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How to Whitewash a Fireplace

Transforming Traditions: The Tale of Our Painted Stone Fireplace

In the ever-evolving story of our farmhouse, the living room has been a chapter filled with lessons of patience and personal style. It's a space that has gently guided me to embrace the beauty of transformation—not just of walls and floors, but of my own journey within these ancient walls. Like many homeowners, I've wrestled with the balance between preserving history and making a home that reflects my essence. And so, after much contemplation, I took a bold step that may stir mixed feelings: I painted our stone fireplace, and the result? It's a change I wholeheartedly adore.

The Before and After: A Fireplace Reimagined

Let's begin with a glimpse into the past, a 'before' snapshot taken weeks into our farmhouse journey, and contrast it with the 'after'—a testament to the power of paint and perseverance.

The Decision to Paint

The decision wasn't made lightly. The fireplace, with its dark stone, was at odds with the bright, welcoming space we envisioned. Its imposing presence, while fine for previous decor styles, clashed with our lighter, airier aspirations. Here’s why painting felt right:

  • The stone, not original to the 1836 home, lacked historical significance, easing our decision.
  • The dark colors and texture of the mantel posed decorating challenges, failing to harmonize with our preferred aesthetic.
  • With four fireplaces in our home, not all were destined for change. This particular fireplace, however, demanded attention, overshadowing the dining room's refreshed look.

Understanding the permanence of this decision, I approached it with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Yet, the partnership with Amy Howard at Home, discovering their One Step Paint, felt serendipitous, illuminating the path forward.

The Process of Transformation

Armed with "Ballet White" paint, a perfect hue of pure white, I embarked on the whitewashing journey. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

  1. Preparation: A mixture of paint and water, aiming for a 50/50 ratio, prepared for a thin application.
  2. Application: Painting in small sections, then dabbing with an old towel to achieve the desired texture and coverage.
  3. Patience and Precision: Taking time to address the unique absorption rates of different stones, ensuring an even, satisfying finish.

The entire endeavor unfolded over four hours, a testament to the diversity of the stone and my meticulous approach. The result? A fireplace that brightens and enlarges our dining room, making it feel more cohesive with the home's overall aesthetic.

Reflections and Looking Forward

This transformation has sparked not just a change in our living space but a shift in perspective. It's a vivid reminder that our homes should be reflections of our journeys, our tastes, and our stories.

As I sit back, admiring this significant alteration, I'm reminded of the importance of making spaces that fill us with joy. And for those hesitant about undertaking their transformations, consider this an invitation to boldly make your mark.

The Next Chapter

The journey doesn’t end here. With a new project on the horizon, I’m excited to delve into another adventure—this time, in the dining room, with the Amy Howard at Home One Step Paint in its undiluted glory. Stay tuned for more tales of transformation, as we continue to blend the old with the new, crafting a home that’s truly ours.

To those who've been part of this journey, through Instagram stories or shared experiences, your encouragement has been invaluable. And for anyone pondering a change, remember: your home, your rules. Embrace your vision, and let your home tell your story.

xo,

Leigh