Back to Blueberry Hill

Let me preface this post by saying this fireplace was beautiful to begin with. Part of me was torn about painting the beautiful, glossy wood as it truly was in pristine condition.  That said, it wasn’t jiving with my farmhouse/cottage style.  My philosophy is, life is just too short to settle on something that isn’t truly a reflection of you.  So, let the updating begin! Here is the mantle before I got my hands on it: …And here it is after the makeover:

Since the fireplace is the focal point in our family room (which opens up to the kitchen) I really wanted it to make a statement.  The first element that was screaming at me for an update was the brass surround.  (Again, in its day, this was all the rage.)  If you’re like me and don’t have a lot of extra cash to dole out for a new one, paint is your new best friend.  I used Rustoleum high heat paint in a satin black.  It’s a little tricky to work with and will take a few coats.  Also, I suggest to wait for a nice day so you can open the windows-this stuff is stinky!

Next to go was the wood mantle.  I gave it a few thin coats of satin white paint in semi-gloss finish (off the shelf from Home Depot.)  Instantly the room was brighter and all I’ve done so far is paint.  Easy Right?

The last element I added was (faux) Shiplap above the mantle.  1 piece of  primed 5 1/2inch MDF ($7) and 1 sheet of the thinnest plywood I could find ($11 for a huge sheet at Home Depot) were all I needed for this little project.  I cut the MDF in half, flanked each side of the TV with it, and nailed into place.  Next I (my husband-ha!) cut the plywood into strips (you can have Home Depot do this for you to save time).  I used a hammer and small nails to secure, spacing each board with a quarter to keep consistent.  I sealed around the sides, top and bottom of the MDF with a caulking gun to give it a finished look.  Lastly I got out the white paint and gave the whole thing 2 coats.  There you have it- a complete makeover for short cash – speaking your language?  Now, if only that green marble was white with grey veining…a girl can dream right?

Source list:

Wall Color: Moonshine – Benjamin Moore
Trellis Rug: Home Decorators collection at Home Depot
Black and white Scarf on mantle: Old Navy
Pallet full of cotton stems: Free – cut off the bottom of pallet found on craigslist
Cotton Stems: Craft Outlet www.craftoutlet.com
Soft Throw: Homegoods
Striped throw on chair: West Elm
Chair: Target www.target.com
Wood Basket: Antique store in ME called Harry Barkers Emporium
Silver Milk Container: Antique store in ME called Harry Barkers Emporium
Wood pallet box: Gift from my mom
Striped Pillow in basket: Cushion cover from HM Home line www.HM.com
Floating Shelving to right: The Christmas tree Shop
Lamp: Ballard Designs
Frames: collection of hand-me downs (painted by me, a few made into chalkboards)
Antique “G” mirror: $4 at a flea market

Thanks for stopping in,  I hope I’ve inspired you in some way to make an update in your own home!