Shelf Love

Sometimes I have the best ideas. Frequently, actually. Although that’s my own opinion only. Anyway, sometimes I have these great ideas. Usually, I forget about them shortly after they materialize. Sometimes, however, I remember to discuss them with my husband.

Speaking of my husband, I have to thank him for this one, my idea would never have come to life without him, not to mention turn out so great. Come to think of it, let's review what this would have looked like without him, had I remembered that I wanted to do it in the first place.

1. The shelf would not have been square. On top of that, it probably would have been nailed together with painters nails instead of grooved and glued together with the appropriate wood glue.

2. The paint would not have been so nice and even. There is a good chance that it would have been globby and drippy and gross, because after two coats, I would have been bored or gotten distracted by a load of laundry. On top of that, I would have never even thought to sand the shelf before painting it.

3. It would not be hanging on the wall right now, because I would be too afraid to put holes in the dry wall right next to my front door where everyone walks. Why be afraid, you ask? Prior experience. Sometimes it takes me several holes to get it right.

I never claimed to be a carpenter, a wood working expert, and definelty not a perfectionist. I married one instead :) But, back to the project at hand...

Quite awhile ago, I was reading Ana White’s blog and saw this great shelf that she made. She makes it sound so simple, I thought it would be a great idea. Of course, I had some modifications in mind, but I envisioned it hanging nicely next to our front door. Cue the husband. I explained it to Doug, emailed him the link, and drew a picture of my modified shelf. 

Six weeks later….ta da… Doug created a solid oak shelf ready to be finished and hung.

First we coated it with a spray primer….

Then several thin coats of Rustoleum Painters Touch Ultra Cover 2x spray paint in Dark Walnut. I love this stuff. To the untrained eye, this paint looks no different than a nice walnut stain, with half the work and none of the clean up.

Finally, we added some cheap hooks from Menards. Doug hung the shelf tonight and I am so happy with it. I think it looks fantastic and it is already very functional. With our house lacking an entry way, any type of storage space at the door is a plus.

I think it turned out great. I am so happy to have more functional space by the front door.

Now that this is finished, I need to get busy and think of something else for him to do. Winter doesn't last forever.

Linked: Polish the Starts, Craft-O-Maniac, DIY link party, Motivate Me Monday, Make Something Monday, A Bowl Full of Lemons, Debbiedoo's Newbie Party, SewWoodsy, Wicked Awesome Wednesday, Share the Wealth, Lil Luna, Someday Crafts, Somewhat Simple, Creative Share, Show Off Your Stuff, What I Whipped Up Wednesday,