DIY Ballard Design Topiary Inspired Urn With Metallic Shimmer Accents

This post and photos may contain Amazon or other affiliate links. If you purchase something through any link, I may receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Any supplies used may be given to me free of charge, however, all projects and opinions are my own.

Who doesn’t love to get those Ballard Design catalogs in the mail? They are one of my favorite sources of inspiration. While shopping at the local thrift store I came across this urn:

It had wonderful curves, was petite, and was something I knew had seen better days. This girl deserved a makeover! Someone had attempted, but the matte black was not working with the glossy tan color. Priced at $1.99, I was willing to give it a try. The urn instantly reminded me of the fun shapes available in the Ballard Designs catalog, and I knew I would shot for a similar look. I was inspired by the following items:

Boxwood Topiaries - Ballard Designs
The boxwoods always catch my eye. So classic.

Cochin Urn- Ballard Designs
I really liked the rustic patina of this Urn.

Salerno Lamp- Ballard Designs (NO longer available)
The makeover was super fast, and well worth the little effort it needed.

I started off giving it a coat of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in French Linen. It’s such a nice neutral gray. And no prep work needed! Bonus!
After the AS Chalk Paint dried, I decided it needed just a little bit more oomph.
Enter Martha Stewart:

I had used some of this on a dresser earlier and loved the shimmer it gave off. It’s subtle without being overly flashy. It was originally available through the Home Depot, but it’s getting much harder to locate and find. Stock up if you see some! I used the Mercury Satin shown above. I simply rubbed it on with a cloth in circular motions.

After it dried I put a protective coat of wax on the urn. Then I placed a round floral boxwood I found at the local craft store inside and it was complete! Whatcha think? Was it worth revamping? Does it look like a $1.99 Thrift Store find?

You might have spied the Urn on this recent dresser redo post:

Miss Mustard Seed Dresser Revamp
Here are some other fun furniture redo’s I’ve done in the past:

Home made chalk paint dresser