A stunning stool for just about anywhere
Traditional garden stools were designed for people in need of a brief respite from planting, weeding and other physically demanding outdoor chores — especially during the early- spring garden cleaning frenzy. But today’s designers have put these stools to a variety of clever uses. While most of the garden stools found in big-box stores have an Asian look and sport a variety of colors and textures, you can easily customize your own ceramic stool to work as end table, extra seat, drink caddy or bedside table. Stacey Johnson, Special to The Denver PostEstimated project time: 1 hour
Estimated cost: $15-$20
DIRECTIONS
Step one: With the intended purpose for your stool in mind, head to your local flea market, thrift store or consignment shop armed with a tape measure and a pinch of inspiration. Ceramic stools with cutouts in the design best replicate the Asian-inspired look of traditional garden stools.
Step two: Do not be dissuaded by the color of your secondhand piece. Spray paint, available today in innumerable colors and textures, is a quick fix for any piece that’s seen better days.
Step three: Clean the piece as needed. When purchasing secondhand, this usually involves a thorough wipe-down followed by an application or two with mild household cleanser.
Step four: Armed with your chosen paint color, head outdoors and apply two coats of paint per the instructions on the can.
Step five: Wait an hour or two before placing the piece in its new home.
Stacey Johnson is a longtime hunter of secondhand treasures and an expert in “artful upcycling.” She is the curator of several stores in Antique Alley at Mile High Marketplace, located near Interstate 76 and East 88th Avenue. Information at . To reach the writer: stacey@milehighmarketplace.com.
