Thursday, May 23, 2013

Old windows remake



It finally happened.  I used an old window for a project.  I've been in love with old windows for about a year or so.  I've been snatching them up on my weekend bargain hunts.  I have a good collection now, ranging in size and number of panes.  I don't think I have a favorite look yet.  They all appeal to me, (which only means trouble).

Old Window Number 1:

I found three BIG two-pane screened windows at a barn sale recently.  These windows are the biggest I've purchased to date.  The screen had been cut away (or rusted away) and only remnants remained.  I removed all the old screen pieces, sanded the window and painted it a creamy white. 

 
 
I reused the hardware, which is always fun to do, to hang the the wooden spring sign. 
 

I made the wooden SPRING sign by nailing three board together, painting it and then stencilling the word 'spring' on it in black.  I failed at centering it, so I added the three flowers at the end, which I really like.  To me, those little ones finish the look.

 
I reinforced the center cross piece to add strength and to add width so the planters would fit snugly.
 
 
 
I happened to have three matching white planters I found at a garage sale for less than $2 (for them all).  The plastic pots were just hanging around in my garage from last year, and wouldn't you know it, they fit perfectly in the planters.  Now, how often does THAT happen? In go the marigolds and it's a done deal.   It's a great addition to my gardens by my front door.   
 
 
 
Old Window Number 2:
 
Just a plain old single-pane window is transformed into a blackboard.
 
 
So easy!  Paint the window frame a nice color.  Then paint the glass window with chalkboard paint (several times).  I used a foam brush and it worked great. 
 

Then I stenciled this cute little design in each corner to liven it up some, just to give it a little charisma, but not overwhelm it.  So cute!  You could use it as a chalkboard or you could personalize it by stenciling your monogram in the center of it and hang it on your wall as a pretty greeting. 


I'm thrilled that it turned out so well!  I'm gonna make more, for sure. 

So don't ever throw out an old window.  Make it into something else.  I'm sure you can come up with something fantastic that adds that old world charm to your home. 


 



 

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

A day of thrifting

Okay, after a day like today, I'm a bit junk drunk.  I spent a lovely day with a dear friend thrifting and antiqueing.  A day with no schedule, lots of flexibility and beautiful weather.  Can't beat it! 
I found some great buys.  Here are a few pictures. 
 
 
 
He's a goose with red tin feet and a happy disposition. He's irresistable!
 He's was on sale too! 

 
 
 
I'm a sucker everytime I find a metal tiered shelf.  Sometimes I need to think about it and when I  come back for it, someone else didn't need to think about it and has it home already.  So, I'm learning.  Today I got it right.  So cute! 
 
 
 
I like the look of these old enamal cookware pieces.  They're affordable and come in lots of colors and sizes.  I think I'm beginning to collect them (shhh).  I found this beauty and appreciate her large size and cleaniness.   Here she is from the front. 

 
And here she is from the side.  
 I especially like the little love handle on her back to help with pouring. 
 
 
This pitcher was my first purchase last year.  A big mouth, a big handle, equals a big deal!
 
 
This handsome little guy sold me on his color alone.  Love him!
 
 
 
Okay, this next find had me at hello!  1) it has casters, 2) it's steel, and 3) it's red.  SHUT UP!   And look at her cute shape!  Curvy, sturdy and so unique.  WOW!   I added a piece of tempered glass to the top for now with a piece of wood under it on one side to make a level top.  I'm gonna have fun with this one.   
 
 
So in love with her!   
 
 
I spotted this small antique cabinet at a garage sale this past weekend and nabbed it.  So great for small collectables or keepsakes. 
 
 
And finally, I found this pretty quilted throw at St. Vincent DePaul recently.  Don't you just want to cuddle up with it?  I do. 
 






 

 
The small checked fabric on the back makes a good impression on me too. 
 


I'm pretty excited with my treasures.  Looking forward to finding a home for
them in my home. 
 
Good luck to you on your treasure hunts! 
 

Thursday, May 2, 2013

My Sister's Attic

Well, I've been gone a long time, I know.  Some serendipitous things have happened recently.  Let me give you the short story: 

Last fall I rented a storage unit with my sister.  We cleared out my garage, her garage and her attic (well, partially).  Parking our vehicles inside was a must over the winter, said our hubbies.  We found this amazing little unit right off main street in the heart of town.  We call it "the shop".  It's loaded with character.  We packed it full.  All our thrifting adventure finds are now dropped off there.


Then in January, we started renting space at a local antiques mall, Isaac's Antiques.  My Sister's Attic was born.  Small, little space.  We've had some success there.  Just last week, we moved into a bigger space at Isaac's.  Here are pictures of My Sister's Attic.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
We have a nice mix of old and new.  What fun!
 
  So much for before/after photos and details.  Every item has a story, though, be sure of that.  And I gotta say, that's a big part of the fun...finding the treasure...hearing the story...falling in love...calling it ours...hauling it home.   
 
So, that's what I've been doing lately.  And to be honest, it has brought new life to me. 
Here's to new life!