The Easiest Bookshelf Makeover You Will Ever Do!

Last week's post, Four Lovely Books by Kate of Centsational Girl is a great segway for my post on creating a reading nook. I have been wanting to create a dedicated space to doing only one thing, reading books. I've even envisioned myself, as Kate described, curling up with a hot cup of tea and a good book in hand on a rainy day in my very own reading nook. 

A few months ago, my friend was getting rid of a couple of bookshelves and of course, I hear the word FREE and I'm all over it. Not because I'm a hoarder (ok, maybe just a little...wink wink) but because I love the challenge of taking something old and turning it into something beautiful (even if my fiancé gripes and tells me I don't have room for all of this stuff).

The bookshelves were definitely dated and didn't have the clean lines I love, but maybe I'll fix that next.

In the meantime, I wanted a quick makeover and not something I would have to work on for days (I'm an instant gratification type of gal). I've been reading about Annie Sloan paint for a while on the blogosphere and thought I'd see what the hype was all about. Well, let me tell you, there is definitely HYPE to be had. Annie Sloan paint is probably the easiest, most forgiving paint you will ever work with. It didn't take me long to become an Annie Sloan believer!

 

 

I started by cleaning the bookshelf with mineral spirits and an old rag. After mixing a small amount water in with my Annie Sloan paint, I was ready to get started.

A Little Dumpster Diving Never Hurt Anyone

I know what you're thinking! But I have to say, this was one of those situations where I was at the right place at the right time! My co-worker (whose wife is an interior designer) came to my office (as if he was looking for a partner in crime) and told me the hotel next door to our building was renovating and throwing out a bunch of good furniture. He discovered this only after running into a couple of the hotels employees, who just happened to be claiming a few items.

So we decide to walk over (Ok. I was really running...) They had quite a few fabulous items but I could only get three in my small car, so I chose carefully! My friends and family would tell you, given the time and resources, I would probably would have rented a Uhaul! But I was at work and had many deadlines to meet, so I practiced major discipline!

Below is just one of the items I was able to load into my car. Excuse the blurry photos - I used my iphone as my camera was out of commission and since this is my first post, I'm still learning as I go. But, you'll be happy to know I am taking tips from Growing Your Blog & The Great Juggling Act by Centsational Girl, Thrifty Decor Chick, Nesting Place, Miss Mustard Seed and Tatertots & Jello. Below is the bench before. Nasty...I know!!!