Tools of the trade and the satisfaction of doing

Less sheek, more shabby

The first time I painted the faux wood finish on the table top, my patience for the project ran thin at four coats: base, faux finish, and two clear coats to protect it.

Though the finish lasted for years, daily use left the table with numerous nicks and finally, an unsightly ring (from what I don't know), taking it from chic to shabby.

The satisfaction of doing

It wasn't shabby-chic, that interior design term that embodies comfort and warmth.

No, the table became all shabby, no chic.

One trip to the hardware store, copious amounts of elbow grease, and eight(!) coats later, the table looks brand new and I'm savoring the satisfaction of doing.

March is Craft Month

Now, I'm not sure painting one table can be considered a craft, but the elements of craft are embedded in the process:

A willingness to try, to learn, experiment, fail, and press on. To create, make, and acquire new skills.

It took months for me to get going. So I did what I had to do ... I sanded the surface. After that, the table looked worse than before, so there was no turning back.

Despite myself, I really enjoyed the process and already have my eye on another piece of furniture.

If there's a hobby, passion, or project you've been pondering, March may be the month to sand, prime, paint, and get on with it.

Got any ideas?