French Grain Sack Inspired Bucket ... a tutorial

Here's a quick fun project to make with some old galvanized buckets.

My inspiration came from antique French linens and their clean classic stripes.

 Plus, I just scored a bunch of buckets at an estate sale last weekend ... only $1 a piece!

Gypsy junkin' tip #1

ALWAYS start your dig in the BASEMENT.

It's where the really cool stuff hangs out and often gets overlooked.

Gather supplies:

1.) Old bucket {the crustier ~ the better}

2.) Painter's tape

3.) Paint wash {I like a paint to water ratio of 2 to 1}

4.) Paint brush

5.) Stiff bristle scrub brush

6.) Polyurethane {optional}

7.) Various rags, cloths to protect and clean up with

 Start by cleaning your bucket nice and good ... although rust will enhance your outcome, dead bugs will not. 

Let dry thoroughly.

 Using painter's tape mask off a pattern you like, making sure to press tape edges firmly to bucket.

Perfection isn't a must ... we're going for a rustic look.

Apply your paint wash a little at a time ... it will be runny ... catch drips as you go.

For a time worn effect keep the wash light ... too much paint will look "heavy". Allow paint to dry a bit before removing tape {approx. 20 minutes}

This is my favorite part ...

Using an old stiff scrub brush to age and distress the bucket to perfection!

Make sure your brush is slightly damp and begin with gentle pressure ... you can always distress more as you go.

Pay special attention to distressing the areas that would naturally show wear first, like seams, rivets, etc.

Keep playing with it until you reach the desired look you like.

 Once I reach the perfect patina I like to seal the bucket with a light coat of satin polyurethane.

This is optional, depending on where you intend to use your bucket.

If sealed though you won't have to worry about the paint in a wet or humid environment.

 Here's a whole stack of finished buckets .... done in one afternoon.

I love the simple character this process gives the plain buckets ... looks as if they may have spent the last few decades sitting outside a beach cottage in the south of France ... or used to gather lavender in the fields of Provence .... ahhhh, a little imagination and daydreaming never hurt a girl's DIY project either!

 This last one I had fun adding a little extra embellishment ... a faux red monogram.

What can you dream up?

If I've inspired you to make a bucket or two, let me know .... I'd like to see how it turned out!

For more French inspiration check out the party at French Cupboard today ... it's buckets of fun!
... and Debra's Vintage Inspiration Party .... even more goodness! 
AND
A new party I've run across {via Fiona & Twig}
Photo Feature Friday at A Rosy Note
Taking photographs of my bucket tutorial was just as much fun as painting the bucket !!
Another party ... yay!
Springtime Craft Party.

xo

Jill