If you’re a regular visitor here, you may have read snippets about this “secret” project.

Well, a few months back I was lucky to be invited to take part in and style a professional video tutorial for Feast Watson!

How to Stain Timber

It was like nothing I’ve ever done…and I loved it!

I can’t thank Feast enough for taking a chance on this “behind-the-camera” girl. I know it was probably risky for them – I just hope they think it payed off!

In around March I was asked to source an item of furniture to make-over for the video using Feast Watson Prooftint (interior wood stain). Given I was unsure of time-frames, and the fact this whole video process thing was totally new to me, I thought it best to stick with something familiar. So when I came across this worn deco style dresser on eBay for just $10 I couldn’t say no.

Dresser Makeover Before

It was almost identical to the bedside table I had previously made-over for my own bedroom.

Farmhouse Bedroom

I knew I could refresh it in a similar style and demonstrate just how powerful a stain-based make-over can be by totally transforming the look and feel of the piece.

So, that sad little chest of drawers sat in my backyard shed, waiting for someone to make it happy again. And as the weeks passed by, with no word on a production date from Feast, I was beginning to think they’d changed their minds about entrusting a novice with their precious video.

Then, I received an email!

I had around one week to fully prep my piece, select and arrange styling props for the set and purchase an appropriate outfit for the filming.

One week!

Those of you who know me, and know the pace I move at since having two kids who like to hang off my jean legs, will know this was a frightening time-frame for me!

I get that for a seasoned stylist (or a more efficient mum), one whole week is probably a lovely luxury. Though I am far from a “seasoned stylist” (or a “more efficient mum”!).

It was flailing arms time! With no professional styling experience and limited industry contacts I didn’t know where to start.

Anyhoo, after I calmed down, broke the internet and had two (okay, four) glasses of wine, things seemed slightly less daunting.

It wasn’t easy though in one week I managed to prep my piece, pull together a scheme for the set (which involved arranging the loan and logistics of several items – including a whole queen sized bed!) and buy a camera worthy “work” outfit – far more appealing than my usual paint-encrusted ensemble.

Here’s the mood board I presented…

Mood Board

At the time, I was still awaiting confirmation of all the filming specs and finalisation on the brief so obviously not everything made the final cut.

And here are some of the items I did end up using…

Classic Neutrals (Styling Props Mood Board)

Caitlyn Bed | 2 Paloma Lamp | 3 Label Pulls | 4 Bolu Rug | 5 Ticking Sheets

I can’t thank enough all the awesome brands who agreed to loan me pieces (#grateful).

The two days of filming were full-on, though also super fun and interesting. The production crew were amazing however I still felt a sense of personal responsibility – like it was somehow my job to ensure the product really shined. Of course, I realise I was merely one small cog in the machine, though that self-imposed pressure certainly created a few moments of self-doubt (I may even have been overheard mumbling “you can do this, you can do this” under my breath on more than one occasion!).

I would have loved a bit more time to perfect the final styling, though overall everything came together beautifully and I’m super pleased with the little video.

Pardon the unflattering stillshot. Apparently Feast Watson are having trouble uploading custom static images.

I don’t share much of “me” on my blog, and am a pretty private person by nature, so it’s a tad daunting putting this out there. That said, I love that you guys, especially those of you who have followed for years and become like friends to me, finally get to hear my voice (albeit a recorded one) and see me properly (well, kinda). And hopefully seeing this transformation in video form helps demonstrate just how easy the wood staining process can be and instills some confidence in those of you who might otherwise have felt a little intimidated by it.

How to Stain Wood | The Painted Hive

Have a great end to the week all.

Signature