| Journal | Nordic Mood— Gossip Bench Redesign
Gentle Grace Redesign— Gossip Bench
This charming vintage gossip bench has been sitting quietly in my project queue, waiting for the right inspiration to come along—and it finally did! I gave it a fresh new look with my custom colour blend, Nordic Mood—a deep blue-green with a Scandinavian vibe that brings both calm and character to any space. The stained wood table top adds just the right amount of natural warmth to balance the painted finish. It’s a transformation that feels both timeless and fresh, perfect for bringing a little old-world charm into modern living.
Gossip Bench Redesign
It’s always fun to see a piece go from well-loved to completely refreshed, and this bench was no exception. Its original state showed years of wear and tear, but with a little creativity and effort, it now feels ready to be part of someone’s home again. From tired and outdated to modern, stylish, and practical, it’s amazing how a few thoughtful choices can completely change a piece’s story.
After a creative pause and rebrand, I’m so happy to be back doing what I love—transforming timeless pieces for modern living. You may remember me as Farm Life Best Life, but with time, reflection, and a refined focus, I’ve evolved into Second Verse Foundry. This vintage gossip bench redesign marks that new chapter. Painted in my custom Nordic Mood blend—a deep blue-green with Scandinavian influence—and finished with a stained wood table top, it brings a serene, modern feel to any space. Perfect for adding charm to a cozy corner, entryway, or reading nook, it features a fresh fabric seat and classic-meets-contemporary style. Now, it’s ready to find a new home and continue its story.
All products mentioned in this post—and every post I share—are ones I regularly reach for. They’ve earned a spot in my toolbox because they’re reliable and deliver results. Simply what I use, trust, and recommend, shared honestly with you. No affiliate links, no commissions—just straight talk from my whole heart.
Country Chic Paint
Featuring
These are the products that brought this transformation to life—ones I trust, recommend, and share honestly with you. Select any to explore other projects for inspiration and see where to buy.
Take a Closer Look
My Step-by-Step Transformation
These are the steps that brought this transformation to life—shared to guide and inspire your own project. Learn better by talking it through? Let’s connect for a consultation to bring your vision to life.
- Lightly sanded down — In preparation for paint application; 80, 120 grit hand sander
- Thoroughly vacuumed and washed — Necessary preparation for any and all furniture restorations
- Custom blended equal parts Country Chic Paint in the colours Jitterbug and Dark Roast — With my own desire for a deep Scandinavian Nordic teal blue-grey-green, which I personally named Nordic Mood *
- Applied 2 coats Nordic Mood * to the entire piece — Back, cubby and underbelly included
- Lightly sanded down giving extra attention to edges— For a farmhouse distressed finish; with 120, 80 grit
- Applied 3 coats of my go-to Varathane Diamond Wood Finish (water-based, satin polyurethane)— To achieve a crystal clear, water-resistant, and highly durable finish; with a light 220 grit sand in between coats
- Applied Minwax conditioning, stain, and poly products in the colour Provincial to the top— For a two-toned exposed wood transformation; lint-free rag application
- Mended and re-upholstered seat with a lovely fabric I had on hand from a prior furniture redesign
One-Hour / One-on-One / $80
Looking to achieve a similar look? Getting started with furniture transformations can feel overwhelming, but with hands-on experience since 2017, I’ve learned so much along the way. I’d love to share what I know and help guide you through the process.
Let’s work together! Whether it’s over the phone, via a screen-share session, or even over a coffee (or wine!), we’ll make a plan to bring your vision to life.
With all my heart and hands
This project felt like a fresh start in more ways than one. It reminded me that the creative process is about evolution—both for the pieces we transform and for ourselves. I didn’t know when I paused as Farm Life Best Life that I’d return as Second Verse Foundry, but the time away gave me clarity on where I wanted to go. This bench marks that shift, and seeing it come to life felt like a full-circle moment.
If you’ve got a piece tucked away, waiting for its second chance, I hope this inspires you to give it a go. Don’t worry about getting it perfect—just start somewhere, and let the process guide you.
There’s something magical about bringing new life to something old, and that magic is worth every minute of sanding, painting, and rethinking.
Thanks for following along—I’ve got more transformations in the works, and I can’t wait to continue this second verse with you.
Faye Caroline
looks good
Well thank YOU Dad! 🥰