Recycled rocking horse make-over – a dumpster dive find that was amazing. Give a long forgotten friend a sorely needed make over. The rocking horse redo transform a well-loved friend to a partner who is ready to ride again. This was not a dumpster dive per se, it was more of a roadside rescue as the rocking horse was sitting next to the dumpster on the side of the road. I had to do a u-turn to pick up the wild beast. I could not pass it up because there was so much potential and I have a daughter who could use a way to exert some energy.
Tools & materials list for rocking horse make-over:
Affiliate links below. I make a small commission if you purchase.
- Americana® Decor™ Chalky finish paint: Everlasting, New Life, Delicate, Promise Treasure
- Creme Wax Clear
- Sanding tools, Tack cloth, water, palette,1” brush, liner brush
- Hair comb, google eyes, glue
Notes
- Use stain blocker if there are stains. Use tack cloth to remove dust after sanding.
Instructions for a rocking horse make over:
- Pin mane and tail up or cover with plastic wrap.
- Remove any debris from rocking horse. Sand off any rough spots and make any repairs needed. Wipe off dust with a tack cloth or damp cloth and allow to dry before painting.
- Paint the horse color of your choice. (I started with Everlasting then my daughter decided she wanted a green horse so I obliged and painted it New Life.)
- Allow the paint to dry. Always clean the brush in between colors.
- Using a small flat brush, paint stripes on the edge of the seating area on the horse. Allow the paint to dry. Sand in between coats if needed. Clean the brush in between colors.
- Seal finished piece with Americana® Decor™ Ultra Matte Satin Varnish. Varnish is better suited for a piece that will be heavily used.
- Brush tail and mane. Section off and braid into strands. Trim off any excessively damaged strands.
- And the most important step – glue on google eyes. I am a lover of the googly eye.
This is fabulous.