Who doesn't love a good cookie? I mean, they're so fun, absolutely versatile as gifts, and perfect for filling that munchie craving without all the guilt. That is, unless you eat a dozen. ahem. However, stashing them shouldn't be boring but rather make a fun statement! Check out this vintage cookie jar I recently snatched at the thrift store.
This is a late 1940's early 1950's cookie barrel, actually. It's sweetly made of staves held together with the barrel rings. It's just... a bit... dated.
That's nothing that a little creative juices and DIY elbow grease can't fix, right? Let's get at it.
FALLING DOWN
First, I just want to say that you could totally keep this as-is with the story it tells. However, for the sake of today's post, let's say it doesn't suit your decor, and you want to freshen it up. In order to do that, I need to take it all apart.
Loula is
always watching me closely.
Then, I remove those rings that are literally holding it together. And this happens... BAM.
In a flash, I'm reminded of my whiskey barrel upcycling projects I've done in the past with the staves and rings.
Now back to my hot mess pile. To start, I take the rings and lid outside after cleaning them all up and spray them with a flat black paint. It's like 12-degrees on this day, so I spray outside and bring them in to cure.
While those cure, I head out to my freezing workshop to sand down the staves AFTER numbering them for assembly later.
Keep in mind that this is made of pine, a soft wood, but still wood and worth refreshing. After sanding, I apply a light coat of creme wax and let cure.
Now for the funny part... trying to put it back together. If you've never messed with staves and rings, it takes a bit of finagling. eep! I found putting the base on a similar height block as well as a form (paint can) did the trick.
I pop the rings back on and the handle and we're back in business. whew!
Last, but not least, I re-paint on the "cookie" text using
my transfer method.
BRING ON THE COOKIES!
Finally, here is my vintage cookie jar (or barrel) makeover with a modern vibe.
By leaving the raw wood look paired with the black, it's clean and simple. Might you like to try one of these chocolate chip cookies my youngest whipped up for me in minutes so I could stage?
Additionally, as an added bonus, you can turn it to the back side and use it plain for whatever your heart desires.
Do you like? I'd love to hear your comments below as you are who are write for. Likewise, pin and share to inspire others to make their own house their home.
Before you go, be sure to
sign up for my FREE newsletter to see what becomes of this loot.
Until next time!
PINTEREST | EMAIL
While you're at it, here are more projects like my vintage cookie jar:
