Mantle Makeover

About a month ago, I decided I needed a change. Something about the decor on my mantle began to bother me. I don't know exactly why, maybe it was because it has looked the same for at least 8 years. Maybe it was because all of this time I am now spending around vintage and antiques has grown a desire to use them more often in my own home. Whatever the reason, the change came!

So here is the before....

 I knew that I wanted several things for certain; I wanted an antique mantle clock to replace my "made in China" Hobby Lobby clock. I also felt like I wanted to reduce the amount of "stuff" on my mantle. It just seemed like too many small objects all over the place. I wanted it neat and tidy, with things that I felt were meaningful or I admired for their historical significance. This was the result....

I found the brass horse at a thrift store for $8. Perfect for me, because I LOVE horses!

The Mantle clock is a Seth Thomas I purchased on e-bay for $90. It runs perfectly and is in great condition.

I found the tobacco basket at Vintage Thrift and Antiques in High Point, NC for $45.

The dried lavender is from Hauser Creek Farm in Mocksville, NC. It rests in a pair of milk glass vases that my husband and I inherited from his Grandmother's estate.

I still have the letter "K" on top of the books just like the old version of my mantle. I want to find something else for that spot, but nothing has come to mind yet. I am always open to suggestions....

So what do you think??

Until next time.....

Carrie

Antique Empire Dresser... Before and After

I have to say when I stumbled upon this piece it took my breath away! I anguished for months trying to decide if I should paint it or restore it to it's original glory. My dear Mum had her very vocal opinion, and I suppose I can expect to languish in hell for what I have done, but I had to make a choice based on what I knew was popular with my clientele. Heaven forbid....I have painted an antique! And might I say, I think it is lovely! Take a look for yourself. On this occasion, I chose CeCe Caldwell's Smokey Mountain Quartz over Vintage White. I very carefully distressed with a wet rag so as to not damage the antique wood. Then I applied the clear and antique waxes and buffed to a matte sheen. I would love to know what you think...

Until next time....

Carrie

This is the old beauty before.....

and after......