FRESH FROM The FARM the art of repurposing

WORDS : KRISTI MAUL-BIXBY PHOTOGRAPHY : AREA WOMAN STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Repurpose, re-use and recycle. Repurposing is no longer a trend; it’s become a way of life for many people. People are motivated to repurpose for a variety of reasons: frugality, environmental preservation, expressing creativity, and preserving memories, to name a few. Interesting, one-of-a-kind creations happen with things that would have otherwise ended up in the landfill or shoved into a basement corner.

The Fargo Antiques & Repurposed Market (FARM) features 60 small businesses, all dedicated to the idea of re-using and recycling. The FARM is an excellent source for used items and collectibles like toys and vintage vinyl. In addition, several of the dealers specialize in taking damaged or outdated furniture, wood and other items and making them beautiful again. They have perfected the art of repurposing.

Ava Dalbol

BOOTH 55

Becky Grondahl, Aunt B's BOOTH 15

Becky comes all the way from Roseau, Minnesota, with great repurposed furniture and decor items. She does the painting herself, and has a definite preference for white, black and turquoise. Pictured are some of her repurposed frames, which look great even with nothing in them. This is a great project for someone wanting to get a start at repurposing, too.

Ava uses reclaimed lengths of cedar, pine or other wood to create indoor/ outdoor signs. She does all the stenciling by hand, and seals them for weather durability. Ava does a variety of signs, including seasonal favorites and the classic “Welcome.”

Tamie Zacchea, The Prairie Eclectic BOOTH 1

Rescuing, repairing and painting furniture is Tamie’s specialty although she also has a fondness for mid-century design, glassware and pottery. The latest piece she’s saved from the landfill is a 1920’s radio cabinet, rescued from a barn. “The Maestro” has shelves built in for storage and a custom blend, deep gray paint job. Look at the difference paint and talent can make!

Susan and Charlie Ostendorf, Jack Pine Hill BOOTH 14 Susan and Charlie work as a team, making unique pieces out of scrap lumber and repurposing furniture. We’ve stocked the Tool Shed at The FARM with a variety of reclaimed wood. Susan and Charlie found inspiration in some old siding and created the state of Minnesota, as well as useful storage and decor boxes. Their other projects include recycled screen doors and house numbers hand-stenciled on reclaimed wood.

The FARM’s Fall Flea Market will be September 19, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and September 20, Noon to 6:00 p.m., featuring vendors indoors and out with great vintage, repurposed and recycled items, collectibles, sale prices and a food truck! Our Holiday Hayloft will be opening soon, featuring vintage and repurposed holiday decor for all seasons, open yearround. Follow our social media for more information and announcements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit us at farmantiques.net or call the FARM at 701-356-9199. The FARM is located at 5258 51st Ave. S. in Fargo. It is open daily 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. and Sundays noon – 6:00 p.m.