Yes, it's kinda quirky, huge, and, at the back, even a bit damaged. Now, doesn't that make it a perfect candidate to add a chapter to the story?
THE BACKSTORY
My interest to this is because of the meaning behind a pineapple. What may seem like a simple fruit, actually has a whole lotta meaning when it comes to a home. Did you know that the picture of the pineapple has been in use since the 17th century to symbolize hospitality and influence? The next time you see a pineapple in the grocery story, be thankful you didn't have to travel to the Caribbean to get one as they did back then. If you were affluent enough to score one, you impress your guests.It is believed that it was Columbus, on his voyage to the Caribbean In 1493, who found the fruit on the island of Guadaloupe. To the European eye, this curious new fruit had an abrasive, segmented exterior like a pinecone and inside the fruit had a firm interior pulp like an apple. The first official record on this delightful fruit came from Michael de Cuneo, a childhood friend of Columbus and his voyage companion"The plant looks like an artichoke… the fruit is shaped like a pine cone, only twice as large and it tastes excellent. It can be cut with a knife, like a turnip and it seems to be very healthy." Michael de Cuneo (snippet from Art & Home)
DIY TIME
Now that you get my interest in the particular fruit, let's talk about this fabricated wood item. While maybe it's not the prettiest to start, but that's gonna change. First, I fix that damaged wood with wood filler. Just put it on, be patient, and let it cure.
Meanwhile, we're going to add some typography fun. If you're new to embossing, check out my video below. Or, read the tutorial HERE.
Then, I print a text of choice and tape it face down to the bottom of a 9"x 13" glass baking dish. Stay with me now.
Next, just like the video shows, we're going to pipe out our words using the glue as the medium. It's very similar to frosting a cake. Have fun with it!
Afterwards, if you make a extra blob or two, like I did, just use an Exacto knife or similar to trim it up. By applying the glue to the glass, it makes it easy to pop off and adhere where we want it. For example, you can even use it to make window clings.
NEXT STEPS
Then, I use super glue to adhere the text to the emerging welcome sign pineapple. After that, I paint the fruit with a gray paint to make the text and backing cohesive.
It ain't so pretty now, is it? haha. However, time will tell!
Last, but not least, I paint a soft white to the fruit and refresh the green for the top. Then, I add wax and distress for a time-worn vibe, plus a little fun.
THE REVEAL
Whatcha think? It's more of a subtle fineapple now instead of an 90's vibin' fruit. woot! The embossed text really adds a sweet message. And, I had to add a vintage feed sack bow. Because...why not? Likewise, you can see how I use stencils to emboss in a different form in this post.
If you'd like to make this sign a part of your home, you can find it and more available in my online shop.
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ASSIGNMENT
With this in mind, now it's your turn. First, I challenge you to take something dated, whether in your home or found second-hand. Take a "before" picture. Then, I want you to give it a super easy makeover in whatever form you want. Last, send me a picture of the both the "before" and the "after" to larissa at prodigalpieces.com or use the contact button in the menu. I want to compile a collage to add here of all your fun. Are you game? In addition, pin and share my welcome home pineapple sign. Besides, I know there are others out there who have potential waiting in their home.
Up next, it's Trash to Treasure Tuesday! You can see what becomes of this. HEAD HERE!
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Also, more fun makeovers like my welcome home pineapple sign:
