Summer School Art and Bargain Decorating Files

Pajama Mama has been hosting Summer School Art and I just happened to finish a project I've been working on for-ev-eh for my Bargain Decorating Files.

It really wasn't that difficult, but even simple things (like getting dressed, going to the bathroom, eating...) become very complicated when lots of little people with pokey little hands are on the loose.  Oh I know.  But aren't they cute!

Many of you know (and if you don't, you soon will because I'm about to tell you) that I love decorating my home for a bargain.  And sometimes that means I have to be incredibly patient.  And in other words that means I frantically search garage sales, flea markets, or the neighbor's trash for treasures.  Ok, well, maybe not that last part!

I had been needing wanting a pretty little medicine cabinet to put in our bathroom because the clutter on our vanity was starting to annoy me.  But I was having the hardest time finding one for a bargain.  I finally spotted this one on the 1/2 price aisle of Hobby Lobby and bought it for twenty bucks.  

There was only one problem...  do you notice it?

You can see right through the glass.  That kind of defeats the purpose, now doesn't it?

So, I had to get a little creative...and turn the glass into a mirror.

You can do this with any glass surface!

Here's what ya do (Bargain Tip #11):

{*}  Find Looking Glass paint.  I decided to try Krylon Looking Glass Mirror-Like Spray Paint.  I found it at Hobby Lobby.

{*}  Tape around the glass for clean lines and no messes!

{*}  Holding the can 6 inches from the glass surface, apply a light coat of paint in a sweeping motion.  Do this several times (waiting for the paint to dry between each application) until you reach your desired effect.  I wanted a more antique look so I only applied about 4 coats.

{*}  Spruce things up a bit.  I decided to paint the cabinet black and distress it with a fine grit sandpaper.  

{*}  Of course, don't be afraid to put some pokey little hands to work here!  You can always go back over what they've "painted"!

{*}  Put it on the wall and hide that clutter!

For more Summer School Art projects hop on over to Pajama Mama's place!

And don't forget...my 100th post give away is fast approaching!