SLIPPERY WHEN WET

Git yer minds out of the gutter.  Or is it just me?

I'm going to share with you today something I just finished that I thought was sort of fun.  I've had this old road sign for a while hanging out at the shop and I decided to do something different with it besides it just leaning there.

First challenge you are up against if you're not a builder is to find a table that is about the same size as your sign. I was one lucky girl who dug through her pile of thrift find furniture and found one that worked perfect!

First, I primed the table and painted it black...

Next, you have to drill more holes in the sign so you can screw it down to the surface nice and tight. All you need is an electric drill, the right bit, a steady hand and don't forget safety glasses just in case one of those metal shavings fly up in your face! That would stink big time.

Holes are all drilled, table painted, now all you have to do is screw it down. I like to use screws instead of nails because screws get a better grip on the wood and are less likely to pop out over time. I also like to use flat head screws that remain flush with the surface.

Pa-Daa! You have yourself a unique little end table that people are sure to comment on! 

You can do this with other old signs, chalkboards, old tin ceiling tiles, etc.  As I like to say, the possibilities are endless.

Peggy ~ GG ~ Goodgosh ~ Shetland Pony from the Appalachians girl  

Upcycling

Definition: Upcycling is "The practice of taking something that is disposable and transforming it into something of greater use and value"

We all have had that feeling while getting ready to throw something out that "Gee, maybe I could use it for something....?"  Yet it gets thrown in the trash.

Well, it is our job as artists and pickers to see the possibilities and produce the vision. It is a mission I embrace with open arms.

At times it's just a matter of taking a neglected, abused and beaten item and bringing it back to it's rightful place in the world, and other times we bring things back to serve another purpose. We are doing the earth and humanity a great service.  And having a dang good time doing it. :)

Old Costco step stool ladder in sad sad shape until I re-painted the metal and cushions. Candle sticks all saved from a boring existence and given a fresh, fun look.

Snow White was heading for the dumpster in the sky until I rescued her and made her into a chalk board ~ fun for little kids and big kids.

Antique stained glass window made into a coat, hat, purse rack with old door knobs I have found.

So next time you go to throw something away stop and think "Gee, someone can make something out of this!"  and donate it or put it to the curb.  We'll find it.

Peggy ~ Goodgosh

Upcycle with Cutter Fabric, Lace, and Linens

Those old stained and worn linens and fabrics can be upcycled into wonderful new items. So many times we see them at flea markets, thrift shops, and garage sales for just pennies, but we pass them by because they aren't perfect,

Look closely at the trim and needlework. Is it in good condition? If it is, these sections can be cut out and reused. The salvaged trim and needlework are beautiful on pillows, purses, clothing, and anything else your creative mind can imagine. Look closely at the fabric, are there large enough sections that can be cut out and reused?

Check out these shops to see just how wonderful the upcycled items can be.

I thought this blouse was so unique. I've never seen recycled fabric used this way.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/39905675/pink-lime-button-shirt-top-upcycled



Look at this tote made using salvaged fabric.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/56033592/animal-farm-cotton-tote?ref=v1_other_2


And look at the wonderful use of vintage doilies in this pillow.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/40503471/beach-shabby-chic-throw-pillow?ref=sr_list_4&ga_search_query=the+shabby+chic+pillows&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title



The next time you run across a treasure trove of vintage linens, stop and take a closer look at them.  For just a little bit of money, you can make wonderful keepsakes by upcycling them.  Have fun and set your imagination free!

pepper