Recycle Accessories for Your Home

Amie T. Brendle

A Knick A Knack... A This A That

Spring officially begins March 21st, and we are to the point where everyone is hopeful the dreary gray days of winter are almost behind us and looking forward to sun and warmer weather. So, let’s do something FUN! This is the perfect time to be inspired and create before we are able to work outside in our flower and vegetable gardens.

I would ask you to literally go on a “Treasure Hunt.” While the temperatures are still cool (yes, meaning less vermin), venture into your attic or storage areas, where old and even generational pieces may be hidden or have been forgotten over time. Perhaps even expand your pursuits to relatives. Ask them if they have family pieces or other items “collecting dust.” You never know what you may find, maybe even discovering items that bring back long-lost wonderful and heartwarming childhood memories. One thing to keep in mind is if you have truly discovered an antique, preserve the original as much as possible until it can be appraised, otherwise, this can affect the monetary value. Although if this is not a concern, you may be as creative as you would like.

Please do not discard or throw away something where through the years sets may have gotten separated, lost, misplaced or broken. A perfect example is candlesticks. It doesn’t matter if they are different dimensions or materials —this makes it all the more interesting. Mis-matched pieces can become their own “collection.”

At this point, as with any project, you need to

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think of your own aesthetic, whether you want the differences to stand out more or blend more. An easy way to blend is of course, using the same color theme. In this way random also becomes cohesive. Using different colors or themes will typically be bolder. And remember, no one said you had to use a candle stick specifically for candles—right? I use them for all kinds of décor and to elevate items from setting directly on a tabletop.

Repurpose, recycle and upcycle are some of my favorite words. So now you have found pieces to work with, the question is what to do with them. You can create, then find a place for your “new art” or decide on a specific place you need a refresh and then create, or even a little in-between. A lot of times I will start by thinking I really need a little something in this area or that area and then after I complete a project, it may all change. The pieces themselves often seem to find their own unique niche so to speak.

Wooden items can be distressed with a little sandpaper (choose the correct grit or abrasiveness) I have repurposed a rocker—painting the base color a teal and then white over that. When slightly distressed the teal shows through just enough to give a hint of color without overpowering.

Older items that are brassy or look tarnished are prefect for a refresh. Wipe them off and decide if they need a primer coat of paint. Then paint/spraypaint them any color. If there is a dimensional design within the piece, use that for added depth or interest by adding a lighter or darker accent color. Perhaps turning it into a succulent planter.

A good rule of thumb is to keep some supplies on hand for those days you need some crafting therapy for your sanity, because that will always put a smile on your face or when you may need to repair or refresh an item. I like to watch for sales, especially after holidays and pick up an item here and there. This way you can be prepared to update something like a wreath that has been outside.

Some essentials would be floral wire, floral tape, multi-purpose shears, primer spray or paint, clear acrylic spray or paint. Clear spray is especially useful if you are working with glitter or where little bits may fall off and make a mess on your floor(in a pinch you can use hairspray). It is also great to breathe new life into a piece that is somewhat faded or dull.

Overtime, you can build your collection, adding spray paints in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes. If you live in a rural area, and just can’t run to an art supply or hardware store, this makes crafting much more convenient.

The same can be accomplished with having a few ribbons, florals, marking pens, glitter and glues.

As always that would make the possibilities ENDLESS!

With just a few simple items and a little imagination what was once a “castoff” piece can now be a treasure you can continue to enjoy. A little effort can go a long way to both save money, be therapeutic and a wonderful feeling of artistic accomplishment!