From Bed to Bench

Hillcrest Cottage heralds warmer weather by the annual 'Sprucing of the Porch Ritual'.

The porch is my favorite place in the entire cottage... a place to sit... a place to drink coffee... a place to hear the birds sing in the morning... a place to listen to summer's cicada symphony in the evening.

Yesterday, I jumped quickly into this project, neglecting the "before" pics... sorry.

This new comfy bench was once an antique bed (which I unsuccessfully attempted to sell for a friend). Rather than donate the bed to the local Goodwill, my husband built a bench.

First Step: A quick coat of Annie Sloan chalk paint (This paint has changed my life, so check it out!). No primer is needed with this awesome paint.

Second Step: Quick, light sanding to distress.

Third Step: Fun, new fabric to cover the cushions. Successful fabric store outing produced material in the exact colors and patterns for which I was looking. The striped fabric came from the $5.00 bin; the floral fabric was 50% off.

I made quick. loose covers (like pillowcase open on one end) so I can frequently wash the covers without the hassle and struggle of getting the covers off and on.

This was the result:

The dark brown unpainted parts will be cut off and an arm rest added. Also, more Annie Sloan paint on the ottoman.

Fourth Step: A Simon and Garfunkle 60's song popped into my head; Instantly the lyrics

became my new porch mantra:

Slow down, you move too fast.

You got to make the morning last.

Looking for fun....

Life, I love you.

All is groovy!

Fifth Step: Pour the coffee, prop up my feet, and experience some quiet.