Refreshing Methods for Whitenning Second-Hand Wooden Utensils, Including Salad Bowls
Want to give your home a modern farmhouse chic look? Look no further than your local thrift store for a wooden salad bowl. With just a few simple steps, you can easily transform this humble find into a stunning decorative piece.
Here's what you'll need:
- Household bleach
- White vinegar
- 120-grit sandpaper
- A soft scrubbing tool
- A brush
- A piece of cardboard
- A cloth
- Optional: natural oil or wax finish, brightly patterned fabric or paper
First, apply the bleach evenly across the wooden surfaces of the bowl using a brush. Make sure to position the bowl on a piece of cardboard on a surface with good ventilation. Allow the bowl to dry after each coat, periodically inspecting it every half hour, until you achieve the desired level of lightness.
Once the bleaching is done, immediately soak another cloth in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, and wipe over the bowl quickly and thoroughly to neutralize the bleach. This step protects the wood and prevents damage or excessive bleaching.
After the bowl is neutralized and dry, you can optionally apply a natural oil or wax finish to enhance the wood grain and achieve the warm, rustic look typical of modern farmhouse chic decor. Avoid harsh chemicals or finishes that can damage the bleached wood surface.
You can fill the bleached wooden bowl with fresh seasonal fruit, vintage linen balls, shells, driftwood, or white pillar candles for different styling options. Alternatively, line the bowl with a brightly patterned fabric or paper for a whimsical touch. The bleached wooden bowl can be used as a vessel for holding various items or as a standalone decorative piece.
Remember to always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using bleach. And there you have it - a modern farmhouse chic piece that's perfect for your home!
Adding the bleached wooden bowl to your home can complement your home-and-garden lifestyle, serving as a versatile piece for various decorative uses. Due to its fresh, lightened surface, you can style it with either small home-garden items like seasonal fruits or vibrant lifestyle accents such as patterned fabrics.
