalk paint is porous and needs to be protected with either a wax or a top coat to seal it. Click here to see a video of when you should apply wax or top coat.  Before  After. Painted in FAT Paint's Skyline with a wash of Gull Grey, FAT glaze and sealed with Clear Coat  One of my favorite chalk-style paint to use is Canadian-made FAT paint. It has great coverage and was so easy to use that I decided to retail it. FAT paint has a great selection of colours that are on-trend and work with any design style. To see FAT paint’s gorgeous line of colours click here.  FAT waxes are easy to apply and FAT Clear Coat offers a durable finish with a beautiful sheen. Click here to see a video how to apply your clear coat. If you are looking to upcycle and transform a tired piece of furniture then try out FAT paint on your next project. Looking to learn some furniture refinishing techniques? Click here to check out our workshops. Happy painting!
Whether you’re a Furniture Refinisher or have a loved one who is, we have you covered for the holidays. Here is a list of 10 items that would be the perfect gift for the beginner or veteran furniture refinisher in your life. 1. Good Quality BrushesHaving a good quality brush is must when painting furniture. Using a cheap brush will show in your work and can be uncomfortable using for long periods of time. Using a good quality like a Staalmeester or Fusion’s blue synthetic brush gives you amazing control, soft bristles leaving a smooth finish and holds a lot of paint so you don’t have to keep dipping into the paint can. You can never have too may brushes. Prices range from $17.99 to $43.99.   2. Brush CleanerKeeping your tools of the trade in tip top shape is very important when investing in good quality products. Fusion’s brush Cleaner will keep your paint brushes clean, conditioned and a longer life. Fusion’s Brush Cleaner is $9.99  3. Fusion Metallic PaintWho doesn’t love a little bling! Fusion has an amazing line of metallic brand ranging from a gorgeous shimmering pearl to aged bronze paint. No topcoat needed! Fusion Metallic paint $22  4. FAT Clear CoatFAT paint clear coat is perfect, almost eggshell finish for your FAT paint furniture when a more durable finish is needed. on pieces like coffee and dining room table or other high traffic pieces that you are painting. Clear coat is non-yellowing and dries quickly. Click here to see when to use Clear Coat and click here to learn how to apply clear coat. FAT Paint's Clear Coat $30  5. DecoupageDecoupage medium is a great product to have in you toolbox. With Fusion’s decoupage gel you can add beautiful paper, napkins and even fabric onto your furniture. Decoupage $12.99   6. Iron Orchid Design Molds & Paper ClayIron Orchid Design products are amazing and will up your refinishing game. IOD’s have a great line of transfers and molds that can be applied easily, transforming your furniture and giving more options in your refinishing tool box. Prices range from 9.99 to 65.99 . Click here to see more of IOD’s products.  7. Extra FATFAT paint’s Extra FAT is a great product to use when you are looking to add texture to furniture or décor. Use it to create a rustic texture, coastal sea crusted look or even make it into a putty to repair damaged molding on the other wise perfect piece of furniture. $14.50  8. Paint You can never have enough paint! Canadian made Fusion Mineral paint and FAT paint’s have a beautiful palette that works with any style. Whether you are looking for neutrals, smoky greys, or a bold pop of colour, Fusion and FAT paint have the colours you need. Click here to see FAT paint's colour palette and click here to check out Fusion colours
9. WorkshopsA workshop is a great way to continue to build on skills, learn new ones and get inspiration with other like minded people. Whether you’re a veteran painter or just starting out, our workshops at Bluebird Upcycled Style has several workshops to get you going! Click here to check out our workshops.   10. Gift CertificatesIf you are still not sure what to get for that special someone, a Gift Certificate is always a great option and can be providede in any dollar amount. Click here for our location and hours.  Whatever you decide to chose for yourself or your special someone, these products are some of the best to have in a furniture refinishers toolbox.
Fall is here and we are loving Pantone's warm luscious colour trends for this fall. Deep moody greens, rich smoky navy and gorgeous contemporary pink that are all over interior design right now. Buying furniture or painting a room in a colour trend can be expensive and a long term commitment. I do not recommend purchasing a $10,000 couch in a colour trend unless you know you are going to love for years! If you are still craving to have some of these colours in your home, we have an easy way to indulge without the expense or commitment. Upcycling a tired piece of furniture or finding a unique piece at your local thrift store is a fantastic way to start. If you want to learn more about upcycling click on the link. The FAT Paint Company click here for more info and Fusion Mineral Paint click here both Canadian companies that carry gorgeous paints that require minimal prep, no stripping or heavy duty sanding. To learn more about FAT chalk-style paint or Fusion Mineral Paint click on the links. Don’t know where to start? Here are a few examples of transformations using similar colours to Pantone’s fall trends. Incorporating these colours will definitely up your decor game this season. Check out our segment here from CTV Ottawa Morning Live talking about Fall colour trends. Fusion Mineral Paint's Cranberry   Deep, warm reds are all over design right now and are perfect for Fall. Fusion’s Cranberry gives you that cozy warm feeling you get when you are sitting by the fire. This deep warm red is so versatile, gorgeous on classic pieces, rustic or would be fun and unexpected in contemporary furniture. This little occasional table was the perfect piece for Cranberry, transforming it into an elegant classic piece with a wash of Fusion’s Coal Black to make all of the beautiful detail pop. FAT Paint Navy State of Mind from the Amanda Forrest Collection   Navy has been tagged one of the season’s hottest colours and this rich classic colour is here to stay. Navy will bring a touch of elegance into your space, it’s like that black dress every women has in her closet. I upcycled this tired, outdated console and transformed it into a statement piece. Looking to get this look? Use Celebrity Interior designer Amanda Forrest’s line- Navy State of Mind from The FAT paint Company. Fusion Mineral Paint's Little Lamb   Grey continues to be on trend and is here to stay. Grey is a beautiful neutral colour that offers depth and can be paired with contrasting bold accent colours like teal, oranges,yellow and greens. Fusion’s Little Lamb is a warm but deep grey, elegant but versatile. It can be easily incorporated in most spaces, used on contemporary or Mid Century furniture. This tired french provincial dresser needed some love and was upcycled using Fusion Mineral Paint in Little Lamb with Fusion’s Pearl and Bronze from Fusion’s Metallic Collection. FAT Paint's Juno   Pink has been front and center in design lately proving it’s not just for little girl’s furniture anymore. Juno is always beautiful on curvy, feminine furniture but I especially love it when it is unexpectedly used in a more contemporary style. This dresser was painted with that in mind with FAT paint in Raven on the bottom with a heavy dry brushing and Juno on the top of the dresser for a bold contrast. FAT Paint's Cascadia  Celebrating FAT paint’s 5 year anniversary, they have introduced Cascadia, picking up on the gorgeous trend of deep smoky greens this fall. This rich colour adds a luxurious feel to any piece. I transformed this tired Mid Century Modern console and added a fun graphic pattern using FAT Paint's lemongrass, Can’t see me Camo and Shop Door...a little nod to colours of that era. This colour is so versatile and can be used with any style- rustic, modern or classic furniture.
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