Retro Stencilled School Stools

Not sure about you, though typographics always seem to catch my eye.

These stools were originally salvaged from an old secondary college (does anyone notice a pattern emerging here - this table and this locker were from schools too) where I assume they were used in the woodwork classroom as most of them have what look like saw cuts, nail holes, chisel marks and the like. Here they are before:

When I first brought six of these stools home everyone thought I was crazy - myself included to be honest. I loved the pared back industrial feel of them though wanted to add a little something for a unique edge. I wasn't quite sure what however so they sat in the garage for a while until I finally had a brain wave - these things can take time, you know.

I made three stencils based on text from vintage flashcards (I like my pieces to have some substance so chose the cards - originally used in a school and from a similar era - rather than just picking some design willy-nilly. Don't get me wrong though, willy-nilly is fine too).

To maintain and enhance the natural patina of the timber, I simply lightly sanded each seat before wiping on a diluted walnut stain which was allowed to seep into all the battle scars, adding some more depth and richness. To finish I applied two coats of danish oil.
I love the extra character the original old screws provide too.

I left the metal frames in original condition.

I recently sold two sets of these stools to a client who has three children and wanted to use three at her breakfast bar and one in each of their bedrooms as little side tables - how cute.