tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68447085442065723272024-03-19T08:46:56.165+00:00Annie Sloan • Paint & ColourA blog by Annie Sloan about paint and colour in the home, on furniture and on walls. Including combinations, fabrics, paintings and pigments.Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.comBlogger239125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-34714737636071196082022-03-28T15:35:00.045+01:002022-03-29T10:28:39.642+01:00Welcome to my latest Painter in Residence, Monika<p style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s that time again! I am delighted to introduce to you my newest <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about/painters-in-residence/" target="_blank">Painter in Residence</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/84_square/?hl=en" target="_blank">84 Square</a>. 84 Square is the passion project of furniture painter and upcycler extraordinaire, Monika Charchula, (with some occasional support work and collaboration from her fiancé, Tom). Furniture painting Inspiration incoming.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHGHpxlU4Qb00Snn0gFUiSmtKi79xZjTvRz_fbOTmEez_IAj7N4Ov54IFF_DlhMdjyzO_b_7o_CH0rfQmIAUxq3t6Y0vDwS-XkMwdOY5Ujp6XUWZQu1zYWdPaOLY9j7vk5VbfV7W5MGqeroan6KGqd00DSdaWy5gjFLhGwS4VMxrdg8D2UqPEHg/s4957/Monika-square-portriat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4957" data-original-width="4957" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKHGHpxlU4Qb00Snn0gFUiSmtKi79xZjTvRz_fbOTmEez_IAj7N4Ov54IFF_DlhMdjyzO_b_7o_CH0rfQmIAUxq3t6Y0vDwS-XkMwdOY5Ujp6XUWZQu1zYWdPaOLY9j7vk5VbfV7W5MGqeroan6KGqd00DSdaWy5gjFLhGwS4VMxrdg8D2UqPEHg/s320/Monika-square-portriat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Like many other Painters in Residence before her, Monika is a well-travelled sort. Originally from Gdańsk, Poland, Monika moved to England (South Devon) in 2017 and discovered Chalk Paint here. “Starting a new life in a new country wasn't the easiest, so I would pick up furniture for pennies and add my style with Chalk Paint”, she continues. “My upbringing had a big influence on me, my parents and sisters are all frugal yet resourceful and very creative. I always preferred to make something myself than just buy it”.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUJXY-xSj-vN_MgB_Lm8JvmsDxGOhATV7KEfSlKObn_WqA6ycsnjAt_ybqtWRKs8C0-7H4pUxO3MSxLX1skf2ZSHYLwcoe9oPwL9ZgRyt5jCALPxJldtBKsyWADIV0U36On3HPkU0oSJvWX_kY3TudyD6as22beFQin34EgJMNXk10Awi6DO6gw/s1350/gramophone.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRUJXY-xSj-vN_MgB_Lm8JvmsDxGOhATV7KEfSlKObn_WqA6ycsnjAt_ybqtWRKs8C0-7H4pUxO3MSxLX1skf2ZSHYLwcoe9oPwL9ZgRyt5jCALPxJldtBKsyWADIV0U36On3HPkU0oSJvWX_kY3TudyD6as22beFQin34EgJMNXk10Awi6DO6gw/s320/gramophone.png" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">I discovered Monika’s work a few years ago and since then she’s been to visit me at Chalk Paint HQ in Oxford, established a close relationship with her local </span><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Stockist</a><span style="text-align: left;"> at </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/50flotsam/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Flotsam 50</a><span style="text-align: left;">, and produced some gloriously beautiful painted pieces!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Sh8yolU49OlaCncxkCgqxxI1u8Tfoj2uwguEGPV4KeHjHfbkShiMmimEioLHHvEz2l_RlaigUUOeNiFGIIxWKE8d9g19cgTO5Om9GcZ3enYbQIRSoJrIsnzSFHGe3bzm2CrfhkWLZDgg7RTUhje6YWoCw98BEf0ghDCr8h9AtX-_N-R6VJ3Vog/s1080/lethalsquare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Sh8yolU49OlaCncxkCgqxxI1u8Tfoj2uwguEGPV4KeHjHfbkShiMmimEioLHHvEz2l_RlaigUUOeNiFGIIxWKE8d9g19cgTO5Om9GcZ3enYbQIRSoJrIsnzSFHGe3bzm2CrfhkWLZDgg7RTUhje6YWoCw98BEf0ghDCr8h9AtX-_N-R6VJ3Vog/s320/lethalsquare.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Her work is gothic, opulent and features religious symbolism throughout. I was drawn to her use of rich jewel-toned colours, the sense of indulgence she creates with her deep and magical palette. </span></span><span style="text-align: left;">Religious symbolism is a huge inspiration for Monika who passed her childhood in a Catholic country populated with many beautifully decorated churches.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4826yFpbiW8u3D5LxuKceayQuNQ1rfE18ZT15JbSpXx2EawOJfY43jSkcaRY6JDMXEz71kNdySou7Vn5wihV84iUksmvn0f6ek_0GSHBL2XbtFSM4LzVK7WW_lduMpkHMtT7eycNmZs-PP7RXsQERTuezmDt4TCDfKe_RAhsSFx1ux8mDmlsUKQ/s1350/ohserpent.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4826yFpbiW8u3D5LxuKceayQuNQ1rfE18ZT15JbSpXx2EawOJfY43jSkcaRY6JDMXEz71kNdySou7Vn5wihV84iUksmvn0f6ek_0GSHBL2XbtFSM4LzVK7WW_lduMpkHMtT7eycNmZs-PP7RXsQERTuezmDt4TCDfKe_RAhsSFx1ux8mDmlsUKQ/s320/ohserpent.png" width="256" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOP2z8xDyvXN7P3lomfPh6m3Fgk1E-6CkNuCiLJExXnNWHlA07_07uyrGeOpaXN8VOQIHNCEsbrsvxzMZ4Y1k4HLdzDlgfYDcbM8nWv3qmNhSf_cqKkHaHJXPAf53kCZfegq8OagwnZSB0-GI0NNDo4MybSXFHCBdzNQz4RI9zi2AHUK_9BBNBhg/s1350/1O4A0088.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOP2z8xDyvXN7P3lomfPh6m3Fgk1E-6CkNuCiLJExXnNWHlA07_07uyrGeOpaXN8VOQIHNCEsbrsvxzMZ4Y1k4HLdzDlgfYDcbM8nWv3qmNhSf_cqKkHaHJXPAf53kCZfegq8OagwnZSB0-GI0NNDo4MybSXFHCBdzNQz4RI9zi2AHUK_9BBNBhg/s320/1O4A0088.png" width="256" /></a></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve had a sneak peek at the work Monika has produced for her reign as PIR and I know you will all be so delighted with these fabulous pieces. If you’ve wondered how to upcycle furniture to give a glamorous look then these are the step-by-step projects for you. They’re romantic, theatrically gothic, rich, ecclesiastical, and sumptuous. </span></div></div><br />Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-85676893424394606862021-10-28T14:19:00.002+01:002021-10-28T14:19:17.947+01:00Welcome to my new Painter in Residence, Sabah <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b169a81d-7fff-3872-a6e9-519481da5bf6"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My newest <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about/painters-in-residence/">PIR</a> will be the fabulously bold, colour confident, and jaw-droppingly prolific Sabah Bardhan of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/justrestore/">Just Restore</a>. Sabah is based in the UAE and has only been painting furniture for two years! </span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YdiHYDny8SQ/YXqVhW3BCNI/AAAAAAAAFx0/WKU8ci4c-7kdS0CbeIqLojNYioKtmv3tQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/_DSC7660v2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YdiHYDny8SQ/YXqVhW3BCNI/AAAAAAAAFx0/WKU8ci4c-7kdS0CbeIqLojNYioKtmv3tQCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h266/_DSC7660v2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-da551e4e-7fff-2466-ff75-83708f42ed40"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I wanted to try something new creatively and canvas just didn’t cut it for me anymore. So, I painted some old stools which were lying around the house and the furniture painting obsession took over! I started painting any furniture in sight and to my surprise, after I posted the stools I painted on social media, people wanted to buy them. Surprisingly, it was my husband who discovered <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chalkpaint/">Chalk Paint®</a> for me. I was using any paint medium I had at home to paint furniture when I started out when he chanced upon the Chalk Paint stockist, Artistique, here in Dubai. He asked some questions to the lady at the shop and came rushing home to tell me he had found paint specifically for furniture. I drove up there immediately and bought my first few pots and that was my first date with Chalk Paint. There was no looking back after that.”</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IL-7x0vrL1E/YXqXu85NTZI/AAAAAAAAFyE/I6Fgu8_rmqkHz6J4lOVSCUGj11zm9O8awCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/sabah%2Bcupboard.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="808" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IL-7x0vrL1E/YXqXu85NTZI/AAAAAAAAFyE/I6Fgu8_rmqkHz6J4lOVSCUGj11zm9O8awCNcBGAsYHQ/w336-h400/sabah%2Bcupboard.jpeg" width="336" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-81299a61-7fff-99e7-058f-cb25f518c46c"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I first discovered Sabah on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/chalkpaint/">Instagram</a> when I saw a wardrobe she painted in the traditional Indian Madhubani style of Art (pictured above). The background of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/products/chalk-paint/">Chalk Paint®</a> in Amsterdam Green makes a luxurious and dramatic statement against which her portraits shine. This piece was informed by Sabah’s childhood in Mumbai, which she frequently looks to for inspiration).</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzbXddpBt_A/YXqcuiSP1WI/AAAAAAAAFys/2Ero307-nbcsjqHpoDo-IpZpRgQVWkSSQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/image00001.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzbXddpBt_A/YXqcuiSP1WI/AAAAAAAAFys/2Ero307-nbcsjqHpoDo-IpZpRgQVWkSSQCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/image00001.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-805898ba-7fff-a3a4-5b77-5b3b4d69cc4f"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I was a cabin crew for 12 years and was fortunate to travel around the world. I take most of my inspiration from the beautiful memories and photographs that I took when I visited so many cities. I found the by lanes, restaurants, flowers and foliage, souvenirs, traditional costumes, landscapes, etc all fascinating and captured those wonderful moments, which I now revisit every now and then when I want to draw on inspiration”.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t1sb21_vUM8/YXqX-vptwQI/AAAAAAAAFyM/e2GNldoRq10twg3Uk9Ot0EmnB2JulLiFQCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/stripes%2Band%2Bbanana%2Bleabes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="904" data-original-width="960" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t1sb21_vUM8/YXqX-vptwQI/AAAAAAAAFyM/e2GNldoRq10twg3Uk9Ot0EmnB2JulLiFQCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h376/stripes%2Band%2Bbanana%2Bleabes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-ff15d0d5-7fff-a765-c209-85daa9c146ab"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Like myself, Saban seeks inspiration from the art world, too. She named Gustav Klimt in particular because of “his use of gold in his paintings, which I am partial to”.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBEd7tsfmdU/YXqY0C1HAyI/AAAAAAAAFyU/m7aBL-C_7fk33fWYue-JScd5nXtl_cFOACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/klimt%2Bbuffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="960" height="299" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBEd7tsfmdU/YXqY0C1HAyI/AAAAAAAAFyU/m7aBL-C_7fk33fWYue-JScd5nXtl_cFOACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h299/klimt%2Bbuffet.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-dbc9846e-7fff-da5c-2862-12ca54898bd7"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I find the work of Diane Hill absolutely hypnotic when it comes to Chinoiserie. There is so much to learn from her. I could watch her paint for hours Closer home, I have to mention my father. He is the one person I have learned all I know from, and he is an exceptional artist. He taught me how to be patient when I paint so that I never miss any attention to detail. He always pushes me to add more detail, an extra feather here, another stroke there, a deeper shadow in one corner, the list goes on”</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4F1k5KkoCkE/YXqZsPiYnsI/AAAAAAAAFyc/PDfXdm9iyn8VinToBfLRmJ7FQNVkiWUgACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/chinoiserie%2Btable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4F1k5KkoCkE/YXqZsPiYnsI/AAAAAAAAFyc/PDfXdm9iyn8VinToBfLRmJ7FQNVkiWUgACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h300/chinoiserie%2Btable.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-01dfc357-7fff-47ec-5fab-72cd468e2827"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“I most enjoy painting birds, especially the Japanese cranes. They are extremely majestic, graceful and have such beautiful movements.”</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AnSehlzXptA/YXqacSlPhjI/AAAAAAAAFyk/louk03QWSPsqlNGZQ8-OAUIHYUrZ03CKQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1440/japanese%2Bcranes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AnSehlzXptA/YXqacSlPhjI/AAAAAAAAFyk/louk03QWSPsqlNGZQ8-OAUIHYUrZ03CKQCNcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/japanese%2Bcranes.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-653d3f6d-7fff-9d24-e460-e0855930135c"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For me, Sabah is an artist and through. Her medium may be furniture rather than canvas, but as these pieces attest, she has a rare talent. For her PIR pieces, she’ll be providing step-by-steps, helping you to unlock your inner artist too and to be bolder and more creative with your work. I’ll leave you with these inspiring words from Sabah on her painting philosophy…</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dYWu18ZnWQU/YXqeSM7eLYI/AAAAAAAAFy8/iZhv_b2qFBAR_KDmlgBz_AkMIXHgIJXpACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/stools%2Bwith%2Bgilding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dYWu18ZnWQU/YXqeSM7eLYI/AAAAAAAAFy8/iZhv_b2qFBAR_KDmlgBz_AkMIXHgIJXpACNcBGAsYHQ/w300-h400/stools%2Bwith%2Bgilding.jpg" width="300" /></a></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-3198bc7d-7fff-d5d3-3390-544a17c527a9"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">“ The best thing about art is that there is no wrong or right. The artist decides what meaning a particular piece of work has to it. Sometimes, the first try looks the best and sometimes the tenth. What is important to remember is that what may work for you may not work for the other and vice versa. Not everyone needs to have a steady hand to try painting an artwork, there are so many different types of art and mediums available to create what you want and that is what I have explored in my pieces as Painter in Residence. You can paint as proportionately as you like, or exaggerate any aspect, like I did for the features of the Indian couple. I’d love for everyone reading the step by step to enjoy the process and see how it evolves, try more colour or less, make it darker or lighter, do what makes you feel happy!”</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Be sure to follow Sabah’s journey on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/justrestore/">social media</a> and check my <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/">Inspiration Page</a> for the step-by-steps. </span></p><div><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about/painters-in-residence/" target="_blank"><b>Click here to discover our Past Painters in Residence.</b></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Yours,</div><div>Annie</div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><p></p>Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-9515983312320401362021-04-07T14:39:00.005+01:002021-04-07T14:43:14.678+01:00Welcome to my latest Painter in Residence, Olivia Lacy<div style="text-align: left;">I’m delighted to announce Connecticut based, American furniture artist Olivia Lacy, of <a href="https://www.pigeonandpip.com/"><b>Pigeon & Pip</b></a> as my latest Painter In Residence. Please join me in helping to make her feel welcome!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmfrZb2XaS0/YG2zIgebTAI/AAAAAAAAFrs/3yRwntxESMM401u08YEwZp0E_faZZlOqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Portrait%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="628" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rmfrZb2XaS0/YG2zIgebTAI/AAAAAAAAFrs/3yRwntxESMM401u08YEwZp0E_faZZlOqwCNcBGAsYHQ/w418-h628/Portrait%2B2.jpg" width="418" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Pigeon and Pip’s work is Immediately identifiable thanks to her signature whimsical, theatrical, charming style. She has deftly brought imagination and surrealism to the art of furniture painting and created a kind of Alice in Wonderland universe of furniture. Follow her journey as she demonstrates how to use <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/products/chalk-paint/" target="_blank"><b>Chalk Paint®</b></a> to bring a sprinkling of magic to your furniture and home.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I first became aware of Pigeon and Pip when she spotted Olivia’s painted trompe l’oeil bed headboard on Instagram. The headboard had been painted with a pastoral scene, typical of Renaissance painters and grand stately homes. The structural elements have been highlighted with Gold Gilding Wax and in the middle of the bed sits Olivia – transported by the latest issue of my Bookazine, The Colourist. I was, of course, charmed!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6EaUw-gyMA/YG2vinHBj1I/AAAAAAAAFqw/FkQe2VoYSkYJm2cOvrmvoL9Fv5fwsJWEQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Headboard%2Bwith%2BThe%2BColourist.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f6EaUw-gyMA/YG2vinHBj1I/AAAAAAAAFqw/FkQe2VoYSkYJm2cOvrmvoL9Fv5fwsJWEQCNcBGAsYHQ/w462-h308/Headboard%2Bwith%2BThe%2BColourist.jpeg" width="462" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here I’ve spoken to Olivia about her career thus far and selected some of my favourite pieces of her work so that you can be as excited for this collaboration as we are here at Chalk Paint® HQ.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZh6fn5LxNc/YG2x_gVs37I/AAAAAAAAFrE/iR-YJVsvWWY4Xoi1oPHNf0UHajoDacf3gCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/baby%2Bclothes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="760" height="514" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nZh6fn5LxNc/YG2x_gVs37I/AAAAAAAAFrE/iR-YJVsvWWY4Xoi1oPHNf0UHajoDacf3gCNcBGAsYHQ/w406-h514/baby%2Bclothes.jpg" width="406" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">“Painting furniture took hold of me when I was a stay-at-home Mom, when my kids were small and I needed a creative outlet that was also useful. I turned my attention to the outdated, hand-me-down furniture that resided in our house. I painted nearly everything, it felt like functional art, and I didn’t want to stop”.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9E2fMT6MhO4/YG2x2kIlmEI/AAAAAAAAFrA/It8schh2VrsCEbgdTRfREPN_fvtW5tHeACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/scandi%2Bpink%2Band%2Baubusson%2Bblue%2Bdresser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="537" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9E2fMT6MhO4/YG2x2kIlmEI/AAAAAAAAFrA/It8schh2VrsCEbgdTRfREPN_fvtW5tHeACNcBGAsYHQ/w403-h537/scandi%2Bpink%2Band%2Baubusson%2Bblue%2Bdresser.jpg" width="403" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">“Years later my obsession of finding and painting old furniture has turned into a business, taken over the garage, and occasionally drives my family crazy. My husband devotes hours to driving me around the state to pick up these hidden gems. My father helps me with any structural repairs out of my league. My kids groan as they snake their way through the furniture paths in the garage trying to get bikes or sleds or hockey bags out... but they all love and support me, so they deal with my passion”.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WC2OvZ_2aQE/YG2yMBhfguI/AAAAAAAAFrM/O_m5i4p9vdEshXIj-Xtv3Y0X7V30Q1ZpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1440/oxford%2Bnavy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="413" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WC2OvZ_2aQE/YG2yMBhfguI/AAAAAAAAFrM/O_m5i4p9vdEshXIj-Xtv3Y0X7V30Q1ZpwCNcBGAsYHQ/w413-h413/oxford%2Bnavy.jpg" width="413" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">“After some early failed attempts painting furniture, I was introduced to <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/products/chalk-paint/" target="_blank"><b>Chalk Paint®</b></a> by Annie Sloan. Chalk Paint® is a dream to work with, very forgiving and all the colours complement each other so well with very little effort. I live in New England and I think my colour choices reflect that. I am drawn to those “hardy” New England colours that are understanding of small children and pets and toss in an unexpected element of colour or design to make sure it doesn’t get too serious”.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bb8ZOHoxk2I/YG2yYK4DsyI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/ekjEv9xqJfE2J_O003F__8hJfe6-mp8UwCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/new%2Bengland%2Bcolours.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="924" height="440" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bb8ZOHoxk2I/YG2yYK4DsyI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/ekjEv9xqJfE2J_O003F__8hJfe6-mp8UwCNcBGAsYHQ/w423-h440/new%2Bengland%2Bcolours.jpg" width="423" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">“Inspiration for my work comes from my childhood and was renewed through the eyes of my own children. I spent my summer days playing in the woods and the brooks with my sister. Always creating a "secret" world where magical things would happen. I try to capture that whimsy and childlike magic in my work. My youngest son has an incredible imagination and often helps me with staging ideas for my furniture, while my oldest son is sure to step in and let me know if things don’t look up to par.”</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NXLehhT8a8/YG2yipsGArI/AAAAAAAAFrY/qf0Za1Am0Q0ShnZgp26qxZ3J5yWdZnr4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s993/crocodile%2Bdrawers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="993" data-original-width="993" height="429" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NXLehhT8a8/YG2yipsGArI/AAAAAAAAFrY/qf0Za1Am0Q0ShnZgp26qxZ3J5yWdZnr4gCNcBGAsYHQ/w429-h429/crocodile%2Bdrawers.jpg" width="429" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">“Overall, I would say painting furniture has become a family affair. I’m thrilled to show my work as Annie Sloan’s Painter In Residence.”</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you’re anything like me, you can’t wait to see Pigeon and Pip’s work. Her first work as PIR will be shared on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank"><b>Instagram</b></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank"><b>Facebook</b></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank"><b>Twitter</b></a> tomorrow. Stay tuned! In the meantime, please show your appreciation for Pigeon and Pip’s work by following her on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pigeon_and_pip/" target="_blank"><b>social media</b></a>! The Painters in Residence programme is an unpaid opportunity for talented craftspeople to meet a wider audience and your support is so valuable.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wEUFTWdEDic/YG2yqNpweDI/AAAAAAAAFrg/hGsINmpkkjIay1ppXdpxjnzcQja6bppJgCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/old%2Bwhite%2Bdrawers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="560" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wEUFTWdEDic/YG2yqNpweDI/AAAAAAAAFrg/hGsINmpkkjIay1ppXdpxjnzcQja6bppJgCNcBGAsYHQ/w447-h560/old%2Bwhite%2Bdrawers.jpg" width="447" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about/painters-in-residence/" target="_blank"><b>Click here to discover our Past Painters in Residence.</b></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yours,</div><div style="text-align: left;">Annie</div>Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-38736590445127362692020-08-20T09:48:00.001+01:002020-08-20T09:48:45.363+01:00Welcome to my latest Painter in Residence, Polly Coulson<p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Welcome to Polly Coulson, my <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/painters-in-residence" target="_blank">Painter in Residence</a> for the closing months of the year 2020!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QaKMVUglVvA/Xz0lMT-pWRI/AAAAAAAAFnE/uLQ-1cBRrH4wHZKUegoVMbmCy-m6aTPoACNcBGAsYHQ/s1080/Polly-Coulson-PIR-portrait-logo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QaKMVUglVvA/Xz0lMT-pWRI/AAAAAAAAFnE/uLQ-1cBRrH4wHZKUegoVMbmCy-m6aTPoACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Polly-Coulson-PIR-portrait-logo.jpg" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Polly’s love of interiors started young, and though nascent during her early adult life (at which point Polly forged a career as a dancer, travelled the world, <i>and</i> met her husband), it was something she found herself returning to once she began making her own home. The pair undertook renovation projects together, maximising their small budget by undertaking work themselves and making the most of Polly’s talent for redesigning furniture.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AFCoIhoVe48/Xz0liIC65KI/AAAAAAAAFnM/zIQ54UuC6YItH78PrrOm9_y5MUwD_3xZACNcBGAsYHQ/s1080/_DSC0865.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AFCoIhoVe48/Xz0liIC65KI/AAAAAAAAFnM/zIQ54UuC6YItH78PrrOm9_y5MUwD_3xZACNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h400/_DSC0865.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">In 2013 Polly and her husband moved from the UK to Queensland Australia. Polly tells me, “I was so homesick I needed a project and I quickly started to pick up old pieces to paint and up-cycle. It was hard to find and made it all the more exciting when I did get an old unloved piece to make a new life for it.” </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another motivation to paint was the environmental aspect of reusing and restoring rather than buying new. “I also feel that if I can save something from going to landfill, I have done a good deed and helped the planet a little in my own way. I try and keep things as sustainable as I can and I love that <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> by Annie Sloan is low in VOCs as well as having the most beautiful pigment and texture”. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aqROaTIEyQo/Xz0ljPEgOCI/AAAAAAAAFno/akB069hTh7AaPswwJNqFEFv6GofEKXNxgCPcBGAYYCw/s1080/_DSC0899.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aqROaTIEyQo/Xz0ljPEgOCI/AAAAAAAAFno/akB069hTh7AaPswwJNqFEFv6GofEKXNxgCPcBGAYYCw/w400-h400/_DSC0899.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Polly began sharing her work on Instagram under the name <a href="https://www.instagram.com/attic.furniture.qld/" target="_blank">ATTIC Furniture QLD</a>, where she caught my eye with her confident, quirky, playful use of colour. In 2019 we actually used a piece of furniture painted by Polly for an official Annie Sloan advert which appeared in magazines across the US and Europe! Polly was also making a splash in her own community, curing that initial home sickness by connecting with local like-minded creatives, artists and makers. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">What most charmed me about Polly’s work is the joy inherent in each piece. I spoke to Polly about how she achieves that and she told me; “I love using colour and like to have fun with my style, I guess I’m still not wanting to grow up so by using playful colour and patterns I get to feed my inner child”</span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WAdB0mZbLjA/Xz0lnKuQO7I/AAAAAAAAFns/SM9q6XnLoOwV4_2AaFsYMbxMXldOQ6XjQCPcBGAYYCw/s1080/_DSC2642.jpg" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WAdB0mZbLjA/Xz0lnKuQO7I/AAAAAAAAFns/SM9q6XnLoOwV4_2AaFsYMbxMXldOQ6XjQCPcBGAYYCw/w400-h400/_DSC2642.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Attic Furniture” was a name that for me had a nostalgia of home, the idea of searching around in my Nanny’s or mum’s attic and finding forgotten treasures and giving them new life really appealed to me. Painting furniture is really a part of my soul; something I can do to feel happy and fulfilled and I think most people get that”.</span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--P1BdeZKwrk/Xz0li4jmprI/AAAAAAAAFnk/lFE5vazs_OQvkl1_FBI1oxbK0lzzjp5MwCPcBGAYYCw/s1080/_DSC1949.jpg" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--P1BdeZKwrk/Xz0li4jmprI/AAAAAAAAFnk/lFE5vazs_OQvkl1_FBI1oxbK0lzzjp5MwCPcBGAYYCw/w400-h400/_DSC1949.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can’t wait to see what Polly produces during her residency and I’m hoping my own painting will become more childlike and celebratory as I follow her journey! Do make sure you’re following on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/newsletter" target="_blank">sign up to my newsletter</a> so you never miss a piece!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yours, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Annie. </span></p>Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-58854191921168402342020-06-30T19:34:00.001+01:002020-06-30T19:34:14.502+01:00Rainy Day Rainbow Projects: Part 2<span style="font-family: inherit;">Welcome back to ways to entertain your children (or parents) at home with a little Chalk Paint®! If you missed Part 1, <a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2020/06/rainy-day-rainbow-projects-part-1.html" target="_blank">catch up here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Project Three – by Sophie (5), with assistance from Mum,</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> furniture painter Kate of High Birch Interiors</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nh_yz1h9ypE/XvIUlg4zO1I/AAAAAAAAFl8/V7vQwr9gZ_Iypc2sypC-c2pZSjjPQNhtACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Kate-and-George-Sophie-DIY-painted-trays-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nh_yz1h9ypE/XvIUlg4zO1I/AAAAAAAAFl8/V7vQwr9gZ_Iypc2sypC-c2pZSjjPQNhtACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Kate-and-George-Sophie-DIY-painted-trays-1200.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
At 5, Sophie is officially our youngest ever contributor to the Annie Sloan blog! For this reason, Sophie needed an extra helping hand from Mum.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For Sophie’s project you will need:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chalk Paint® in your favourite colours (Sophie used <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/provence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Provence</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank">English Yellow</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/scandinavian-pink-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Scandinavian Pink</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/antoinette-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Antoinette</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/emperors-silk-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Emperor’s Silk</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/pure-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Pure</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A brush (Sophie used Annie’s Medium <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/chalk-paint-brush" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® Brush</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A piece of lint-free cloth (an old t shirt or pair of cotton boxers will be sufficient). </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tape – Kate and Sophie used frog tape but masking tape or packing tape will also suffice.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A tray to paint. This can even be an old plastic tray although wood will be easiest, especially if your Chalk Paint® assistant is as young as Sophie!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Optional: a stencil to add to your tray to give extra character.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Instructions:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>First, Sophie’s Mum Kate helped her by taping off sections of the tray. (Top tip: Kate taped sections of different sizes and got Sophie to start with the edges and then work her way inwards. This allowed each paint stripe to dry fully before Kate applied the next bit of tape).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Then Sophie got stuck into painting! I love the colours she chose for this project.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Chalk Paint® is water based and extremely low in VOCs. (VOCs are chemicals that are added to paint to help it last longer. They’re good for paint, but they’re not so good for humans, which is why I only uses trace amounts in the Chalk Paint® recipe). This means it’s easy to clear up if you get any on your clothes – just take your clothes off straight away (not all your clothes! Just the clothes with paint on! Stop taking your clothes off you silly goose!). Then wash the paint away with more water. Try to skip this step if possible!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Sophie wanted to personalise her tray with an “S” stencil. If you don’t have any stencils at home you can find lots online to print off, trace onto cardboard, and cut out. Definitely get an adult to help with this.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUl-lJBNCB8/XvIaBkGQTjI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/bs0bDRJdh_M56BxN3k-qEz3eYiNXWFDYACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Kate-Sophie-DIY-painted-tray-steps-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="1200" height="316" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fUl-lJBNCB8/XvIaBkGQTjI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/bs0bDRJdh_M56BxN3k-qEz3eYiNXWFDYACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Kate-Sophie-DIY-painted-tray-steps-1200.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Allow your Chalk Paint® base to dry completely before adding your stencil. Tape the stencil in place to avoid any smudging. Then paint your design in a contrasting colour.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Leave your Chalk Paint® to dry completely. This is a good time to finalise plans on the rocket ship you are building to get to Mars, read your favourite book, or hoover the living room.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Next, apply Clear Chalk Paint® Wax to your tray to finish and protect your beautiful work! Sophie used a Wax Brush but you can use a lint free cloth and massage the wax into the paint gently so that it soaks in properly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">8.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Allow to dry fully then take lots of photos to show your friends and family!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Project Four – by Evan (11)</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezYnsULynvA/XvIHBcUIZsI/AAAAAAAAFlg/AM_25kRu5iI9h1r6eK-PPel6tRdpLUiawCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/Evan-DIY-Zoom-Rainbow-Background-evan-1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ezYnsULynvA/XvIHBcUIZsI/AAAAAAAAFlg/AM_25kRu5iI9h1r6eK-PPel6tRdpLUiawCPcBGAYYCw/s640/Evan-DIY-Zoom-Rainbow-Background-evan-1280.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our final rainbow Chalk Paint® project is by Evan, 11. Evan’s Mum is an official Annie Sloan Stockist and at her shop, Five Fields, Evan has painted loads of brilliant projects (including a bath). Evan lives in Canada and has been attending school through Google hangouts during the pandemic. He wanted a cool backdrop to cheer his friends up and he knew Chalk Paint® was the only answer!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">All you need to Chalk Paint® your own video call backdrop is:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Your favourite selection of Chalk Paint® colours (from left to right, Evan used: <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/paloma-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Paloma</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/burgundy-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Burgundy</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/barcelona-orange-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Barcelona Orange</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank">English Yellow</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/amsterdam-green-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Amsterdam Green</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/aubusson-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Aubusson Blue</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/athenian-black-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Athenian Black</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A wooden board large enough to cover the wall behind your desk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A paint brush (Evan used Annie's <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/chalk-paint-brush" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® Brush</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a></span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Instructions:</b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. First, Evan painted strips of colour down his wooden board. Because he’s something of a pro and a very creative and confident artist he didn’t need to use masking tape for his rainbow pattern. This also means he didn't wait for each colour to dry before adding the next one, blending the colours next to each other. I love the artistic flare! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re less confident the use masking tape to create a guide. Spots are a good pattern too – and you can use bowls and plates of different sizes to make circles in all kind of shapes on your backdrop. You could use blue and yellow to paint a starry night sky. Or perhaps you’re more of a wild child – why not use a base of Barcelona Orange then add wiggly stripes of Athenian Black for a roarsome tiger print background! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Once you're happy with your design and the Chalk Paint® is completely dry, make sure to apply Chalk Paint® Wax. This will mean you can pick your backdrop up and move it around without messing up your finish! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Finally, take lots of photos to show your friends and family. Perhaps you can Zoom your grandparents and show them your colourful creativity – and your lovely face (even if your face isn’t lovely, I guarantee your grandparents like it). Use the hashtags <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/anniesloan/" target="_blank">#AnnieSloan</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/chalkpaint/" target="_blank">#ChalkPaint</a> if you share on social media for the chance to be featured on Annie’s pages!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Please let us know in the comments if you tried any of these ideas and how successful they were! I'd love to hear from the next generation of Chalk Paint® maestros!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yours, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Annie. </span>Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-37483837873668134652020-06-30T14:27:00.000+01:002020-07-01T16:09:30.064+01:00Rainy Day Rainbow Projects: Part 1<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ways to entertain your children (or kids, how to entertain your parents) at home when it's raining are more important than ever during lockdown. If you’re wondering what crafts to do with children that are educational, fun, and best of all, easy to clean up, then look no further. Let cooped up imaginations run free with these four easy rainbow projects, suitable for children of all ages. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Project One – by Bailey (12), Orla (9), Eden (4), and </span>Mum,<span style="font-family: inherit;"> furniture painter Chloe of Maisie's House</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6C1n9_6rVY/XvIHAOiaWhI/AAAAAAAAFlI/Fn_zF6hYQFA2-k_ZYOQTExdpQa2gyj6bgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DIY-rainbow-mobiles-by-Chloe-Kempster-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1200" height="456" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6C1n9_6rVY/XvIHAOiaWhI/AAAAAAAAFlI/Fn_zF6hYQFA2-k_ZYOQTExdpQa2gyj6bgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/DIY-rainbow-mobiles-by-Chloe-Kempster-1200.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Kempster family have hung these rainbow mobiles outside their door to spread a little joy outside their home, and I love this idea. Sharing your creativity with all your neighbours is the perfect way to bring your friends together, make new ones, and </span>you're<span style="font-family: inherit;"> sure to be the envy of the street.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For these hanging rainbow mobiles you will need:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chalk Paint® in your favourite rainbow colours (Chloe's clan used <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/emperors-silk-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Emperor’s Silk</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/barcelona-orange-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Barcelona Orange</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank">English Yellow</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/antibes-green-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Antibes Green</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/napoleonic-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Napoleonic Blue</a>. She then diluted them with water to make blending, mixing and painting easier)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Paper Plates</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Toilet Rolls</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">String</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hole Punch</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Paint & Brushes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Glue Gun</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">PVA Glue</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Trims (Chloe used a variety of upholstery trim, but</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> ribbon, crepe or tissue paper will also work)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Scissors</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sequins, glitter and sparkly stuff (optional)</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Instructions:</b></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. Paint a toilet roll in your chosen colour and leave to dry, this will make the main part of your hanging mobile.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. While that is drying, cut a paper plate in half, then paint in fab rainbow colours! Bailey, Orla and Eden love a bit of sparkle so they also added extra glitter and sequins to the rainbows using PVA glue.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
3. Once your rainbow is dry, attach it to the front of the tube using a glue gun (make sure you have an adult to help with this bit).</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Take your hole punch and make 2 level holes at the top of the toilet roll tube on either side, then thread the string through to create a hanging loop.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dfC3amwAdk/XvIG_SfVsOI/AAAAAAAAFlg/nBQU9euiPMg8oNkKAh7BHrDcgy2Hz7UYgCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/DIY-rainbow-mobiles-by-Chloe-Kempster-steps-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="1200" height="208" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dfC3amwAdk/XvIG_SfVsOI/AAAAAAAAFlg/nBQU9euiPMg8oNkKAh7BHrDcgy2Hz7UYgCPcBGAYYCw/s640/DIY-rainbow-mobiles-by-Chloe-Kempster-steps-1200.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. Get help from your nearby </span>adult and<span style="font-family: inherit;"> add upholstery trim to the base with a glue gun. You could also use tissue or crepe paper cut into strips, or ribbon, or anything you have lying about. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. For extra finishing touches, a trim was fastened to the top of the toilet roll with a glue gun and also glittery stars and sequins were added.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">7. Ta- dah your rainbow mobile is finished and is guaranteed to bring a smile to those inside your home – and out, if you make like Chloe’s family and hang yours on the front door to spread some joy.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CAfqmHt9R3c/XvIG_l3KvTI/AAAAAAAAFls/3Kx4HCAYq_4mUIjjiUCpI-3yJY10UjiTACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/DIY-rainbow-mobiles-by-Chloe-Kempster-2-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1200" height="285" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CAfqmHt9R3c/XvIG_l3KvTI/AAAAAAAAFls/3Kx4HCAYq_4mUIjjiUCpI-3yJY10UjiTACPcBGAYYCw/s400/DIY-rainbow-mobiles-by-Chloe-Kempster-2-1200.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Project Two – by George (7) and Mum, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">furniture painter Kate of High Birch Interiors</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtDaHwXE_G4/XvIHCrB4seI/AAAAAAAAFlo/gEfw0E98MXQUdAeoi2GbLIuIaHKHQy9WwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/Kate-DIY-rainbow-hygiene-bank-crate-hero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="768" height="457" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtDaHwXE_G4/XvIHCrB4seI/AAAAAAAAFlo/gEfw0E98MXQUdAeoi2GbLIuIaHKHQy9WwCPcBGAYYCw/s640/Kate-DIY-rainbow-hygiene-bank-crate-hero.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">George painted this crate for a project his Mum Kate undertook for The Hygiene Bank, a charity which gets much needed toiletries and sanitary products to those in need. It is being used as a collection box in a local supermarket. What a wonderful way to help you community and have fun whilst doing it. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For George’s Rainbow Crate project you will need:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A crate or box to paint </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/emperors-silk-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Emperor’s Silk</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/barcelona-orange-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Barcelona Orange</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank">English Yellow</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/antibes-green-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Antibes Green</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/giverny-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Giverny</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/paloma-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Paloma</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/pure-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Pure</a>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A brush (George used Annie’s Medium <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/chalk-paint-brush" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® Brush</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A piece of lint-free cloth (an old t shirt, a tea towel, or even a pair of cotton boxers will be sufficient. Just make sure they are clean! You know what Dads are like). </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tape – Kate and George used frog tape but masking tape or packing tape will also suffice.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Instructions:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. First paint the inside of your crate in your chosen colour. George chose Chalk Paint® in Pure. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Next, use tape to mark off bands of colour. If you’re painting a crate exactly like this one, cover the lower half of all three slats where the different bands of colour will go.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. Paint above the masking tape. Here, George began by painting stripes of Emperor’s Silk, English Yellow and Giverny. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. Allow the paint to dry – perhaps this is a good time to try some maths homework, have lunch, or go for a walk as it will take an hour or so and you don’t want to rush. George recommends a kick-about in the garden! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. Once the Chalk Paint® is dry, and before removing the tape, apply Clear Chalk Paint® Wax. Use a clean corner of the lint free fabric, or, if you have one, a Wax Brush to apply the wax. Rub the wax into the paint like hand cream rather than painting it on too thickly; less is more. Remove the tape once the wax is applied. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. Leave the Chalk Paint® Wax to dry – you can use this time to wash up your brushes, help Mum by tidying your bedroom, check under the bed for monsters (always best done in daylight) and check back in about an hour to make sure the wax is touch dry.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">7. Once completely dry, apply tape over the painted stripes ready to paint with your next three colours. Mum, Dad, or any other helpful adult may need to assist at this point. You want the lines to be straight and the tape to be adhered gently enough so as not to remove any paint on removal, but firmly enough to ensure crisp lines. Look how neat the lines on George’s crate are!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">8. Repeat step 3 - but this time use Barcelona Orange, Antibes Green, and Paloma (or your chosen colours). You could even use the same three colours but in a different order. DON’T paint the same colours next to one another – if you do this you are very silly and have wasted a lot of time and masking tape.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">9. Repeat steps 5 and 6, and when you get to the waxing part make sure to wax the inside of your box too. This will prevent the paint from chipping when you’re getting things in and out of your new treasure chest/memory box/Charity Donation collection point (delete as appropriate).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXqiMGIp5uc/XvIHRIDzydI/AAAAAAAAFl0/0-VyXIvgne0Vnv8w8nkv7POywvN4iTO9gCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/rainbow%2Btape%2BremovalVideo%2Bsquare%2Bgiphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXqiMGIp5uc/XvIHRIDzydI/AAAAAAAAFl0/0-VyXIvgne0Vnv8w8nkv7POywvN4iTO9gCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/rainbow%2Btape%2BremovalVideo%2Bsquare%2Bgiphy.gif" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9wxa18suyic/XvIHDMIFobI/AAAAAAAAFlw/QQLiEJ3k__84a6Bu3xqD0qqDF8GU-nU4gCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/Kate-DIY-rainbow-hygiene-bank-crate-steps-1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1200" height="306" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9wxa18suyic/XvIHDMIFobI/AAAAAAAAFlw/QQLiEJ3k__84a6Bu3xqD0qqDF8GU-nU4gCPcBGAYYCw/s640/Kate-DIY-rainbow-hygiene-bank-crate-steps-1200.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">10. Allow to dry fully then take lots of photos to show your friends and family! Use the hashtags <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/anniesloan/" target="_blank">#AnnieSloan</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/chalkpaint/" target="_blank">#ChalkPaint</a> if you share on social media for the chance to be featured on Annie’s pages!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">That's all for now! Come back for <a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2020/06/rainy-day-rainbow-projects-part-2.html" target="_blank">Part 2 here</a> to see more rainbow projects and colourful inspiration. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yours, </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Annie. </span></div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-49479412782762838692020-05-07T16:08:00.000+01:002020-05-07T16:36:07.409+01:0011 Dos and Donts when using Chalk Paint® Outdoors! <div class="SCXW206998483 BCX7" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gcTUEwQN3RQ/XrQigGtVWiI/AAAAAAAAFiY/Z7YPz9Hr6GIwIkC4dbrJf7c2YelZjlUBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Annie-Sloan-Outdoor-Dining-English-Yellow-Lacquer-Watermark-1100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1375" data-original-width="1100" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gcTUEwQN3RQ/XrQigGtVWiI/AAAAAAAAFiY/Z7YPz9Hr6GIwIkC4dbrJf7c2YelZjlUBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Annie-Sloan-Outdoor-Dining-English-Yellow-Lacquer-Watermark-1100.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW206998483 BCX7" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; user-select: text;">
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW206998483 BCX7" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; user-select: text;">
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB">Using <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint">Chalk Paint®</a> outdoors is incredibly easy. Read this blog and learn all you need to know to ensure your garden Chalk Paint® projects stay colourful and cheerful for years to come! I even made a video for you to enjoy at the end! </span><br />
<ul><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB">
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> use <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint">Chalk Paint®</a> outdoors. It’s one of the things I’m most frequently asked, and the answer is <b>yes</b>! You can use Chalk Paint® outdoors.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Don’t</b> sand! As with using Chalk Paint® indoors, there is no need to prep or prime your outdoor furniture.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> remove old peeling paint or rust. You will be able to paint over these…but if you don’t get rid of them they will continue peeling under your Chalk Paint® - and will eventually flake off, taking your lovely new paint job with them! </span>Rust may even show through, so best to tackle it head on.</li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> wipe away any cobwebs or dirt, pop open your Chalk Paint® tin and get stuck straight into the fun part.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> know when to Lacquer and when to leave. <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/chalk-paint-lacquer">Chalk Paint® Lacquer</a> is your garden furnitures' best defence against UV rays, fading paint colour, and peeling paint caused by water damage.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> Lacquer: Garden furniture – anything which will be touched a lot, sat on, or has a horizontal surface which will collect water or fade in bright sunlight needs to be protected with <b>Chalk Paint® Lacquer</b> to ensure paint won’t transfer, peel or fade.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Don’t</b> Lacquer: Vertical surfaces – shed walls, fencing, and brickwork are all a) porous (making them IDEAL Chalk Paint® surfaces) and b) vertical facing. This means they are much less prone to the key causes of outdoor damage – UV rays and standing water. Twin enemies of garden furniture!</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> use two coats of Lacquer! Apply two thin coats or more of Chalk Paint® Lacquer so you can be sure the <b>entire</b> painted piece is fully protected to prevent any water ingress. Note that curing time for maximum protection occurs over 14 days. See out <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/media/applications/annie-sloan-lacquer-gloss-and-matt-technical-information-sheet.pdf">Fact Sheet here</a> for more info.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> check the weather forecast! Rain will wash away Chalk Paint® and compromise the Lacquer if either hasn’t dried sufficiently before being exposed to water.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Don’t</b> use <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax">Chalk Paint® Wax</a> outdoors.</span></li>
<li><span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><b>Do</b> play with bright colours – being bold is easier outdoors.</span></li>
</span></ul>
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB">
</span>
<div>
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB">
If you’re in need of some extra confidence boosting before you commit paint to brush and brush to furniture – watch my <a href="https://youtu.be/ixoPQZQNVJE">quick video</a> on using <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/chalk-paint-lacquer">Chalk Paint® Lacquer</a> on a metal garden chair <a href="https://youtu.be/ixoPQZQNVJE">here</a>.</span></div>
<div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW206998483 BCX7" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; user-select: text;">
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW206998483 BCX7" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; user-select: text;">
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB">Yours,</span></div>
<div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW206998483 BCX7" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; position: relative; user-select: text;">
<span class="TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW206998483 BCX7" data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-GB" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; -webkit-user-drag: none; line-height: 20.5042px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text;" xml:lang="EN-GB">Annie</span></div>
</div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com343tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-88882509686346868632020-04-30T13:30:00.000+01:002020-04-30T14:35:49.317+01:00Mother's Day Gift Inspiration<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">On 10th May, people across North America, Australasia, Europe and other countries around the globe honour the maternal figures in their lives.</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"> I know that Mother’s Day can be a difficult time of year, for those of us who have lost our mothers or for those whose relationship has been strained, it can be a reminder of what we’re missing. For those of us lucky enough to have happy relationships - be they with our biological mothers, representative figures, or our own children – it’s a good time to reflect on how lucky we are and to show those people how special they are to us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">As a mother myself, I think the best thing your children can give you – especially the grown up ones, with their own busy lives, is some quality time and their attention. Thoughtful gifts that recognise mothers as individuals, creatives, and personalities all of their own with dreams and style and talents that go beyond the nurturing or domestic are touching to receive. With this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of suitable presents for the mother, or mother figure, in your life, celebrating whom may be finding it difficult this year with social-distancing and lockdown affecting many of us.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Charleston</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="1600" height="210" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYJyugOEtoE/XmugUsgaapI/AAAAAAAAFb0/i_37IESTRtY29veBA7c111xEkdlwaDowQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/The-Charleston-Decorative-Paint-Sets.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">My <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits" target="_blank">Charleston gift sets</a> are inspired by the Bloomsbury Set and their creative retreat, Charleston Farmhouse. They’re a fabulous, fun, time-saving present for your mother which include everything one needs to complete a mini-makeover (for example a chair or a bedside cabinet). Inside each set you’ll find paint, wax and inspiration booklets to get your mum off on the right foot with her creative endeavours. The only thing she’ll have to worry about is where to display her proudly completed upcycling project when she’s finished!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Mini Project Pack</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/mini-project-pack" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="860" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riYM7IbeIr8/Xmuqq856GZI/AAAAAAAAFco/mVNob0z0KDUq_wBHpxAI59cyG20z0i8_ACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Mini-Project-Pack-3.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">Similarly to the Charleston gift sets, these <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/mini-project-pack" target="_blank">Mini Project Packs</a> have all you need to transform a small piece of furniture – but rather than letting Virginia Woolf and her cohorts dictate the colour scheme, you can choose the colours inside yourself to suit your mother’s taste and style. I recommend choosing one neutral and one joy-bringing colour, perhaps a spring-like pastel. Your mum can have a pleasant afternoon painting and waxing and perhaps will rediscover a nascent love for painting, interior design, or DIY! The pride she’ll take in showing you her completed project will be a poignant reversal of the times you proudly showed her your own creative accomplishments as a child.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">The Colourist </span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kc9JwOzbMHI/XqbU5vBUFcI/AAAAAAAAFiA/tA0NXuYaZdAyy3ysfg7LLu4CbMRQxTxXACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/The-Colourist-Issue-1-2-3-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-four" target="_blank">The Colourist</a> is a Bookazine which recognises that women don’t necessarily want to read diet fads and relationship advice. Packed with colourful inspiration, travel tips and home tours, this glossy coffee table time will have one’s creative juices flowing and imagination running wild – all from the comfort of one’s own sofa. And there’s no washing up of brushes to do afterwards! Perfect for the mum who doesn’t like to get messy, and who deserves a quiet half hour or two to herself with some stimulating reading material. Perhaps consider some chocolates too!</span></div>
<div>
<h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Detail Brushes</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/detail-brushes" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1600" height="288" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gj7FK1jFFM8/Xmuqq_ZuyTI/AAAAAAAAFcs/trqL1ULqCDAaRM-lS8IJPp51_JLbOCsvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Detail-Brushes-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">My <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/detail-brushes" target="_blank">Detail Brushes</a> are a fabulous gift for the more experienced painters. If your mother has already painted a few pieces, she may be looking at extending her repertoire. These brushes have been specifically designed with tips that dictate four different patterns. Mark-making can be as simple as dipping brush to paint and applying to furniture (as demonstrated by my own son, Felix). More confident artists can paint freehand designs – <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/abstract-floral-cabinet-by-chloe-kempster" target="_blank">such as this stunning piece by Maisie’s House</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Pearlescent Glaze</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="1200" height="338" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IMF3UA6B5B4/Xql4e8ZGpZI/AAAAAAAAFiM/LbT3FRSOxsc8gc-bZI4OTtOMI41NhCZGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Unknown-2.jpeg" width="640" /></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">Treat the Pearly Queen in your life to a little bit of sparkle with one of my latest products, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/pearlescent-glaze">Pearlescent Glaze</a>. This water-based, light-reflecting finish creates a sublime, high-end, lustrous look and can be used over <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint">Chalk Paint®</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"> to create an intense opalescence, or mixed with very small additions of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint">Chalk Paint</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint">®</a></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"> to create gently shimmering, translucent shades. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Workshops</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/workshops/#/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8TL_iVMbMGo/Xmuu2pXp4nI/AAAAAAAAFdA/1DM9JmHrp_Aro7IK3qXBnNC_pg1_QcFNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Annie-Sloan-Workshops-2.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">My favourite suggestion for a Mother’s Day gift is to contact your mum's local <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Stockist</a> and to book her on to a future <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/workshops/#/" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Techniques Workshop</a> - a lovely treat to look forward to post-lockdown! Here, she’ll learn all the most popular Chalk Paint® tips, tricks, and effects to build her confidence and inspire her to get stuck in. Bonus points if you book a place for yourself, too, and spend some quality bonding time over a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> tin.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">I hope there’s enough ideas here for you to give a gift that is thoughtful and will make Mothering Sunday, birthday, anniversary, or any day, a really special day for you and yours! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">Annie.</span></div>
</div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-36426965912799135582020-04-08T09:37:00.000+01:002020-04-08T09:37:07.432+01:00The Colourist Issue 4: A celebration of colour!<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hurrah! Today is the launch of the latest issue of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/the-colourist">The Colourist</a>, Issue 4.<br /><br />Each issue is very special to me, it represents a time and a place in my life and career and I love looking back at the earlier editions to remind me of the fascinating cities I've visited and the amazing artists I've found along the way. However, I do have to admit that I feel like <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-four" target="_blank">Issue 4</a> is that little bit more special... (sorry I know one isn't supposed to have a favourite child) because this is the issue that represents a very special time in my life and career - the 30 year anniversary of Chalk Paint®! <br /><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8aqnVfMnO10/XoyZbFIRuvI/AAAAAAAAFhI/oemzgAwllC0AIjlUhZlxZwRCsVNX4QAiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Annie-holding-the-colourist-issue-4-1080.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8aqnVfMnO10/XoyZbFIRuvI/AAAAAAAAFhI/oemzgAwllC0AIjlUhZlxZwRCsVNX4QAiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Annie-holding-the-colourist-issue-4-1080.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I curate a colour palette for each issue, based on the mood and the feel of the time. The palette for <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-four" target="_blank">Issue 4</a> which just so happens to be timed with the start of Spring in the UK, is composed of luscious <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/lemlem-chalk-paint">Lem Lem</a>, grounding <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/graphite-chalk-paint">Graphite</a> and the origin of Chalk Paint, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/old-white-chalk-paint">Old White</a>. Despite the hero of this issue being Old White, you'll find that the 132 pages are jam-packed with colour. <br /><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6-1d8MCunI/XoyZUKuMAzI/AAAAAAAAFgw/gHWQ-02s-uUJhZnZ7DdyHZCSTOkstwJ0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Issue-4-cover-300dpi-and-tins.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6-1d8MCunI/XoyZUKuMAzI/AAAAAAAAFgw/gHWQ-02s-uUJhZnZ7DdyHZCSTOkstwJ0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Issue-4-cover-300dpi-and-tins.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Thirty years! That’s how long it’s been since I started my Chalk Paint® adventure. Back in 1990, the first colour I created was Old White, which is why I’ve chosen white as the theme for this celebratory issue of The Colourist. And, since 30 years is a pearl anniversary, we’re launching something rather appropriate: <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/pearlescent-glaze">Pearlescent Glaze</a>. You can turn to page 128 to see how Dominique Malacarne used this beautiful, iridescent colour to create a subtle inlaid bone effect that I know you’ll want to try for yourself.<br /><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKfOur-I1lM/XoyZW7sO_yI/AAAAAAAAFg8/LhhpORe3qUgPh3-DUYKmPH2y_TRdZSOIwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-Colourist-Issue-4-blog-contributors-3-1000.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKfOur-I1lM/XoyZW7sO_yI/AAAAAAAAFg8/LhhpORe3qUgPh3-DUYKmPH2y_TRdZSOIwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/The-Colourist-Issue-4-blog-contributors-3-1000.jpg" /></a><br /><br />As this is such a special issue, I’ll be talking a little more personally than I do normally: reflecting, gathering and planning for the future of Annie Sloan Interiors. I’m sharing some stories about how I started this company in my 40s, and talking to other creative women following their passions and starting their own businesses. <br /><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JodYccRJjNs/XoyZVW38NyI/AAAAAAAAFg4/VUDz-c-mpr084CGW5qCpjmKy6VdBhkfaACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-Colourist-Issue-4-blog-contributors-1000.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JodYccRJjNs/XoyZVW38NyI/AAAAAAAAFg4/VUDz-c-mpr084CGW5qCpjmKy6VdBhkfaACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/The-Colourist-Issue-4-blog-contributors-1000.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I’m thrilled to share more about ‘accidental icon’ Iris Apfel, the fashion, textiles and interior designer who’s famous for being ridiculously stylish, witty and idiosyncratic. And, by the way, she’s in her 90s! We also feature illustrator and designer, Edward Bawden; Roland Penrose and Lee Miller’s surrealist home, Farleys House; a tour of a beautiful Dutch barge; and the home of our past <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/painters-in-residence" target="_blank">Painter in Residence</a>, Ildiko Horvath.<br /><br />As ever, you'll find six inspiring step-by-step projects in the back section of the magazine, including a project by Annie Sloan Interiors' very own senior designer, Joanna Lloyd, showing you how to use the free Toile du Jouy-inspired paper pull-out. The toile features scenes from my home city and the home of Chalk Paint® manufacturing, Oxford.<br /><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rP6Dg9b5_h4/XoyZaIc9oRI/AAAAAAAAFhE/f36Hdbg04pAGQIz-xUwz71MBHtq4yi16gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-Colourist-Issue-4-blog-step-by-steps-1000.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rP6Dg9b5_h4/XoyZaIc9oRI/AAAAAAAAFhE/f36Hdbg04pAGQIz-xUwz71MBHtq4yi16gCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/The-Colourist-Issue-4-blog-step-by-steps-1000.jpg" /></a><br /><br />That’s just a taster of what’s in store. I hope you enjoy the issue – it’s been a pleasure putting it together for you. Tag me <a href="https://instagram.com/anniesloanhome" target="_blank">@AnnieSloanHome</a> on social media with the hashtag <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/colouristmag/" target="_blank">#ColouristMag</a> so I can see what you get up to. <br /><br />Yours, </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Annie. </span></div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-59845097243647316352020-03-20T18:35:00.001+00:002020-03-20T18:38:36.863+00:00Self-isolation soul soothing projects: Part 2<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hello everyone,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am in the midst of letting you know ideas how to keep yourself distracted during the Coronavirus self-isolation days. This is Part 2 - <a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2020/03/self-isolation-soul-soothing-projects-part-one.html" target="_blank">if you missed Part 1, click here</a>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Projects if you’re in isolation at home </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And straight back into it. These projects are ones you can achieve with 120ml pots of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® </a>which conceivably you may have lying around, or even opened tins of Chalk Paint®. Tip: if Chalk Paint® is old add some water and give it a really good stir. Keep adding water and it’ll go further! You can create a wash on furniture rather than a thick matt coat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>1) If painting is a good exercise for calming and mindfulness</b> then sanding will help you get out some frustration! Plus, all that practice we’re having washing our hands for 20 seconds at a time has got my wrists up to anything, quite frankly! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">To paint this stool I used Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/aubusson-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Aubusson Blue</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/lemlem-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Lem Lem</a>. For a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/techniques/how-to-create-a-two-colour-distress-using-chalk-paint" target="_blank">two colour distress </a>I like to use contrasting colours for maximum impact (I’m a maximum impact kinda gal) but sympathetic shades work well and are better suited for always-popular romantic or vintage looks. If you only have one Chalk Paint® colour you can still distress; varying the pressure you can reveal finished wood beneath - then with extra force sand right back to fresh wood. It’s a very rustic look. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/techniques/how-to-create-a-two-colour-distress-using-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-alx_xXQZRDk/XnUHB7zohJI/AAAAAAAAFfg/f4r3-kzglnMcARU1b6yuu-QErxetBbd0gCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/two-colour-distress-lem-lem-stool-2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>2) I have started to lose track of time </b>but my husband loves hot cross buns so I do at least know that Easter is imminent! Maintaining fun family traditions and giving a sense of stability and normalcy is a big concern for parents when our children are going through stressful times. Building an Easter tree is fun and, honestly, is one of quite few crafts you can do with your children that actually always ends up looking quite beautiful! Send them into the garden to forage for branches, then spend the afternoon blowing out eggs and painting the shells to hang from the tree. This one is by my Stockist <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/united-kingdom/england/tea-roses-894" target="_blank">Deborah Meredith of Tea and Roses in the UK</a>, and with its hopeful suggestion of new life, and indeed, chocolate, I think it would make a timely addition to any home. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Deborah painted sheets of copy paper in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/louis-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Louis Blue</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/antoinette-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Antoinette</a>. “Then let them dry. I went on walk and found an old branch in the woods. Great in the current situation when we need to get out if we are isolating! The flowers were the glued on with a hot glue gun. My daughter, aged 12, managed that with supervision. PVA could work just as well. Find easter decorations and hand them on, job done!”</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9YI13IV56y8/XnUHyGtwKrI/AAAAAAAAFfo/nktiA03W61kFvmTuzhagC6eLaNt6NRLJgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/deboarh-meredith-easter-tree-2000.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter tree created by Deborah Meredith and her daughter with Chalk Paint®</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>3) Chalk Paint® picture frames! </b>But, you cry, Annie, I don’t have any picture frames! Or I have, but I already painted them and I’m quite happy with them thank you very much. Well, firstly, I’m very happy for you and secondly, DON’T WORRY I THOUGHT OF THAT. I created these painterly picture frames on the walls and then blue tacked the pictures to the wall beneath. I think they’re witty and charming and they always make me smile. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34B8f8ZvXbk/XnUIGSbiVHI/AAAAAAAAFfw/5GwzMyQcUagk3UffWPCg6LcTYBSsSsPgQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Trompe-Loeil-picture-frames-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-34B8f8ZvXbk/XnUIGSbiVHI/AAAAAAAAFfw/5GwzMyQcUagk3UffWPCg6LcTYBSsSsPgQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Trompe-Loeil-picture-frames-2000.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>4) Painting plant pots is a no-brainer</b> and because they’re cheap it’s a good activity to get the children going. This really is a doddle, and because Chalk Paint® goes on anything; plastic Ikea pots, terracotta, metal, you name it. Continue reaping the therapeutic benefits of wholesome home making during your quarantine by planting seeds in your new pots. Truly no greater joy then watching a plant grow and all you need is a sunny spot in your home or on your windowsill. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ow_lixy7hM/XnUIaDdN8eI/AAAAAAAAFf4/fh2Lk4wA2AISzgeVNUJmwjr72CL9aXL0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Plant-pots-painted-with-chalk-paint-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ow_lixy7hM/XnUIaDdN8eI/AAAAAAAAFf4/fh2Lk4wA2AISzgeVNUJmwjr72CL9aXL0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Plant-pots-painted-with-chalk-paint-2000.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Plant pot painted with Chalk Paint® in Lem Lem by Hayley Stuart</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>5) A potentially novel but very easy way to use Chalk Paint® </b>is as a dye. This is a good option if you only have a little paint, though of course the end result won’t be as bold. Dip dye t-shirts, tea towels, and cushion covers with the children then leave to dry before machine washing on a hot setting and ironing to seal in the paint. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m08_b-YYVZ0/XnUI1C7wRXI/AAAAAAAAFf8/GpbyDcjbSzA7kQmmjGcvZ_zaQ4UdiZ73wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Shibori-tie-dye-by-Abigail-and-Ryan-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m08_b-YYVZ0/XnUI1C7wRXI/AAAAAAAAFf8/GpbyDcjbSzA7kQmmjGcvZ_zaQ4UdiZ73wCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Shibori-tie-dye-by-Abigail-and-Ryan-2000.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Shibori cushions dyed by duo Abigail & Ryan Bell</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>6) Terrazzo is a very fashionable material </b>consisting of chips of marble or granite set in concrete and polished to give a smooth surface. I’m suggesting this project because you can do a terrazzo effect over unpainted furniture or something previously painted, and you only use a little bit of each colour. There’s a link to my son Felix giving a demo – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mX5R-InwJPY" target="_blank">click here</a>. Adding detail to something previously painted – whether by stencilling, or outlining the shape of a piece using a small paint brush, or adding a pop of colour inside - uses less paint but still gives the feeling of a refreshed furniture and home! Terrazzo is good because even if you only have teeny tiny increments of various colours left over…you’ve probably got enough to try this. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mX5R-InwJPY" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pT8IyI1R7bM/XnUKj79sdeI/AAAAAAAAFgM/gk9j2P6YDYQtMcAl_o9-9kB_zcGHm0dgQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Terrazzo-step-by-step-with-Chalk-Paint-2000.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>7) Finally, this side table was painted with just a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/mini-project-pack" target="_blank">Mini Project Pack</a>. </b>So that’s 1 x project pot of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/antoinette-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Antoinette</a>, 1 x project pot of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/old-white-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Old White</a>, 1 x 120ml <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/white-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">White Chalk Paint® Wax</a> and 1 x 120ml <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a>. And a brush! It’s fun to do and you can adjust the geometric shape to something else, or paint one drawer white, or paint the top, or mix the colours together for a lighter Antoinette. The world is your oyster, and the afternoon will fly by. Just know that you are going to be texting all of your friends with pictures of your upcycled piece and they may find this tiring (if this is likely may I suggest posting on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a> so I can see your work! I won’t get tired of seeing your projects ever).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UpHlhPAwACM/XnULJxwV8EI/AAAAAAAAFgU/FRQbtRXjiEIHzy8ZJ_n5jaUqvUqPaX20QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Antoinette-and-Old-White-mini-project-pack-side-table-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UpHlhPAwACM/XnULJxwV8EI/AAAAAAAAFgU/FRQbtRXjiEIHzy8ZJ_n5jaUqvUqPaX20QCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Antoinette-and-Old-White-mini-project-pack-side-table-2000.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I hope there’s something here for everyone, let me know in the comments of any crafty projects you’ve been involved in – Chalk Paint® or otherwise! Let’s make this page a bookmark of things for us to do whilst in quarantine, with stuff we have around the house already.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sending much love to everyone.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yours, </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Annie.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-74749586390308704812020-03-20T18:31:00.001+00:002020-03-20T18:36:04.442+00:00Self-isolation soul soothing projects: Part 1 <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Greetings, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> community! Tidings from self-isolation, Day 4, Oxford, UK. I have been umm-ing and aah-ing about writing this blog – I know that I am in a privileged position and that whilst for many of us the Coronavirus pandemic represents inconvenience and discomfort, for others it is a matter of life and death.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So I’m here today with suggestions for those who find Chalk Paint® relaxing, who enjoy creative pursuits as an outlet for stress, and who want to remain busy during their quarantine. The purpose is not to capitalise at a time of tragedy – I am not suggesting anybody stock pile Chalk Paint® - my Stockists, however, are among the vulnerable group whose future now feels very uncertain. All small independent business owners are suddenly faced with a landscape completely unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. If you can, please give them your support. Find your local <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/" target="_blank">Stockist here</a> and ring ahead to check what measurements they have in place to protect you, themselves and their staff, and the wider community at this difficult time. Many are offering curb-side paint collection, phone payments and even deliveries. Perhaps you can pick up Chalk Paint® for yourself and a neighbour! It’s a time to think of one another and to stay in touch with those around us, especially the elderly, the less mobile, and oh my goodness all of you with children to entertain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So! What I’m saying is, Chalk Paint® might not be the first thing on your agenda, but it is my area of expertise, it does help people to relax and unwind, and colour really can spread joy. So this blog is a compilation of projects you might be able to do – the first projects are ones you might need to nip out and get paint for. The next blog I am publishing (<a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2020/03/self-isolation-soul-soothing-projects-part-two.html" target="_blank">click here</a>) requires very little paint and are for those of you who are staying at home, desperately searching the internet for ways to entertain yourself, your children, and your anxious mind during these unprecedented times. If you have some old Chalk Paint® lying around, perhaps you can manage one or more of these projects… </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">
Projects if you can still get to the shop</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you’re still able to get to your local Stockist, perhaps pick up some supplies for projects you can complete if lockdown commences. Prepare for working from home, undertake a larger-scale project, or repaint your walls. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>1) Paint your desk!</b> This is a fun project in terms of being fairly bitesize, not at all complex, and gives a real sense of place to your work from home environment. Choose blues to encourage deep concentration and focus; yellows for sunny optimism and energy; or greens to enable creative problem solving. Use Clear Chalk Paint® Wax to protect. </span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/modern-retro-office" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PyRGONSnwQM/XnT2A3V-cWI/AAAAAAAAFek/WPP3t8tKZnscnz1TNETzSSdeI8EqLxyFACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/English-Yellow-and-Provence-desk-study-V2-2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>2) Paint your office chair!</b> Or your dining chairs. You’ll be surprised once you paint one how many chairs there are in your home which could benefit from a lick of Chalk Paint®. I used Napoleonic Blue on this beauty, then masking taped the bottom of the legs and applied Warm Gold Gilding Wax so the whole thing looked like it had been dipped in molten gold! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o0aOTBxJm5Q/XnT-HCS0yXI/AAAAAAAAFfM/3lIxqMVC1wkvEFFnjAXCq1UQb-eQjjfWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Napoleonic-Blue-chair-and-Warm-Gold-Gilidng-Wax-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o0aOTBxJm5Q/XnT-HCS0yXI/AAAAAAAAFfM/3lIxqMVC1wkvEFFnjAXCq1UQb-eQjjfWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Napoleonic-Blue-chair-and-Warm-Gold-Gilidng-Wax-2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>3) Paint the wall behind your new work-station</b> so it’s fresh for video conference calls. Go for a plain backdrop - or if you’re feeling more adventurous and could use the extra help remaining on top of a lot of moving parts, this wall organiser by <a href="http://www.hestershandmadehome.com/" target="_blank">Hester van Overbeek</a> is a great idea and a fun project to spend an afternoon on. See more on how Hester created this <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/painted-wall-planner-by-hester-van-overbeek" target="_blank">wall planner here</a>. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span id="goog_1123097392"></span><span id="goog_1123097393"></span><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/painted-wall-planner-by-hester-van-overbeek" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5G9wQM1ePs/XnT-lcOI3CI/AAAAAAAAFfU/cL-_SJnp4Rc5uQQ_dqdmKJNlffxDyo9_gCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Hester-van-Overbeek-Wall-Planner-v3-2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>4) Have you got some furniture at home which is looking a little tired?</b> Painting the outside one colour – Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/antibes-green-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Antibes Green</a> on the outside in this instance, with <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Florence</a> on the inside gives extra cheer. These colours give a lovely fresh, botanical feel. <a href="https://tamsynmorgans.com/" target="_blank">Tamsyn Morgans</a> painted this piece with a flat brush to create a less textured finish as she wanted the vivid colours to be the stars of the show. Bring some nature inside when you can’t get out! The blues and greens of open skies and verdant flora. Good for the soul! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsC9tcYuICQ/XnT2fN9NavI/AAAAAAAAFe4/SVMTMMyY21cI5UFUaGFxVFgA1UVzEY62QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tamsyn-morgans-green-cabinet-v2-2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fsC9tcYuICQ/XnT2fN9NavI/AAAAAAAAFe4/SVMTMMyY21cI5UFUaGFxVFgA1UVzEY62QCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/tamsyn-morgans-green-cabinet-v2-2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>5) You may even think this is the time to try a really big project:</b> <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/techniques/how-to-paint-laminate-kitchen-cabinets" target="_blank">painting kitchens</a>, painting floors, and painting stairs are all big jobs which will make a huge difference in your home and will keep you busy for hours. That sense of creative satisfaction could be just the ticket as the days become weeks. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/napoleonic-blue-kitchen" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="870" data-original-width="1600" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LGHERY6PO7o/XnT2tE1SpiI/AAAAAAAAFe8/4u5ME7zdKP0uMJ1Io9oJIFX5QpMTyOj4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Napoleonic-Blue-kitchen-with-French-Linen-cabinets-v2-2000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’ve collated these projects for those who are able to get to their local Stockist, however I know not everybody is able to do so. <a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2020/03/self-isolation-soul-soothing-projects-part-two.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> if local guidelines recommend you don't leave the house – I’ve come up with some projects you can hopefully achieve utilising just Chalk Paint® remnants you have around the house. </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yours, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Annie. </span></div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-85123292826596765972020-03-13T10:30:00.000+00:002020-03-13T10:30:17.449+00:00International Women's Day 2020: interview with Sophie Robinson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.sophierobinson.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kc7P2wWkGCs/Xmkaq-ErPYI/AAAAAAAAFa4/sKQ1ZYNdRdwFxpNrl2_4Tp6ufB_33YCcgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Sophie-Robinson-IWD-2020-frame.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Question 1)<br />Tell us a bit about yourself, what is your name and your business? </h3>
I’m Sophie Robinson and I’m an interior designer and broadcaster. I left university in the late 1990’s and got my first job on an interiors magazine in 2000. I went freelance in 2005 and have since worked as a stylist across all the top interiors magazines. I was Head Judge on BBC Two’s The Great Interior Design Challenge from 2014-2017 and regularly help the DIYSOS team with interior design for the Bafta award winning TV show on BBC ONE. I now host a podcast <a href="https://thegreatindoors.libsyn.com/" target="_blank">The Great Indoors</a> (Annie appeared on <a href="https://thegreatindoors.libsyn.com/Budget-Revamp-Special-with-Annie-Sloan" target="_blank">Episode 1 of the current series</a>!) and run my popular <a href="https://www.sophierobinson.co.uk/blog/" target="_blank">blog</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophierobinsoninteriors/" target="_blank">Instagram account</a> @sophierobinsoninteriors. I publish online courses and host workshops to help people understand how to decorate their homes with lashings of colour!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 2)<br />How did you come to create this business?</h3>
My career has been very organic and going freelance in 2005 was the best decision. It’s allowed me to grab opportunities and grow my business in a way that suits me and now suits my life as a working mother. My son was born in 2011 and I stepped back from my career for a couple of years while he was very small. Filming TV was a strain as it meant being away from home through the summer, so I’m glad it was for just three years. I now work from home and manage my business around the school day. I use social media now to share my love of design and market my courses and workshops, as well as work with brands spreading my love of colour and interior design. No two days are ever the same!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 3)<br />What inspirational people have you looked to throughout your career?</h3>
My industry is wildly supportive and I’ve found everyone to be hugely helpful on my way to success - especially the community on social media. My fellow colleagues inspire me in business, holding positions of influence and change in this ever-changing digital media. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mad_about_the_house/" target="_blank">Kate Watson-Smyth</a>, my podcast co-host is an exceptional interiors author, having just published her third book in as many years. I get such a buzz working with her. I admire all the female magazine editors who I have worked for over my career who have created great content for their readers and now I find myself admiring women like Zoe Ball and Claudia Winkleman, who are showing us that women over 45 can still have a dazzling career in the media spotlight!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiRkoSN-rCs/XmkckZKDDWI/AAAAAAAAFbM/Nea9mPjhAMUfYQlML7NibP64caYWILsYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-Great-Indoors-Final2-1200x1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiRkoSN-rCs/XmkckZKDDWI/AAAAAAAAFbM/Nea9mPjhAMUfYQlML7NibP64caYWILsYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/The-Great-Indoors-Final2-1200x1200.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 4)<br />What was the single proudest moment you've had in business?</h3>
I was completely blown away to be invited to be the judge on The Great Interior Design Challenge. It felt such a huge privilege to pass judgement on the contestants’ talent and hard work. I’m thrilled to be part of BBC Two’s new follow-on show Interior Design Masters, which continues the great work of bringing interior design to the masses and showing people that (almost) anyone can do it!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 5)<br />What advice do you have to anyone starting out?</h3>
You’ve got to love it! If you can discover your passion in life and run with it then you’ll have a better chance of enjoying every day. We spend most of our life at work so better make it fun and if you are pursuing something you care about you are more likely to succeed as you’ll put the energy required into it. And don’t be afraid to quit if it’s not working out and take chances too!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 6)<br />And finally if you were a Chalk Paint colour, what colour would you be and why?</h3>
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank">English Yellow</a> because I’m eternally smiling and optimistic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iq0tYr8QkNU/XmkcGlhmJjI/AAAAAAAAFbE/4FqRSDcvvvoH8XPQ9OnYp9wM_V1V5UuywCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/English-Yellow-tin-sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><span id="goog_1315779516"></span>Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-48798497227227837882020-03-11T09:30:00.000+00:002020-03-11T09:30:04.009+00:00International Women's Day 2020: interview with Chloe Kempster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmAq-i0olLY/Xl5DXU7sR6I/AAAAAAAAFaQ/Xe8qh5p6HwAEBQZrs-L9Iea787JRaKFmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Chloe-Kempster-IWD-frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmAq-i0olLY/Xl5DXU7sR6I/AAAAAAAAFaQ/Xe8qh5p6HwAEBQZrs-L9Iea787JRaKFmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Chloe-Kempster-IWD-frame.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3>
<br /></h3>
<h3>
Question 1)<br />Tell us a bit about yourself, what is your name and your business? </h3>
My name is Chloe Kempster and I started <a href="https://www.instagram.com/maisieshouse/" target="_blank">Maisie’s House</a> at the age of 26, shortly after having my second child. Like Annie, I am a qualified artist and professional furniture upcycler. I embrace colour and creativity on a daily basis and create one of a kind pieces from my workshop in South Leicestershire, I like to think of each piece as functional art. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 2)<br />How did you come to create this business?</h3>
For so many reasons, Maisie’s House is a perfect fit for me, it enables me to do everything I love doing alongside the people I love! I had completed a Fine Art Degree previously and had worked in retail as a Visual Merchandiser. Interior Design was also another passion and when furnishing our first family home on a tight budget, a necessity. After starting my family, I knew straight away that being around for the kids was something I really wanted, so I took the leap leaving my job in retail at the time and began working from home. Yes, it was a risk and financially it has been difficult at times, but I wouldn’t give up spending the early years with the children for anything. <br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 3)<br />What inspirational people have you looked to throughout your career?</h3>
I am thankful to my mum for surrounding me with creativity as a child, for always providing a good supply of art materials and her eternally positive spirit, not to mention she has a brilliant eye for interior décor! We have just always had so much in common and I am so grateful that I have someone I can relate to who is a great source of encouragement, she is the first one I call when I have finished a new piece to ask her opinion, love her to bits! Like her I have always encouraged my own children to believe the future is in their hands and I feel like Maisie’s House is a good example of that, I hope to be a positive role model to them like my mum was to me!<br />
<h3>
<br />Question 4)<br />What was the single proudest moment you've had in business?</h3>
There are a few, I think one of them definitely has to be my role as an Artisan on the BBC1 show <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b077nzdc" target="_blank">Money for Nothing</a>. Television isn’t something that I had thought about before and working on the show has taken me completely out of my comfort zone and also inspired me to push my boundaries creatively. And of course being asked to be <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/painters-in-residence" target="_blank">Annie Sloan’s Painter in Residence</a> was beyond my imagination, what a privilege, I am so honoured to be a source of inspiration to other people in the industry, I love to encourage people to think outside the box and in particular be brave with colour, this is what really makes me smile.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2020/01/painter-in-residence-chloe-kempster-maisies-house.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KS85m9bXu_Q/Xl5EI6OBiRI/AAAAAAAAFac/ssycWN23Uvg1WauTvU-opoYmehfSgw4JACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/DSC_0488_00001-social.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 5)<br />What advice do you have to anyone starting out?</h3>
Stay true to what you are passionate about, It is so important that your work really represents you and the things you love and believe in, if you believe in what you are doing, then other people will, and of course a bit of hard work and determination also helps!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 6)<br />And finally if you were a Chalk Paint colour, what colour would you be and why?</h3>
If I was a Chalk Paint® colour, I would definitely be <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Florence</a>. Not only is this my favourite Annie Sloan shade, I feel it can take on different personalities and represents my eclectic taste! It can be fun and bright, yet also sophisticated and mysterious!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-caYdroZa9M4/Xl5DO2qzdrI/AAAAAAAAFaM/G44PVNAOu30R_cmuOH8fK47pMY2ZvudxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Florence-tin-sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-81828162715107364352020-03-09T17:00:00.000+00:002020-03-09T17:00:05.299+00:00International Women's Day 2020: interview with Anne Maij<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lYM9Uf0NvYs/Xl4zcz6WV4I/AAAAAAAAFZg/--v1Yc17B_E1tJ-2rTfly6QNmVDydbQAwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Anne-Maij-IWD-frame-PHOTO-Paulien-Kluver-Film-%2526-Photography.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lYM9Uf0NvYs/Xl4zcz6WV4I/AAAAAAAAFZg/--v1Yc17B_E1tJ-2rTfly6QNmVDydbQAwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Anne-Maij-IWD-frame-PHOTO-Paulien-Kluver-Film-%2526-Photography.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 1)<br />Tell us a bit about yourself – what is your name and your business? </h3>
My name is Anne Maij, and together with my husband Menno I am the owner of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/europe/netherlands/auberge-des-r-ves-1186" target="_blank">Auberge de Rêves</a> (translated to English this means Inn of Dreams). We design and create handmade furniture for our own label; we have a lovely small gift & interior shop in Leerdam (in the centre of the Netherlands); and we are extremely proud <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Stockists</a> (and have been for over 5 and a half years now).<br />
<br />
The real beginning of the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/auberge_des_reves/" target="_blank">Auberge</a> was in summer 2007, when I was 36. We had a kind of pop-up business during the summer for which Menno made all sorts of garden furniture, and I painted them. Afterwards we went on a holiday for a week and that was that, but the next summer we started all over again. This is where it all began.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 2)<br />How did you come to create this business?</h3>
When the business was starting, I was also working as a nurse. Nursing was great, but it was very intensive, and I first discovered painting as something to do on the side to clear my head. Being creative was exactly what I needed. I remembered that I used to love all sorts of creative things when I was a child, but when I grew older I totally forgot about that part of myself. Then I discovered Annie Sloan Paint, and suddenly all my creativity came back, just like that. This has been my fulltime job for almost 5 years, so I am one of the lucky people who are able to earn a living with their hobby, and I still enjoy my work every day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Rdxtwz55Tk/Xl45XDt1kaI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/lLnk2egLFeMJbVJf-PJPzxygi2M4hQ8zQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Annie-Maij-Auberge-des-Reves-picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Rdxtwz55Tk/Xl45XDt1kaI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/lLnk2egLFeMJbVJf-PJPzxygi2M4hQ8zQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/Annie-Maij-Auberge-des-Reves-picture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 3)<br />What inspirational people have you looked to throughout your career? </h3>
I feel inspired by many women! For example Edith Piaf, Coco Chanel, Meryl Streep, but also painters like Charley Toorop and Else Berg, a Jewish painter who created the most beautiful paintings, and tragically died in Auschwitz in 1942 at the age of 65. My favourite of her paintings is Mystical Pond.<br />
<br />
I also felt - and feel - very inspired by Annie Sloan herself! She is not only a very gifted artist, but also a great teacher and coach, an enormously inspiring businesswoman and a very kind and lovely person too. I’m especially inspired when I consider all she means to so many people (and especially to so many small businesswomen and customers) throughout the whole world who gained self-confidence just by working with her paint.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 4)<br />What was the single proudest moment you’ve had in business?</h3>
Well, I actually find it quite difficult to be really proud of what I am doing, because like a lot of a women I can be quite a perfectionist (which can sometimes be quite tiring). But if I need to pick one, it would be the moment I realised myself that I can really do this job, and that I am able to earn my own living by doing what I love the most.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 5)<br />What advice do you have for anyone starting out?</h3>
Just start! If you have a dream and a (kind of a) plan, don’t let other people or yourself stop you by all sorts of irrelevant objections. Just get on and do it. Over time you will grow, and find out what does and does not work for you. And most of all: enjoy the journey and stay true to yourself!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 6)<br />And finally, if you were a Chalk Paint colour, which would you be and why?</h3>
Although my favourite colours are <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/aubusson-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Aubusson Blue</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/olive-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Olive</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/duck-egg-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Duck Egg Blue</a>, I think I have to choose <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/primer-red-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Primer Red</a> for myself. It’s a warm, earthly colour, but still a red tone, which is also a fiery colour.<br />
<br />
I can be very sensible and ‘down-to-earth’ and people describe me often as empathetic, but inside there is always a fire burning too, which can flare up in case of injustice, dishonesty or any kind of abuse to people, animals or nature. But luckily most of the time the practical ‘down-to-earth’-part is in charge, what is best for me and my environment 😉 .<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/primer-red-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Od7Fe-eiZis/Xl42V-U1-YI/AAAAAAAAFZs/YyZTyxZ8F10hSdFymzXIjsxIA2x8OmgbACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Primer-Red-tin-sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-40153644891162847202020-03-06T16:00:00.000+00:002020-03-06T16:00:01.084+00:00International Women's Day 2020: interview with Annie Sloan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DGrcHbXRDCE/Xl1B5WPHA1I/AAAAAAAAFY0/4f97ebxMOqwG_Sb6luK2NhmTj36mPndEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/200026_DIGITAL_IWD%2B2020_v02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DGrcHbXRDCE/Xl1B5WPHA1I/AAAAAAAAFY0/4f97ebxMOqwG_Sb6luK2NhmTj36mPndEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/200026_DIGITAL_IWD%2B2020_v02.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 1)</h3>
<h3>
Tell us a bit about yourself – what is your name and your business?</h3>
My name’s Annie Sloan and the name of my business is <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Interiors</a> (you can see what I did there) and I am known for inventing <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> in 1990, when I was 40. Which is interesting I think, as I started my business when I was a little older. I had been doing other things, writing books and working in furniture restoration and running a small independent business, but 1990 was when it really took off. My children were small, all under five years of age, and that was a huge motivating factor. I couldn’t continue working the hours I had been and missing them growing up.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 2)</h3>
<h3>
How did you come to create this business?</h3>
I did it because I wanted to stay at home more for my children. Inventing Chalk Paint®, which can be painted in the morning, left to dry, then waxed and returned to its place in the home before the boys came back to school gave me and so many others the flexibility that we needed. It democratized the process of furniture restoration and of interior design so that rather than me doing everything for people they could do it themselves. Teach a person to fish and all that. Once people saw how easy, and how enjoyable it was, there was no going back.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 3)<br />What inspirational people have you looked to throughout your career?</h3>
The people that inspire me or gave me strength are other creative women. Virginia Woolf and the other women from the Bloomsbury Set. I also devoured Germaine Greer’s theories when they first came out, the idea of conditioning and that a woman can do anything a man can do, she has simply been conditioned to believe that she couldn’t was a liberating concept. It’s also something Victoria Woolf explored in Orlando. I’m also lucky to have had a very sensible father, who although born in 1909 was staunch in his belief that women can do anything.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 4)<br />
What was the single proudest moment you’ve had in business?</h3>
My proudest moment…it is difficult to highlight just one. Starting our own factory felt like a real arrival at something. Chalk Paint® is now made inhouse at my factory in Oxford, in a building where I also have my studio and the Annie Sloan Interiors offices. We’ve built a brilliant team who I’m also incredibly proud to come to work with every day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--das6R5CJoM/Xl4xjJ-3dSI/AAAAAAAAFZU/nRjxfh4gn3wA43V6ZYyhZJqaoN47Q-EnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/HQ-warehouse-staff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="1080" height="528" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--das6R5CJoM/Xl4xjJ-3dSI/AAAAAAAAFZU/nRjxfh4gn3wA43V6ZYyhZJqaoN47Q-EnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/HQ-warehouse-staff.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 5)<br />
What advice do you have for anyone starting out?</h3>
The thing that I have to constantly remind myself is “no one else is going to do it”. You have to do it yourself. That’s very difficult, but it’s true. You know your business better than anybody. I also think it’s important to be kind to everybody; there’s this fallacy that to success in business you have to be tough and hard and horrible but in my experience it’s been the opposite.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 6)<br />
And finally, if you were a Chalk Paint colour, which would you be and why?</h3>
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Florence</a> is the first colour which came into my head. Because it’s vibrant and unusual and not everybody’s cup of tea. It’s warm and it’s cool just like me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMnpOf0mlbM/Xl1Cn9uWNrI/AAAAAAAAFY8/Mil6wRBUO2oWGUc7n0697SRsCael78Q0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Florence-tin-sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-54586035742866927572020-03-06T12:00:00.000+00:002020-03-06T12:00:02.104+00:00International Women's Day 2020: interview with Rachel Hardage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S0LuJO6jw1M/Xl0J5zvetVI/AAAAAAAAFYc/Vl8fCvYzoHE1JtIzsthEueyf7q2y9ZWcwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Rachel-Hardage-Country-Living-USA-IWD-portrait-with-framw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S0LuJO6jw1M/Xl0J5zvetVI/AAAAAAAAFYc/Vl8fCvYzoHE1JtIzsthEueyf7q2y9ZWcwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Rachel-Hardage-Country-Living-USA-IWD-portrait-with-framw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 1)<br />Tell us a bit about yourself – what is your name and your business?</h3>
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rachelhardagebarrett/" target="_blank">Rachel Hardage Barrett</a>, Editor-in-Chief of <a href="https://www.countryliving.com/" target="_blank">Country Living</a> (U.S./Canada Edition)<br />
<br />
Since those early days of Scholastic book fairs and Shel Silverstein poems, I’ve always loved words and writing. An elementary school teacher named Mrs. Ivy recognized that in me and instilled confidence on that front. I went on to be editor of my high school newspaper (shout-out to The Trojan Torch!) and major in English Literature. After college in Tennessee, I moved to New York City, where I didn’t know a soul, to pursue a magazine career. After a short stint in marketing, I landed a dream job at Glamour, where I worked for several years in my early- to mid-20s before moving to Real Simple, Southern Living, and, finally, Country Living—a job I applied for while on maternity leave with my first child. By the time I landed the position, I was pregnant with my second!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 2)</h3>
<h3>
How did you come to work for this business?</h3>
When I was working at Glamour, I was called into Hearst (Country Living’s parent company) for an “informational interview.” Basically, the talent recruiter used these as an opportunity to get to know people within the industry. He gave me a sheet of paper with all of the Hearst titles on it—Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar…—and asked me where I’d have interest in working someday. I think he was surprised when I bypassed the women’s fashion titles and pointed at Country Living. I had long been a fan of the magazine—even more so living in New York City, because it connected me to my Tennessee upbringing. Many years later, when I was working in Alabama at Southern Living, he reached out about the EIC opportunity at Country Living.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U5mTiWd05_A/Xl5C8teqCiI/AAAAAAAAFaE/HK0OvvBngnclBz8yspzhngN7ZXvQuN0eACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Country-Living-magazine-march-2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1226" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U5mTiWd05_A/Xl5C8teqCiI/AAAAAAAAFaE/HK0OvvBngnclBz8yspzhngN7ZXvQuN0eACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/Country-Living-magazine-march-2020.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 3)<br />What inspirational people have you looked to throughout your career? </h3>
From Close-Up:<br />
I’ve been fortunate to work with extremely creative, passionate—and kind—editors throughout my career, including Cindi Leive (longtime editor of Glamour), Kristin van Ogtrop (at both Glamour and Real Simple), and, now, Kate Lewis, the Chief Content Officer at Hearst. In an industry that is sometimes stereotyped as cutthroat, they all foster women-supporting-women work environments. I didn’t have children during my Glamour/Real Simple era, but my mentors did, and I feel confident they would have respected my need to duck out early for a dance recital.<br />
<br />
From Afar:<br />
There are so many! The joy and whimsy present in Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s book, Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, really resonated with me. We’re so disconnected these days, and her brand of infusing joy into everyday situations is needed now more than ever. (You likely also know her for a moving piece she wrote for the New York Times just before she passed away: “You May Want to Marry My Husband”).<br />
<br />
I also still find endless inspiration in the “playful and curious” brand Kate Spade created—the colour, the styling, the voice, the lack of pretension…<br />
As far as design goes, Rita Konig is an all-time favorite. I suspect I was an eccentric Brit in my last life, and I love her effortlessly layered aesthetic. I’m also eager to rent her farmhouse!<br />
<br />
And, of course, Annie Sloan! I’ve long admired Annie from afar, but recently had the chance to spend time with Annie and some of her team in Round Top, Texas. Besides being incredibly talented and passionate about their work, they were all absolutely lovely humans. And I love how Annie has protected the integrity and authenticity of her now-massive brand.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 4)<br />What was the single proudest moment you’ve had in business?</h3>
That’s a hard one! I think seeing Hearst expand its footprint in Birmingham, Alabama has been really rewarding. There’s a lot of creative talent beyond the New York bubble, and I think it’s useful—particularly for a brand like Country Living—to be able to exist outside the island of Manhattan. I realize Alabama does not always get the best press (often deservedly), but I’ve found Birmingham to be a beautiful place to live—and I’m surrounded by open-minded individuals who have moved here from all over and want to change the state for the better.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 5)<br />What advice do you have for anyone starting out?</h3>
Be curious. You can teach most things, but nothing rivals a raw enthusiasm for the content, and an eagerness to learn. And you can even convey that enthusiasm on paper. I recently received a resume that came delivered in a hand-painted blue gingham envelope featuring playful hand-lettering and a colour-coordinated mix of blue vintage postage. It was clear—from just an envelope!—that she got the brand and was willing to do the work. (I’m still hoping to hire her.)<br />
<br />
Find gold in the grunt work. In my early days as an Editorial Assistant, I spent a huge chunk of time making photocopies of manuscripts. But for every copy I made for a boss (and at the time, I had four of them!), I made another copy for myself and studied all of the edits and scribbles and markings on the stories. Why were they asking for certain changes? Where did the writer need more detail? It’s how I learned how to edit.<br />
<br />
Here are two other useful bits of advice that I’ve found helpful;<br />
<br />
Remember that sometimes there are multiple right answers. I tend to obsess over making the “right” call in both my career and personal (mostly parenting!) life, but sometimes there isn’t one right answer, and it’s better to choose one and proceed confidently as opposed to wasting too much time in the deliberation.<br />
<br />
Stay above the water line. This goes hand-in-hand with the above, to some degree. As editor-in-chief, in addition to getting a magazine out the door, I’m the point person for licensing, books, marketing, sales, subscriptions, events, PR, and, of course, employees and readers. The influx of demands can get to be a lot, so I have to consciously remind myself to keep my head above water as opposed to getting too bogged down in the nitty gritty. A mentor once said to me, “If you can leave the office at the end of the day and know you did one good ‘big picture’ thing for the brand, you can consider it a good day.” I try to remember that.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Question 6)<br />And finally, if you were a Chalk Paint colour, which would you be and why?</h3>
As the editor of Country Living, I think I’ve gotta go with a blue or green—something inspired by the outdoors! I’m torn between <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/giverny-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Giverny</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Florence</a> although the introvert in me says go with the <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/svenska-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Svenska Blue</a>. But hey, if we’re talking empowerment, let’s go with something bolder, like <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/giverny-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Giverny</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/giverny-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpCVNcvhGg4/Xl0NK1svZuI/AAAAAAAAFYo/dEuuGzxU5eU0dSHMf_wg1ddX3YmwLviLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Giverny-tin-sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-41561166633635815302020-03-02T13:14:00.000+00:002020-03-03T11:40:04.007+00:00International Women's Day 2020: interview with Elsa Koppasi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h3>
</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1XuijvkIqg/Xl4i3FlOLUI/AAAAAAAAFZI/NLQ9AOmKKPMVXo6R_v6CwVgDIPyvCdXiACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Elsa-Koppasi-IWD-frame-new-pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1XuijvkIqg/Xl4i3FlOLUI/AAAAAAAAFZI/NLQ9AOmKKPMVXo6R_v6CwVgDIPyvCdXiACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Elsa-Koppasi-IWD-frame-new-pic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 1)<br />Tell us a bit about yourself – what is your name and your business?</h3>
<div>
My name is Elsa Koppasi , I am Greek and my business is called <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/europe/greece/wood-picker-1146" target="_blank">Woodpicker</a> and is located in the centre of Athens. I was 50 by the time I started working with <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> by Annie Sloan. At the time I was practising as a psychotherapist - I still do three days a week - and as my kids had all grown out of the house I thought, “what a good idea to open a small shop and paint”. One thing led to another and I soon became a distributor along with my eldest son. Now we have a network of almost 50 stockists in Greece and the Balkan states. </div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 2)</h3>
<h3>
How did you come to create this business?</h3>
<div>
The reason I opened the shop was the fact that my kids grew and I was left with all these endless hours. Mums can feel left a little lost when they do not have to run around for ballet lessons, basketball or tennis, English lessons or parties here and there as taxi drivers. Time was there and I was still young. So I decided to make my hobby into a business.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-8ExblJmHc/Xl0FB_s9eLI/AAAAAAAAFYA/0W1Lqo1uRN0jpELQR4VHSz4u1kNkLT7YgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Elsa-Koppasi-and-Annie-Sloan-wood-picker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="839" data-original-width="824" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-8ExblJmHc/Xl0FB_s9eLI/AAAAAAAAFYA/0W1Lqo1uRN0jpELQR4VHSz4u1kNkLT7YgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/Elsa-Koppasi-and-Annie-Sloan-wood-picker.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 3)<br />What inspirational people have you looked to throughout your career?</h3>
<div>
All women are an inspiration as multitasking human beings. There were a lot of women in my life that inspired me both in my work as a psychotherapist or answered my philosophical questions in life. Just to name few, I always go back to the works of Alice Miller who wrote about the trauma in her 'Prisoners of Childhood' or Hannah Arendt a philosopher who left us this masterpiece titled "The Life of the Mind" and I could go on and on name poets or painters or singers who are partly responsible for who I became. Annie Sloan herself was an inspiration for me and played a major role in my decision to open my shop and work with the paint, mainly because of her way of selling her products. The no-competitive (no undercutting, support one another) ethos among her stockists and her amazing stamina in dealing with every little detail just spoke to my heart.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 4)<br />What was the single proudest moment you’ve had in business?</h3>
<div>
When along with my <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/" target="_blank">stockists</a> we voluntarily painted the bookshelves of the new "Bookstore for the Homeless" and we made the place look lovely. It was the idea of a homeless person who lost everything during the Greek crisis and started by collecting books here and there and managed to inspire people with his dream to create this bookstore. The money he makes goes to support people in need. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 5)<br />What advice do you have for anyone starting out?</h3>
<div>
Believe you can do it. Work hard. Inspire others. Create a community.</div>
<br />
<h3>
Question 6)<br />And finally, if you were a Chalk Paint colour, which would you be and why?</h3>
<div>
I love <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/greek-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Greek Blue</a>. It is the colour of my sea, my sky, and my childhood on Greek islands.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/greek-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBVB0s65-XM/Xl0F5yJMEbI/AAAAAAAAFYQ/5Pb2apqbj70I7OQ4tIdoxWNKgyoUNDoOACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Greek-Blue-tin-sq.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-30404905726451980682020-01-29T10:47:00.000+00:002020-01-29T10:47:26.034+00:00Welcome to my latest Painter in Residence, Chloe Kempster of Maisie's HouseChloe Kempster is the Chalk Paint® maestro behind <a href="https://www.instagram.com/maisieshouse/" target="_blank">Maisie’s House</a>. Chloe is a UK based furniture painter who I first discovered through her stunning <a href="https://www.instagram.com/maisieshouse/" target="_blank">Instagram account</a>, where she shares regular updates of her experiments in style and colour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7bKxEg9Z_M8/Xi71VEmhQdI/AAAAAAAAFXY/q0FnHH6FnVYoy7GUgx4gU52Z_kTFYRoUwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Portrait%2BDSC_0488_00001-social.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7bKxEg9Z_M8/Xi71VEmhQdI/AAAAAAAAFXY/q0FnHH6FnVYoy7GUgx4gU52Z_kTFYRoUwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Portrait%2BDSC_0488_00001-social.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1468660924"></span><span id="goog_1468660925"></span><br />
Chloe’s signature look is hard to pin down; always beautiful, always innovative, and always original this is a painter who isn’t afraid to explore new avenues, channel unusual inspiration and have fun! That said, I can recognise a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/MaisiesHouseVintage" target="_blank">Maisie’s House</a> piece from fifty yards – something in the flair, the expert execution of an idea, and the artistry is just so immediately recognisable as Chloe’s work. As well as being a stalwart in the furniture painting scene, Chloe has also leant her talents to BBC1s Money for Nothing demonstrating how easily <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> can be used to upgrade your furniture and your home. An inspiring lady indeed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8jcqte2D6Y8/Xi66RvKjz1I/AAAAAAAAFXA/lRb96bRxEJk_oDhqRW5vAvXcDJ2c2TyrwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_20200124_170314_677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8jcqte2D6Y8/Xi66RvKjz1I/AAAAAAAAFXA/lRb96bRxEJk_oDhqRW5vAvXcDJ2c2TyrwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_20200124_170314_677.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Maisie’s House is named after Chloe’s grandmother, Nannie Maisie. Chloe fondly remembers Nannie Maisie’s bright yellow Formica kitchen, complete with lifesize palm tree mural (bold now but even more impressive when you consider this was the décor she chose for her council flat way back in the 1960s!). This and the eccentric William Morris touches in the parental home enthused a young Chloe with a lifelong passion for interior design. Formative years spent in boldly, joyfully curated interiors is evident in Chloe’s passion for bright colours, playful designs, and witty styling touches.<br />
<br />
Similar to myself, Chloe studied Fine Art at University. Her style became more expressive and she embraced pattern, colour and texture over figurative painting. After University she moved into Retail where she nourished her flair for aesthetics and creativity through visual merchandising – a period of study in staging which is evident through her simple, impactful furniture photography.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ln2lL9XsJU/Xi66QGoZhWI/AAAAAAAAFW0/iAAqsaC-cIMd7gAzU2d3JTeEE3mjJLTIACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_20191208_191335_423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ln2lL9XsJU/Xi66QGoZhWI/AAAAAAAAFW0/iAAqsaC-cIMd7gAzU2d3JTeEE3mjJLTIACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_20191208_191335_423.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was when Chloe and her husband bought their first home, which they renovated themselves due to budget restrictions, that Chloe was really able to explore her gifts. “After starting a family fairly young, we couldn't afford brand new pieces to furnish the place and wanted a unique look so I used to scour auctions, charity shops and antique centres for interesting pieces that I could restore or paint and put my own stamp on. I guess this is where painting furniture really started! Not only was it a great way to save money it also helped me to stay creative. We all know as parents, that sometimes it's hard to find a space for ourselves amongst all the chaos but painting has certainly done that for me.”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dGUB21w6RoI/Xi66QfmuvtI/AAAAAAAAFW8/aJBl5Uip1LAD-K16zpzUWQOTImHnAKoHwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_20190905_194750_217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="979" data-original-width="979" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dGUB21w6RoI/Xi66QfmuvtI/AAAAAAAAFW8/aJBl5Uip1LAD-K16zpzUWQOTImHnAKoHwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_20190905_194750_217.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/maisieshousevintage/" target="_blank">Maisie’s House</a> is the result of Chloe realising, retaining and nurturing that creative spark of hers. Her painting style produces functional art, through a myriad of different paint techniques, expert use of colour, and an empathy for the furniture she is upcycling. Not afraid to restore and refresh unloved furniture from any era, Maisie’s House designs are notable for the way each makeover complements the innate character of the furniture in a way which is modern, painterly, expressive and endlessly gorgeous to look at. Chloe loves bringing new life to old furniture (which she values as usually being better made than flat pack quick fix options) not only because of the creative process itself but because in bringing something old new life she feels as though she is “holding hands with the planet”.<br />
<br />
When I spoke to Maisie’s House about becoming a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/painters-in-residence" target="_blank">Painter in Residence</a> and sharing her enthusiasm, her talent, and her incredible imagination for new looks for old pieces she was so quick to agree, “every time I use a brush I feel like a little bit of Chloe is coming out into the world and I would hope to inspire others to pick up a paintbrush and do the same. Art is more of a journey rather than a final destination and there is no right answer, best just to try it and see where it takes you!”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k-Fote64kIk/Xi66QU1ZwkI/AAAAAAAAFW4/fkDh1ad0IpsrAYMTAlsS6KwSfKO9a0vCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_20191230_190712_746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k-Fote64kIk/Xi66QU1ZwkI/AAAAAAAAFW4/fkDh1ad0IpsrAYMTAlsS6KwSfKO9a0vCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_20191230_190712_746.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I can’t wait to see where this Painter in Residence journey takes us all and what one-of-a-kind pieces we see on the way. Stay tuned!<br />
<br />
Yours,<br />
<br />
<br />
Annie.Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-29166298306455046242019-12-11T10:37:00.000+00:002019-12-11T10:37:24.189+00:00Dramatic Christmas Dining<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Christmas comes but once a year, so I really love to splash out and create scenes of grandeur and splendour to impress my guests, and to give my dining spaces a cobweb-clear-out. For this look, I used the <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> colour <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/athenian-black-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Athenian Black</a> as inspiration. A little darker than most Christmas looks, but it's a black Christmas I think you'll really enjoy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ooFhOS1YBek/XeU1s0YQlVI/AAAAAAAAFVM/xIojiyI4RmAl7OynWY27f3KI_xv-gyFCgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Dramatic-Christmas-Dining-room-by-Annie-Sloan-in-Athenian-Black-1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1173" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ooFhOS1YBek/XeU1s0YQlVI/AAAAAAAAFVM/xIojiyI4RmAl7OynWY27f3KI_xv-gyFCgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Dramatic-Christmas-Dining-room-by-Annie-Sloan-in-Athenian-Black-1000.jpg" width="544" /></a></div>
<br />
This moody yet cosy Christmas backdrop was painted by my son, Felix. Felix painted the walls using a large <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/chalk-paint-brush" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® Brush</a> and Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/athenian-black-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Athenian Black</a>. Once the wall was dry, Felix used a Small Flat Brush to flick Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/old-white-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Old White</a> in differing increments at the centre of the wall to give the suggestion of a star-studded galaxy. Felix left these walls unwaxed because they are of a porous, lime stone quality in an old house and therefore they need to breathe. If you use Chalk Paint® on a wall in a high-traffic area of your home we recommend a layer of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a> or <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/chalk-paint-lacquer" target="_blank">Lacquer</a> to protect from sticky fingers and beyond!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylcSZK84Vvo/XeU1s-Odi6I/AAAAAAAAFVI/FRFjhc_LRGA4R9eDfH3J7KhniN7I9JdtACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Dramatic-Christmas-Dining-room-by-Annie-Sloan-in-Athenian-Black-painted-crackers-1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ylcSZK84Vvo/XeU1s-Odi6I/AAAAAAAAFVI/FRFjhc_LRGA4R9eDfH3J7KhniN7I9JdtACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Dramatic-Christmas-Dining-room-by-Annie-Sloan-in-Athenian-Black-painted-crackers-1000.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
These crackers have been personalised to exactly match the Christmas décor. It’s a brilliant way to tie your scheme together and avoid the plastics associated with mass-produced Christmas crackers. Plain cracker making kits can be easily found at craft stores or online and filled with your own gifts. Then, simply pick your favourite <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> colour (or the one which best ties your Christmas theme to your existing interiors scheme) and apply to the what will become the outer surface of your cracker. For a luxurious, festive finish, apply metallic <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank">Gilding Wax</a> to the inner tube of the crackers (here I used Dark Silver). Make it your own inside too - write a joke for added bespoke humour, and tailor the cracker gifts to your audience. You'll never look back to mass-produced crackers again. And if you're feeling particularly authentic you can purchase the illusive cracker 'bang' to add too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAKxlhOkyGc/XeU1s2HqkDI/AAAAAAAAFVE/qRmGksg8WaAht-CeGqKON2FZQCLpigmogCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Dramatic-Christmas-Dining-room-by-Annie-Sloan-in-Athenian-Black-rusty-baubels-1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAKxlhOkyGc/XeU1s2HqkDI/AAAAAAAAFVE/qRmGksg8WaAht-CeGqKON2FZQCLpigmogCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Dramatic-Christmas-Dining-room-by-Annie-Sloan-in-Athenian-Black-rusty-baubels-1000.jpg" width="239" /></a><br />
The baubles were given a rustic, rusty feel. These I created using my <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank">Gilding Waxes</a>. One set I painted first with Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/emperors-silk-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Emperor's Silk</a> before stippling roughly Warm Gold Gilding Wax and more Emperor's Silk over the top. The others, I painted with <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/paris-grey-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Paris Grey</a> and stippled in the same manner with Dark Silver Gilding Wax. These rustic decorations were then hung from a branch at different heights using twine for a dramatic, twist on a Christmas chandelier. The chandelier, you can see above, made its way to the table top instead!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The look was finished off with a matching table cloth and napkins made from my fabric collection <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-fabric-collection/linen-unions" target="_blank">Linen Union</a> in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-fabric-collection/linen-unions/graphite-old-white-linen-union-fabric" target="_blank">Graphite + Old White</a>. I simply hemmed these with a sewing machine but if your not confident sewing you could simply cut them with pinking shears to minimise fraying, or tear the fabric and embrace the rustic look and feel! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let me know what you're doing to your Christmas spaces this year! Remember, if in doubt or in stress, a little goes a long way. This looks has been taken to the extreme, but taking small pieces of inspiration from here can help transform your space. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yours, </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Annie. </div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-64082968424589145212019-12-03T17:26:00.001+00:002019-12-03T17:26:43.573+00:00The Annie Sloan Gift Guide, issue 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HCMQfoFpVYw/XeVHiTfy40I/AAAAAAAAFWM/QpH94WUlY7YDLUs892dHFUePE7VNgXooQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-Christmas-Gift-Guide-banner-1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="1000" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HCMQfoFpVYw/XeVHiTfy40I/AAAAAAAAFWM/QpH94WUlY7YDLUs892dHFUePE7VNgXooQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/The-Christmas-Gift-Guide-banner-1000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Due to the success of my <a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2018/12/annie-sloan-gift-guide-christmas-chalk-paint.html" target="_blank">last Christmas Gift Guide</a>, I’ve compiled a new list of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> gifts for those you love, those you like, and those you really do have to get a gift for because they always get you something, all at different price points. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, I’m biased, but when I give a Chalk Paint® gift I feel as though there’s something inherently thoughtful about it: you’re giving an experience, an afternoon of therapeutic painting, an opportunity to be individual artistic and creative, and something a little out of the ordinary. These are my top picks for generous giving this Yule…give a gift that says “just for you”. From all-in-one blow out kits for those you really love to sweet Stocking Fillers for childrens' teachers, there’s something for everyone in your life. By purchasing these gifts from your local <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Stockist</a>, you’ll be supporting an independent business owner and helping them have a happy Christmas, too. Feel the </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
feel good vibes, everybody! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/the-artist-box" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j0zP8vJl6LU/XeU_slaDm5I/AAAAAAAAFVw/MbEkvpcyA-EIqgEvyjrZnzsqTfrgWq74gCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/5%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BGuide%2B2019%2B-%2BArtist%2BBox.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the big kahuna of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> Christmas Gifts. For just under £50 you can get your mitts on the essential building blocks of a proper Chalk Paint® collection. Chalk Paint® in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/burgundy-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Burgundy</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/oxford-navy-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Oxford Navy</a>, and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/english-yellow-chalk-paint" target="_blank">English Yellow</a> represent each of the primary colours - meaning you can mix bespoke Chalk Paint® shades til the cows come home. <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/pure-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Pure</a> allows for a whole new world of lighter tones and pastel – and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/louis-blue-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Louis Blue</a> ties everything together. <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/the-artist-box" target="_blank">The Artist Box</a> comprises the whole Chalk Paint® kit and caboodle together in one place, inside a beautiful wooden box that’s just begging to be transformed using the treasures within! In addition, you’ll also get a 120ml tin of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a>, so that your loved one’s masterpieces can be finished and protected for years to come. Just apply using the Wax Cloth included. Finally, there’s two <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/detail-brushes" target="_blank">Annie Sloan Detail Brushes</a> inside to encourage adding detail and truly unleashing one's inner artist! </div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/annie-sloan-with-charleston-decorative-paint-set-in-tilton" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uOVusorixxI/XeU_sAxxGmI/AAAAAAAAFVs/w21j8ARIAuQ4ClgRpnSQwMR0F2NmILHtACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/4%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BGuide%2B2019%2B-%2BCharleston%2BPaint%2BSets.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
My <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/annie-sloan-with-charleston-decorative-paint-set-in-tilton" target="_blank">Charleston Gift Sets </a>come in three different colour ways. I recommend romantic <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/annie-sloan-with-charleston-decorative-paint-set-in-rodmell" target="_blank">Rodmell</a> for the elegant classicalist in your life, funky <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/annie-sloan-with-charleston-decorative-paint-set-in-firle" target="_blank">Firle</a> with its colour clashes of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/scandinavian-pink-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Scandinavian Pink</a> for trendsetters, and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/annie-sloan-with-charleston-decorative-paint-set-in-tilton" target="_blank">Tilton</a> for those who love rich, warm strong colour combinations. Each of these boxes can transform a small piece of furniture; a desk in a niece’s University halls, a chair in your brother in law’s study, or your best friend’s side table (the one where the wine bottle goes when you’re having an evening setting the world to rights). These boxes each contain three <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> colours, a 120ml tin of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a> and an Inspiration Guide. <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits" target="_blank">Click here</a> for more information on each over on my website!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/the-colourist-collection" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IUHPe0k9Iok/XeU_rHiLeRI/AAAAAAAAFVo/sMlwbfQcm9MAM4uTmChIhqf4msu-Vb4GwCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/3%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BGuide%2B2019%2B-%2BThe%2BColourist%2BCollection.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If your intended recipient is less of a roll-up-their-sleeves-and-get-stuck-in kind of person, or if their commitment to <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> is so deep you think they already have e*v*e*r*y colour, or if they simply are a certified bookworm, may I present <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/gifts-kits/the-colourist-collection" target="_blank">The Colourist: Collection</a> - featuring <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-one" target="_blank">Issue 1</a>, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two" target="_blank">Issue 2</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist" target="_blank">Issue 3</a>. <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/the-colourist" target="_blank">The Colourist</a> is my love letter to colour, design, and creativity. Stuffed to the gills with gorgeous photography, stunning travel locations, and furniture to delight and divert! It’s been formatted to build an encyclopaedic archive to all the colours in the Chalk Paint® palette. These first three issues cover blues, greens, pinks, yellows, reds and beyond. Get all three at once in a rather sexy silver slip exclusively designed for Christmas and save £9.90. It’s basically a buy-two-get-the-third-free deal to give your gift giving a little extra bang for your buck! Always useful this time of year.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/detail-brushes" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tyZlezPz_d8/XeU_rOW2iYI/AAAAAAAAFVg/TQR_kpUjGfMn6B96i4su54JIB79uAeCUwCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/2%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BGuide%2B2019%2B-%2BDetails%2BBrushes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
My <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/detail-brushes" target="_blank">Detail Brushes</a> are supremely giftable – and, in my house a supremely important consideration – very easy to wrap! They come in a gorgeous presentation box decorated with an inspiring collage of suggested marks, patterns, and designs that the brushes themselves have been specifically developed to make. This is the gift to give anybody with an eye for detail, or one who is ready to take their furniture painting up a notch and add some extra vavavoom! Once you’ve already <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint</a>® -ed everything in your home your only option is to add <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/swedish-inspired-poster-bed" target="_blank">Swedish inspired details</a>; or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qyac3HNXVx8" target="_blank">bone inlay-look splodges</a>; or some ultra creative free-form shape making a la <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/botanical-cabinet-by-lucy-tiffney" target="_blank">Lucy Tiffney</a>.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RtTHoIzO58k/XeU_rKwuqoI/AAAAAAAAFVk/TqtfFRSP4Tk-DoF25RiRqp-SDQ2YyrWFQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/1%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BGuide%2B2019%2B-%2BGilding%2BWaxes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Who can resist these petite metallic pocket rockets! My gorgeous <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank">Gilding Waxes</a> spread glimmer and joy wherever you use them. The glory of metallic touches is that they go with everything. I recommend Copper for those who prefer a mid-century modern style, Gold for those in love with traditional French looks, and Silver for the minimalists amongst us. These are such cute little extras that add dimension and lustre to your work without any extra expertise required! Gilding Wax can be used on painted surfaces, bare wood, or even metallic furniture parts such as hinges or knobs to refresh. Perfect to pique someone's interest in the upcycling universe or for an OG devotee. Plus, who doesn’t love a little sparkle at this time of year?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Please note, all prices given here are UK RRPs and costs in other territories will differ - check with your local Stockist for accurate pricing for your region.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
That’s all from me. I’m actually getting started on my Christmas cards because otherwise you can guarantee I’ll forget completely as the more exciting Christmas traditions demand my attention! Check my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Twitter</a> for daily updates – and I hope after reading this you can cross at least a few names off your gifting list!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Yours,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Annie</div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-49166907189019762062019-11-20T16:18:00.000+00:002019-11-20T16:20:02.503+00:00Christmas Gilded Candle Holders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/a-cosy-and-elegant-dining-room" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="1000" height="316" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oNmQpH2oUT4/XdUyLBMv5zI/AAAAAAAAFUs/6A1raehhqJAl94l8R369OgR8f4MGaQEZACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Gilded-Bottles-step-by-step.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These candle holders are the perfect finishing touch to your Christmas dinner table settings. Reusing and recycling old glass bottles into stunning tableware is also a fun Christmas activity in itself! The colours can be changed to match your scheme too. Here I've used a warm palette, but you could use blues and silvers for a cooler theme, or pinks and coppers for a less traditional take on Christmas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tje32QAPEbo/XdUksYFGLsI/AAAAAAAAFUE/jfuZgZg8ceUV5DiXGm3u1YIJGA2bKiWZACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Gilded-Bottles-image-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tje32QAPEbo/XdUksYFGLsI/AAAAAAAAFUE/jfuZgZg8ceUV5DiXGm3u1YIJGA2bKiWZACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Gilded-Bottles-image-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
You will need:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Glass Bottle </li>
<li><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/burgundy-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® in Burgundy</a> - 120ml tin</li>
<li><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank">Bright Gold Annie Sloan Gilding Wax</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank">Warm Gold Annie Sloan Gilding Wax</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a> - 120ml tin</li>
<li><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/flat-brushes" target="_blank">Small Flat Brush</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/stencil-brush" target="_blank">Stencil Brush</a></li>
<li>Lint-free cloth</li>
<li>Masking tape</li>
<li>Taper candle</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>1. </b>To ensure crisp lines and to avoid smudging <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> where you don’t want it, place a band of masking tape around the top of the bottle where the neck meets the body. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p9mGEtQr-7I/XdUtTMDJY5I/AAAAAAAAFUU/anIppF7zhy0wP5tGwJ_yNSbR7jrRVkmHQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Gilded-Bottles-step-1-step-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="1000" height="252" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p9mGEtQr-7I/XdUtTMDJY5I/AAAAAAAAFUU/anIppF7zhy0wP5tGwJ_yNSbR7jrRVkmHQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Gilded-Bottles-step-1-step-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>2. </b>Paint the whole bottom half of the bottle in your colour of choice; here I've used <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/burgundy-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Burgundy</a>, a rich deep warm red in the Chalk Paint® palette. Don't be too precious with the application, the more texture here the better. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>3.</b> Once dry, apply <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax" target="_blank">Clear Chalk Paint® Wax</a> with a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/chalk-paint-wax-brushes" target="_blank">Wax Brush</a>, or just lint-free cloth. Remove any excess with a lint-free cloth. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wj2qBDCIOH0/XdUtTGW8ODI/AAAAAAAAFUY/Q1kWdjZYtrk1p57a8iNYSFdCcPZbLiT4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Gilded-Bottles-step-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="1000" height="252" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wj2qBDCIOH0/XdUtTGW8ODI/AAAAAAAAFUY/Q1kWdjZYtrk1p57a8iNYSFdCcPZbLiT4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Gilded-Bottles-step-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>4.</b> Take a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/stencil-brush" target="_blank">Stencil Brush</a> and using a stippling motion apply <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/gilding-wax" target="_blank">Gilding Wax</a> in a mix of Bright and Warm gold from the point where the masking tape meets the Chalk Paint® and down. Pack your brush with Gilding Wax when closest to the top then clean the brush off to apply further down for an ombre effect. The stencil brush will give extra texture. Use a lint-free cloth to blend the Wax out and if you’ve been too heavy handed with your gilding Wax you can use Clear Chalk Paint® Wax to remove some.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVi78b6zpNk/XdUtTCQB0ZI/AAAAAAAAFUQ/UuyYtfYcVRI4e0rSV71Rv43Letm1a0mcACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Gilded-Bottles-step-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="1000" height="252" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVi78b6zpNk/XdUtTCQB0ZI/AAAAAAAAFUQ/UuyYtfYcVRI4e0rSV71Rv43Letm1a0mcACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Gilded-Bottles-step-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>5. </b>Finally, remove the masking tape and allow the waxes to touch-dry before use. Add a candle and let it burn for a little to achieve the dripped wax-effect. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And that's it! A simple, effective way to dress your table for Christmas. Be sure to tag me on social media if you give this step-by-step a go. I love to see what you all get up to. @AnnieSloanHome on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yours,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Annie.</div>
Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-30078306270830162292019-09-20T10:00:00.002+01:002019-09-20T10:00:47.640+01:00The Colourist Issue 3: Fill your life with fabulous colour Welcome, to the launch of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist" target="_blank">The Colourist</a> Vol. III! Fill your life with fabulous colour, starting here. This time, I've focussed on blues and greens.<br />
<br />
How time flies. It feels like only yesterday that I was announcing the <a href="https://anniesloanpaintandcolour.blogspot.com/2019/04/the-colourist-issue-2-embrace-joy-of-colourful.html" target="_blank">launch of Issue 2</a>, and barely any longer than that when I was introducing you all to the very first edition. But here we are, and what difference a day (year) makes! We've listened, re-calibrated and rejuvenated The Colourist yet again, taking our best bits and building on them. Get set for a Bookazine like no other.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1257" data-original-width="1100" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_27WBE_jEmY/XYIuplcQqGI/AAAAAAAAFS8/AMFABG_WphgXydY1qm4DFMPRNkcf3qK_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/Annie-Sloan-with-Issue-3-Colourist-1100.jpg" width="560" /></a></div>
<br />
Packed to the gunnels, my third bookazine is based around the colour blue and, in particular, my divine new Chalk Paint® colour, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/oxford-navy-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Oxford Navy</a>! That’s the hero of this issue, with sterling support from sidekicks <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/provence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Provence</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint/florence-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Florence</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/about-annie-sloan/the-colourist" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="896" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XYOyvDXhWRM/XW1DNsDkccI/AAAAAAAAFR8/0SmFOT3bwi4wBf04qTkb6zBSlLvmAR3-QCLcBGAs/s640/Issue-3-cover-and-tins.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We’ve gathered together diverse pieces from all over, such as the vibrant Truck Art of Pakistan, fabrics from the legend that is Lucienne Day, idiosyncratic Indian glass paintings, Adam Calkin’s fantastical painted house, a piece on the healing power of painting, all that’s magical about Brooklyn, New York, two brand new <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> colours never before announced, as well as furniture painters from all over the world. Just one thing unites them… colour. Colour in all its combination from lively and bold, to quiet and gentle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="1000" height="264" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o7yYiY2z52Y/XX-5bguMVVI/AAAAAAAAFSo/9uenAzEZXDwx3sQZrg1-YADPttraaT8qgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/issue-3-blog-trio-content-with-titles.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As well as this and more, we've supplied six more step-by-steps for amazing projects you can recreate at home; from using your <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/stencilled-coat-hooks-by-jeanie-simpson" target="_blank">two free stencils</a> (!!) to create your own Art Deco looks, to the secrets of frottage and distressing, via fantastical tassel creations and gemstone imitation – all of which can be done using furniture and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> you already have! I have always been especially thrilled by how well the How-Tos at the end of The Colourist have done. I get a real kick from seeing how you take my Inspiration and incorporate it into your own homes, with your own twists and tricks. I can only urge you all to give this issues a try!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="1000" height="264" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XuufF4muRT8/XX-5bl6qPLI/AAAAAAAAFSs/VPC5coUWPkEG4-CA92Hk5xv6y_D2ttg4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/issue-3-blog-trio-step-by-steps-with-titles.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
You may already know that I’m a bit of a culture vulture. I love looking at pictures and patterns wherever I go, but art galleries and museums are always a brilliant place to start. I’m very lucky to have the wonderful Ashmolean Museum right on my doorstep in Oxford. Established over 300 years ago, its collection was described as a ‘cabinet of curiosities’ at the time, which is a delightful phrase that describes an enclitic collection of rare and interesting finds. I think I also subscribe to this type of collecting – I’m always in the lookout for amusing, thought-provoking pieces for my own home!<br />
<br />
It could be said The Colourist is a kind of a modern-day ‘cabinet of curiosities’ in magazine form: you’ll find things to amaze, inspire fascinate, surprise – and maybe even make you want to cry a little – in this issue! And if that hasn't convinced you to pick up a copy, you can see a <a href="https://online.flippingbook.com/view/434547/">sneak peek inside here</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, staying in touch and supporting me through my ventures. I hope to do the same for you. Tag me @AnnieSloanHome on social media with the hashtag #ColouristMag so I can see what you get up to.<br />
<br />
Yours,<br />
<br />
<br />
Annie.Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-26609068393946077442019-04-23T15:16:00.001+01:002019-09-18T14:44:37.353+01:00The Colourist issue 2: Embrace the joy of colourful living. Embrace the joy of colourful living! I'm SO thrilled to share with you the second edition of my bookazine, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two" target="_blank">The Colourist</a>. I am wildly excited - even more so than I was ahead of the release of the first issue - and here's why: Issue 1 was an incredible, free-falling rollercoaster of emotions. I put my heart and soul out into the world, without knowledge of how it would be received. But the fact that I am here, before you all today, announcing the launch of Issue 2 means that all of the hard work, sweat and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> tears was worth it. We made it through folks, and what a success it was! Your kind words about The Colourist, your enthusiasm for the features, and the incredible photographs of your step-by-steps from the back pages are a source of great happiness and pride to me. I just hope you’re ready now to do it all over again! As they say, practice makes perfect and we listened to what you think worked best about <span id="goog_927937897"></span><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-one" target="_blank">Issue 1</a><span id="goog_927937898"></span>, what you most loved, and channelled that into Issue 2.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YzPOkxooM2M/XL8d8eO3oCI/AAAAAAAAFPk/Bkb2TjKRsGUhEUuKZ-II7-3QfeyE7AasQCLcBGAs/s640/Annie-Sloan-with-The-Colourist-logo-1000.jpg" width="568" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
One thing I love about <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two" target="_blank">The Colourist</a> is the way we’ve composed each issue around a colour palette which threads itself throughout the Bookazine. This edition, the emphasis is on yellow - mellow, creamy, and earthy on one hand, zesty and singing on the other; an elusive colour that quickly turns into lime, orange or brown. I love to pair it with deep burgundy red and greys, botanical greens and purples, which you’ll see examples of inside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9OTtfSCxWU/XKMuJMW29dI/AAAAAAAAFO8/De8eXQcUi9Ux5KkzfAzsSMKK52j9iHXQgCLcBGAs/s640/The-Colourist-issue-2-and-Chalk-Paint-by-Annie-Sloan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
There's lots more colour inspiration for you too - from classical French and Hampton whites, to Baccanalian boho brights from Finland and abundant florals from the perennially popular Rachel Ashwell. There are Chalk Paint® pieces inspired by 20th century art created by Nana Radalescu (one of my Romanian Stockist) along with exclusive photography illustrating the magnificent results of another Stockist’s loving restoration of an old mill nestled deep in the English countryside. I'm also delighted to feature in this issue stunning painted pieces from everybody’s favourite Kiwi, New Zealand based furniture artist Jeanie Simpson. I hope too that you'll enjoy the home tour of my bolt hole in rural France.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="1000" height="264" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9MpUg-V4OTs/XJz_lvze9rI/AAAAAAAAFOE/O0jAthHarOgFGBEwEy0_DrTUic_DIio7wCLcBGAs/s640/hampton-whites-boho-brghts-and-abundant-florals-v2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This issue I’ve featured not one but two icons of Design: the inimitable, unstoppable fashion designer, Zandra Rhodes, and Anni Albers, the gloriously iconoclastic Bauhaus textile artist who's just been the subject of a retrospective at Tate Modern in London.<br />
<br />
I love to travel, and this issue you can join me in São Paulo, Brazil to see the incredible and inspiring street art I discovered when I was there for Christmas with my family, visiting my eldest son Henry. We also go on a city tour of Berlin - I first went there in 1970 as part of the alternative art scene, which thrives to this day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="1000" height="264" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wqf39gqrYg8/XJ0DKzNK3mI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/MzV_4D7fOEwZ6yMAedOPY20tKzi63mfAgCLcBGAs/s640/Zandra-Rhods-Sao-Paulo-Berlin.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I could not have imagined, not in my wildest dreams, the success of the step-by-step section at the back of The Colourist. I have delighted in seeing all your interpretations. There’s been masterpieces in <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/botanical-cabinet-by-lucy-tiffney" target="_blank">Lucy Tiffney</a>’s signature botanical style, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/techniques/how-to-create-a-repeat-pattern-using-an-annie-sloan-stencil" target="_blank">geometric boldness á la my son, Felix</a>, ombré blends as taught by <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/blue-ombre-wardrobe-by-ildiko-horvath" target="_blank">Ildiko Horvath</a>, and kitchen transformations inspired by <a href="https://hollandavenuehome.com/2018/08/25/hometour/" target="_blank">Avery Michaels</a>’ work. This issue, expect more step-by-steps, more reasons to pick up a <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-brushes/chalk-paint-brush" target="_blank">Chalk Paint® Brush</a>, and more delectable design ideas coming your way! Because that's what The Colourist is about. Sharing my passion for style and colour, and infecting everybody with the confidence to be creative.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-books/the-colourist-issue-two"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="1000" height="264" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bt_ZvzM5WXc/XJ0IFl4o7-I/AAAAAAAAFOc/5DQxKWZhr7QPuTgGS23mORQDE_FBC1UfgCLcBGAs/s640/the-how-twos.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It has been a great joy to put this issue together; and I hope you enjoy reading it as much I've enjoyed creating it. Be sure to tag me using <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/colouristmag/" target="_blank">#ColouristMag</a> and of course <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/anniesloan/" target="_blank">#AnnieSloan</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/chalkpaint/" target="_blank">#ChalkPaint </a>when you’ve got your copy and especially if you try out one of the step-by-steps!<br />
<br />
Yours,<br />
<br />
Annie.<br />
<br />
PS There’s also TWO exclusive free stencils designed by yours truly. There’s just so much content I can’t keep track of it all! <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/overlapping-stencilled-chest" target="_blank">Click here for a set-by-step on how to use them</a>.Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-37213083300424483322019-03-15T09:41:00.000+00:002019-03-18T12:44:21.199+00:00My lastest Painter in Residence, Girl in Blue Designs! Charlie Anne Massey, better known as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/girl_in_blue_designs/" target="_blank">Girl in Blue Designs</a> from Georgia, USA, has been on my radar for a few years now, and I’m delighted to cement the relationship by announcing her as my latest Painter in Residence!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0nS5yg6W8Po/XI9qRrqRgCI/AAAAAAAAFNY/f1mgGSovU0cStuJr1KZEcfTFvs4mq22oQCLcBGAs/s1600/Charlie-Massey-portrait-IMG_8983-with-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0nS5yg6W8Po/XI9qRrqRgCI/AAAAAAAAFNY/f1mgGSovU0cStuJr1KZEcfTFvs4mq22oQCLcBGAs/s640/Charlie-Massey-portrait-IMG_8983-with-logo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
No doubt you will have seen some of her pieces shared on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a> – including once when she won one of my “Win-a-Tin” painting competitions. Charlie’s signature style is expressive, painterly and life-affirming; there’s an exciting, colourful wildness to her work which I find completely exhilarating. I’ve included some of her previous pieces below so that you can see for yourselves! I’ve also spoken to Charlie about her journey from Chalk Paint® novice to confident, capable, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint" target="_blank">Chalk Paint®</a> connoisseur!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSKaEC5qsls/XIj77xbX54I/AAAAAAAAFL8/hB0_e9_imJY_SfWSJ3RBEK5S5uRplj2LwCLcBGAs/s1600/Charlie-Massey-Marbled-Green-chest-800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="800" height="332" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSKaEC5qsls/XIj77xbX54I/AAAAAAAAFL8/hB0_e9_imJY_SfWSJ3RBEK5S5uRplj2LwCLcBGAs/s400/Charlie-Massey-Marbled-Green-chest-800.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
“Since I could hold a pencil, I've always needed to create. For years that meant drawing, painting on canvas, and of course dabbling in various other mediums. Never once did it occur to me to try and make a living off of my art. I may have sold a drawing in a random social encounter here and there, but really it was always just something that I did for myself. Some people need to exercise the right side of their brains on a regular basis, and I'm one of those people. It wasn’t until I was 29 and very pregnant that I was introduced to Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan. Once introduced, I just couldn't put that brush down. I painted small, easy to handle pieces that otherwise would end up in the dump. The amazing thing was, that they sold, and rather quickly! I was hooked! Once my daughter was born, I obviously had no time for the brush. Once she was 1-ish though, I began to find little pockets of time to work/play. It escalated from there…"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IIzX-M6GZA8/XIj9Yfj4B_I/AAAAAAAAFMQ/hbhMFjSL7OcXy35SXOlysJWq_RNI_FUhACLcBGAs/s1600/Charlie-Massey-black-and-white-ombre-chest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="677" height="306" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IIzX-M6GZA8/XIj9Yfj4B_I/AAAAAAAAFMQ/hbhMFjSL7OcXy35SXOlysJWq_RNI_FUhACLcBGAs/s400/Charlie-Massey-black-and-white-ombre-chest.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> "</span>…I can’t say that I was an immediate natural as far as painting furniture. Not by a long shot. I had a lot to learn, including the different styles of furniture, which styles of paint-work look good on said type of furniture etc. But when it clicked, it clicked. I started listening to what each piece had to say, noting which styles gained popularity with the few followers I had, and most importantly I learned to bend the rules and have fun…"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u78on2oskFw/XIj8XS6k0LI/AAAAAAAAFME/Wi2so-nU7LU047nWylfoJqK0vX7aYI1-QCLcBGAs/s1600/Charlie-Massey-blue-ombre-wardrobe-800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u78on2oskFw/XIj8XS6k0LI/AAAAAAAAFME/Wi2so-nU7LU047nWylfoJqK0vX7aYI1-QCLcBGAs/s400/Charlie-Massey-blue-ombre-wardrobe-800.jpg" width="352" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;">"</span>…Within a couple of years, painting furniture with Chalk Paint® was no longer a hobby that provided me with a little supplemental income. It was my yoga, my passion, my art form, and my business! Once I figured out what I was good at and what my audience wanted to see from me, a hobby became the most stress relieving job I've ever had."<br />
<br />
Keep your eyes on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anniesloanhome/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/AnnieSloanHome" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration" target="_blank">Inspiration Page</a> to see all the pieces this <a href="https://www.instagram.com/girl_in_blue_designs/" target="_blank">Girl in Blue</a> produces for her residency. I hope you are as excited as I am!<br />
<br />
Yours,<br />
<br />
Annie.Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6844708544206572327.post-54930974304578618342019-03-12T16:50:00.000+00:002019-03-12T16:51:35.909+00:00Lem Lem - supporting Oxfam & helping beat poverty!It’s early Spring as I write this; here in Oxfordshire the gardens are beginning to bloom and the evenings are drawing out with beautiful sunsets. This luxuriance of verdancy puts me in mind of one very special colour: Lem Lem. So good I named it twice!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hEyXbte5IdY/WzoY4ccA5hI/AAAAAAAAFGg/4uI6vlou8xMdNkX0PdZYnITMDkwLjfr4wCLcBGAs/s1600/Annie-Sloan-supporting-Oxfam-4x4-grid-640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hEyXbte5IdY/WzoY4ccA5hI/AAAAAAAAFGg/4uI6vlou8xMdNkX0PdZYnITMDkwLjfr4wCLcBGAs/s640/Annie-Sloan-supporting-Oxfam-4x4-grid-640.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For those of you who don’t know, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint/lemlem-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Lem Lem</a> is the colour I created in collaboration with <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/collaborations-charleston/oxfam" target="_blank">Oxfam</a>. Along with some of my team I travelled to Ethiopia last year to see the results of Oxfam’s Seed Project. This initiative empowers women farmers to grow their own crops and sustain themselves and their families. The women I met grow alliums; and the soft green of Lem Lem is inspired by the rolling fields of healthy crops I saw. We call Lem Lem “the colour of hope”<br />
<br />
I asked one of the women farmers, "what does green mean to you?" and she immediately said, "growth" and I thought that was fantastic. The women grow the alliums for their seeds which they then sell. One woman with four children under nine had made enough money to buy a house, a cow, an ox, schooling for her children, and a TV (its arrival promoted a party in the village). Even more unprecedented for a woman in this part of Ethiopia, she has been able to set up a bank account of her own. Growth, by anybody's definition.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8acxBsFtSSs&t=110s" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zACvYBD_CEU/WzoZHVLVb8I/AAAAAAAAFGk/nJJ-N4W0NssHhrF-Qe3voG2V8Y7uaGYAwCLcBGAs/s640/giphy-4.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The development of a new colour is always a huge undertaking and of course there was even more impetus to create something incredible for such an important cause. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8acxBsFtSSs&t=110s" target="_blank">Click here</a> to watch a video about my trip to Ethiopia and the subsequent development process.<br />
<br />
Every time you buy a tin of Lem Lem you are supporting the Seed Project and other worthy causes which help impoverished women and communities around the world.<br />
<br />
But what can you paint with Lem Lem? Lem Lem is great for creating a retro 50's look, a contemporary cool vibe, AND works well as part of a vintage floral style. Freshen up your bedroom, bathroom, garden, living room or kitchen with this calm and cool shade. Take a look at the <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/oxfam" target="_blank">inspiration on my Oxfam page</a>, from Painters in Residence and friends of Chalk Paint®, for a wide range of inspiring ideas. With such beautiful projects, not to mention an inspiring back story about our sisters in underdeveloped communities around the world, there’s no better time to snap up this limited edition colour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/inspiration/mid-century-vintage-lem-lem-bureau-by-elizabeth-dot-design" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ilTN4PciYRU/WzolFEeeAiI/AAAAAAAAFG0/O_Rs1JzhK1EqpgIWHP4OitFPHsuVLt19gCLcBGAs/s400/Elizabeth-Dot-lem-lem-bureau.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPwZnz8nctQ" target="_blank">Click here</a> to see one last Lem Lem project - it's a short video of me vs a very orange, very varnished pine bedside table of the type I'm sure you'll all recognise.<br />
<br />
Remember: every pot of Lem Lem bought by YOU will raise vital funds for Oxfam, helping people beat poverty worldwide. <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint/lemlem-chalk-paint" target="_blank">Click here</a> to purchase a tin of Lem Lem now, or visit your <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/" target="_blank">local stockist</a> to buy, and make a difference.<br />
<br />
That’s all from me for now – I’ve got some gardening to do and I’m feeling rather inclined to pick up a paintbrush and Lem Lem something myself, having had such a pleasant reminiscence about the incredible women I met in Ethiopia!<br />
<br />
Yours,<br />
<br />
Annie.Annie Sloanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16959054298478198325noreply@blogger.com0