Renewed Antique Crate

Have I already mentioned that I love boxes? Yes I have. Well, the passion gets extended to almost any kind of container, especially if it is old, chunky and rough looking -as this one was.

A very old wooden crate from the late 19th Century, that was probably used to measure grain. Sturdy and in very good condition: apart from dirt, not a single sign of wood worms!

It just needed some care and a finish that would make its rustic lines and textures stand out. Challenge accepted!

I painted the outside in a soft off-white colour and the inside in a rich, greyish-blue tone, then distressed the whole surface a lot, varnished it all with clear, satin finish, and polished it to get a touch as smooth as silk. That's a nice contrast with the rough looks.

The old crate, as it was before its transformation, and some pictures of the 'renewing' process: the thorough sanding after cleaning, the first coat of paint (out of three, very thin, the other two applied with an almost dry brush) and the first sanding to create the distressed effect (I scratched the paint after each coat).

The renewed antique crate measures 47 x 23 x 16cm, and it is perfect to keep -and display at the same time- a collection of vintage magazines, toys, or any other cherished belongings.