Studio goals that needed my attention were replaced with a creative DIY project in the kitchen, while Michael helped our youngest son move across the country. Not that it was a total surprise to Michael, as he knows when those wheels are turning in my brain, and can hear those un-oiled gears giving away my intentions in his absence.
Each morning, I made a list of goals for the day, marked times for tasks, drying, applying, and so on. This was helpful, so I didn't lose my place, and I was able to problem-solve all the little nuances of putting things back together again. Although some trouble ensued, I had not counted on.
I brightened up our kitchen corner with whitewashed beadboard. To hang the paneling, I had to disassemble the sink and remove the old countertop. I learn new skills on YouTube, and I am so thankful to all the DIYers who share their expertise. Disconnecting the plumbing was not as scary as I thought.
I have hung tongue-and-groove pine paneling for other projects, but never whitewashed, to prevent the pine from yellowing with age. I researched stains, applications, and learned the benefits of applying a pre-wash before the stain. After allowing the recommended time for the whitewash to dry, I couldn't see any progress as I brushed it in the direction of the grain. I must not have stirred it enough, which I realized after accidentally knocking over the can. Quick reflexes, I did not lose much, but the jolt pulled up the sediment from the bottom, giving me much better results!
Tools were piling up, and with many trips to the garage, I decided to take fewer steps and set up the radial-arm saw inside. Each board was cut individually, because one can not assume the walls are straight.
I decided to cut one of the cabinets in half to install open L-shelves in the corner. I was able to do this with a small handheld circular saw I borrowed from our oldest son. It was a game-changer!
Fortunately, he was nearby over Labor Day Weekend and able to place the butcher block countertop on the cabinet base for me. By then, I had completed the paneling, staining, painting, and polycoating.
The first sink I ordered from a box store was to be delivered in two days. Perfect, I thought, I still have time to finish. Not so! When I called to check on my order, it was unaccounted for and would take 24-48 hours to locate. I cancelled the order.
Michael had returned, and what a surprise for him to see an unfinished project! We decided on another sink, which would be delivered in two days. When we unpacked the sink, the self rim of the 18-gauge stainless steel was dented. It was well-packed, so I doubt it happened during shipping; perhaps it was packed that way from the factory. Without further delay, we decided to accept the dent and install it anyway.
Yes, the project was a distraction, but it was well worth it, now that everything is back in order.
I would love to hear about any projects you have had that turned out well enough in the end. What imperfections had to be overcome?
