DIY: Repurposed Stereo

Repurposed Stereo

For the past several years, I have been privileged to be a stay at home mom. During this time, I home schooled my two daughters. I was also able to pursue my own interests. It was during the early years that I discovered my love for repurposing old items and castoff furniture. This new hobby was partly fueled by my young family's tight budget. It was also fueled by my love of giving old items a new lease on life. 

Now, that my children are grown, I am still repurposing items. Instead of using my creations to fill our home, these days I pack up my items and take them to local markets to sell. It's a great way to earn a little, while at the same time, still indulging in my love of making everything old new again.

One of my latest projects is an old 1970's stereo cabinet repurposed into a blanket chest. I was drawn to this piece because it was a handmade cabinet. So, it had a kind of folksy, quirky appeal. After gutting the stereo, a new back and bottom were added. I also replaced the fabric that was inset on the front with another solid board. I reattached the unique front cutout panels. New trim was added to the false drawer fronts, along with new hardware. Then, I finished it off with a new coat of paint. It turned out wonderfully. It's no surprise that it found a new home at the very next market!

Craft: Sea Shell Mementos

Sea Shell Mementos: Savoring the Last of Summer

Summer is finally fading away here in Arkansas. After sweltering in the summer heat and humidity, I am ready to enjoy every moment of autumn. However, before I can enjoy my bonfires, I must put everything in order before moving onto the next season.

My family and I love to visit the seaside during the summer: our place of choice is Florida. We love the white sand beaches, the cool surf, and the laid back beach life. We always bring home plenty of shells (and sand) to remember our time at the beach. I'm sure most of you are the same. Every trip away means selecting souvenirs to take home. Which can only bring to mind one question. What to do with it? 

Rather than hiding away all of our treasures, I enjoy using them in our décor. One simple way is to place them inside decorative bowls, vases, or other fillable items.  On our last trip, I picked up a pair of recycled glass pillar candleholders from World Market. With their hollow bases, they are such a fun and simple way to display small items. For summer, I add a bit of sand and few shells.

While combing the shores for shells, I make a point of keeping any I find that have small holes in them. I just place them in a bag to take home. They make adorable wind chime/mobiles.

Be sure to clean all your beach finds in a bit of bleach water and allow to fully dry before using them.

After cleaning them, I tie a piece a string to each piece. I use assorted sizes.

Once they are strung, I tie each to a piece of driftwood or a branch. Then I add a string to hang.

I keep this beauty in the window of the master bath. I enjoy seeing it every morning