Arkansas Craftsmanship: From Toast to the Daily Mail

From Toast to the Daily Mail

A few years back, I purchased a sterling silver butter knife from an auction. Some may have thought I was slightly odd for purchasing a single knife. However, I had the perfect project in mind. Many years ago, I had read an article in a magazine about a man that created letter openers from orphan knives. I had always wanted to do the same. 

Knowing that I neither possessed the tools nor the skill to do so, I contacted a local craftsman:

 Luke Sorensen, owner of Expedition Armory.  He assured me that he would have no problem doing what I wanted. I have to say, he did not disappoint. I am very proud of my new letter opener. 

I have included before and after photos of the transformation. What an ingenious way to bring new life to a beautiful object that would otherwise be tossed into a drawer. 

If you want to see more of Luke Sorensen's masterful work, you can find it on his Facebook page, Expedition Armory. He creates custom knives and provides quality gunsmithing services.  

DIY: Repurposed Decor

Repurposed Decor

Today, I thought I would share a few photos of some decorative wall items

 made from repurposed materials. 

As a crafter, I seem to always have odd bits and bobs on hand. Which often leaves me with the dilemma of what to do with them all? I hate the idea of throwing away items that still have some life in them. Repurposing is a great way to make the useless into honest, useful items.

My favorite way to repurpose old doorknobs is to use them as wall hangers.  These wall hangers can be used to store jackets and hats, or to organize jewelry in the bedroom, or even aprons in the kitchen.

Old kitchen cabinet doors, a bit of wood trim, 

and some paint help to create these wall hangers. 

Hanging hardware was installed on the back side. 

I really love using old cabinet doors to create signs, too. Below is a laundry room decorative sign made from an old cabinet door, fabric, string, mini clothes pins, and ribbon.  I brushed the ribbon with Modge Podge to make them lie flat. Hanger hardware was installed on the back side. 

Market: The Joy of New to You

The Joy of New to You!

Going through my blog files, I found an old post I never published. Ironically, it was about going to an auction.  This was among the first few auctions I had attended. So, it's safe to say this is when I began my auction addiction. I remember being so thrilled with my bargains. 

My catch that day wasn't much, but I was excited about every piece!

The chair and entry table immediately went into my dining room. If you look hard enough, you will see that the chair was given the approval of our cat!

Framed copies of Blue Boy and Pinkie were right at home in the dining room, too.

Arkansas: The Old Mill

The Old Mill

The family and I recently visited the Old Mill in North Little Rock. I have no idea why we have never been before now! I had always heard it was a beautiful place, but beautiful just doesn't do it justice. It is absolutely breathtaking. Every corner is a photo opportunity: little wonder why it is a favorite location for photographers. While we were there, we saw several brides having a photo shoot. 

Just as soon as you enter the gates, you are greeted with a picturesque scene.

 

Though the Old Mill looks as if it is centuries old, it was actually build in 1933. The building, along with its many bridges, features, and seating,  is made from concrete: a technique called faux bois. It is truly a unique place.

The Old Mill also has many beautiful water features.

You will find many unique bridges around the area.

What a spectacular bridge!

This small footbridge is one of my favorites. I love how it appears to have grown naturally.

In addition to the larger bridges,
there are also a few smaller ones.
 Every corner you turn reveals new surprises!

Every nook and cranny is bursting with greenery.

Added for your pleasure, faux bois mushrooms are scattered throughout the area.

Market: Welcome to the Flea

Welcome to the Flea!

This year I have begun a market stall at a local monthly flea market. I am still learning and improving, but I must admit- I am having lots of fun! I know I am real junker at heart, and I have at last found my tribe. From scouring auctions, estate sales, yard sales, and the side of the road

 (Yes! I brake for discarded pieces) to cleaning, repairing, refinishing: I enjoy every part. 

Here are a few photos of my booth. I plan to make improvements every month, so hopefully, it will improve over time. 

We made the hanging rack on the bottom left with a leftover drawer front and old cabinet knobs.

It's still a long way from what I want it to be, but it's getting there!

Fall Wreath I made using pieces of an old lace curtain, ribbon, and fall artificial flowers.

I love this wardrobe! It was in a terrible state when we purchased it. After removing all of the damaged veneer, we gave it a coat of sage green chalk paint. Fortunately, we were able to save the veneer on the door.

I hope you have enjoyed your sneak peek! I will try my best to give you an update on how my booth is progressing, at least once a month!