Hudson's Grandpa/Papa: Toy Chest Makeover

As many are aware, Hudson is going to have the coolest Grandpa in the world - lucky boy!  Mark, my stepdad, is officially enjoying retirement after dedicating countless years to DST/BFDS.  One of his first projects for Hudson was revamping a toy chest we found at a vintage KC shop called Re: Restoration Emporium in the West Bottoms.

Our idea was sparked by Restoration Hardware Baby + Child's toy chests; however, we didn't want to spend over and beyond.  Also we wanted the piece to fit with the other nursery decor.  Here's our inspiration:

Like the lettering + the masculine colors/feel, not crazy about the price. This piece is called the industrial basket & toys liner 

The metal framing + wheels on these rock, but the espresso color is too different from his furniture.  Also the wheels look generic.  This piece is RHB&C's industrial rolling storage crate

Here's what we started with:

Right before Mark started washing/painting the wood with a DIY gray staining solution consisting of vinegar + steel wool (recipe, instructions, etc on The Modern DIY Life blog).

Although the process took some time, Mark figured out how to get the stain on correctly and turn the toy chest into a masterpiece that matches the other artwork/frames in Hudson's room. The best part is knowing that chemicals weren't used to treat the wood. After about a week of drying and setting time, here is an after shot:

So the lighting isn't great in Hudson's room, but the stain turned out perfectly!  

Grandpa suggested leaving the recycle letters in the front, which I like because if Hudson wants to get toys for his Birthday or Christmas in the future, he will have to learn early on that his old toys will be "recycled" and given to other kids in need.

Here is a picture of Hudson's chalk/photo board.  This is the color gray we were aiming for and achieved.  I promise I'll rotate in cute pictures as our babe grows - lots of sonogram photos right now.