Oh 80's...you know I love you for the trip down memory lane, but your country blue, hearts, and little gooseys too, all have to go. tee hee! Doesn't this thrifted gem take you back to BIG hair, stone washed jeans, and even fluorescent everything? Check out how this thrifted country gem gets updated to a farmhouse nail barrel stool.

If you're just joining me on my Operation 80's fun utilizing this pile o' thrifted goodness, you don't want to miss it. First take a peek at my last post on the
country blue benches - it's a must see.

Today's project is all about those geese and getting them gone. I mean, they are cute, even my littlest girl thinks so too, but...not my style.
DIY TIME
What to do? Break out the CitriStrip. {{fist pump}}

This stuff works amazing to remove finishes quickly. Simply brush it on heavily and leave it for a few hours, even overnight. First, in order to prevent it from drying out, I wrap it in a plastic wrap during the time it's doing its work.

After a few hours I gave it a check to see if it was ready to go. Then, I peel back the plastic in batches so the rest doesn't dry out while I work.
STRIPPING
Last, the old finish and paint come off nicely and we're on our merry way, goose free. Yay! I let the farmhouse nail barrel dry a bit before wiping it down with a bit of mineral spirits to remove more goo. After that, I grab my sander and take the rest of the finish off.

With the sanding done, I decided to add a bit of rustic, industrial flair with my stencils. I've used them
in past projects before and find them so handy. The Old World Numbers and Andy Skinner - Industrial Elements stencils work for many styles.

Last, for a finishing touch, I replaced the upholstery with a gray ticking. I also, rubbed the wood down with hemp oil to protect and give the wood longevity. Here it is all ready to go and relieved of it's 80's aura.
THE REVEAL

By removing the finish (as well as the silly geese) it now has a rustic appeal that I adore. Did you know this is how nails were transported in days gone by? That is the reason I chose to use the stencils add that authentic touch I love.

While the barrels wouldn't have had a cute upholstered seat on top, they did have a stenciled wooden lid that would have described what's inside. You can find the lids and even the stencils in flea markets, on eBay, and such. So fun!
My farmhouse nail barrel got new gray ticking upholstery and is ready to go.

Seeing it tucked in next to my pew along with my grandmother's crocks and washboard makes takes me back. Do you ever decorate with a story?

I think it makes this piece more functional making it perfect to stash winter gear, dog treats, toilet paper...you get the idea. You can find this barrel along with all my other created decor in
my online store.

UP NEXT
In addition, pin and share this fun farmhouse nail barrel makeover. Inspire others to create their own home story.

Up next, last but not least, is this sewing basket. Any guesses as to the outcome?
See the after HERE.

Likewise, stay tuned to see and get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox. Be sure to
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Also, more projects like my farmhouse nail barrel stool:
