Molly Susan Strong

Vacation for a bit

2011-09-19T19:10:00.000-07:00

I will be off the blog for awhile. I am helping my Mom move into her new home in Michigan next week. I look forward to feeling the Fall season a bit and taking a break. The cider mill is a must in Michigan. I hope to do some good picking too!! I will be back with more creations, I am sure sooner than later.

I am hoping to spend some good creative time, exploring my art as I turn the big 5-0 in a few weeks. My how life can move so fast and before you know it, there you are. I so remember the days when I never thought I would be "that old".

Reflecting on one's life and the passions that drive us, is a gift. For me it has always been those I love dearly, my husband, my children, my family and friends. Thanks to all they do to make me who I am and give me the inspiration, and sometimes the nudge, to create and be the best I can.

Each of us is here for a brief sojourn; for what purpose he knows not, though he senses it. But without deeper reflection one knows from daily life that one exists for other people.

--Albert Einstein

I love my peeps.

See you soon!

Molly

AS to the rescue!

2011-09-13T05:21:00.000-07:00

Huge fan...say no more.

Old White and Country Grey joined together

pure

simple

beauty!

Country Grey is not getting it's credit!

Warm and goes with everything.

Try it.

Market Monday - Fall, fall everywhere

2011-09-11T17:12:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season

Crunchy leaves,

Sunflowers

Apples

I have a thing for signs on salvaged wood.

The beauty of saving something and turning it into a bit of art.

Love that.

The barn doors are really my thing.

Big and bold statements in the home.

Original paint.

Crusty hardware.

What could be better? I used a graphic

from Graphics Fairy...of course.

I altered it a bit here and there to fit my salvaged door.

I likethe graphic nature of fonts.
And add the freehand detailing for a one of a kind piece.

Waa laa, fall inspired art.

I love the change of season.

Makes me feel full, warm, cozy

--even in the muggy heat.

Thanks to all for sharing on Market Monday.
So many fabulous things to see. Go take a peek at
Atelier Cecilia Rosslee
to see some gorgeous art.

Love her style and use of color.

Her work is simply yummy.
Go say hello!

Molly

SO...what are you waiting for?

MARKET MONDAY

Here are the rules:

1. Must be a follower here.

2. Anything goes, show us your creations.

3. Place my button in your post, sidebar or use a text link.

4. Go visit someone new...show some love!

Market Monday with Linky -- Creating from Nothing

2011-09-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

My favorite motto:
Something from nothing.

I did not really make this from "nothing"

but it has a story.

The legs, once white, were sitting

under the back deck at The Cottage.

I inquired and they belonged to some

of the great ladies there...not yet in use.

Nice shaped iron + paint= fab base

Now the top.

This is my final weathered technique.

It was a blonde wood with

stenciled pineapples...a la 80's.

Yes again no before pics.

I get to excited to transform it all.

I removed the base

(going to use on a great door I scored and build a table).

I was closely looking at a table top

on a farm table in The Cottage.

What made it look so cool?

Old stain, old paint, lots of use.

I can do that!

SO here is my process for the wood:

Sand...be messy, do not remove everything.
Stain. I use a dark walnut stain.
Dry brush with AS Country grey in a random pattern.
Sand again, leaving paint in different places.
Stain again and wipe off.
Wax with AS clear wax for protection and even better patina.

The chairs are another story!

Gotta love these lines.

I have four for this table.

All the arms tuck neatly under the table top.

A few seasonal goodies.

Barn Party - one of my hand painted signs.

Come have a cider and sit a spell no?

***

Now for

Market Monday

RULES:

1. Must be a follower here.

2. Anything goes, show us your creations.

3. Place my button in your post, sidebar or use a text link.

4. Go visit someone new...show some love!

A big thanks for all who came by last week for my first link up.

Let's get started.

Be sure to visit this Chalk Paint Party too!

Shades of Amber inc.
Catch-glimpse-party-44

Molly

Market Monday with Linky -- My REAL reasons for loving Chalk Paint!

2011-08-29T06:04:00.000-07:00

My first real linky for Market Monday.

Please come in and stay a bit.

BEFORE 80's GAH!

AFTER Ahhh

I really wanted to share my top reasons for loving Annie Sloan's products.

We hear so much, see so many great painting but let me simplify.

1. EASY

No need to seal, sand and toil--right over anything, metal, wood and more.

Look at this 80's shine on the above piece, I did nothing before painting.

Coverage is amazing.

Before wax

2. Water based

Easy clean up and mixing to

create your own custom colors

or water down for a wash.

Here I mixed Country Grey with

Old White trim and

a special mix of blue for

additional subtle accents

on the curves of this piece.

3. THE COLORS

Nothing can beat the sophisticated,

muted to bold,

one better than the next.

Where can you buy?? Link below.

Jolie Design-Stockists for Annie Sloan

4. The wax

Soft buttery and easy to apply with

great protective qualities.

The wax also ups the patina...

clear provides a subtle change

to a richer tone

of the color you use.

The darker wax really letting you add patina

and "age" or pop trim

and deco accents and crannies.

This piece I did clear and then accented crannies with dark.

Now here is the deal...

oh please oh please

yes I am begging...pitifully

Link up one of your creations.

Any creation.

Link back here to my blog and share the love.

Go visit a link here and

let them know you came by.

Click here for a AS giveaway--
Shades of Amber inc.

Molly

Seasons changing...

2011-08-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

So I told you I got the new laptop...

awesome

and bad.

One of my new signs is fitting.

I have some issues.

My files did not all transfer...

I do not know the new photo editor yet...

I am old and set in my ways so must open my mind.

Dang it.

So onto something more fun.

Fall signage

And many sayings like the Alice saying...

Or Cinderella.

So my miracle,

learning to navigate this new laptop,

may take some time.

Be patient with me.

Now go visit someone new who has left a comment here.

Stay tuned for a fall sign giveaway.

Molly

Time flies...sale time!

2011-08-17T05:09:00.000-07:00

I have a new laptop....

I do not have my files yet, or pictures.

I do have wireless printer.

No more printer on my desk. Yes!

The little ditty above is one of my latest paintings.

Look for my how's next Monday.

Go to

Chartreuse and co.com

directions and more...

For fabulous pictures of this next sale....

click here for gallery of pictures

Trust me....so much to see!

Molly

Market Monday Yep...Let's do it, one two three.

2011-08-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

What is it with numbers??

I love them...add a dresser drawer, magic.

Little chalk paint love...

Duck Egg and Old White

So now a little French...

Deux

Trois

Old White with Cottage Grey

I also used a little dark umber to

shade the lettering,

Golden Oak Briwax,

mixed with clear wax

for a really warm patina.

Detailing on top...

You get the picture.

I have used house numbers, vintage enamel tags...

Are you too into

And please play

Market Monday

Why and How to Market Monday??

Remember:

1. Follow here if you like what you see,

I need love too!

2. Leave a little note

3. Go visit someone new

from the comments here

and say hello.

Share the love, meet someone new!

Molly

Oh and go visit
cottage and vine
for a fun tour at link below,
room by room
Today, Foyers.

This little cabinet as using in my foyer for YEARS.

I love it.

And the little cow tag with my street number

of my childhood home.

I still am stuck in Maine

O My Back-to- what????

2011-07-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

SCHOOL?? or shall we still PLAY?

Little of both maybe?

Hand painted and

Vintage post card inspired....

Maybe a more formal approach

to work and play??

Why not.

I have the right desk for you

either way you go.

Both finished in Annie Sloan's chalk paint...

Country Grey and Old White

with clear wax.

Back-to-school seems too soon

but maybe these will ease the pain?

Molly

Market Monday - Vacation Finds

2011-07-18T06:12:00.000-07:00

Finds! In little antique shops in Maine...

back to school, vintage style

(And I have a whole Dick and Jane series to boot...

tags, bookmarks, magnets, prints...oh my)

Kitchen finds...reproductions but the COLOR

Boxes...love 'em

EVERYDAY

Milk bottles-- add what you love

Add hydrangas, sunflowers...

I love an antique shaker

but I put flowers in them or just add to a display.

Oh what you can do with these...

Sweet lamps

Desk set

Silver dresser set

Little milk glass and toile trays

So much more to find....look for this and more in my shops.

Market Monday

You know the drill....

Comment here

what did you find on your vacation??

Go visit someone new who left a comment

Leave them a little love

Molly

Market Monday Spread the Love

2011-07-11T04:31:00.000-07:00

What day is it?

Third week into vacation and I barely know.

Chartreuse & Co. sale time soon

so let the picture show begin....

Sweet desk with awesome detailing

Inspired hand painting from vintage perfume label

Awesome flip top desk...soft white over a cool green peeping thru.

Loads of compartments!

Catching a theme? Wine inspired.

Summer votives or vases!

Chippy dresser with mirror on casters...perfection.

Fun vintage and created accessories.

Perfect side table.

One, Two and Three

Come on by and see me...well, my shop.

I will still be in Maine!

July 15-17 Check out more at

Chartreuse and co.

for more pictures and directions.

So remember....

Leave me a little hello 

and then go see someone new 

who left a comment here.

Market Monday means...

Spread the love.

Molly

Maine Market Monday....

2011-07-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

So I am in my favorite spot with my favorite people so will say only a few words...

Coffee on my porch overlooking the marsh

All the cousins lined up by age...
Mine...
Dex is the oldest
Susie is next
Emma is forth from the right

Our children nestled in...PRICELESS!

Each year we can't wait for our time here, in our Maine. Full of lovely beach fun, family laughter and breezy evenings on the screened porch.Cousins become one, nestled in their beds, hanging out, creating moments to remember forever. They did not have to share this room, they WANTED to be together.

Tell me what is "your Maine"? On a lake, in the mountains, sipping tea on your own porch? So...

MARKET Monday...
go visit someone new, say hello, leave me a little note about what makes your summer, really summer.

Still...chalk paint on the brain

2011-06-24T05:31:00.000-07:00

Vintage perfume label hand painted

My love affair with Duck Egg...

remember this before pic?

See why?

original paint color under the duck egg...so so soft yellow
= yummy

Inspired by vintage French wine labels

Yes, on my signage for coverage

and just the perfect touch of color...

I am tired...just got my shops ready for my summer vacation. Moms reinvent the wheel so they can have a break...I am convinced. It is worth it....all of it. Love what I do. Feel more passion now then I ever did. So if you see less of me this next month, know my Maine sand is in my toes

and I am in my version of bliss.

Sand

Sea

Sun

Stroll

Sip

Sleep

All with my peeps. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh.

Molly

CHALK PAINT GIVEAWAY WINNER!!!

2011-06-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

Michelle of Wonderfaux Studio and I are

happy to announce...

The
winner
of the three quart

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Giveaway

is...

Kristin of
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

She as many plans for her big win.
This is what she had to say when I told her...

No Way!!!! I'm so excited!!! I actually had a dream about the paint the other night, how funny is that! I have so many ideas for the paint :)

Bathroom cabinets

Friends Kitchen island

Armoire my sister is giving me

2 bar stools

So excited!!

Now we are even
dreaming
of this great product.
I know I can't wait to see
how she whips up these projects!!
Make sure to go visit
and say congratulations.
Kristin seemingly does a little bit of
EVERYTHING.
AND everything is amazing.

Michelle and I want to sincerely
thank you
ALL
for the many lovely comments
and
for taking the time
to come by and visit.

Keep coming back.
We have much more up our sleeves.

Molly

The winner was randomly chosen by Michelle's team. They randomly chose an entry number of the nearly 400 entries. I then applied that number to the actual entries to come up with the winners name.

LAST day to enter giveaway! Three quarts of Chalk Paint

2011-06-20T05:41:00.000-07:00

HURRY

Oh dear oh my....last day!

Me having a hurry it is time to win face...
not really just me being me. This is a BEFORE pic on this piece.

It is that time so go

HERE

to enter

and get your chance to win big.

Playing with the lovely vibrant green chalk paint

in process

On this little cabinet with the flip lid

and glass doors

(What was this little piece used for??)

I used Duck Egg

and then added a handpainted perfume label

in soft brown to the panel above the doors.

I took to my shop

and forgot to take a final pic

so that is coming soon!!

Just see all you can paint

with chalk paint!!

Thanks to all that have come by

and entered.

I know Michelle and I

so appreciate it!

We will announce the winner

this week.

Market Monday means spread the love.
Go visit someone new
who left a comment here.
Molly

Market Monday...Still time to win big and Sale at Chartreuse & Co.

2011-06-13T17:46:00.000-07:00

Click HERE for Chalk Paint Giveaway

So it is time for our June sale at

Chartreuse and co.

Loads on sale

and I will let my pictures tell the story...

Dressers galore, acessories and more

o so soft pink

Signs and great seating

Did I say signs??

Blue crab Cafe makes a statement

A perfect message in any home

Soft paris blue cupboard and dresser on casters

Great shelving

Sweet desk

One, Two and Three

great hand made gifts

Please come on by if you can!!!

And do not forget to enter in our giveaway!!!

Molly
And remember Market Monday means go visit someone new you see here in the comments section. Share the love.

Second Saturday Antique Sale - Yippee

2011-06-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

A must see...

These are some of the lovely ladies of
Chartreuse & Co.
and they have a special event

June 11th.

If you are in the DC area
it is a must to stop over
and see the vintage
and re-purposed finds.

You can find

The Pink Poet

and Coco too

every other day too...
so worth the trip to meet these talented
and fun group of gals.

This little flea on the 2nd Saturday of each month
is something you want to SEE!!

Molly

25 years ago today...

2011-06-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

I married this boy.

Through thick and thin,

25 years later,

I love him more.

Molly

Market Monday Why I love to use chalk paint and GIVEAWAYS GALORE!!!

2011-06-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Still time for three quart

Annie Sloan chalk paint

GIVEAWAY

You have until Monday June 20th to enter.

GO HERE

and even more ways to win below.

before -- cool door with original paint

What will I be?

Now I love signs and they are the bread and butter of my shops. So...

I was inspired by Pottery Barn sign "Guest Cottage" but wanted a larger appeal.

Linda at

The Cottage

had this great idea. I also happened to get the door there.

before sanding down the lettering

I hand letter and figure out spacing the old fashioned way on this type of large scale signage. I use math...you know so many inches divided by # of letters. I usually chalk or use a watercolor pencil to write it out.

sanded and waxed

shows off the patina

Waa Laaa!

All ready to hang

Now why I love Annie's Chalk Paint?

- It covers anything, no priming or sanding needed,
with rich texture as it is a "meatier" paint

- You can thin for a wash...love using this over

other colors

- Many colors options and you can create your own

shades as well by mixing colors

- It distresses or sands like a charm...

easy and smooth and you can wax first

to cut down on dust

- Wax just adds to the patina, enhancing color and

detailing

Coverage with chalk paint for lettering really cuts down

on the number of layers you need...love that.

I even use it on my small stenciled signs.

I use wax on all my small signs too and use a clear and dark together.

Often the main body I wax in clear first and add dark where I want it.

AND

YES, I think I kiss better than I cook

and housework definitely does not make me pretty.

GIVEAWAYS GALORE!!!

I am not the only one sporting some good giveaways from

Annie Sloan and her stockists...

Cedar Hill Ranch

They have another Wonderfaux Studio

giveaway going on at the same time.

The winner will be announced this Thursday.

WONDERFAUX STUDIOS GIVEAWAY
ADMITTANCE FOR ONE
FAUX PAINT TECHNIQUE CLASS

on JUNE 11
9 am - 12 noon
THIS IS A $150 VALUE.
The class will be held at the studio in
Stafford, Texas, south of Houston.

OR

Blue Creek Home

The Giveaway Includes:

One quart Old White Chalk Paint, tin of clear wax,
tin of dark wax, two small wax brushes,
and a copy of Annie Sloan’s book
“Quick and Easy Paint Transformations"
and one of her own creations, beautiful.

Oh so many ways to win!!!
Molly

Now Market Monday means visit someone new
who comments here.
It is fun so spread the love!

Linking to:

crafting really awesome free things

making the world cuter

sumos sweet stuff

skip to my lou

simpsonized crafts and then some.

binkies and briefcases

the girl creative

todays creative blog

nightowl crafting

singing three little birds

Graced

2011-06-02T13:04:00.000-07:00

Graced: noun

1. To honor or favor:

You grace our table with your presence.

2. To give beauty, elegance, or charm to.

I am completely overwhelmed by all the lovely comments. Michelle's sponsored giveaway is truly one worth swooning over. I am grateful for so many taking the time here and spreading the news.

I wanted to say

thank you

for all the kind words, encouragement and the many NEW FRIENDS.

I am graced.

Molly

Oh Oh what you can paint with chalk paint

2011-05-31T06:07:00.000-07:00

Everything...

The colors,

the texture,

the coverage,

the patina with little work!!!

This is the "Adow" blue...so perfect.

It is like a warm Tiffany blue!

Colors:Why not a shell???

Aubusson Blue, Duck Egg Blue and Old White

WonderFaux Studio does a 1:1:1 ratio
with these colors
which just appens to be the
giveaway colors!

AND

Yes, the shell too.

Do not forget this...

This paint sticks beautifully and changes these lamps from ordinary (or plain yucky as the base colors ranged from horrid gold to metal blahhhh) to lovely.

The colors are so lush.

So...remember to enter my giveaway

Click HERE

for

THREE QUARTS

of chalk paint from

Wonderfaux Studio

Let the chalk paint majic begin!!

Molly

Market Monday GIVAWAY revealed.

2011-05-30T05:42:00.000-07:00

THREE QUARTS

of Chalkpaint

from Wonderfaux Studio

see this link or previous below

GO HERE

Molly

Market Monday GIVEAWAY: CAN YOU SAY CHALK PAINT?

2011-05-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

OH WHAT A DAY!

You have a chance to win BIG!!

Three Quarts Big

of Annie Sloan's chalk paint from

Michelle Delagado of

Wonderfaux Studio
out of Texas.

Colors:
Aubusson Blue, Duck Egg Blue and Old White

Did you HEAR???

THREE quarts!

WOWSA!!!

WonderFaux Studio does a 1:1:1 ratio with these colors
called "ADOW" , get it?

Later this week, I will show you a lovely sample
I create with these shades.

You have until Monday June 20th to enter.

Here is how:

easy as 1,2,3,4!

ONE.

Must follow here.

Already a follower,
follow me on Face Book & skip to #2

TWO.

become a friend of
Wonderfaux Decorative Arts
on Face Book

THREE.

Leave me a comment saying you have completed
steps #1 and #2.

Not on FB? Visit her website below.

FOUR.
Add my button on your blog with
a note about Michelle's
generous giveaway on my blog
and win a second entry.

(Again, be sure to leave a comment here
letting me know you added my button.)

Face Book and my button
are on my Side bar

I will announce the winner the week of June 20th.
I will also be available to the winner
for any questions or consultation wanted or needed!

Now a little about this
fabulous lady!

Visit this lovely stockist ,Michelle,

on her website and see what she does!
See her products and classes.

JUNE 17 Chalk Paint Class at her Texas studio!

Wonderfaux Studio

Michelle brings over 12 years of experience from the faux & paint contracting business, interior design and construction. Michelle specializes in production finishes, from a one-layer glaze to several layers of synthetic or natural lime plaster, and sophisticated wallpaper finishes.

Over the past 12 years, Michelle has worked on several projects, from Miami, Dallas, and San Francisco, to the sunny isles of Maui – incorporating decorative finishes in all her projects.

Their retail facility supplies many innovative products from Totem Coatings, Variance Finishes and Golden/Proceed and a full line of professional faux finishing supplies and tools.

Oh!
and do not forget,
Annie Sloan's Chalk Paint.
Michelle prides herself in prompt delivery!!!

So what are you waiting for???

Some of my projects with my favorite shade...
Duck Egg

Duck egg over old white with dark wax

yep...this too AND you can write on it!

Great product for large and small projects!

Remember Market Monday
is all about sharing!!!
Molly

Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece MondayThe House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage MondaySmiling Sally for Blue Monday Between Naps on the Porch for Metemorphis Monday

French Inspired at French Cupboard

Get your craft on Tuesday

The Cottage EYE CANDY--So much to see

2011-05-25T15:09:00.000-07:00

My hand painted beds all made up...

Remember my hand painted beds?

Well, here they are all dressed in finery at

The Cottage in Leesburg.

How lovely to have them in this fine setting!

Wouldn't you love to sleep here??

See how they started
HERE

This little lady helped make this all come alive.

Her "stories" she tells with vintage finds are simply amazing.

Each little vignette more yummy than the next.

Eye candy indeed.

Linda at the front, smile ready!

My best find at Lucketts Fair dressed in jewels!!

Small signs make great gifts

Awesome Seahorse Silhouette

Soft blues

Anything you can imagine and then some

New shelf made from vintage parts holding garden inspired treasures

Original Art

Come sit a spell

All the above were my goodies

but just you wait to see

what else is in store for you....

There are also four other creative souls

packing this home to the brim

with vintage finds.

And Coco creations now at The Cottage

Oh the stories Linda weaves with great finds

It is summertime here!

Beach tiles

Soothing loveliness

I mean...lovely!

Have a cubby!!!

It is this kind of lovely vignette that I love!

patina, patina, patina

Frenchy love.

One of my canvas' over a to die for dresser

Can we say SWEET!
Perfect little dresser on a princess dresser.
See how perfectly this fits next to a bed.

Just add the tea.

Crusty and rusty = perfection

Charming...just one of the MANY hand made pillows.

AND it is on sale!!!!

Just killing me with this little deal, love it.

New vendor this month...already spent some $$$ here.

Garden love.

How about this in your entry way?

I mean, was that not a

real cottage candy treat!?

Stop by The Cottage blog

HERE

Show Linda and Anne,

the proprietresses,

some love!

Better yet, visit us in Leesburg.

Open daily 10-5!

Molly

Watch for Market Monday

and my most

exciting

giveaway!!

Participating at:
Pink Postcard

SNEAKY PEAK Market Monday giveaway --SOON!

2011-05-22T20:07:00.000-07:00

A lovely little blue cubby you can even write upon!

Can you guess what the giveaway will be???

Not this little cubby but

Hmmmm???

This too...

It is a product I used
on items in all the pictures.

STAY TUNED.

SO MARKET MONDAY...
Why and How to Market Monday??

Remember:
1. Follow here
2. Leave a little note
3. Go visit someone new
from the comments here
and say hello.

Share the love, meet someone new!

Molly

Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece MondayDittle Dattle for Amaze Me MondayThe House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage MondaySmiling Sally for Blue MondayLife Made Lovely for Life Made Lovely Monday Between Naps on the Porch for Metemorphis Monday

our interview with HGTV's Leslie Segrete

Market Monday - THIS is a decorative artists dream project...

2011-05-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

AFTER teaser

BEFORE a blank canvas!

I got two of these bad boys....

Curvey end boards, yummy details...

W.R.Hathaway Co. 1869! WOW! New York

A bit of glue and filler....

Chalk paint and a mix to match the "old white" chalk paint color
in Behr with primer.
Saves me time!

(I can work faster with this as chalk paint is, well, different.
Little fussier going on for me.)

Also, Behr is cheaper and so I use it on places it does not matter,
inside side boards etc.

Chalk paint is perfect for the detailed areas
as sanding off is easy as pie

and the wax just settles
so nicely into the chalk paint.

Already looking fine...

Tools of my trade...

Mouse sander, wood glue, wood putty,
my studio...HA,
garage.

So lots of sanding to reveal lovely details.

Decorative painting in soft browns...

And wax...stain and Feed n' Wax combo...see earlier post.
Waxing formula post!

Remember...this technique,
the wiping off is essential!!!
It stains sanded area and nooks and
seals the surface
while changing the tone of the paint slightly.
Easy!
I love the results too.

Very soft browns...

A bee of course!

Footboard gets some deco too.

THIS is why I use chalk paint.at

Mmmmmmmm, the patina is perfect.

Button

2011-05-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

Market Monday - Welcome to my garden

2011-05-09T06:01:00.000-07:00

I am a painter and decorator.

Meet my muse...my garden

Passion for birds and all winged...

Color here does not scare me...

Pots galore...

Pink AND red because I can.

Rusty finds have a home...

I am sentimental...my kiddies feeties!

Vintage and broken make my day.

Watering cans I adore.

I'll take this prince.

Bunnies are a must...

All the rocks and shells come from the shores of

Michigan (my home state) and

Maine (another of my passions).

My server of course, farms loss, my gain.

Lighting are old canisters for a stove.

Chippier the better, embrace it!

Garbage find! I am not ashamed.

Angels have wings too!

Mother's Day mobile, old windows...

Chesapeake RR solid brass bell from

my husband's grandfather's train,

can you say dinner bell?

Birds need homes.

Anything that climbs

Copper window boxes full of

boxwoods and ivy geranium

OK I am a bit nutty about birds.

I like my winged pig too.

Let your imagination run wild.

Boogie Board Cottage for Masterpiece Monday

Dittle Dattle for Amaze Me Monday

The House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage Monday

Smiling Sally for Blue MondayLife Made Lovely for Life Made Lovely Monday Between Naps on the Porch for Metemorphis Monday

What makes you stop?

2011-05-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

my painting, nature my visual inspiration

What about reading a post on a blog makes you stop?

comment?

follow?

my favorite saying

I know for me that I am very visual. I also want to let the author know I was touched when something moves me, inspires me, makes me laugh. I follow when I have taken something in to my little head from theirs. I want to make them feel compelled to write more. Appropriately "mom-ish" day before we celebrate just that.

my family

When someone does take the time, I am not ashamed to say, it makes me feel warm, welcomed, appreciated. Like some of my world has made it into yours in a positive way.

come sit with me-- laugh a little

What makes you stop? Let me know.

Happy Mother's Day!!

Molly

p.s. so far this post has won me one LESS follower,
hahahaha, ironic?

Market Monday - Oh so beachy

2011-05-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

I love the beach...'tis the season.

I am inspired by the sea,

by the sea,

by the beautiful sea.

Hand painted simple side board.
Perfect for dining room and so much more!!!

So what inspires you this season?

Why and How to Market Monday??

Remember:

1. Follow here

2. Leave a little note

3. Go visit someone new from the comments here

and say hello.

Share the love, meet someone new!

Molly

Boogieboard Cottage for Masterpiece Monday Dittle Dattle for Amaze Me Monday The House in the Roses for Show Off Your Cottage Monday Smiling Sally for Blue Monday Life Made Lovely for Life Made Lovely Monday Between Naps on the Porch for Metemorphis Monday

Market Monday -Coastal Chic Signs

2011-04-25T04:52:00.000-07:00

Victorian Parlor Chairs
Wheels on the front curved feet...
Painted and distressed with
double welting trim
on a soft triple washed
drop cloth upholstery-
looks and feels like old soft linen.
Great for the extra seating at the
beach house!

Lucketts Fair 2010

Oh yes it is...

This is one of my favorite times at the shop...

Getting ready for summer inspirations.

The above were from last year

but you will see some of these favorites again

and many newly inspired.

What inspires you

for summer decor???

For me....

Vintage signs in Maine

Yep...I had the calamari, mmmmmm

AND

I am loving the combo of

TURQUOISE

RED

Remember how this works...

Here is how:

1. Leave a Comment and FOLLOW here

2. Go visit someone who commented on this post

3. Leave them a note and invite them to visit you

Why not find a new place to visit,

follow if you like what you see.

Spread the love huh?

COME ON!

I will try to visit everyone who comments

and leave them a note too.

Molly

Thanks to my new followers and all my new pals I am meeting along the way!

ON VACATION...

2011-04-21T09:26:00.000-07:00

Need I say more...

Back after Easter.

Now, sand in my toes.

Molly

April Sale at Chartreuse & co. - Eye candy!

2011-04-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

Come on in...

Little potting table,

would make a great console table

with a shelf for all your equipment

It says in chalk,

The earth laughs in flowers.

Lovely French chairs...completely redone!
Triple washed drop cloth fabric with double welting.
Painted and distressed wood...mmmm
a toile pillow...MMMMM

Hand painted pillows

Desk with cubbies...oh I love cubbies!

Bud vases from vintage silver

Pendants galore!

Birdie mirrors

Victorian parlor chairs

with wheels on the front!

Ball jar dispensers

and a perfect little farm table for two!

My art...what I really love to do....

Gotta love a cubbie you can write on!

Bird house burlap lamp

This was a mess...now all pretty in a lovely shade of blue...
top is stained dark.
It says n it
The Earth laughs in flowers.

Oh so much to see in my little shop at Chartreuse and co.

Come and see us.

You can finds directions at the link below.

chartreuseandco.com

Molly

Chick Picks in the news...

2011-04-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

Link here!
click below

Chick Picks on TV

HOW exciting!

All things royal is getting press!!!

I made these custom signs for

Chick Picks by Hillary

Come on,

to honor the commoner herself,

bride to be Kate Middleton!

Sale going on this Friday and Saturday.

Also the Keep Calm Carry On series

but oh so much more to see!!!

Go see!

Molly

Market Monday Easy as 1 2 3 - Signs

2011-04-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

Come join in, visit and get to know more like you.

WELOME

Here is how:

1. Leave a Comment and FOLLOW here

2. Go visit someone who commented on this post

3. Leave them a note and invite them to visit you

Why not find a new place to visit,

follow if you like what you see.

Spread the love huh?

COME ON!

I will try to visit everyone who comments

and leave them a note too.

OK Signs...

I love them, love the written word,

love French (can't speak it or read it),

like the graphic nature of them,

like to make them...

I love doing large scale on salvaged wood

but I also kick out some smaller styles

for sale in my shops.

In my last post I gave you a peek

at the shiny new...

While that is fine...I like

patina.

I want it distressed and aged

and full of layered goodness.

So I use my handy dandy palm sander.

I use The Mouse.

It is shaped like a little iron and works great for me.

I rough up everything a bit...

don't be finicky or nervous...just go for it.

I then use Briwax that can be found

at better furniture stores.

This time I used light brown.

I also use a cheap chip brush and rubber gloves.

This stuff is smelly and stains!

(You can look up a previous post I did on waxing

for more info.)

I apply it liberally and

smudge,

technical word,

it into all the nooks and crannies.

If I want it very light, I rub off immediately.

If I like it darker, I let cure about 30 min. or so, then buff lightly.

It is a dramatic change when side by side

with the non-waxed.

After the wax cures,

I just rub lightly with a soft cloth or paper towel.

I love the depth the wax gives you...the patina of age.

All my signs are available at my shops.

So,

leave some love and pass it along.

Go visit someone new .

I met so many new friends

and discovered some cool things along the way.

Do I need to make a button??

I am challenged sometimes...

I mean if I could just paint a button

or something.

Thanks for joing in...

Molly

and a great giveaway at...

Spring Signage

2011-04-10T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am not slacking... four dozen

new signs for the shop.

Spring inspired

Full of garden and flower love

A few funny thrown into the mix

Always welcome and a little frenchy

I was hoping for a

lovely sunny day

for all the distressing and waxing

but alas...

maybe tomorrow.

So for now the signs sit

all shiny and new

on my kitchen table,

waiting for the sun

and time for the finishing touches

--for the perfect patina

of the look of time worn love.

Molly

Sale weekend coming up at Chartreuse & co.

this weekend the 15th-17th

and

the Flower and Garden show in Leesburg

The Cottege will be ready

the 16th and 17th

and

Chick Picks by Hillary

the 14th-16th

So much to see!

FAT babies

2011-04-10T08:35:00.000-07:00

These are the babies now...

COME ON,

they barely fit in the nest anymore.

They are such little chubbies.

Had to show you.

In case you think I am slacking off...see next post!

Molly

My best nest...

2011-04-08T05:38:00.000-07:00

I did not make this ok?
But what could make better,
cheaper priced decor??
It decorates my wreath...

My morning doves are back...

with two growing babes...

See that little baby bird fanny sticking out on the left?

And another to the right?

See the one peeking over?

Momma has left them

for periods during the day...

Now I have to watch over them,

I gotta paint things Momma!!

I had to share as each year

I have a new visitor to this nest.

The Robin's, yeah that is their name,

built the nest first and came for three years

and redid the nest each year...

it is becoming a top hat like nest.

Then my doves, yeah, I said it,

MY doves,

started using it last year.

The Robin's come by and glare regularly.

So I get to sit and look out

at my Maine moss wreath

above my garage door and trellis

and see what my birdies are up to...

Oh no, Momma has left....

must go protect my babies!

And do not think for a second I have not

chased a few birds away

and even saved a baby or two for the Robin's.

I have.

Even my oldest daughter,

she is 17 yrs. old and approaching my "crazy"

about our babies,

asked on a particularly cold morning,

"Don't we need to get the babies a blankey?"

Momma Molly

Come market yourself! It is easy! Share what you love.

2011-04-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

What makes you, you?

A little dresser I painted for our next show and just one of the things I love....numbers.

Oh and a little nest and bird on an old book...

Share what you love 

in the comments section, 

FOLLOW here 

and go visit someone new 
and follow them, 

invite them back to visit you. 

 Why not find a new place to visit, 

follow if you like what you see.  

Spread the love huh?

I will go visit all that follow

and comment.
COME ON!

yep...little wheels and a birdie!

Chartreuse & Co. is about to be featured in Southern Living . It is so very exciting. We had to update our info. for the site. Here is a little peek inside my head.

Shop: Molly Susan Strong
Proprietor: Molly Strong

Wife, Mother, Paintress helping to make your house a home

Blog/website:

You are here , come FOLLOW me. I like that.

Mollysusanstrong.com

(I totally neglect my website...

I mean totally,

I am only one woman and not that thorough!)

Obsessions:

Bees, birds, nests, numbers,

furniture on wheels, great quotes

and anything with a good patina.

Do not stand still I may paint you.

Favorite color:

Robin's egg blue, warm taupes and always white--

creamy chippy white

Decorating must-haves:

A little bit of black in each room, slip covers, painted furniture,

art

and

always what you love.

Decor is a journey.

In another life I'd be:

A writer, a dancer,

a full time artist living on the coast of Maine smelling the sweet air.

or, or, and....

Molly

Maybe this should be a regular

"Market Mondays"
Hmmmm?

UPDATE on WAX: HOW, WHY, WHAT???

2011-03-30T16:02:00.000-07:00

UPDATE on New Technique used in waxing.

I wanted to answer a few questions

regarding my previous post.

Formula:

20% minwax oil based stain

80% Howard's Feed n Wax

Use even a little less stain when using a very dark color.

I found these both at Home Depot.

This is a wax formula so it protects like wax.

Like all waxes,

you may need to redo the tops of pieces

a few times a year

or even once a month for heavily trafficked tops!

My dining room table top is a tinted wax on plain wood,

with creamy painted legs.

Love it! Love how it wears.

Black blob on table is my very needy kitty.

I would just use the plain

Feed n Wax (or your preferred wax)

for a touch up as needed.

Here is a little lesson on how wax works:

There are emollients or dissolvent like deals in the wax.

(whatever! with the right word here)

"It" is in all waxes, the smelly stuff.

I am very technical!

Because of this "it", you can apply wax,

otherwise they would be too hard.

These ("it") evaporate...

with the yucky smell the emit,

thank goodness,

as the wax cures,

leaving you with a hard finish.

You may buff to a high gloss

or lightly rub for a more matte finish.

When you reapply the wax,

"it" dissolves the old,

removing some of the old wax

and then reworks what is left into the new wax.

The beauty of this is that you do not get build up.

So let's say you hate the color of wax

you used in the finish...

rub off using a clear or plain wax.

If you hate the wax,

you can wipe with mineral spirit to remove.

(Hasn't worked well for me...just saying.)

I use a soft brush for application

and soft rag for wiping excess and then buffing.

Now I am going to tell you that

tinted waxes can be a bit tricky.

Practice.

I love a tinted wax because it adds

patina

to a newly painted piece.

It is what makes it rich, layered and oh so lovely.

Plain wax or clear protects and deepens the color a bit.

Experiment with tints too.

The color of stain or tint can

really change your paint color.

An oak color stain or tint

makes a blue paint a bit more of a robins egg blue...

yellowish tint added to blue makes it more green.

I love this new formula because of the ease.

I have been using wax, primarily Briwax,

found at better furnishing stores,

for 12 years now.

It is work but the results are beautiful.

Another hint:
Wax melts in heat...like a hot summer day of sitting in my garage,
the wax turns to liquid.
MUCH easier to apply and work in this form.
You can set your Briwax in a tub of very hot water so it goes to a more
soft, liquid consistency and it is easier to apply and manipulate.
It is a combustible product so do not heat on a stove or get near ANY flame.
Remember a little goes a long way.
The Howard's Feed n Wax is already in a liquid-like form
but I will always use my Briwax too!

I am hoping you find this new formula
a bit less (always good)

WORK.

Molly

Whew...long winded,
I could talk all day about this huh?

New Waxing technique...

2011-03-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

Wax can be a little tough to work with.

It can be thick and hard to control.

I have been using Briwax for 12 years now.

While I love it still I am always searching for things.

I was given a great tip by a fellow pal.

She had seen this man on MS show and redoes Swedish clocks.

He uses a mix of

beeswax and orange oil (80%)
called Howard's Feed n Wax
with minwax stain (20% or even a little less).

It goes on like in a milky consistency.

And you wipe it right off.

It goes easily into nooks and crannies.

It covers distressed areas with ease
and no crustiness.

And it protects like wax.

I like the results. No?

UPDATE on new Technique used in waxing,
how wax works and why use it at all
see in next post.

These pieces were the typical
big brown monsters.
I actually found these in the TRASH!!! (no pictures...bo hooo).

I was DREADING doing these but I had a deadline...
Needed Hubby to help bring to my shop before he went over seas,
So Had to get it done!

Now a soft
robins egg blue
wit the perfect patina
yummy.

Also a side note...

go see our little write up in
Apartment Therapy.

Apartment Therapy Feature of Chartreuse & Co.

Molly

Please leave me a note...I love notes!

Garden time is for more inspired art...

2011-03-27T05:38:00.000-07:00

Toile tonal look with a little bit of "water color".

I am really trying to take some time

to do what I love...

paint.

Organic subjects are my favorite...

do not ask me to paint your wall blue

or draw a building.

Yuck.

Any floral, green, tree, animal, insect

(yes, bee obsessed!)
and I will gladly oblige.

My last inspired piece

from my last blog entry sold at

Chartreuse & co.

to a lovely lady

for her favorite reading nook.

I am only sad

I did not get to meet her.

One of my cohorts at Chartreuse

said she was "giddy" with excitement.

Now sometimes I post onto my

FB page my latest work...

Molly Susan Strong Face Book

I sent a note to some of my pals

with a picture

and this is what I got back.

Molly,

I think your new work of art is another amazing example of your talent and I love the piece!

I also remember you telling me about the original and how it inspired you to interpret the piece your way which got me thinking.

Why not try it myself? How hard can it be, right? What is "art" anyway? It's how someone expresses themselves, and so I thought I'd try my hand at it, and I have to tell you, I think I nailed it!

I'd love to hear your comments, but please be kind because this is my first attempt at it and I feel as an emerging artist I'm a little vulnerable.

My new work is attached.

Just as a little fyi - it's mostly tonal, done on re purposed medium, and represents one woman's struggle to compete in today's competitive society.

It's raw. It's real. It's for sale.

Gail www.thekramerangle.com

Well needless to say, due to my age,

I nearly wet my pants.

Oh Gail, my lovely friend....

I am buying it!

You gotta have a friend like this!

So,

When I am an old lady

(I know I am old but OLDER)

I want to be sitting at my easel

(now I prefer my kitchen counter)

looking out at the ocean

and painting my favorite flower

gently blowing in the breeze.

Molly

FYI - I don't really obsess about my age...

I have earned the honor of this age and am loving it, mostly! Ha!

I do, however, obsess about comments. I love them.

Let me know you came by!

http://sassysites.blogspot.com/

French Inspired

2011-03-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

This is inspired from a wall fresco.

This spoke to me...the color,

the layers of paint and of course,

a bird gathering material

to build a nest.

I want to add more of my art

to my shops.

This is a gallery edge canvas and

a nice size to make a real statement,
30 x 36".

I will post more after I set up my space Thursday.

Ahhhh, SPRING!

Molly

Hmmmmmm...is it a desk or dresser?

2011-03-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

IT IS BOTH!

Lovely little maple dresser,

painted creamy white,

distressed and I added a diminutive deco details...

Little bit of a painted chocolate brown thistle on each knob

and the top of the piece.

Sometimes the simple multi-use piece is the best.

It can be in almost any room,

bedroom, hall, foyer or even the kitchen.

I love a dresser in every room!

Come see me at the next Chartreuse & Co. sale!

Molly

The Cottage finds SPRING

2011-03-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

24 cubbies
24 possibilities!

crusty wonderful birdbath

garden statuary and front porch pillows

barn stars for your sheds, porch or to adorn your gates

My little area...

dressed in turquoise and burlap!

burlap runners ruffled in teal

chalkboard wagon ready to be filled with
ferns, pansies and your doodles

This Friday is down town Leesburg's

First Friday

and we are open until 9 p.m.

The Cottage is open daily from 10-5.

Come see us!

Molly

P.S. This post was ~~borrowed~~, ok, stolen from Linda at

thecottagegals.blogspot.com

Chartreuse & Co. Sale Weekend and Barn Crawl

2011-02-24T17:08:00.000-08:00

Please come visit me at the link below

to see even more pictures!

Molly Susan Strong Face Book Fan Page

Become a fan,

follower and/or leave a comment

and you may win my

giveaway!

Molly