This is Cliff trying to blog for the first time. :o)
Last time, you saw the bench built (for the most part) and the trim which created the box detail already on. After that, all Mark had to do was finish cutting out the lid, caulk, fill holes, prime and paint! After everything was caulked, holes filled, and sanded smooth, Mark decided that to have a "flawless finish" he wanted to spray the bench (and opposed to brush or roll). We have a paint spray gun which makes this easy...and fast! He primed (I actually didn't ask how many coats...probably 1, maybe 2) and painted (a couple coats), and I'm so glad he decided to because the finish really is flawless.
Didn't he do a good job? The only credit I can take for this is that it was my idea and design (including the completely awesome massiveness of it!).
We painted the bench with a paint made to last - Miller's Acrinamel in White Satin. It is supposed to put on this very hard enamel-type shell (like you would want on cabinets so they don't get dinged and scratched up easily), so I can't wait to see how well it hold up! Not that I plan on taking a bat to it or anything, but that lid is heavy and all the open and shutting of it will undoubtedly cause some wear and tear. We were also told that it takes about 2 weeks to fully cure, so the sales person recommended that we don't attach the lid for two weeks. Thankfully, we are in no rush, so the lid is hanging out, hingeless, in the middle of the room, and for now, this project is done!
Tonight, we have a bit more painting to do (window trim) and a ton of cleaning. Our carpet is being installed tomorrow (I'm in shock, too!), and it is practically WHITE, so all the floors in the bedroom must be spotless...no tracking in on my brand new carpet will be tolerated!
