It ain't every day that a gal gets inspired by hearts. Or maybe I should say inspired by the challenge to remove said hearts. I'm not heartless, by any means, but when I spy a thrifted wood bin like this one below, I say game on. If you're new here, you may not know that geese, cute Amish, and hearts are on my radar. Soooo many pieces that still showcase this vintage vibe but can have a new lease on life. In fact, you can see my past
80's hearts makeovers HERE.

This particular bin kinda gripped my heart when I lift the lid and see this etched marking.

A certain loving father gifted this to his 24-year-old daughter, Patty, on her 24th birthday (or possibly anniversary) in 1987. Isn't that sweet? Handmade gifts always show heart - pun intended.
MAKEOVER TIME
First, I think this is kinda cute as-is. However, let's say you find this or have this tucked away somewhere because it doesn't suit your decor. What to do? Give it a new look. I begin by tracing over the heart using a plastic sour cream tub and my builder's square.

After that, I cut out my shape using my jigsaw and a steady hand. Then, as soon as I cut and sand, I bring it in and start to use my barn red milk paint to coat it all. Notice who's thinking milk pain smells pretty good. Good enough for licking - blucky.
Loula is a hoot.

Last, after the milk paint cures, I add my own typography for an added antique-ish touch.

By the way, you can see these other red barn milk paint pieces.
THE NEW OLD
Finally, after my DIY adventure, here's my thrifted wood bin now with a different style of prim Americana.

In addition, I left the inscription on the inside for future owners to have that piece of history.

Best part... while the "heart" of the creation is still there, I remove the cutouts and have these openings as well.
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Finally, are you feeling inspired yet? My goal is to get you to think outside the bin at what could be. Likewise, let me know in comments below if you would have bought this and what you'd do with it.

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While you're at it, check out these other makeovers like this thrifted wood bin makeover:
