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Painting a Church Pew

By Anita 93 Comments

Remember the church pew on the back porch?

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The back was painted blue. But the front….

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Well I’m not sure what this ‘treatment’ is. Neglect? Is that a stain or just dirt? Sometimes, it’s best not to ask. I brought it inside to work on it, because it was really hot and I just didn’t want to deal with the heat.

antique-church-pew

I put some painters paper underneath the pew. Then I started cleaning it. It was filthy. And it wasn’t all my fault. It was caked with dirt when I got it! The cleaning took a lot longer than I thought it would. After it dried, then I began painting with a blue milk paint.

Be sure to leave a comment! Every comment on any post at Cedar Hill Farmhouse blog automatically enters you to win a one hour decorating consult! Details here. 

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Honestly I just grabbed some paint I had in my closet. I love this color blue!

 

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Milk paint has to be protected from water, so I added a layer of Amy Howard Light antiquing wax.  See how the wax really changed the look of the paint?

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Here is the amazing thing. Once I painted the bench with paint I happened to have on hand, then added a layer of antiquing wax, the new paint matched the old paint exactly. You can’t tell where the old paint ends and the new paint begins.

I just happen to have the wax on sale right now!


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How did I know it was going to work? I didn't. It just did. This happens a lot to be honest. I wasn't sure the paint would match exactly, but I figured it would be close enough. Now let's take a look at what the room looked like before.

I love the daybed, but felt everything in here looks like it was made to go together, even though it wasn't. It looked too 'good' actually. Well it looked TOO MATCHY MATCHY.

It looks too fancy in here, too French, and not farmhouse-y enough. I knew it, but I was busy with a thousand other things.

french-daybed

I didn't actually buy anything new for the room. I just rearranged. I brought in the clock from the city dining room, and the pew from the back porch. (Affiliate link) You can find the clock here. 

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The ottoman also was in another room.

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I also added the blue rug that was most recently in our guest quarters. What you see in the champagne bucket is Buffalo Grass from our farm, because I'm fancy (or I forgot to buy flowers.)

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I love the addition of the blue in the rug and the pew. My husband has already complained that the pew will not make a great place to stretch out. I told him it was not for him, but for guests. He said, 'For guests you want to leave, you mean.' Why does no one see my vision? It may end up back on the porch later but for now, I'm keeping it in here. It is just overflow seating any way. What it does it add charm and warmth to the room, even if no one sits there.

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I also added lamps in here. I really like the new look.

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This is part of my DIY Tips and Tricks. Be sure to check out what my friends are sharing today.

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ON SUTTON PLACE

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THISTLEWOOD FARMS

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Filed Under: Paint Project, Project

Comments

  1. Rhondi says

    October 6, 2016 at 06:21

    It’s a lovely color blue, but I agree with your husband, guests won’t stay long!

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 6, 2016 at 07:57

      Rhonda, when friends come over we usually visit on the porch, so I don’t think the pew will be used much. The pew didn’t take away any seating, it just added extra if needed. It is just fun.

      Reply
  2. sandi says

    October 6, 2016 at 06:35

    I have a long German bench in brown so I may think about putting some color on it & using it outside. I think it may need a poly surface though to protect it rather than a wax if it will be outside. Some of my antique pieces have wax & if they get wet they leave a white spot.
    I like your new look!

    Reply
  3. Michelle says

    October 6, 2016 at 06:41

    Love the color!! You did a great job with it!!

    Reply
  4. Kellie says

    October 6, 2016 at 06:49

    The bench looks great! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  5. Susan W. says

    October 6, 2016 at 06:54

    Looks great! I can’t believe the blues were exact. You’re just too lucky?

    Reply
  6. Cheryl says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:00

    I love this look!! The color adds a lot of warmth to the room. Great job!!

    Reply
  7. Maureen Ryan says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:09

    What would you think about reversing the bench and the couch? The bench is tall and feels like a bit of a barrier; maybe it would be suitable on the wall? Otherwise, I love it!

    Reply
  8. Heidi Teichgraeber says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:09

    The pew is a great color of blue. Why did you choose milk paint and not chalk paint? I know you said you had what was on hand, but what is the difference.

    Reply
  9. Linda Neafsey says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:10

    I, too, have a pew in my living room but much smaller. I hate to say this but I think your pew is too large for the space and blocks the flow of the room

    I love the color and idea but I find even my over fllow company avoids sitting on it. However, as a design idea and for the pictures it is great

    Reply
  10. Ann says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:12

    The room turned out great. I love it

    Reply
  11. Carol says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:21

    The new look is much more interesting!

    Reply
  12. Christine says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:36

    I love the color and the rustic touches to a fufu room. Added intrigue!

    Reply
  13. Lynda Lamon says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:38

    Love the pew!! Lovely color!!!

    Reply
  14. jill says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:52

    Do like the color, and I am a fan of pews, but sorry, do not like it in this room. The flow seems wrong, better on the porch. The blue rug and other additions are nice and add warmth to the room.

    Reply
  15. Mae says

    October 6, 2016 at 07:55

    Interesting. Lovely things, great colors but I’m not sure walking into the back of the pew is very inviting.

    Reply
  16. Lisa Moreland says

    October 6, 2016 at 08:12

    Looks great!

    Reply
  17. Linda Payne says

    October 6, 2016 at 08:14

    Love the church pew but agree about the lack of comfort. Suggestion: a long padded seat cushion in whatever fabric is going to give you the look you want. Heck even the pews at church have padded cushions!

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 6, 2016 at 08:53

      Linda, no one is going to sit there. When we have company we stay on the back porch.

      Reply
  18. Sharon says

    October 6, 2016 at 08:18

    Hi Anita,
    Love the pew in the living room. Have you thought of adding a cushion instead of so many pillows?
    Also, could you please share where you found your mora clock? I found one at Round Top last fall but my husband nixed me spending $6,000 on a clock?. One last thought, perhaps it’s just the way it photographs but the medallion above the clock looks wrong…maybe nothing above the clock.
    Hugs,
    Sharon

    Reply
  19. Aamber says

    October 6, 2016 at 08:51

    Your bench is gorgeous with its new paint and wax! It’s always great to have overflow seating!! Stretching out (my husband’s term for what one does leading to napping) can still happen on the daybed, or in the bedrooms!! ?

    Reply
  20. Peggy McPhilimy Koger says

    October 6, 2016 at 08:59

    I have to agree with some other posts. Great pew…..but it’s “too” much in that room and looks more like a display piece than a place to sit. Sorry. ?

    Reply
  21. Beth Wilson says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:04

    I love the pop of blue in the room. Amazing how one thing can totally change the look of the room. It was beautiful before, but so much cozier feeling now.

    Reply
  22. Hilary McDaniel says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:06

    I think it doesn’t solve the problem. That large white wall still looks matchy. Try putting the bench under the white pictures. Don’t block the doorway with that couch. Either face the Love seat out or put it opposite the bench. Personally, esthetically, it feels more of a porch piece. It just looks awkward and “decorated” in there. I’d make some slip covers in a more current color to break up the white. While white rooms will always be liked, I think they’ve had their day.

    Reply
  23. Michelle B says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:15

    The new color is beautiful and I love the new look of the room. That ottoman is adorable. 🙂

    Reply
  24. Deb H says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:25

    I like the transformation of the bench and the room. I love the idea of the bench with some linen or cotton ticking cushions.

    Reply
  25. Debbie Reynolds says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:33

    Love the blue! The room looks cozier!

    Reply
  26. Kathleen Law says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:40

    Anita…I love the look of your bleu pew in your room…Do not be concerned with how it fits or if it is balanced. We all lead unbalanced lives…Ha..I have been in many homes in France on mission trips…Some of the dreamiest and not a one was balanced but we were in awe…I LOVE YOUR LOOK…

    Reply
  27. Lea says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:41

    Oh no. Now I just HAVE to have a {shorter} church pew for my entry! So very beautiful!

    Reply
  28. Cheryl Brazie says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:42

    You make painting look easy – I might try my hand at it when I find a cute wood piece for my house. Always scared I’ll screw it up. I just love the church pew, great color for it.

    Reply
  29. Trr6 says

    October 6, 2016 at 09:52

    I love the color and the room looks fantastic!

    Reply
  30. SHY says

    October 6, 2016 at 10:01

    Love the pew and the blue color. Makes for a very nice change to the match/matchy.

    Reply
  31. Wendy from Oldlakegeorge.com says

    October 6, 2016 at 10:05

    Hi. I’m stopping over from Thistlewood farms.
    I love your style! I’m looking forward to adding your blog to my morning routine.

    Reply
  32. Roxann Johnson Schwarze says

    October 6, 2016 at 10:14

    Such a cool piece!!!!!! And don’t you just love when things just turn out!!!!! Love the paint and wax finish on it!!!!! Everything looks so beautiful as usual!!!!!! Roxann

    Reply
  33. Heidi says

    October 6, 2016 at 10:17

    Anita,

    I love the colour of the bench- looks like the same colour used on shutters in the South of France in lovely towns like Old Antibes, Grimault and Eze. So ending up with the perfect blue was a happy accident! I agree with some of the others: some rectangular cushions in antique flour sack material with a lavender stripe that could be used as back cushions or as seat cushions. Guests will know which one they prefer! Fabulous job btw!!

    Reply
  34. Pam says

    October 6, 2016 at 10:25

    I love the church pew. Wish I had my aunt and uncle’s so I could paint it.

    Reply
  35. Diane Westbrook says

    October 6, 2016 at 10:36

    How lovely! Perfect color and it does look great in the room! Wtg!!

    Reply
  36. Gloria says

    October 6, 2016 at 11:17

    it looks great. I have used the Amy Howard was and it does a fantastic job.

    Reply
  37. Brenda Wilson says

    October 6, 2016 at 11:17

    I love the look of the pew painted that pretty blue! And it looks fabulous in the room!!

    Reply
  38. Pam Bolton says

    October 6, 2016 at 11:23

    I love the new color. We had a dark brown church bench in our basement received room when the kids were young. I had a French mattress made for it to make it more comfortable. I wish that I had thought to paint it. I just love your new frenchy blue.

    Reply
  39. Tess S. says

    October 6, 2016 at 11:24

    Your room is just lovely! It’s amazing the success you’ve had painting and waxing your church pew!!! It’s perfect!!!!

    Reply
  40. Lois says

    October 6, 2016 at 11:45

    Love love love the bench!!! It brings back memories of my childhood. Dad was a country preacher, and our family did all the janitorial work each weekend. How well I remember dusting each and every bench all browned with age and dirt, EXACTLY like your bench!!! Thanks for bringing back such warm memories of my childhood. Unintentionally, and over the years, we forget details until someone triggers a memory.

    Reply
  41. Diane says

    October 6, 2016 at 12:08

    Oh my gosh, I love what you did to the old church pew. I have one also, wasn’t sure what to do with it but now seeing yours I think I’ll try my hand at painting it too! Thanks for sharing & Love your blog!! Have a Blessed day!!

    Reply
  42. Molly says

    October 6, 2016 at 12:11

    I love it! Have been looking for a church pew for my entry, but so far they are all too long. I may have to settle for just a bench.

    Reply
  43. Linda says

    October 6, 2016 at 12:38

    Just LOVE the new look of that room with the church pew in it! I agree, the other was nice but too matchy matchy for me as well. This is just DARLIN’ as we say in Texas!! LOVE, LOVE. LOVE it!

    Reply
  44. Maggie says

    October 6, 2016 at 12:42

    Gorgeous!!!! I love the blue, I’ve been thinking of painting in some blues or teals to through color into my dining room. If you happen to know the name of your blue let us know. I love the pew, it is fun and eclectic! Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  45. Patti says

    October 6, 2016 at 12:47

    Really like the pew! – the wax makes a huge difference.

    Reply
  46. Rosalie says

    October 6, 2016 at 13:03

    I have to agree with your husband. The church pew looks very uncomfortable. Also, with so many pillows, there really isn’t much room to actually sit. I love throw pillows as much a the next person. But realistically, too many pillows take up too much room on a chair, couch, bench. I used to have beautiful, fluffy pillows on a few of my French chairs. Guests always pulled them off the chairs and put them on the floor.

    Reply
  47. Pamela says

    October 6, 2016 at 13:05

    Your pew turned out so cool. It looks great.

    Reply
  48. Maggie says

    October 6, 2016 at 13:11

    Oops, I meant to write throw, instead of through.

    Reply
  49. Sue says

    October 6, 2016 at 13:17

    LOVE the blue pew. But, where did you get your new table lamps? May I ask? They are perfect! Love the shades!

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 6, 2016 at 16:49

      They are old and not available any more Sue.

      Reply
  50. Meg Hobbes says

    October 6, 2016 at 13:53

    Very timely post for me. Soon I will be picking up a church pew from my sister, and am filing this post in the back of my head.

    Reply
  51. Sandi S. says

    October 6, 2016 at 14:45

    I love your bench!! The blue color is wonderful too. Hugs,’

    Reply
  52. karen-anne says

    October 6, 2016 at 15:22

    Love the color. May I ask where you got your ottoman?

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 6, 2016 at 16:49

      I can order one for you if you want one Karen-Anne. Just email me, and I can send you a price.

      Reply
  53. Rebecca M says

    October 6, 2016 at 15:55

    I’m with your husband on this one….looks to big for the space and would definitely be a hard seat. But, it’s your house so if you like it, that’s all that matters!

    Reply
  54. Chris Johnson says

    October 6, 2016 at 16:44

    What did you use to clean the pew? I have one that’s filthy plus the veneer is peeling off. I don’t know whether to try to repair the veneer or just pull it off. Love the new look and enjoy your posts. Chris

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 6, 2016 at 16:47

      Chris, just water and dishwashing soap.

      Reply
  55. Debbie says

    October 6, 2016 at 16:49

    I just love old church pews, I’ve always wanted one for my own home, but have yet to find one. I love what you did with this one, it blends beautifully with the rest of the room. Most men don’t see our visions when it comes to the home, but as long as they don’t complain, I’m good with that! Keep making things beautiful!

    Reply
  56. Charlene Halverson says

    October 6, 2016 at 17:39

    Love Love it, my favorite color of blue. Enjoy!!!

    Reply
  57. Jody says

    October 6, 2016 at 18:12

    I love the pew and would definitely sit on it! Your husband sounds like mine though 🙂

    Reply
  58. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    October 6, 2016 at 18:30

    Beautiful job on the bench!!!…..Have not tried Amy Howard’s antiquing wax…and this bench makes me want to look for something to paint!….it looks great in the room!…So serendipitous!

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 6, 2016 at 20:28

      Thanks Shirley you are so sweet as always!!!

      Reply
  59. Constance says

    October 6, 2016 at 19:28

    like that it is a versatile piece. When or if you get tired of it in the living room, you can put it on the hallway or a bedroom or the outside porch! Great paint job, btw.

    Reply
  60. Rosemary Snukis says

    October 6, 2016 at 20:57

    Another beautiful room, Anita!

    Reply
  61. Sharon says

    October 6, 2016 at 21:33

    Great way to change thevlok ofth room and add interest!

    Reply
  62. Mary Warren says

    October 6, 2016 at 22:34

    Ann on Sutton Place encountered her readers to check out your blog. I’m so glad I stopped by. I love the old pew and your paint job that you gave it. I think it looks great in the new location.

    Reply
  63. ruby says

    October 7, 2016 at 00:01

    men! they can be so practical sometimes!! ha!

    Reply
  64. Amy says

    October 7, 2016 at 05:38

    Love the painted bench! There’s one waiting for me at my parent’s house. I was thinking about painting it & using it at my dining room table. I would be interested to know your opinion on the difference between milk paint & chalk paint. Thanks for the post.

    Reply
    • Anita says

      October 7, 2016 at 12:33

      Either will work. It is just a personal preference Amy. The milk paint is much easier to distress, but needs more protection from water.

      Reply
  65. maureen hughes says

    October 7, 2016 at 15:50

    Anita
    Love the BLUE! Yes, I too have to ignore my husband. If he did the decorating, his study would be Blue and Silver for the Cowboys! LOL

    Reply
  66. Barbara says

    October 7, 2016 at 17:13

    Love the blue bench, adds a rustic touch

    Reply
  67. Cheryl Ann says

    October 9, 2016 at 06:31

    You did a beautiful job on that old pew Anita…love it! These are the types of things that make a house a home and will be remembered for years to come. You have my kind of style!

    Reply
  68. Linda Pemberton says

    October 9, 2016 at 11:43

    LOL!!! I’m laughing about what your husband said. Men think benches or sofas are for reclining and watching football!. I think it’s a beautiful piece, especially the back with the trim. It may not be comfortable for seating but it is a gorgeous conversation piece.

    Reply
  69. Dawn Doll says

    October 9, 2016 at 12:49

    Love the change its always fun to switch things up great look . I have wood chairs in my kitchen with no padding people can sit for hours on them . I will offer them a pad but they always say ,good thanks .

    Reply
  70. Audra @ Renewed Projects says

    October 9, 2016 at 19:34

    You did a fantastic job matching the paint! Looks amazing in your living room. I’m sure you’ll get tons of compliments on it.

    Reply
  71. Cynthia Chilson Finger says

    October 10, 2016 at 17:16

    Your church pew looks great! I did a very similar pew last March for a contest .. I’m linking it because even our rugs are so similar. 😀 It’s a great color. My pew still has the hymnal holders, but it’s against a wall and hidden. I love how yours is floated in your room. Take care, Cynthia
    http://www.clockworkinteriors.com/church-pew-makeover-march-fab-furniture-flippin-contest/

    Reply
  72. Sabrina says

    October 11, 2016 at 07:16

    The church phew looks so beautiful! I especially loved it outside during your fall porch tour!!

    Reply
  73. Cheryl Bull says

    October 11, 2016 at 18:37

    The most important part to this project is your willingness to “try” something and see how it works. I ,too,would be very excited to see how the new paint job matched the old because of some creativity. We all have projects that become a frustrating chore. All the more reason to appreciate the fun of a project that “just works”! I know it does have something to do with being brave and adventurous! A bit of experience helps too! Great post Anita.

    Reply
  74. Carole @ Garden Up Green says

    October 12, 2016 at 07:02

    This is beautiful and I love how you incorporated the bench indoors. Many times I see them placed outside but inside like this just really worked. The details are fantastic!

    Reply
  75. Dana says

    October 13, 2016 at 08:50

    I adore the bench!!!I have the perfect place for one in my home. I’ve been searching in vain for two years for just the right one. Looks like you scooped up a great one. I love what you did with it. Yesterday I went to my favorite furniture place and bought a new bench that that looks old. Not a church pew like I wanted, but I’m in love with it just the same. Enjoy your day!

    Reply
  76. Marie says

    October 13, 2016 at 18:46

    Wow! Not only is your pew gorgeous but storing the shoes under it is so super smart. That would be perfect in our entryway. Now I just need to find an old church pew. Thanks for sharing your beautiful makeover with us at Merry Monday this week!

    Reply
  77. Stacey Keeling says

    October 14, 2016 at 16:21

    Anita, I love it! The pew definitely added a little more farmhouse to the room. It’s less fancy now and more laid back. I’m so glad you shared this at Thoughts of Home on Thursday. 🙂

    Posting on Facebook.

    Reply
  78. Marsha Melonakos says

    October 16, 2016 at 15:41

    I have a smaller pew in my laundry room but it’s black. Think I need to rethink its color. Love the blue on your pew

    Reply
  79. Sahana says

    October 16, 2016 at 17:01

    Lovely color. Thank you for linking up with us at #HomeMattersParty. See you again next week.

    Reply
  80. Jennifer Ross says

    October 21, 2016 at 18:04

    The pew is pretty but I LOVE your clock!

    Reply
  81. Lisa O says

    November 6, 2016 at 07:48

    I love how everything you touch seems to come together. I tend to agree that the pew is a little awkward, though. But if you don’t plan on using it for seating the arrangement looks awesome 🙂

    Reply
  82. Joe says

    December 28, 2016 at 05:34

    Mind blowing painting work. I think this the best to paint a home with really amazing looks. I am in the same profession and you gave me great ideas for my painting projects.

    Reply
  83. Melanie says

    February 15, 2019 at 17:13

    Great job with the pew, first time I ever saw one with a ledge at the bottom under the seat , pillows on the seat, items on the ledge , you have wonderful style instincts . Some husbands need to live with changes.

    Reply
    • Anita says

      February 17, 2019 at 16:33

      Well it’s been moved outside, so it’s working for everyone now!

      Reply
  84. Cecilia from Georgia says

    September 4, 2019 at 21:14

    Hi Anita, I read this post a couple of times and didn’t see what paint you used. Was it milk paint? I want a little chippy and maybe some crackle in a short Church pew. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks

    Reply
    • Anita says

      September 4, 2019 at 22:02

      Yes Cecilia, it was a milk paint. I can’t remember the brand. If you want a crackle, then you’ll want to use a crackle medium. Try Amy Howard. They have something that will work.

      Reply

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