Our Vintage Woodland Shelf

This shelf has been around for a few decades, it's been in the family for at least 50+ years. It's a mammoth piece, measuring in at about 3' X 4'. I just knew that the dated stain could be updated with a fresh coat of paint.

I knew exactly where it wanted to hang, and I knew that it would look fantastic with my vintage Mikasa, that Justin got me for my birthday! Isn't it fantastic pattern? Designed by Vera Neumann, a well known artist, turned textile designer, created this, among others for Mikasa in the 50's, 60's and 70's. This pattern was discontinued in 1974, it's called Woodland. When I saw this set at a local antique shop, I really went weak in the knees! This pattern is very hard to find! It is a service for six, so I thought I could display quite a few pieces on the shelf.

It seemed like forever to paint the shelf, 2 coats of primer and 3 coats of white semi-gloss. I took off the lower rung with the little bobbers in it, which to me it didn't seem to fit the style of the shelf. I used pliers to pull each one out and then reattached the top piece to cover up the holes. I suppose I could have used wood filler to cover the holes, but using the existing rung was a good way to upcycle an otherwise odd piece. I'm still trying to figure out something interesting to do with the thingies I took out...maybe earrings, or a cool chunky necklace...I'm still working out the details. At any rate I am really loving the piece.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Now because I plan on using my priceless-to-me Vera dinnerware, I didn't want to run the risk of the plates slipping down, so a quick trip to Lowe's to pick up some tiny quarter round molding. After painting it white I attached it near the back of each shelf to act as a plate stop. Can you see it below?

Now in addition to my regular plate addiction, my newest addiction are stray plates. You know, the one of a kind plates that you always see thrifting...you like it but don't buy it because it's a loner...and I have to thank Christina at Down and Out Chic, she started me thinking about the possibilities of a plate wall...where none of the plates match. I know, I know, this is not front page news, but it just never occurred to me. I always had this mental image of the perfect "Charles Faudree" plate wall in my head, and well that's just not me. A plate wall can be artistic and eclectic, now that's me. I have only found a few so far, but am very patient.

Royal Copenhagen, Mothers Day 1977, love the little squirrel family.