There I was just minding my own business heading out to pick up the week's groceries for my family of 8, plus two pets. Obviously, this is a weekly occurrence that is actually flanked with the week's trash in my neighborhood. What's a gal to do when this bright pink vertical wall file organizer is sitting flagging me down? tsk.
Whether I wanted it for me or not, it certainly doesn't need to go to the landfill. Am I right? There is literally nothing wrong with it, unless you count the hideous stickers and
very vibrant color. Those features don't bother this trashure hunter. What's even more funny is that I'm constantly pulling stuff out of this neighbor's trash. One week, it was two complete metal twin bed frames, another was an entertainment console with
this basket I upcycled.
So, as you can imagine, I wasn't surprised to see this pink hottie sitting out. I'm not anti-hot pink, but it surely doesn't fit into my decor naturally. However, it does mean I can make it my own like I did
this thrifted trash can.
On top of that, my kids know that having that in the trash is a shame, so they have no problem with me pulling over to rescue it because if I don't want it, I donate it to a local ministry instead. Imagine if we all did the same...
FARMHOUSEIFIED
While it's no surprise that I adore authentic farmhouse (not box store farmhouse), my style is also a mix of European, industrial, cottage, and a bit of shabby chic. With that in mind, I want to tone down the pink and make it more my style.
First, I need to spend the excruciating time picking off those stickers....joke.
If you do it right, it's not that bad when you use the right tools and supplies. As soon as I remove the top layer either with my knife or fingers, I apply rubbing alcohol or goo gone to remove the residue. Likwise, see
this sticker-i-fied Brasilia chest of drawers I revived from the thrift store.
Next, it's time to drastically change this pinky up. My mind went from white with flowers, blue with texture, or even to a more rustic pink. Eventually, I settle on a farmhouse industrial vibe because they are metal and have that vintage locker feel going on with the bin labels.
As you can imagine, this flat black is pretty basic and, well...kinda boring. Therefore, before I do the next step, I use an old candle to rub in spots that would normally get wear or where I want it to show wear. *note: I also use an old candle to rub on bottoms of drawers and drawers guides for smooth, and easy opening and closing.
MORE PAINT
After that, I also use this smokey beige color next for a very light coat.
Furthermore, I'm not done yet! After the paint cures, I add one more bit of nutmeg paint.
However, I do this in small batches so that I can take my old paint brush and wipe across to remove a bit of paint from where I applied the candle wax.
Last, but not least, I use my number stencil to trace and then hand paint in to add a bit of whimsy to my Curb le Chic find.
STORAGE & STYLE UP
Finally, my pink hottie find is now telling a story of time-worn wear and oodles of storage. It's definitely not trash, right?!?
Not only do the three colors add depth, but also that storytelling part that really creates a feeling in your home. I want my own home to be welcoming and cozy so that those entering don't feel like they need to worry about touching or hurting anything.
With this idea and transformation in mind, what would you tuck into this curbside find? Also, I'm curious if you saw this on the side of the road, would you have stopped to get it?
What is more, if you'd like to make this part of your home story, you can find this organizer and more available in
my online store.
SHARE
In addition to leaving some comment love below for my vertical wall file organizer (let me hear it!), I also encourage you to pin and share to inspire others to give a makeover to their decor too.
Before you go, take a peek at my next gem...er...victim. tee hee. Wait until you
see it NOW...
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While you're at it, check out these other makeovers like this vertical wall file organizer:
