Tiger Print goes Whimsical: My Thrifted Box Makeover
- Tracey Bellion
- 1h
- 5 min read
I'll admit it... for years, I've had a soft spot for anything animal print. Zebra, leopard, tiger.....if it roars I'm here for it.
But lately, I've been finding myself more and more drawn to whimsical patterns (if you haven't already noticed).....colorful, playful and just a little unexpected.
Check out how I turned a thrifted find from Goodwill into a whimsical keepsake box in this easy to follow DIY makeover!
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Design Plan: Whimsical Thrifted Box Makeover
When I spotted this tiger print box at Goodwill, it immediately caught my eye.
But honestly... it was the shape of the box that really sold me!
I decided to give it a full on makeover....inspired by a whimsically painted bird feeder I had seen and saved in my phone.
I chose a color palette (which I share in the supply list for you) to match my home decor and just got busy painting!
Supplies Used: Whimsical Thrifted Box Makeover
CMP Drop Cloth
CMP Plum Crazy
CMP Dixie Belle Blue
CMP Flamingo
CMP Peony
Dixie Belle Flat Medium Brush
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Whimsical Thrifted Keepsake Box Makevoer
I didn't prime! Chalk mineral paint has such great adhesion that unless you're working with a super glossy surface or wood that might bleed through... you can just skip the primer! And so I did!
Start by Painting the Base Coat White
I cleaned and painted over the original surface!
I chose Drop Cloth as my base color. I applied it using a stippling technique and was able to get full coverage with just one coat!
Make it Whimsical with Checks & Stripes!
Once dry, I used a pencil and a ruler to draw out my checks and stripes.
I used The Gulf...which is a gorgeous Tiffany Blue color and a fave of mine.....for the front of the box checks.
The side of the box is checked with a violet color that I create by mixing Plum Crazy with Dixie Belle Blue (1:1). I also used these two colors to create the sunburst pattern on the lid of the box.
I added a pop of unexpected color by adding alternating Peony pink with Flamingo coral to separate the lid of the box from the body.
It's details like this that will keep your projects fun and unique. Don't be afraid to mix multiple colors and patterns on one project!
Finishing Touches in Black & White and Gold
I usually finish my projects with black and white patterns AND gold! So here I did just that!
I usually try to balance the black and white pattern... meaning if I add it at the top, I try to add it at the bottom as well...like you see here.
I did this with my favorite black called Caviar.
And finally, the gold trim, finial on top, and then the creepy little feet! LOL! Liquid Leaf gold covers in ONE coat!
It's VERY fumey thought....so please only use it in a well ventilated area or wear a mask!
More Easy DIY Tutorials!
Looking to create fun easy DIY projects? Check out my some of my classes with easy to follow video instructions. See the whole library of classes HERE.
The Finished Look: Whimsical Thrifted Box Makeover
I really like to finish my whimsical projects in a high gloss top coat. I just feel like it adds to their playful vibe! Like a bright shiny object saying "look at me"! So this was completed by adding two coats of Clear Coat Gloss.
And did you notice the adorable tassel? I made it!
The box had a tassel on it originally.... which had a jungle/tribal vibe. I loved the idea of making a whimsical tassel! I purchased charms and beads that spoke to me from the Hobby Lobby.... and strung them on clear stretchy string that is probably used to make bracelets.
It worked perfectly and I LOVE the look! I feel like it really brought the whole project home!
So remember, if you love the SHAPE of ANY object... but you don't love the color or pattern on it.... just paint it!
AND often you can skip the primer step when you're using a quality chalk mineral paint! It sticks to almost anything!!!
More Inspiration:
Maybe you don't have a thrifted keepsake box.....but I'm hoping this color palette, checks, stripes and this whimsical style will inspire you to try this project or something similar soon!
Here are additional designs for your inspiration:
Repurposed Cigar Boxes - same thrifted cigar boxes completely different look
Vintage Silverware Box - stunning must see transformation!
Nailhead Trim Box - a simple project with a lot of wow!
Antique Sewing Box - your grandmother would love this one.
Thrifted Decorative Box - another thrifted box with a whole different look
And here are EVEN MORE blogs that you can draw inspiration with whimsical hand painted home decor and gift ideas!
Click on any photo below for more up-close photos and all the design details
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