Day 10 of the Twelve DIYs of Christmas 2025
I have to admit something: a lot of antiques are ugly. But they've often got something really good going for them: they're build to last with quality craftsmanship. This past summer, I found something that fit this bill: an old wooden antique radio, which I purchased at a garage sale for $5. Much like the images above, the radio frame was solid wood. The electrical mechanisms already had been removed, but the nubby brown and orange fabric that covered the speaker remained.
I loved the radio's arched shape, interesting grate, and quality wood, though. To restore it back to display-worthiness, I removed and disposed the fabric. I also carefully removed the wooden grate, patched where it was broken with wood glue and filler, and then gave it a coat of inky black chalk paint. For the arched radio frame, I gave it a careful sanding, then painted the circular border with the same inky chalk paint before reattaching the wooden grate with glue.
I loved the radio's arched shape, interesting grate, and quality wood, though. To restore it back to display-worthiness, I removed and disposed the fabric. I also carefully removed the wooden grate, patched where it was broken with wood glue and filler, and then gave it a coat of inky black chalk paint. For the arched radio frame, I gave it a careful sanding, then painted the circular border with the same inky chalk paint before reattaching the wooden grate with glue.
I love the contrast between the rich wood and the black decorative grill, and the arched shape echoes some other arched decorations that we have in nearby rooms, like an arched cabinet and an arched mirror. Repetition of elements, whether colors or shapes, makes spaces look cohesive and intentional, I'm finding.
It's a simple, unique tabletop decoration that would look equally nice by itself, or with either a faux plant or candle inside.
May your DIYs be merry and bright!
We're nearing the end, but visit again to see the remaining twelve DIYs of Christmas 2025!
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