Trash to Treasure Makeover {An Old Sewing Cabinet}
July 21, 2009
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I will dig through the Goodwill shelves with the best of them, but I've never had the guts to grab something sitting out a curb. A couple months ago on the way out of the neighborhood, I saw something sitting at the end of a neighbor's driveway with the trash.
I couldn't really tell what something was...I just saw it had GREAT legs. I slowed..but my pride got the best of me. I mean, really. Was I going to pull over, grab that thing and stuff it in my car in broad daylight? In my own neighborhood?
No way.
Well, I felt bad later cause this sucker was HEAVY. Like, what the bleep is in this thing?, heavy.
She was in really, really bad shape.
I couldn't really tell what something was...I just saw it had GREAT legs. I slowed..but my pride got the best of me. I mean, really. Was I going to pull over, grab that thing and stuff it in my car in broad daylight? In my own neighborhood?
No way.
I totally sent my sister instead.
She did it and called me cursing because it was "soooooo heavy Sarah, seriously" and babbling on about "like 50 pounds" and "you totally owe me" -- blah blah blah. I was all, "Toughen up Sister!" and "It's good for you!" and, "Go get me a snack!"
Well, I felt bad later cause this sucker was HEAVY. Like, what the bleep is in this thing?, heavy.
Upon some inspection, we realized it was a very old sewing cabinet:
She was in really, really bad shape. I had a vision though...
First, I put on my super cute accessories -- a mask (dollar store) and goggles:
Up till a few months ago, I never used either one when sanding, but now I try to use them all the time. I see the HGTV peeps do it, so like always, I do as they do.
Next I took all the innards out of the table and she lost about 40 pounds like that. (Wouldn't that be nice?)
Up till a few months ago, I never used either one when sanding, but now I try to use them all the time. I see the HGTV peeps do it, so like always, I do as they do.Next I took all the innards out of the table and she lost about 40 pounds like that. (Wouldn't that be nice?)
Then I pulled out my little mouse detail sander. This little guy is cheap and will do just about any job in half the time as sandpaper:
After you finish sanding, you must wipe it down, like, fifty trillion times.
After you finish sanding, you must wipe it down, like, fifty trillion times. I swear it takes longer than the sanding. I just use wet paper towels but tack cloths work great too:
Keep wiping till no more stuff comes off.
Because the top sanded down so easily, I had a wild hair to stain the top instead of painting it:
But I just wasn't feeling it. It was beautiful, but it wasn't my original vision and it was leaning very red.
I was so excited to get to the next step -- my inspiration for this was a beautiful little side table that was one of my few real furniture splurges. It is black with a very faint gold scrolly design on the front and I love it. So I gathered up my stenciling tools to recreate the look:
Keep wiping till no more stuff comes off.Because the top sanded down so easily, I had a wild hair to stain the top instead of painting it:
But I just wasn't feeling it. It was beautiful, but it wasn't my original vision and it was leaning very red. I did a little freak out that I had just wasted all that time, but I had another wild hair as I started painting over it:
I did one thin coat so you can see the red wood coming through. Um. People...I LOVE it.
I did one thin coat so you can see the red wood coming through. Um. People...I LOVE it. I was so excited to get to the next step -- my inspiration for this was a beautiful little side table that was one of my few real furniture splurges. It is black with a very faint gold scrolly design on the front and I love it. So I gathered up my stenciling tools to recreate the look:
You really only need one, but I wanted that bronze tone. You need very, very little -- just a dollop:
Get all the excess off, you want as little on the foam as possible:
I taped the stencil down, and taped over the areas I didn't want to get painted:
Then I pulled it off and....
I hated it. It was waaaaaay too bright. And I completely forgot about the handle that had to go back on as well.
I decided to paint the whole front panel black and just be done with the whole thing, so I started sanding over it. And a beautiful thing happened -- it was exactly what I wanted:
Then I distressed the whole table just a bit. Because distressing stresses me:
Then I pulled it off and....I hated it. It was waaaaaay too bright. And I completely forgot about the handle that had to go back on as well.
I decided to paint the whole front panel black and just be done with the whole thing, so I started sanding over it. And a beautiful thing happened -- it was exactly what I wanted:
Well, I'll be. It was perfect. By accident.
Then I distressed the whole table just a bit. Because distressing stresses me:
I didn't use poly to protect it, I don't think this one needs it.
I scrubbed the old hardware and love how it turned out:
What a lovely accident!
I'm still playing around with accessories:
The print above is going -- I'm making something else for that spot I'm very excited about.
The print above is going -- I'm making something else for that spot I'm very excited about.Here's the Singer that was inside...she's a beaut:
Anyone know if these have any value anymore? It really is gorgeous. Wish I had a spot to display it.
This whole project was FREE -- the sewing cabinet from the trash pile and paint and a stencil I already had.
Anyone know if these have any value anymore? It really is gorgeous. Wish I had a spot to display it.This whole project was FREE -- the sewing cabinet from the trash pile and paint and a stencil I already had.
I want to live in your neighborhood! Cripes...I don't believe it...just too good to be true!!! And I love how it turned out...perfect!!
ReplyDeleteNancy
Beautiful! And with a tune up that sewing machine might not only be worth $$$$$ but it may just sew beautifully! I know a few people who have them and still use them to this day.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading your blog...every SINGLE post since you started...I ventured out to a thrift store today...found a few things...nothing as FAB as your TRASH but not bad for my first time. Then I was feeling pretty confident and stopped by Goodwill....HELLO...I was in heaven! Scored some white porcelain dish thingies (is that a word?...is now!) I had visioned for my dining room!! YAY for me!
ReplyDeleteI love what you did with it. It looks fabulous!! Free I can't believe it.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post for me. At first I thought Oh! I like the top! Then what you did next really was perfect. Awesome!!! It's now in my brain...and I'll do it!
ReplyDeleteWow - that is gorgeous! I actually have TWO old sewing cabinets out in my garage, but wasn't sure how to go about making them fabulous. Thank you so much for the inspiration!! You are the best!
ReplyDeletetotally gor-geous!!!! we have found some of our fave stuff from "treasure hunting" in our old neighborhood. seriously, like entire dining room table sets! but nothing that great!!! people here in our new area only throw away trash! the nerve! can i please use more exclamation marks???? love your blog!
ReplyDeleteI am SUPER jealous! I have 1 old sewing table that I got at a garage sale - I use it as a nightstand and I have been on the lookout for another one for the other side... I have been stalking your blog for a while now and am LOVING all of your ideas!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beauty! I love it~
ReplyDeleteSarah, it turned out AMAZING!! I too have been tempted to grab some pieces of trash I have seen...darn I don't have anyone to do my dirty work! Your sense of humor and writting always makes me laugh...I adore you and your blog!! Have a wonderful week...love this piece!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
~Victoria~
BEAUTIFUL!!! LOVE THIS!! FREE...makes it even better!
ReplyDeleteOkay... I am in LOVE with your table!
ReplyDeleteYou have TALENT, God given!
You always amaze me!
You did a GREAT job, it looks beautiful! I love were its placed too. You will have to find a spot for that sewing machine its to beautiful to not display. Also, click my name and view my blog larsenloves.bl... to see my window shelf I painted and hung! ;)
ReplyDeleteWow! I have to say I love that table in every one of your incarnations. You are amazing!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous!!!! Lucky find, lucky girl!
ReplyDeleteGreat work all around! I love it! Got any ideas for a display coffee table?
ReplyDeletewww.finewire.blogspot.com
Oh my goodness!!! What an amazing transformation!!! and love the fun way you shared it!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Jill
You should take a picture of it and leave it at the house where you found the table...kind of like the Junk Brothers show on HGTV, only you keep the table and don't give it back. LOL
ReplyDeleteI just did a thrifty side table makeover too, come by and see!
Sarah, that is just plain awesome! I've seen these at Salvation Army several times. I love what you did with it!!!! :) The faint stencil on the front is so pretty, and I love that it was all free!!
ReplyDeleteI can't believe someone threw that out. It just seems sad to throw out an old sewing machine like that. I *love* what you did with the table!!! Awesome!
ReplyDeleteI love your sister comments! Too cute! I love following your blog! You did an amazing job! Way more patience than I will ever admit to having but I love it turned out!!! You owe your sister an ice cream for her hard work to help you out! ;)
ReplyDeleteGirl, you rock my socks off. Will you adopt me? I am really not much trouble... I swear.
ReplyDeleteLove, Love, Love the table!
GORGEOUS!!! you HAVE to find a place to put the sewing machine...it's too pretty not to.
ReplyDeleteGreat Job! I too just inherited a sewing table but it was my Great Grandmothers and my Grandfathers dying wish was to keep it in the family and never to alter it. It is in really great condition and I love the history behind it so I'm happy to honor him. Also, to answer your question about worth. My boss is an antique dealer on the side and has told me that old sewing machines in pristine condition are only worth about $125 on a good day in our area. But I agree, that is a beautiful machine, it's a shame someone didn't appreciate that.
ReplyDeletePut the Singer on the newly finished table top? May as well show off that beauty...
ReplyDeleteI love the table! It looks fabulous...you have an amazing blog, thank you for all of the great inspiration!
ReplyDeleteVery nice. The Glidden paint giveaway made me so happy today. My paint got here just as we got back from storytime so after little one went down for nap I painted my laundry room the most perfect shade of lavender. I picked the Morning Heather and mixed 1/2 a quart with 1/2 gallon of off-white left by the previous owners and a quart of grayish white mismixed paint we picked up from SW when we bought our house. My laundry room is so loverly now and it just makes me smile so hard. I still have half a quart of Morning Heather to paint accent stuff with.
ReplyDeleteYOur new table is gorgeous, but I REALLY love the old machine. It is just fabulous. Hugs, Marty
ReplyDeleteCan I tell you how much I love love love this post? I do! I have my Mom's ancient sewing table. We sold the sewing machine out of it to an antique buyer but not sure for how much. Worth a try though since then not only would you have a FREE piece of fab furniture but you would make money too!!! I also think the machine would be cool on display though. Now I am getting the machine out of storage and fixing it up! I'll let you know how it goes!
ReplyDeleteI am speechless at the sight.....it is ten thousand times lovely!!!!
ReplyDeleteSuzanne
wow Wow WOW, it looks SO great!! Wish I could find something like that in the trash at my neighbor's house! :)
ReplyDeleteI have an old sewing table bought from a yard sale that was gold plated-- with gold leaf. Now I'm tempted to sand it down and paint it, I think I'd like it even better.
GREAT find! FREE??? Love the accidental result! :)
ReplyDelete3 words...U.MA.ZING!! you rock! that is awesome. keep the inspiration coming!
ReplyDeleteYou are SO Inspirational, it makes me yack!! In a good way!! :) I love to read what you do,it makes me want to redo stuff!
ReplyDeleteMy mom had one of those. Let me make sure my dad didn't toss it!
ReplyDeleteLooks great. I love it.
ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! Last I heard, those Singer's are worth something. I have 3 old ones and one old table. That was a GREAT free find. And you did a beautiful job making it beautiful.
ReplyDeleteMy parents found an old upright piano in someone's trash. We stalked it, then guarded it and fought off two old women while we waited for my dad to bring the truck. Talk about heavy. He probably would have preferred the sewing machine/table :o)
Simply GORG!!! :o)
ReplyDeleteYou did a spectacular job, it looks great, and in more proportion in its place....I had one very similar I found also! See, roadside isnt so bad!!!
ReplyDeleteSue
What a fabulous find..and you did a beautiful job. But that print above the table is to die for! I love it! And display that machine somewhere. it is awesome
ReplyDeleteYou did a wonderful job! It looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteSarah you crack me up. You did a fantastic job on that table! Send your sissy my way!
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your guest post contribution!
And the mention on the Amazing Giveaway!
love the sewing table--I actually sew on a Singer like that!
love, kelee
I had a table just like that one and I got rid of it at a yard sale for free probably. I never thought to do that with it. Those old sewing machines are sometimes usable. I have a bloggy friend in Florida who just refurbished one and is actually sewing with it.
ReplyDeleteGreat job on the table - love your blog.
You could DEFINITELY get some money for that sewing machine.
ReplyDeleteWow! I cannot believe that you found that for free in someone's trash. It turned out just gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteYour table is wonderful! Don't you just love it when creativity works out? I purchased a 1940ish night stand recently for $20, yep just $20. It has such great detail, but needed tlc. After sanding it I stained it with Minwax water-based black stain. The brown barely shows through. It is so pretty now! Your site is so inspiring!!!
ReplyDeleteThat table is fabulous. If your sewing machine is all metal and still works - or you could get it working, it will definitely be worth something. My machine (bernina) is worth quite a bit and it's 30 years old. I got mine for $600, but my sister paid $1000 for the exact same model a few years before - it just depends on where you live. I'd probably keep it though; it's gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteThat turned out lovely!
ReplyDeleteIt turned out great! And the price was right! Like the new hairdo too (at least it's the 1st time I've seen it in several months!) Hope you're having a good summer!
ReplyDeleteHow awesome! That is such a beautiful table now! You have such a talent for turning trash into treasures!! I love the old sewing maching too! How vintage!
ReplyDeleteThat came out so great!
ReplyDeleteIt turned out gorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteIt turned out amazing, but your stuff always does! I have been following you for some time now and you were my big inspiration to finally do something for myself and something I love! I have started a blog and there are some goodwill finds and even one curbside pickup in the works, just trying to get the hang of blogger and all! I am so glad you are going to be doing this full time! Yay!
ReplyDeletelooks great! i am a trash picker and dumpster diver from way back...i have scored a queen sized wicker and iron headboard & footboard and an antique dresser, among other things. we have community wide garage sales here and the week after is always "big trash" pick up. you wouldn't believe what people will put out in the trash instead hauling it to goodwill! you can get some good stuff that way FREE!
ReplyDeleteThis table is GORG! Love thrifty redo's! I do know that singer's aren't that pricey unless it is a singer featherweight brand.. and by your post I am guessing it is not featherweight! hahaha I love the machine.. you MUST find a place for it.. keep thinking!
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh girl, I love it! I just love when I get stuff for free and can make it super cute. Pa-rops to you!! :)
ReplyDeleteLove you girl. Just wanted to say that. Thanks for inspiring, and supporting.
I didn't comment yesterday, but you're gonna do GREAT. I'm super excited for you.
you are so right she is a beaut. you did an awesome job on the table. don't you just love when things go your way:)i made my oldest son grab a vintage patio chair for me at a curb in front of someones house. he got out of my car saying "this is so embaressing:)5 years later and he is still alive, it didnt kill him:)
ReplyDeleteblessings,
aimee
No kidding...I have a collection of old sewing machines...and someone just threw this away?!!
ReplyDeleteWell, it looks great.
Happy Hump Day ~Natalie
Lovely table and I LOVE the machine. Actually quilters seek out those old machines as they are typically steady and true workhorses!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great find! Even nicer of your sister to get it for you! LOL!
ReplyDeleteI used to just "woman up" and grab things myself if I saw something that caught my eye at the curb (but I also didn't have one of my little sister's living in the area). : ) You did a great job and yes, I think I had a "fab happen by accident" once or twice, and it is great when it works out that way!
I have found SO MUCH dumpster diving. Hope you will keep it up!
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteYou had me laughing like crazy at the vision of ordering your sister to go pick up that sewing machine for you and a snack. My big sister loves to order me around too. She's a little less successful now that I'm older.
Great job on the cabinet. I'm taking notes on how you did everything. It looks fab there.
Gretchen
I LOVE it!!!!!
ReplyDeleteYou did a great job....I am on the hunt for an old ratty piece or two....hopefully I will find something.
awwww....ain't she a beaut..
ReplyDeleteLove it. Great job girl. It looks perfect.
That's funny you say that you are playing with the accessories. I feel like my house in always in motion. nothing stays in the same place for more than a few weeks.
Wow! I love the transformation!
ReplyDeleteWhat I love even more is reading about the process you went through...with the misses and hits and how you corrected the misses.
It really turned out lovely! Can't wait to see what you come up with to replace that print.
That looks amazing!!!
ReplyDeleteOh. My. Word. She's gorgeous and I'm totally in love with that old sewing machine too. Seriously wish I lived close by...I'd come get her in a heartbeat.
ReplyDeleteomg! that is so amazing! i really need to learn from your talent!
ReplyDeleteGreat project! I'm so jealous over your sewing machine find. I collect vintage machines - much to my husband's dismay! lol
ReplyDeleteDepending on the model and condition, there are some who would pay more than the $125 suggested above. I've seen vintage machines go for over $500. That said, you probably won't find those prices in the average antique shop.
Signed,
A woman with 3 vintage sewing machines (and 3 others...)
love Love LOVE IT!
ReplyDeleteseriously looks great! I love when something unexpected happens and makes it even better.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE IT ~ Is absolutely georgous. I am finally venturing and going to Goodwill this weekend to see if I can be half as creative as you are. You are an inspiration!!!! And it doesn't hurt that your writting is hilarious.
ReplyDeleteYou need an amazing job! Bea-u-ti-ful:) And I bet when you look at it it makes you even more pleased that it was FREE!
ReplyDeleteThis post had me laughing out loud and swooning over the finished cabinet. It's beautiful! I have an older sister; you and she would have gotten along really well, I think. You are a good storyteller!
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah - I just popped over from Kelee Katillac's sight! Love your kitchen and love the table. My mom has one in her basement that may be disappearing soon!! It would be a perfect nightstand!
ReplyDeleteI am just speechless! So, so fabulous...I can't believe it. Ummmm I'm still waiting for my paint-I jump every time I think I hear the mail truck! Dark Chocolate, my bathroom is waiting for you!
ReplyDeleteI cant beleive the things some people throw out to the trash,, i love the re-do.. and once again inspired,, thanks
ReplyDeleteDont' forget the hidden storage potential. I assume it has a hinged top. I used to have a similar table to hold a large birdcage. I stapled fabric around the opening where the sewing machine used to be and created a basket of sorts. I kept bird toys in there.
ReplyDeleteOMG! I can't believe you got that for free! There are people that still sew on those old treadle machines - they are workhorses and with a little TLC will work forever. I just saw one with the table at an antique store for $89. If I had room for it I would have bought it.
ReplyDeleteHmm. I'm not sure I'd sacrifice my innards just to loose 40 lbs. I'm still using them, you know?
ReplyDeleteBut seriously, AWESOME!! Surely you have *somewhere* you could display that machine? Those things are works of art!
I love it! It's so cute and the stenciling is adorable. You are so talented and crafty!
ReplyDeleteI have an old treadle singer machine that I inherited from my grandmother. If you look on the right side of the machine, in the front there is a little nameplate that has serial numbers on it. The numbers will tell you what year it was manufactured...Check out the singer site here:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.singerco.com/support/serial_numbers.html
then you can start determining if it has some value. I never plan on selling mine as it has great sentimental value to me...but yes, it should be worth a bit!
Love it--love, love, LOVE it!! :)
ReplyDelete~ Sarah
Somebody just THREW that sewing machine away?!? That just breaks my heart ... oh the beauty. You should display her on your lovely table. She's a queen - an empress! She does not deserve to be trashed. Please promise me you will do something with her... oh it breaks my heart thinking she was in the trash for even a second. Excuse me while I go cry...
ReplyDeleteFirst off you are hilarious! I love your blog and have spent many hours reading it and gasping and making my hubby look at things you've done all by yourself...telling him, with an exaggerated whine of course ;) -look she has her own sander, look she has her own screw drivers...Love your latest project! I am working up my courage to send you over some pics for your help.
ReplyDeleteIt looks great!
ReplyDeleteThat turned out beAutiful!
ReplyDeleteLOVE the table! It turned out fantastic. So, for those of us who have never painted furniture, did you roll it, brush it, or spray paint it? I still don't know if I could do that.
ReplyDeleteHooray for happy accidents - the fianl product looks tres fab!
ReplyDeleteWhere in the world do you find the time to do all this??? I just don't know if my kiddos (1 & 4) would allow me the time I'd need to get it together. (let alone photo journal it AND blog about it!)Are your rehabbing projects usually done in a one day, or a little at a time?
~ Heidi @ W.W.W ~
You put a smile on my face with how you got your sister to get the table!!!!!What a great relationship! You did a fantastic job on that table! CHEERS! Michele
ReplyDeleteI love the finished result! It looks great. A lot of my best finds are freebies I pick up. The town I used to live in does a spring cleaning week where people can throw out anything and it will be picked up for free. You wouldn't beleive the things I have picked up including pianos and stained glass windows all for free and in great shape! Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great find! I think the sewing machine with the gold tones and scrolls on it would look beatiful ON TOP of the table!
ReplyDeleteThis came out great! I always have trouble with happy accidents, being a bit of a control freak myself...but when they come out looking fab, it makes it all the better.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite part is about your sister!!! I know what you mean,
ReplyDeleteI am the oldest, with 3 younger
sisters & they always had to do
my dirty work...isn't that what
they are supposed to do? We all
live in different towns now, but believe me I wouldn't hesitate if they were nearby!
Thanks for the great post.
Oh My GAWD. I love it and am completely inspired. I bet if whoever tossed that out saw it now they'd want it back. Wow.
ReplyDeleteI have an old sewing cabinet and now I know just what to do with it.
The things people throw away amazes me! I could probably get my sister, who is almost ten years yonger than I am, to go dumpster diving for me as well, but then I'd have to fight her for whatever it was I wanted! What a beautiful piece of furniture.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if the sewing machine is worth anything or would work well, but it's GORGEOUS. It's a display piece if nothing else.
ReplyDeleteAwesome! You have to find a place to display that machine. It's so feminine and classy.
ReplyDeleteI "dumpster dive". Every Tuesday and Wednesday night. I've got some great things, lol!! I'm always scared someone will see me though...but the thought of FREE can't stop me. My mum-n-law and my sisters-n-law and I all go together. Your table is FAB-U!!!!!!! It looks like an expensive piece of furniture. I have a sewing table that I redid...I wish I had really sanded the top though. I need a hand sander....
ReplyDeleteWow! Really? wow. I can't believe you found that. For FREE. and that you made your sister go get it! That's hilarious. Wish my little sis lived closer. ha!
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing find!!
ReplyDeleteOMG! I have a nearly identical sewing machine table! My hubby picked it up for me at a garage sale and I've so been meaning to paint it - just haven't had the time. Now I'm inspired and want to get it DONE! Thanks for sharing this beautiful project!
ReplyDeleteMy mom had that same sewing machine cabinet. The machine in it didn't look that old and cool but it was the same cabinet because when she got her new Bernina, the old machine and cabinet went in my room as my nightstand.
ReplyDeleteYou did a great job redoing it!
Reading your posts are like eating a fabulous desert - I can't wait until the next part but I don't want them to end! Hope that doesn't sound too forward or anything! You are such an inspiration!!
ReplyDeleteWow--seriously fabulous find! And great job making it work! I'm going out now to search my neighbours' driveways :)
ReplyDeleteI LOVE how the table turned out! You make me laugh about picking it up off of the road. I remember when I was younger and I would literally cringe and slide down in my seat when my grandma spotted something on the road and would stop to pick it up-and now that will be my children cringing in the back seat as soon as they are old enough to know better! :D
ReplyDeleteHoly Moley - you did an awesome job!
ReplyDeleteI love it. It looks so good and I love the sewing machine as well.
ReplyDeleteI started to add you to a link today and then thought "OH she is probably so busy I'll give her a little time and then do one with her".
ReplyDeleteCheri
Now that is what I am talking about, real trash to treasure!
ReplyDeleteCheck out ebay for the sewing machine, there are people that collect them:)
Wow. They have a ton of these sewing tables at my local thrift stores and i keep thinking i should do something with one. Now, I think I am inspired to make it happen!!
ReplyDeleteoh I love this project - it has got my mind spinning with how I might adapt this look for my kitchen. Love it! I have never used glaze or metalic but I will try now!!!
ReplyDeleteOh.my.word! That is beyond gorgeous!! Love it, love it, love it!
ReplyDeleteThat turned out so great. You saw the potential! Love the sewing machine too. So cute!
ReplyDeleteOne word: Fabulicious!!!!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE LOVE LOVE that table! You made it look amazing. And whatever you do, DON'T toss that sewing machine. Even if it's not worth a whole lot of money, I know you could find someone who would want it and find a lot of value in it!
ReplyDeleteYay! There is nothing more fun than a happy accident! Love the table (and the machine!)
ReplyDeleteI can't believe the things people throw out!! looks great!
ReplyDeleteYour post makes me feel like I've been severely under-utilizing my younger sister. No way would she have tredged out in the rain to snag someone else's trash for me. Lucky she do for you though - the transformation is awesome!
ReplyDeleteAwesome - just awesome! Aren't you glad you had your l'il sis go and drag that sweet table back for you? Great job!
ReplyDeleteSo pretty!
ReplyDeleteLove it.
Feel free to check out my blog, it's brand new and still in the making...But, the link is http://oopsicraftmypants.blogspot.com
Wow! Great job!
ReplyDeleteYou are brave and unstoppable, well done!
ReplyDeleteI have my grandmother's sewing machine in the cabinet and I am scared to death to do anything to it. You are so brave. It turned out beautifully and that is the perfect spot for it. Well done!!
ReplyDeleteTotally swooning!
ReplyDeleteYou rock, girlfriend! TOTALLY love it!
ReplyDeleteCome by for my GIVE-A-WAY this week by 10 pm Fri.
ReplyDeleteand then check out our newest addition.
Cheri
www.itssoverycheri.blogspot.com
Hello! I just started reading your blog about a week and a half ago. I know we haven't know each other long but I feel the need to say it - I love you. LOVE LOVE LOVE you. Well I love all your stuff. And your talent. So same thing, right?
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for taking the time to share your skillz with us common folk. My house has you to thank for all the wonderful remodeling coming it's way. Like Chicago says - "You're the Insipriation!"
PS: Did I really just quote Chigao lyrics?
Kelly
So fabulous, I love it! As an older sister myself, I can appreciate the things we get our younger siblings to do for us. P.S. I love that you are choosing to spend more time on your blog, because I visit DAILY and just love your ideas. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteFreakin fantastic Sarah....luv her! I can't wait until I get to see your BD project.. I have one up my sleeve also...mwuuhaha
ReplyDeleteLove it! Old sewing machine tables are the best, and you did a gorgeous job with yours!
ReplyDeleteThis is so awesome! I love it and I love that old sewing machine, so pretty!
ReplyDeletewelcome to the dumpster diving club! i just can't wait until my kids are old enough to do it for me. your sister is a good sport. the table is lovely!
ReplyDeleteFree is always the best!:) Beautiful transformation!
ReplyDeleteHi! This post reminded me of something someone on a yahoo group I'm in said. They have a sewing machine like that they got at a flea market for $0 and when they looked one up on ebay they found this was was astonished. Of course, just because they want that for it doesn't mean they'll get it, but WOW... http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-1894-Singer-Sewing-Machine-MINT-CONDITION_W0QQitemZ220439002412QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item3353303d2c&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A12|66%3A2|39%3A1|72%3A1205|293%3A1|294%3A50
ReplyDelete(It's NOT my auction btw. )
Turned out beautiful!
ReplyDeleteYour table turned out beautiful! My Father in law works at a vaccuum repair shop and they also buy, repair, and sell old sewing machines. You could try selling to a place like that.
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah, That table looks beautiful. May I ask what color stain did you apply before painting over it. It looked exactly the color of my dinig table and I have been trying to redo my console table to match it. Thanks
ReplyDeleteshafia
Very, very cool. I love thrifty makeovers! I'm following you now. :)
ReplyDeleteOmg, omg, omg!!! I have the SAME table. My grandmother gave it to my and right now it's at the bottom of our steps by our front door. As you know I sew but this table isn't ideal for me so it's just a table the machine I had in it when I got it was PINK! PINK! I love it! I also have a machine exactly like yours in my attic too! I LUV them so much! How cool is that! Now WHY? would anyone want to get rid of such great stuff, you tell me that would ya!
ReplyDeleteGOR.GE.OUS!
ReplyDeleteNot sure if you'll even see this comment amongst all the others - but I HAVE THAT EXACT SAME TABLE!!! I picked it up this summer at a church yard sale for $3!! It's just sitting and waiting for me to refinish it :) Thanks for the inspiration :)
ReplyDeleteOMG, you lucky dog! What an awesome find...and it was FREE (my favorite word. :-)
ReplyDeleteGreat job, as usual. I have so many uncompleted thrifty decor projects in my garage. You've inspired me to get out there and get 'er done.
GUESS WHAT!!!?? I went to an Estate Sale this morning and found a sewing machine cabinet for $1.00!! Normally, I would have passed it up, but I had seen your post earlier in the week so I couldn't just let it sit there!! I'm not sure that I can get it looking as beautiful as yours, but I'm going to give it a try!! Thanks for the inspiration! You can view my BEFORE pictures at http://maplememoriescrafthouse.blogspot.com/2009/07/i-know-i-know.html.
ReplyDeleteThat is serioiusly beautiful! And I can't wait to see what you replace the print with, because I LOVE that print. Where did you get it? I would paint my sewing machine cabinet, but I use the machine!
ReplyDeletehttp://partynpink.blogspot.com/2008/10/look-what-i-got.html
First off I love your blog I check it out EVERYDAY!
ReplyDeleteToday I was out doing some thrifty shopping of my own and I saw a few Singer sewing machines quite similar to yours and they were going for $100-$150 however most of them came with the table. But your has much prettier designs than any of those did. So I think you have a $100 free sewing machine there!
Awwwwww, yeah!
ReplyDeleteOh you really have to do your own trash-hauling... there's a certain rush about it that just can't be beaten. :)
ReplyDeleteThat table is perfect. But I'll admit I liked the top just stained too.
It looks AWESOME!!
ReplyDeleteI have that sewing cabinet and machine! It was my grandma's and now it's mine. It sits in our den as a side table, but I've never painted it or anything. Hmmmmm.....do I dare????
ReplyDeleteHave you ever said what exactly kind of paint you use for all the furniture projects? Not the glazes and stuff, but the actual paint? My first big project (a desk we painted black) wasn't perfect and I think I needed different paint.
I love how you sent your sister to get it for you, so funny!
ReplyDeleteIt turned out great!!
This is so great. I especially love that it happened by accident!
ReplyDeleteI love the stenciling you did!!
ReplyDeleteHysterical post...and then to top it all off a beautiful AFTER!
ReplyDeleteI'm inspired!
Janell
p.s. just added a link to your blog on my blog list...loving what you do!
ReplyDeleteJanell
Hello Sarah - what a fabulous table! What a great mistake you made with it. Love it when that happens. And I really like the way you've arranged things on top - especially those pretty flowers! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Marie
http://emmacallsmemama.com
I cannot believe the stuff that people throw away! That sewing machine is an antique and someone thought it belonged in the landfill??!! That machine's definitely worth a hunk of change! Your cabinet turned out beautiful too by the way :)
ReplyDeleteYou might try ebay, etsy or craigslist (or even at auction or a person who runs a booth at an antique mall) if you want to sell it. But actually, I bet if you offer it to your blog readers, someone might like to buy it from you!
ReplyDelete"Go get me a snack!" - Sarah, I always laugh out loud at your posts. I used to make my younger brother do all sorts of things too when we were little. Love the sewing table!
ReplyDeleteHey Sarah - I was wondering if I could "borrow" your before picture of this table?!?! I have this exact same sewing table and took before pictures but can't for the life of me find where they are stored!!! (they were taken last summer and aren't in any of those files!!) I am super bummed about not having a before picture!
ReplyDeleteI finally finished it off a couple weeks ago but have been waiting to post about it trying to find the darn before picture and then I remembered you have the same table!!
I would, obviously, credit you for the photo sharing :)
What brand of black paint did you use on this little desk and what stain for the top of it (the one you did the first time) I absolutely love it!
ReplyDeleteI love it! I have one of these also that I have painted black :) The stencil on the front is great!
ReplyDeleteSo, just FYI, I was doing nothing at work (and by nothing, I mean Pinterest surfing) and came across the painted sewing machine cabinet. OH. EM. GEE. I painted one with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint a few weeks ago and it looks IDENTICAL. Identical, I tell you. If you have a way of letting me send a pic, I'd love to brag on myself and let you compare. It turned out rather well, if I do say so myself.
ReplyDeleteLove that! I to have scored three really awesome projects before!
ReplyDeleteThe sewing machine definitely is worth something after some elbow grease and some replacement parts. Good luck.. maybe you still have it lol
ReplyDelete