Friday, April 16, 2010

Projects in Progress: Book Ends



I saw an article in a magazine...I'm not sure which one... that had the suggestion of using salvaged bathtub feet as book ends. 

Because they are cast iron the feet are nice and heavy and they are just the right size for a book end.  Also, there is something about the clawfoot that I like.  A talon is such a powerful image.

I was at Earthwise recently and found a couple of mis-matched clawfeet that I liked.  I've been working to remove the layers of rust and put them on display!  I initially used salt and olve oil, then vinegar and baking soda.  I think these solutions will work for lightly rusted surfaces but I didn't have much luck with them.  The most effective process has been a chemical rust remover gel that I picked up at Home Depot.  Once the rust has been removed I will rub something to prevent rusting.  I'm trying to decide between a matte clear laquer and a paste that is used in metal on cars to prevent rusting.