Friday, January 28, 2011

My Old Chippy Toolbox

I have this old tool box.  The paint is chippy, crackled and really beat up.
It dates back to January 2011.
Yep, like I said it is old. 


Here is the story of this old toolbox.
My son made this really cute box in Ag. class. 
The minute he described to me what he was making I knew what I wanted to do with it. 
"Mom" he said, the teacher (who is a women!! You go girl!!) asked if I wanted to paint my project or stain it.  Neither, I said.  "What?" he asked. 
I have big plans for this Max, just bring it home and I will fix it up.

This is what it looked like before;

The edges were rough and uneven, some parts were cracked and a nail is coming through the side of it.  It was perfect!  I could hardly control my happiness!

So I put a thin coat of white paint on it.
The picture shows you the edges I was talking about.

Next, I put on crackling medium on the sides and end pieces.
Once it dried, I slapped green paint all over the box.


I put more white paint over the box and distressed it to show the green paint


I stained the bottom and then went over the sanded edges with the stain.




Once I got the aged look I wanted, I printed off a few graphics I found over at

I tore the paper and burnt the edges, then I applied it to the box using Modge Podge.

And here is my old chippy toolbox in all it's glory!


I had a hard time deciding on which graphic to use.  The one above is very fancy.
I also picked out a very plain one.  I wanted to stencil it on but I just wasn't working out, so I drew it on free-handed and went over it with a thin tipped marker.  Then I sanded it down and got the old look I wanted.



Which side do you like?  I can't decide!

Here is the before;

And the after;

I hope you like my new/old chippy toolbox. 
I love that it looks old, rotten in spots and beat up.
The finish is smooth as a baby's butt!

Thanks Max for letting me have your project!
I love it and will use it lots!  I can't wait to get to Michael's to


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60 comments:

  1. Marty@A Stroll Thru LifeJanuary 28, 2011 at 1:24 PM

    Oh I totally love your finish on your "old" tool box. It looks fabulous and I love both sides. I think usuing two different things on the sides makes it perfect. What a special piece. Your son did good. Hugs, Marty

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  2. DaynaJanuary 28, 2011 at 1:34 PM

    Thank you so much for sharing how you got this awesome look. I think you did a fantastic job on it.

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  3. UnknownJanuary 28, 2011 at 1:45 PM

    Lacy, your new old box looks great. I like both sides so it is a good think I don't have to decide. And how sweet that you son made it.
    Tracu

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  4. TheresaJanuary 28, 2011 at 3:30 PM

    Oh Lacy, you did a great job! wow, you are so good! :) I myself like the fancy side, but having it different on the sides just means you can change it around for a different look from time to time. Oh and tell Max I said he did a great job too!

    Theresa

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  5. UnknownJanuary 28, 2011 at 4:45 PM

    I love it!!
    I just received my new Silhouette SD machine, can't wait to get crafty -- you should come join me and Madeline for a day of fun!

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  6. Tammy @ Type AJanuary 28, 2011 at 5:45 PM

    i love this, love your blog. i'm gonna go follow you. thanks for stopping by type A.

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  7. JenniferJanuary 28, 2011 at 8:19 PM

    Wow - what a transformation! This is gorgeous!

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  8. AnonymousJanuary 28, 2011 at 10:20 PM

    Hi Lacy! Oh, I love this. You did so good and I want one too!
    Be a sweetie,
    Shelia ;)

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  9. UnknownJanuary 28, 2011 at 11:05 PM

    love the distressing on these. im your newest follower. thanks for visiting my site.

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  10. Tammy@Beatrice BanksJanuary 29, 2011 at 7:37 AM

    Get out of town! I can't believe how you dolled that up. Wow! You and Max should go in business. Fab!

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  11. The Copper NestJanuary 29, 2011 at 9:50 AM

    I absolutely adore it especially because son and mom created such a great piece together.....what a inspiration you are with your creativity :)

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  12. AnonymousJanuary 29, 2011 at 12:27 PM

    Lacy girl, good job; I've got something like this -- only its bigger and I've been wondering what I wanted the look to be; now I know. I'm saving your post for when I want to get around to doing it. Thanks Terri www.morningdewdrops.typepad.com

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  13. ShirleyJanuary 29, 2011 at 9:06 PM

    I love it!!.. Hmmmm, I have an old tool box. I wonder if I could use it on my counter for silverware. I never thought of putting the jars in to hold things!

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  14. JenniferJanuary 29, 2011 at 9:49 PM

    I love it! It really looks "old!" Nice work!
    Jen
    Scissors & Spatulas

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  15. Angie HoldenJanuary 29, 2011 at 10:07 PM

    Amazing...simply amazing!! This is beautiful!

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  16. Courtney ~ French Country CottageJanuary 30, 2011 at 12:41 AM

    Darling toolbox that your son made- absolutely sweet! I love the finish you put on it- love the green in there!! I like both sides- you can just switch back and forth depending on where you put it! :) Thank for sharing at Feathered Nest Friday! :)

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  17. Michelle@ A Full CottageJanuary 30, 2011 at 12:47 AM

    Can he make me one too? I love it! Both sides look great and i love the way you "dressed" it up with the jars and candles etc.

    :) Michelle

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  18. AnonymousJanuary 30, 2011 at 7:01 AM

    I still use the things my kids made back in school and they are all in their 30-40's now...lol...Enjoy it more when your kids make it...love what you've done to it, either stencil is beautiful...Mel's Cabin

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  19. LoriJanuary 30, 2011 at 8:40 AM

    What a SPECIAL keepsake box.....I love the way you finished it and I know Max feels proud that he made something for you that you'll always cherish! Way to go mama!!

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  20. AnonymousJanuary 30, 2011 at 9:32 AM

    We see so many old things being made new, that it's fun to see something new given an aged finish. How much more special since Max made it for you! Thanks for joining the Paint Party! Hope you're enjoying your weekend...

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  21. Lori @ Dining DelightJanuary 30, 2011 at 10:54 AM

    How special for your son to give you his project and how wonderfully you have transformed it! You will always think of him when you use it and he can take pride in it knowing it is something you cherish!

    DD

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  22. Blue Ridge Altered ArtJanuary 30, 2011 at 2:34 PM

    What a wonderful piece and what makes it more special is that it was a Mother and Son project!!! ~~Sherry~~

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  23. CJ FossJanuary 30, 2011 at 2:35 PM

    The toolbox is inspired! Very impressed and can't wait to see your other inspirations!

    Also really like your pear header. Great job! ~CJ

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  24. MaryJanuary 30, 2011 at 2:53 PM

    Wowwie, Wow, Wow! This turned out fabulous! I just love it and thank you for the tutorial and for linking to Masterpiece Monday. Mary :O)

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  25. Chari at Happy To DesignJanuary 30, 2011 at 3:02 PM

    Hi Lacy..

    I love how your tool box turned out, my friend! You did a great job on making that finish look distressed...love the french art as well! Your son really did a nice job on this woodwork piece!

    Warmest wishes,
    Chari @Happy To Design

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  26. DreamgoddessJanuary 30, 2011 at 9:18 PM

    It looks fantastic!

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  27. Happy To Be/ Gl♥riaJanuary 30, 2011 at 9:25 PM

    I love your old-new tool carrier..and how fun that your son made it for you..lots of memories to come..Hugs and smies Gloria

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  28. Pam@OurAdventuresInHomeImprovementJanuary 30, 2011 at 9:59 PM

    Very cute! I am definitely going to have to try this project!
    Thanks for sharing!

    Pam @ Our Adventures in Home Improvement

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  29. Handy Man, Crafty WomanJanuary 30, 2011 at 10:33 PM

    That. is. awesome!! I love old things, and old-looking things. I also love jars! I decorate with old jars.

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  30. Bargain Decorating with LaurieJanuary 30, 2011 at 11:20 PM

    If I'd seen this in an antique store, I would have thought it was a really old treasure! What a great job you and your son did with this creation. I love the stenciled side the most, but both sides look fab. thank you for linking this to Favorite Things Sat. laurie

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  31. Hi, I'm Suz!!January 31, 2011 at 7:43 AM

    I love this!!! My son made a box very similar in high school, except it's made out of metal..... Now what can I do with THAT???
    Love the post and the project!
    Hugs ~~ Suz
    inspiringcreativeness.blogspot

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  32. Carrie @ Dittle DattleJanuary 31, 2011 at 8:38 AM

    This is freakin' fantastic!!! I only have a few of these laying around (left over from the Boy Scout days of my sons). They are currently being used as book holders next to my youngest son's room but I might need to snatch one from him {he won't mind sharing with his mom. lol) I love the paint treament too. Gives so much character.

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  33. PamelaJanuary 31, 2011 at 10:30 AM

    Lacy this looks fabulous!! I love the color combo you went with and the label is divine. My boys are loving your fat cat!:)

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  34. GailJanuary 31, 2011 at 6:51 PM

    Love your new old chippy toolbox. Your son did a great job and so did you. Thanks for sharing and for the inspiration.

    Have a wonderful evening,
    Gail

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  35. KimMalkJanuary 31, 2011 at 7:51 PM

    How wonderfully chippy and old looking your toolbox is! I think I like the side with the more plain print.

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  36. Thoughtfully Blended HeartsJanuary 31, 2011 at 8:22 PM

    Now you have the perfect gorgeous heirloom antiquity from 2011!!!
    Congrats!!!
    Have a beautiful week!!!

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  37. Custom ComfortsFebruary 1, 2011 at 7:01 AM

    Wow! Is that neat! I just love it. What did your son say afterwards? I'm sure he must have enjoyed seeing you have so much fun with it. Thanks for the "how to do" instructions.
    Cindy

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  38. AnonymousFebruary 1, 2011 at 9:51 AM

    Shut my mouth!...this is toooo wonderful,I love it!..WOW!,I can't get over how much I love this,I got to have one.
    ~Jo
    LazyonLoblolly

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  39. Sherry @ No Minimalist HereFebruary 1, 2011 at 2:42 PM

    Lacy, The tool box finish is fabulous. It sure does not look like it is new now.
    Hugs,
    Sherry

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  40. Kim @ Starshine ChicFebruary 1, 2011 at 3:37 PM

    I squealed with delight once I saw this showcased on Under the Table & Dreaming. I just knew I had to do this to my toolbox that has been sitting in my garage for a bazillion years just waiting for the right inspiration. Squeal!!!! Hopefully I'll do it this weekend. Yours is fabulous!!! I'm in love with it. Squeal!!!!

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  41. Nicole ~February 2, 2011 at 12:36 AM

    You & your son did a great job on this project. I just love how you finished it, it really does look aged. Nicole

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  42. HomeroadFebruary 2, 2011 at 6:20 AM

    Hi Lacy,
    I never would have guessed it wasn't old! Great job! Thanks for the tutorial.
    Susan
    PS I like the side with "Paris"

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  43. Alison AgnewFebruary 2, 2011 at 8:21 AM

    Just visiting from Domestically Speaking, but I have to say...this toolbox project is so follow worthy! So I am.

    Blessings,

    Alison
    Stuff and Nonsense

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  44. ChrissyFebruary 2, 2011 at 2:49 PM

    I think you both did a terrific job and I like both sides it adds versatility to it. I came over from BTB and am now a follower, I am a new at blogging too.

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  45. Kim @ Savvy Southern StyleFebruary 2, 2011 at 9:02 PM

    Lacy, I LOVE it!! That is amazing looking. You did a great job of making that look really old and worn. I love both sides. You could make these and sell them. I would buy one in a heartbeat. Thanks for sharing this at my party this week!

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  46. Linda @ Itsy Bits And PiecesFebruary 2, 2011 at 10:04 PM

    Wow, this turned out great! Such a great "old" patina on it now! Hopped over from the Boring to Better party...I am a new follower!

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  47. Irma@CosasBellasFebruary 3, 2011 at 1:29 AM

    Hi Lacy, I found you through Boogieboard Cottage and I am now your newest follower! I can't believe how authentic you made this toolbox look, I would have never believed it started out new. I'm going to try my hand at making one, I just hope it's as easy as you made it seem. Great job!!!

    Warm hug from The OC,
    Irma

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  48. HeatherFebruary 4, 2011 at 6:16 PM

    Lacy, this really looks good. I don't know which side I like better??? Thankfully you don't have to choose:) You can switch it daily if you want.

    Bravo!

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  49. Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co.February 6, 2011 at 8:12 AM

    Wow, I just love it! You really did have a vision and executed it perfectly. I browsed around your blog. I'm now your newest follower. Looking forward to getting to know you!

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  50. ARuddFebruary 6, 2011 at 9:15 AM

    Love it! I have one of these my son made in boy scouts. I know what my next project is! Thanks for sharing the how to directions. ~Angie

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  51. AnneFebruary 6, 2011 at 3:41 PM

    Ok, this is the best post EVER, since I just found a box exactly like it at the thrift shop for $2.00 and have been pondering what to make of it... thanks! just for that, I am your newest follower :-)

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  52. KellyFebruary 7, 2011 at 10:00 AM

    Love love LOVE this! I'd never have guessed it wasn't totally old and worn to perfection!

    Kelly
    http://crazywego.blogspot.com

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  53. Honey at 2805February 7, 2011 at 4:32 PM

    Your tool box is so clever and your project turned out so well!

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  54. Audrey PettitFebruary 8, 2011 at 7:31 AM

    Just popped over from the Graphics Fairy to check out your adorable project. I absolutely love how you tool tote turned out. And I love that your son made it. This is going to be an amazing treasure forever.
    Oh, and I love both sides......I cannot choose. ;)

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  55. UnknownFebruary 14, 2011 at 8:49 PM

    Gorgeous ! Thank you so much for linking up !

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  56. AmandaApril 18, 2011 at 5:16 PM

    This is a wonderful project. I've scheduled it to be featured on Craft Gossip Wednesday morning so my readers can come and see! :)

    Thanks for inspiration!

    If you would like a "featured by" button, you can grab one here!
    http://homeandgarden.craftgossip.com/grab-a-craft-gossip-button/

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  57. extreme personal measuresApril 20, 2011 at 8:52 AM

    I have scheduled this amazing, chippy toolbox for a feature this morning. I have also added you to my Google Reader to stalk your fabulous projects!


    Denise
    Extreme Personal Measures

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  58. DebApril 20, 2011 at 11:02 AM

    Super cute...found you on "All Things Inspired". I'm a new follower, look forward to seeing more of your projects.

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  59. AnonymousApril 21, 2011 at 6:23 AM

    This is fantastic!
    And can you believe I just picked up a sewing box just yesterday at the second hand store, and it's obviously been made by a kid in craft class.

    Unfinished wood: check
    Rough and uneven edges: check
    Nails sticking out: check
    Cracks: check

    I was planning on painting it somehow but now I know exactly what I'm going to do. Thank you for this post!

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  60. UnknownApril 24, 2011 at 9:56 PM

    I just stumbled onto this after you commented on my sconce wall. I love it! I actually have one of these that I've been meaning to make over. This style would look perfect with my dining room (makeover is in progress). Can't wait to do it!

    Thanks for sharing.

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