Uncovering hidden gems at the local thrift store is one of my favorite pastimes. There’s just something so satisfying about taking an overlooked, forgotten item and breathing new life into it. Recently, I stumbled upon the perfect candidate for a farmhouse-inspired DIY project – a well-loved, vintage washboard.

When I first laid eyes on this washboard, it was clear it had seen better days. The wood was weathered and the metal had a well-worn patina. But I could envision its potential – a charming, one-of-a-kind piece that would fit right into my farmhouse-style decor.

First things first, I gave the washboard a thorough cleaning. Using hot, soapy water and a shish kabob stick, I was able to remove the accumulated lint and grime that had built up over the years. Once it was clean and dry, I applied a coat of Rust-Oleum’s Weathered Wood Accelerator in Gray. This product helped to even out the uneven wood tones and give the washboard a lovely, weathered gray finish.