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Meet Camille, my Frenchy Vanity

By Anita 67 Comments

thrift store vanity
Some of you I know are drop dead gorgeous all of the time, but if you are like me, maybe you can relate to Camille, my vanity, who needed a little help, but in the end, turned out beautiful.

Here’s the photo I took of Camille, with my phone, when I first found her at the thrift store around the corner from our new house.
I’ve been looking for a new vanity for the new house, and just wasn’t finding what I was looking for, then I saw… her.  I took a picture, so I could think about if she was, you know, the one.  I knew pretty legs like Camille’s, don’t come along every day, but I also knew we weren’t ready to move yet, and my house was (is) beginning to look like a junk shop.
I might have mentioned previously that I have been buying for the new house. I’ve got a pair of antique 8 foot doors for the study, 5 mirrors for the bathrooms, 3 chandeliers, 2 wall sconces, 2 antique corbels for a shelf, an antique desk, 4 antique French chairs, a French settee, an old iron post that we’re going to use as a newel post, and a partridge in a pear tree. (Okay the partridge part isn’t true.)
I went back to the thrift shop, this time with my friend, Caroline. Caroline, too, was looking for a vanity or desk.  As I looked Camille over, I heard Caroline over my shoulder, exclaim that if I didn’t want her, she, Caroline, would take her.  Well, of course, that was that. Caroline was just oohing and ahhing. Good grief, I couldn’t take it any more,  I told the folks there to ‘load ‘er up.’  (Don’t worry about Caroline, she found another one.)

I used my homemade chalky paint for Camille.

I quart of SW Earl Gray, 
adding 
3 T Calcium Carbonate/cup of paint.

After the paint dried, I sanded down the corners and a few areas to distress the piece, then applied a coat of

Fiddes Rugger brown wax.

For the bench, I used a French ticking gray linen fabric with blue stripes.  BTW, you don’t need to use 100 staples when upholstering a small piece like this. I think I removed at least that many, and in the end, just left some, because it was becoming so tedious to remove all of the old staples.  The worst part was that they were brittle and broke when I pried them up with my screwdriver. Each piece had to be extracted with pliers.

The old bench was tufted, so I had a decision to make. Was I going to tuft the new cover or not?  I decided not, I just wasn’t “feeling it.” That meant I needed new foam for the seat, since the old foam, had little holes where the buttons were.

I hope you are reading this and not just skimming, because here’s an important note: The above photo shows What Not to Do!!.  I added a new piece of foam then wrapped it in batting, stapling the batting in place. I had too much bulk on the botton of the seat and it wouldn’t sit flat on the base. I had to cut away a lot of the batting on the bottom.

Here is the bottom after I cut away much of the batting. Then I started over. Sorry not so pretty, but you need to know.  Remember I removed a gazillion staples, and I was ready to be done with this bench, so it isn’t so neat looking here on the bottom.  I left quite a few staples since I was tired of pulling them out.

As I stretched the fabric over the foam, I made sure the stripes were straight and that the pattern was centered.  I started with a staple on the north side, one on the south side, one on the east side, then one on the west side. I tightened and straightened as I moved toward the corners, doing them last.

I don’t strive for perfection, but a finished product that looks good. I have too much to do, so I can’t spend a week on this project.

Did you notice I put one of my favorite things, this French clock on my new desk?

I also used a lamp from Mr. CH’s grandparents. It’s 100 years old, and when they first bought it, it was a kerosene lamp.  Only much later, did they covert it to an electric lamp.

I think Camille will be very happy with her new look.

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Filed Under: French furniture, homemade chalky paint, Project

Comments

  1. Lisa says

    March 20, 2013 at 11:53

    She’s a looker and a keeper! So pretty!

    Reply
  2. Anne says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:04

    Beautiful transformation Anita! LOVE the color LOVE that fabric.Oh I wish I had jumped on that fabric when decor steals had that.Hope they do that one again!

    Anne

    Reply
  3. Pamela says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:05

    Beautiful piece Anita! It turned out great!!

    Reply
  4. chateau chic says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:18

    She’s beautiful, Anita!! You did a terrific job to give her a whole new look.
    Mary Alice

    Reply
  5. The enchanted home says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:26

    What a beauty!!! Your vision is incredible…great color choice and love the fabric on the bench, a beautiful duo!

    Reply
  6. DREAMS ON 34th STREET ~ French Bread & Family says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:41

    Wow, Anita! Absolutely WOW!
    Happy Spring!
    ~Lynne
    withLove.

    Reply
  7. Angela Ryder says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:46

    Beautiful transformation, Anita!

    Reply
  8. Lori Young says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:49

    Beautiful Anita!!

    Reply
  9. lynn cockrell says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:07

    Positively love your new vanity/desk! The color palette you chose is perfect and the French clock and desk look like a marriage made in heaven. That perfect piece is sometimes work the wait.

    Reply
  10. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:07

    Just beautiful, Anita! What a great find. Love the new color, too.

    Reply
  11. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:19

    Camille is gorgeous…I have a vanity in the attic just waiting for a “new dress”….you did a gorgeous job…Now, do you prefer the Fiddes Rugger Brown Wax over the Annie Sloan Dark Wax?….love the fabric on the bench and great tips…thanks…and have a great day!

    Reply
  12. Nancy says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:20

    Wow! You did an awesome job and Camille has got beautiful legs!!

    Reply
  13. Anita @ Cedar Hill Ranch says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:22

    I use Fiddes antique brown mixed with clear for light colored paints, antique brown on medium toned paints, and the rugger brown on dark toned paints. The Annie Sloan dark wax seems too dark for most colors. I think you need a very rich deep color to use that wax.

    Reply
  14. Korrie@RedHenHome says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:45

    Camille is just lovely, and I love the fabric you chose for the bench. There’s nothing that makes you want something like knowing someone ELSE wants it too 😉

    Reply
  15. Lorraine Finkbeiner says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:47

    I stole a jelly cabinet from my own SIL last year so we’re on the same page there. Fastest credit card whipped out wins. Who looks at the bottom of a bench anyway? Of course, if I ever come to your house NOW, I’m looking under EVERYTHING…
    Camille est tres belle!

    Reply
  16. Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary says

    March 20, 2013 at 13:53

    Camille is simply beautiful. So glad that you purchased her as she looks great. I know you will enjoy her for many many years.
    Mary

    Reply
  17. Bliss says

    March 20, 2013 at 14:01

    Camille, Camille, Camille…. you make my heart go pitter-patter.

    Bliss

    Reply
  18. denise...on a whim says

    March 20, 2013 at 14:05

    I’m so glad I got to meet Camille. She’s stunning!

    Reply
  19. Nancy Carr says

    March 20, 2013 at 14:09

    Camille is charming.

    Reply
  20. Alycia Nichols says

    March 20, 2013 at 14:13

    Oh, how I wish I could muster the courage and the patience to do something like this to my vanity!!! My timidity is borne of the fear of complete and utter failure. That vanity is of such great sentimental value to me, and I would hate to destroy it because I’m not very good at these kinds of projects. I LOVE the look, though. So now I’m all hopped up and wanting to do it! 🙂 I will definitely take your advice re: the seat batting stuff since I intend to re-cover the seat, too. That’s something I might not have considered and would end up doing much more work than necessary. GREAT tip! I also like the way you have her all dressed with the trophy cup and clock. Very pretty!

    Reply
  21. Linda@Coastal Charm says

    March 20, 2013 at 14:13

    Anita,
    This is a beautiful makeover…LOVE that fabric!!!

    Blessings,
    Linda

    Reply
  22. Gee Singh Newbanks says

    March 20, 2013 at 15:23

    OOOhhh la la!! Camille is a stunner . Such a wonderful transformation Anita.
    I too just redid the seat of my vanity’s bench and was telling the Mr about the 101 staples that were in it all old and rusted and I too had to remove the majority with pliers. What a chore!!
    Hugs, Gee

    Reply
  23. Cynthia says

    March 20, 2013 at 15:24

    Anita,

    This piece is just gorgeous. I love the lines and the color and the fabric on the bench is gorgeous. Job well done.

    Cynthia

    Reply
  24. thefarmfiles says

    March 20, 2013 at 15:52

    I love the transformation! You did such a great job…with both the painting and the reupholstering. A talended gal you are!

    Thanks for sharing the how-to!

    E

    Reply
  25. Revi says

    March 20, 2013 at 16:27

    Camille is loverly. I name my furniture, too. 🙂 I love your paint treatment on her!
    -Revi

    Reply
  26. Jenny Lynn says

    March 20, 2013 at 16:42

    It is so sweet that you named your furniture. I love how you made Camille over, she looks lovely.

    Reply
  27. ℳartina @ Northern Nesting says

    March 20, 2013 at 16:59

    Camille is a beauty Anita and I love the bench makeover too!!

    Reply
  28. PURA VIDA says

    March 20, 2013 at 17:29

    I think I had this very vanity growing up…wonder where in this world it is?

    Reply
  29. Cindy says

    March 20, 2013 at 17:57

    Oh my goodness… gorgeous!

    Cindy

    Reply
  30. Deanne Langford says

    March 20, 2013 at 20:32

    she is beautiful! Well done!

    Reply
  31. betsy says

    March 20, 2013 at 20:39

    Swoon! I think I’m in love with Camille <3

    Reply
  32. On Crooked Creek says

    March 20, 2013 at 21:27

    Anita,
    After reading ALL of your staple removal woes…I’m not sure I’m ready to tackle the one upholstery piece I have! Whew…looks as if the UN~doing is harder than the RE~doing!!!
    Your bit about “a partridge in a pear tree” cracked me up!!! Too, too funny!!!
    Happy Spring, dear friend!!!
    Fondly,
    Pat

    Reply
  33. NanaDiana says

    March 20, 2013 at 22:05

    Anita- That turned out really great. I think it is just beautiful and if you hadn’t taken it AND yor friend, Caroline, hadn’t taken it I would have!;>) She’s a beauty! xo Diana

    Reply
  34. Ellie VanCaster says

    March 20, 2013 at 22:33

    I think you did such a beautiful job-it is really stunning.

    Reply
  35. Lisa @ Fern Creek Cottage says

    March 21, 2013 at 00:05

    Loooove it!! She is beautiful!

    Reply
  36. Pondside says

    March 21, 2013 at 03:04

    Camille is gorgeous! Aren’t you glad you took her home?

    Reply
  37. ~ ~ Ahrisha ~ ~ says

    March 21, 2013 at 12:55

    Such a Beauty! Love how you did the paint job she looks so sweet. Gotta get a bench for mine.
    I am your newest follower. Love your blog.
    ~ ~Ahrisha~ ~

    Reply
  38. Jeannie and Linda says

    March 21, 2013 at 15:16

    What a great piece of furniture, you really transformed it beautifully. Love it.
    Jeannie

    Reply
  39. Debi Willhoite says

    March 21, 2013 at 15:55

    What a gorgeous transformation! New follower here! Love your blog! You have inspired me to get at several pieces I have to get them done. I think I am going to try your homemade chalk paint too! I am really lovin Camille!

    Have a wonderful day!

    Debi

    Reply
  40. Sherry @ No Minimalist Here says

    March 21, 2013 at 16:06

    Anita, She is beautiful and I love her new paint finish! The fabric on the stool is wonderful too.
    Thanks for joining the Open House party.
    xx,
    Sherry

    Reply
  41. Yvonne @ StoneGable says

    March 22, 2013 at 00:04

    Anita, Camille is just stunning. I love the way you described her! What a good eye you have for making things beautiful!!!!
    I have an antique vanity that I use as a vanity and after seeing your vanity turned desk, I am thinking I should paint it. Thanks for the tip about using too much batting.
    I think your bench is just about the prettiest one I’ve seen!
    You must be having so much fun collecting for your new home!!!
    xo

    Reply
  42. Sarah says

    March 22, 2013 at 02:43

    Anita, nothing like a little nudge from a caring friend. I think Camille is exquisite. And that French clock…….it’s the first thing I noticed. Is that a find or a family piece? I know this would be in my favorite things category if she were mine. ‘-)

    Reply
  43. Terry Moore says

    March 22, 2013 at 03:31

    Absolutely breathtaking.

    Reply
  44. Jamie -Better With Age says

    March 22, 2013 at 03:42

    Wow, she’s gorgeous! I love the fabric you chose and the paint job. Fantastic!!
    Jamie @ somuchbetterwithage.com

    Reply
  45. Judy at GoldCountryCottage says

    March 22, 2013 at 06:01

    Coming by from French Country Cottage. You did a really fantastic job on Camille and her seat!! Very fitting name for her. I’m curious about your new house so I will be back again..Happy Thursday..Judy

    Reply
  46. Sayuri says

    March 22, 2013 at 06:06

    Beautiful makeover!!
    I love both,the desk and the chair,chair looks so comfy 🙂

    Reply
  47. Patti@OldThingsNew says

    March 22, 2013 at 14:21

    Camille is oh, so beautiful! The color is great, (thank for sharing the details), the bench is perfect with the ticking & you are amazing! Blessings to you, Patti

    Reply
  48. Designed Decor says

    March 23, 2013 at 03:03

    This is gorgeous! I love the color you chose, very pretty! Pinning!

    Reply
  49. Sandi~A Cottage Muse says

    March 24, 2013 at 20:09

    Love, love this piece and the fabric choice is perfect!

    Reply
  50. VMG206 says

    March 25, 2013 at 18:56

    Love Camille’s new look ~ the color is devine! I’m also loving that printed bamboo rug… did you make that??
    I visiting from Sumo’s Linky. I hope you can stop by my blog and leave a comment and Link Up!
    ~ Megin of VMG206
    http://www.vmg206.blogspot.com

    Reply
  51. Susan Jackson says

    March 26, 2013 at 11:20

    I love this dressing table redo. You did such a good job. Thank you for sharing your chalk paint recipe also. I’ve been wanting to do a piece with chalk paint. Love the clock also. susan @ throughmyporchwindow.blogspot.com

    Reply
  52. Pieced Pastimes says

    March 26, 2013 at 20:58

    Hi Anita,
    You did a fabulous job on this vanity. I love the color, the distressing and the fabric you used on the bench. It turned out just beautiful.
    Thanks for the inspiration,
    Suzanne
    Pieced Pastimes

    Reply
  53. Angie @ Knick of Time says

    April 1, 2013 at 10:49

    I looks beautiful, Anita! I’m featuring you this week at Knick of Time Tuesday!

    Reply
  54. Sumaya at Evocative Vintage says

    April 1, 2013 at 22:16

    Camille is a stunner. Beautiful finish and thanks for the tutorial on how to upholser a stool. I am a new follower over from Angie. Congrats with the feature. Would love you to follow back if you can:)

    xo
    Sumaya

    Reply
  55. Jill says

    January 30, 2014 at 12:53

    I love this! I have been sanding away the walls in my new house – this project is about to drive me crazy and I feel like I will never finish! The color started out very similar to your vanity’s original color – but more orange in some spots. I wish I had seen this earlier, maybe I would have opted out of all the sanding! LOL – I will definitely use this paint trick in the future!!!

    Reply
  56. Pinky at Designs by Pinky says

    January 30, 2014 at 20:26

    Anita, this is bEAUTIFUL!!! What a vision you had! I have to ask: do you use it as a vanity or a desk??? I have a vanity in our master that I use as a vanity so it never looks PRETTY:(:( Just functional:):)

    Reply
  57. Carolyns funky Furniture says

    March 4, 2014 at 21:47

    Anita, this is the most beeeeeeeautiful piece! i love it, and it has to be one of my favorite pieces I have seen with the chalk paint. I do funky painted furniture most of the time, but am starting to use more and more of the chalk paint. Thank you for sharing this. LOVE IT!

    Reply
  58. Carolyn says

    March 23, 2014 at 07:04

    Love this! Do you buy flat paint to mix with the calcium carbonate and where do you get your Fiddes wax?

    Reply
    • Anita says

      March 24, 2014 at 09:04

      I use flat or satin paint, but I don’t think it matters if you use semi gloss or gloss. The Fiddes Wax can be found here http://www.ebay.com/itm/Fiddes-Supreme-Wax-Polish-7-Colors-Available-/220834431237?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item336ac20105

      Reply
  59. debbie says

    May 5, 2014 at 15:36

    Gorgeous!!!! Thanks for sharing. I just discovered this on pinterest – so happy to have discovered you.

    Reply
  60. Sharon says

    June 24, 2014 at 17:48

    The whole thing is Gorgeous!!! The desk make-over, the clock, the lamp, everything! *Sigh* Maybe one day my home will have that polished look. Where did you get that neat floor mat?

    Reply
    • Anita says

      June 25, 2014 at 11:39

      It is from Decor Steals.

      Reply
  61. Celeste says

    September 23, 2016 at 08:08

    Camille is a classic beauty! And her legs! I have a vanity that needs attention and this is exactly what I am going to do! Thank you! Thank you! Merci!

    Reply
  62. Katie says

    January 15, 2019 at 02:19

    Camille is STUNNING! Timeless and elegant without looking gaudy or like a piece you’d be far too nervous to use! Very, very well done. I’m both impressed and envious of your talent!

    Reply
    • Anita says

      January 15, 2019 at 10:17

      Thanks Katie. I use this piece every day, so it definitely gets used.

      Reply
  63. Rebecca Payne says

    August 8, 2020 at 11:49

    Very pretty. Great job.

    Reply
  64. Carol says

    August 10, 2020 at 09:24

    Never thought I needed a vanity, but after seeing this beauty, I know I do!! Will have sm bath in new place, and this would look wonderful in bedroom, AND corral cosmetics!! Great job!!

    Reply

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