So, if you’ve been following along with us on social media or the Decorating Our Mountain Rental Property blog, then you know that our latest obsession has been antique store shopping!  We’re to the point where we can’t possibly need any more decor, but we. can’t. stop.

It’s so overwhelming yet SO fulfilling to browse the aisles, look through all of the items and find hidden gems. 

During one of our most recent trips, we came across an antique typewriter and got inspired. This had ‘makeover but keep it retro” written all over it. Of course, we had to snag it (for under $100!) and our weekend suddenly turned into a DIY project. 

Let’s start with the before photo:

Not terrible, but definitely could be better. Although we didn’t love the original color of the typewriter, we did love the style. So, a trip to another local favorite store was needed for spray paint. If you’re in the Charlotte, NC area, Blackhawk Hardware is one of the BEST hardware stores. We love any excuse to pop in!

For this project, we chose the Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Spray Paint in the color Charcoal. Also found at our other favorite, Amazon, of course. After sanding down the typewriter, we sprayed two coats of the chalk paint and it came out perfect. 

It’s amazing what a little paint and a vision can do! Here’s how it turned out:

We love it! The gunmetal gray color is timeless and can be paired with pops of color for a more vibrant feel. We’ve got the perfect spot for this new and improved typewriter in our Wintergreen, VA rental home and I’ve got a feeling it’ll be a hit with our guests!

Hopefully this inspires you to be creative, brush up on your DIY skills, and give new life to an old item!