DIY Faux Brass Animals From Dollar Tree Toys

This post contains affiliate links

You probably know by now that I love a good dollar store hack. This was one of those on the whim things. Went to Dollar Tree for a tablecloth, and saw these little guys. I imaged them drenched in Rub 'n Buff....kind of like I imagine most things when walking down an aisle. I knew this would be perfect for my shelves to add some structural elements. 

So, I bought two! I wish they had some bears or horses...but got a safari instead :)

This is probably one of the easiest DIY projects I have shared on here. It includes just one step! Well, maybe two if you have a problem with the Rub 'n Buff sticking. 

Here's the Rub 'n Buff I used:

Step 1:

Cover the toy animal with Rub 'n Buff. I used Gold Leaf for mine. I started this out with a cloth, and then turned to a stipple brush to get into all the crevaces. 

Step 2 (if needed)

If the Rub 'n Buff isn't sticking to some areas, you'll need to scuff it up a bit with some sandpaper. And then simply try again. 

And that's it! 

I looked online, and there are some of these that were selling on Anthropolgie for over $40. Not too bad for something that cost only $1.25.

I'll be going through my kids toys as the get put into the giveaway bin to do this to the horses :) Also, will definitely be on the lookout for them at the thrift store!

I feel like this faux brass giraffe is in his little grasslands with this picture by it :)

Which is your favorite, the giraffe or the elephant? I'm excited to start adding more little animals to these shelves!

pin for later:

sclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”