This weekend began a very big venture in DIY. We started to stain the bathroom cabinets. This had been the plan for a little while and we thank you all for the advice as we have also decided to stain the mirror frame to match.
I had been reading up on a couple of blogs regarding the staining process and tried to follow them closely. The blog Monica Wants It (http://www.monicawantsit.com/2012/02/staining-oak-cabinets-espresso-color.html) was the main source of information for this undertaking.
I'll just give you an update and a couple of tips of the job so far and will later go back to write a post about the whole experience once we're done (and when it hopefully turns out well!).
First off, I found the coveted General Finishes Java Gel Stain. You can order it from Amazon or if you're in the Greenville area Uncle Jake's or Woodcrafts carries it (I would call first though just to check as this type of stain has taken off!). Even though it says gel stain, I still figured it would be liquid and overestimated how much we would need. It is seriously gel and you need way way less than you think. We are about to embark on coat 3 and we've barely dented the 1/2 pint.
I had been reading up on a couple of blogs regarding the staining process and tried to follow them closely. The blog Monica Wants It (http://www.monicawantsit.com/2012/02/staining-oak-cabinets-espresso-color.html) was the main source of information for this undertaking.
I'll just give you an update and a couple of tips of the job so far and will later go back to write a post about the whole experience once we're done (and when it hopefully turns out well!).
First off, I found the coveted General Finishes Java Gel Stain. You can order it from Amazon or if you're in the Greenville area Uncle Jake's or Woodcrafts carries it (I would call first though just to check as this type of stain has taken off!). Even though it says gel stain, I still figured it would be liquid and overestimated how much we would need. It is seriously gel and you need way way less than you think. We are about to embark on coat 3 and we've barely dented the 1/2 pint.
I pretty much solely used the sock method for application, but may switch to a combination of the sock and the foam brush for coat 3 just to make sure I have all the crevices. You're welcome for this extremely attractive picture.
So here is where we started.
After 1 coat.
After 2.
And today will be 3. We might do 4 coats depending on how it looks after 3. Remember to pay special attention to the drying time listed.
With all that work, we decided to have a low key Sunday evening and figured a little seasonal fun was in store. We found a post online about the best Christmas Light houses in the Upstate and wanted to give it a shot.
With all that work, we decided to have a low key Sunday evening and figured a little seasonal fun was in store. We found a post online about the best Christmas Light houses in the Upstate and wanted to give it a shot.
It was awesome! We didn't see all of the houses on our list so far, but it was so much fun to see people get so into Christmas. I'd just hate to see their power bill!
Most of the houses had lights synced to music for a true light show.
Most of the houses had lights synced to music for a true light show.
Some even had talking trees that put on a show.
But my favorite one hands-down was a full house, Christmas lights, walking trail. You got out of the car, they gave you free popcorn and you followed a trail around the yard to see all the lights. As two adults we were amazed so I definitely recommend it to everyone!
It was a great way to end the weekend and get into the holiday spirit. Now onto coat 3 tonight!
Happy Monday!
Happy Monday!