A little paint goes a LONG way

As I said earlier this week, I bit off more than I could chew this past weekend with projects. They snowballed..I started one and then noticed something else and started that and then saw something else and started that...you get the picture.

I wrapped up 2 more last night and that puts the finishing touch on the fireplace! Here is the before..it's a Christmas picture but you'll get the idea of the blech mantle.



Here is the after:

I have not mastered getting a good picture yet (& may never!)
Since we were already contemplating replacing the mantle, I thought I'd try painting it to see if that would help it not look so pitiful. I used high gloss black and I really like it..I might even love the new look! It really ties the mantle into the rest of the room that I'll show later (after I put the laundry away!)

These are a couple of windows that I painted and had hung on a screened porch in my apartment days...I LOVE old WINDOWS!

This is a new little arrangement I'm working with...I need to tweak this but it's ok for now...


I just love this...I like how it's a little kooky & it's alot sentimental.


This is a family clock that was given to me (thanks Mom). It's beautiful and I think the candlesticks with the clock make a perfect grouping.


I painted, waxed & sanded these chunky candlesticks. I wanted to add some white to the mantle and I think this works.

This is the same mirror that I've always used over the fireplace - just I added a chunky frame.

Well, there you have it..my revamped fireplace that cost ZERO dollars because I used stuff I already had. We are looking into building a new mantel in the future but this will do for now.  If you need a change don't be afraid to pick up that paint brush!