DIY-Not? Transforming Furniture with Picklee on Spring

Congratulations to Picklee on Spring, the charming painted furniture and home decor store on Newport’s Spring Street. Owners (and mother/daughter duo) Lisa Kasap & Jordan Reilly create many of the color masterpieces found throughout the shop, from chairs and couches to dressers and unique pieces. Rather than keep their painting techniques to themselves, the two encouage others to take on DIY projects with their secret weapon: Cece Caldwell Chalk Paint. This natural, non-toxic, eco-friendly paint is safe for everyone, extremely forgiving and can often be used on a piece with minimal prep work.

I recently sought Jordan’s advice as I wanted to take a charming, vintage dresser I spotted in North Kingstown into a new era. The 1920-era piece had already been painted once in an off-white shade with some gold accent color highlighting the decorative details. With Jodan’s guidance, I used Cece Caldwell Pure White chalk paint, then waxed the piece to give it a smooth finish (with Cece Caldwell wax) and finished the piece with large, clear crystal drawer pulls. (Chalk paint is also ideal for creating a distressed finish but for this piece I preferred a solid white look).

NOW: THE WINTER CHALK + CLAY PAINT SALE IS ON! Buy 2 (4oz. cans), get 1 free at Picklee on Spring!