Every once in awhile I like to challenge myself to use colors that I don't use very often!
Welcome to my maximalist nature-inspired jewelry armoire "shades of green" color challenge!
I dressed up this VERY plain jewelry armoire using shades of green only - except for a tiny pop of hidden #fancy that just couldn't be helped!
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So Many Techniques Covered on this Project!
I drew from my entire arsenal of product on this project!
In this blog I will discuss:
Before: Nature Inspired Jewelry Armoire Makeover
You know things are rough when your husband says something! Matt took one look at this jewelry box when I got it home and said...."whoa, that's an ugly one". LOL!
Not for long, honey....watch this!
Supplies Used
Variety of Molds
Variety of Stamps
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Nature Inspired Jewelry Armoire
I taught the entire process over several live classes in Curiously Creative.
I will cover the basics of the steps with you here but if you'd prefer a more in depth lesson, you can join Curiously Creative at any time and the ALL of my classes are there for you!
Prep and Prime
After removing the tiny knobs and screws, I gave the piece a thorough cleaning and rinse with White Lightning.
Using Boss Primer in gray, I covered the entire piece in a single coat and let dry.
I also used this time to choose my color palette.
It was at this point that I decided to challenge myself to shades of a single color....and I chose GREENS.
Painting the Base Color
I always recommend 3 colors for a paint project unless you are wanting just a single color finish. When you use three colors it allows you to have a highlight (your lightest color), a mid-tone (your middle shade) and a low light (your deepest color).
For this project I chose 5 shades of green just to be used when painting the molds.
My plan was to paint the entire piece in the mid-tone color (I always recommend the mid-tone coverage first).....which in this case is Cactus.
PRO TIP: Once the entire piece is covered in a single color, it really helps me to have a better vision of where I want to go from there.
Stamping the Background
I wanted to add multiple layers to this piece and I haven't used my stamp collection in awhile. I have both IOD and REdesign with Prima brands.
Stamps make a great background when used in a neutral or subtle color.
I chose to use the deepest green, Collard Greens.
I simply lay the stamps down on a flat surface, rough side up, and apply my paint with a roller, brayer, or blue sponge.
The trick to a successful stamp is:
apply very little paint to the stamp
do not press hard when applying the paint to the stamp as you only want paint on the most raised portion
press the stamp gently to the furniture being careful not to add too much pressure
lift the stamp away all at once being careful not to allow it to slip
Stamps provide so much detail!
Applying the Transfers
I used pieces from multiple Dixie Belle Paint Company transfers.
I chose transfers that had leaves and butterflies that I could use to add yet another layer to my nature piece.
If you've never worked with transfers before, I have a many blogs telling step by step how to do so. Here's one of my favorites and I have a wonderful video showing exactly how to apply the transfers HERE!
Pouring the molds
I use Amazing Casting Resin. It is very easy to use and comes with clear directions.
You basically mix Part A with Part B, stir really well before pouring into your desired mold.
It cures within 10 minutes and is ready to use.
Applying the molds
I painted all molds with a single coat of Cactus.
NOTE: You can skip this step if you choose to adhere your molds to your piece prior to painting it and then paint it all at the same time.
I used both WoodUBend molds and the molds that I made.
I simply decide where I want to use them, apply glue, and press into place.
I use Triple Thick Fast Acting glue to apply both the casted resin molds as well as the WoodUBend molds.
PRO TIP: I tend to save my WoodUBend molds for any area that is curved or has a corner, as they are bendable when heated, making them perfect for these areas.
PRO TIP: The WoodUBend do not need to be taped into place. You pre-heat, apply glue, press into place again and they are STUCK! The resin molds need a bit more time to adhere so I often tape them into place for a bit until they feel secure.
Painting the Nature Inspired Details
Now to paint these pretty bouquets of flowers!
This is where ALL the colors come in! This process should feel free and fun! Any colors make sense!
A rose does not have to be red or pink. A rose can be green and gray with hints of blue! I had so much fun painting the flowers and leaves!
Choose small brushes that will allow you to really work on detail and shading.
