Thrift Shop Federal Style Mirror/Key Holder Upcycle

September 21, 2018

I found this federal/early American style mirror at a regional thrift shop recently.

The wood seemed to be maple in color which would fit into the early American time period. But... I was surprised to find that it was made in China according to the sticky label on the back.

(When you click on the bold Amazon, Old Sign Stencils or Dixie Belle Paint Company affiliate links you will be taken to the products I use for this project. If you order it does not change the price or service at all. As an Amazon Affiliate, Old Sign Stencils Affiliate or Dixie Belle Paint Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

I just love Caviar! Not the fish eggs. Dixie Belle Paint Company Paint in Caviar, a very rich black.

I brushed two coats of CAVIAR on my find.

I distressed the edges and inner areas with 220 grit sandpaper, and wiped on a light coat of Dixie Belle Paint Company Best Dang Furniture Wax. Then wiped off the excess in about 15 minutes. I usually use an old tee shirt rag for waxing.

The wax deepens the color, but a top coat is entirely not necessary with Dixie Belle Paint.

When I opened the bottom magnetic door, I discovered the federal style mirror is also a key holder. There were eight hooks across the top of the door compartment.