trash to treasure

 Up at the cabin we don't have curbside trash collection.  You take your trash and garbage to the local dump.  A few weeks back I noticed, what looked like a small thrift store next to the recycling collection area.  I asked about it and learned that it was a "free store".  A place where folks can bring things they no longer need and others can take for free.  I like free, so I took a look inside.  Upon my first visit, nothing struck me...but I thought I'd give it a try from time to time.  

I am sure glad I did!

 
Found this shabby little number outside store.  I think the local stray cat was using it as a sun perch.  I asked if it was part of the "store" and the dump-man said yes.  With a big grin on my face, I loaded it in to the  Subaru and took it home.

First I removed the top and took it outside for a good cleaning.  I used a stiff brush and gave it a good sweeping in all direction.  then whacked it a few times like you would an old rug.  Lets just say there was some dreep down dust in this little thing.

 

Next I checked out the wooden frame.  It was in good shape, but had a lot of mold.  

So, I put on my gloves and dust mask...then sprayed it with a little bleach/water combo.  

I cleaned it with an old toothbrush (BTW, don't throw then out, they are very handy for cleaning and crafts) 

after scrubbing, I sprayed the area with clean water and wiped it all down with an old rag.  I left it to dry, and stopped for lunch and to watch Downton Abbey on the Ipad. 

after my "Abbey" fix, about 1 hour. I started to oil the wood.  I like Old English dark polish.  I just used a rag and did several light coats so the oil could really soak in.

Then I went to my fabric bin.  Found this cabin'esk fabric and went to laying it out.  

Got the proper fabric placement, flipped, and started using my new electric nail gun (its so much nicer than a manual gun!!).

I folded the ends like a gift and wallah!  

 ...and now I have a nifty place to rest my feet in the living room.