At Tartan Paint, we love trying new things and this piece was inspired by Claire at Mon Petit Palais. This latest project is one of my favourites—a tired pine kitchen cupboard was transformed by painting a French-inspired peacock, using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, gold leaf, and decorative stencils.
This project was was a chance to experiment with layering colours, textures, and metallic accents to create something a bit unique. Inspired by French interiors, I wanted to give the piece a sense of old-world charm, while adding a bold, modern twist with the vibrant peacock motif.
The Process – A Blend of Techniques
1. Base Coat with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
• I started by prepping the surface with a light sanding—no primer needed.
• The first layer was a soft, muted shade to create a classic French base, applied with sweeping brushstrokes for texture.
2. Stencilling & Peacock Design
• I used multiple stencils to build up depth, incorporating ornate motifs around the frame to mimic vintage French furniture.
• The peacock design was hand-painted, blending rich blues, deep greens, and shimmering golds to capture its regal beauty.
3. Gold Leaf Accents
• To enhance the luxury feel, I applied delicate sheets of gold leaf to highlight details and edges, catching the light beautifully.
• Gold wax was added to the carved areas to create a subtle aged patina.
4. Finishing Touches
• A coat of clear wax sealed the piece, enhancing the colours while providing durability.
• Light distressing on the edges gave it that authentic, timeworn look.
Claire introduced me to the endless possibilities of upcycling and the power of chalk paint so if you have a bit of passion and a bit of creative courage, have a crack!
Feeling Inspired? Try It Yourself!
Whether you’re rescuing an old cupboard, a chair, or a picture frame, chalk paint, stencils, and a touch of gold can bring any piece back to life!