Repurposing items in our home, or shopping thrift stores is an environmentally friendly way to update our homes. And it doesn’t have to take a lot of effort!
This morning I was spring cleaning our master bathroom, happy for the sunny day to open up and clean the windows! I find great satisfaction in spring cleaning, freshening up the house seems to brighten my mood.
Midst the task, I came up with a plan to update my wastecan. It’s looked a little worse for wear for awhile now. I have been keeping an eye out for a deal on my regular trips to Homesense, but tossing it only to replace it with a piece of plastic was not something I wanted to do.
Before: Wicker Wastecan
A quick trip to my garage, and I was armed with a spray can of hammered effect paint, and a stack of newspaper. I had nothing to lose, if it didn’t turn out, I would have a good excuse to splurge on a fancy new can.
After a quick washing, I turned the can upside down, and sprayed a light coat of paint to the wicker. After several light coats, waiting at least 30 minutes between coats, I flipped the can right side up, and sprayed the inside. After several hours of drying time, the wastecan was ready to put back into use!
First Coat
Up close of finished product
Finished product…..better than a plastic can in my opinion!
Spray painting is an easy way to freshen up so many things around the house. I guess my stash of cans in the garage is a telling sign of my addiction. Spring seems to be the season I most often practice this…………….my planter boxes on the front porch have endured many seasons in different veils of colour!
My spray painting tips……….
- Best done outside, or in the garage if it’s well ventilated
- Wait for a warm enough day………..my can says above 15 degrees (60F)
- Paint won’t dry if it’s too humid
- Several light coats is better than thicker coats……….it takes practice!
- Hold the can 6-8 inches from your subject
- Wait about 30 minutes between coats (my can says 15 minimum)
- To prevent the nozzle from clogging up, I turn the can upside down and release the paint after each application
- Protect the surfaces around the subject! Be aware that overspray will happen…….a cardboard box is a great way to protect
Nesting Nut 