 | Shellie Blevens has 17 years of experience in the window covering and decorating field. She may be reached at 620-231-5440 for a free consultation. The Home Place at 616 N. Broadway is a full line Hunter Douglas dealer and appointments can be made to meet with Shellie Blevens, the owner and professional decorator to determine what would work best for you. They also carry custom window treatments by Graber and Comfortex. Custom made fabric beddings and window treatments can also be made at the Home Place, and there are many, many fabrics to choose from. The Home Place has been in business since 1983 and Shellie Blevens has owned it since 1996. |
Home Furnishings
2011-09-29 12:50:29
Repurposing old items - series - part 2
Q: Shows like American Pickers and Picker Girls have inspired me to try to repurpose old items into my décor. I am not as creative as they are on some of the shows though and while I may find a particular item interesting, it is hard to translate that into design. Do you have any tips on what sort things are most usable? Where can I look for items to repurpose? How do you blend repurposed items with new and have it look purposeful?
A: Last month we talked about repurposing what you have in your home. This month let’s focus on outside sources for creative repurposing and decorating magic.
You do not have to traipse all over the country like they do on those popular shows to find great items to repurpose and add decorating flare to your home. Chances are you have a wealth of opportunity very close to home.
First, check out yard sales and estate sales with an eye for decorating. Many times, you can find well-made items, such as furniture, that have great bones. Try to visualize the item in another color or covered in a different fabric. Look for items that are visually stimulating, and think of ways you could implement them.
Next, join local online groups that focus on re-homing items to keep them from the local refuse centers. You’ll be astonished at how little effort it takes to give new life to an item that was headed to the landfill.
Think outside the box and view the community as a resource. If an old building is going to be demolished soon, find out if you can take a tour and see if there is anything you can use. Look for architectural details that you find pleasing. For example, old doorknobs are often much more detailed than newer ones. Old crown molding can be taken down and reused in the same way or used to add detail to plain cabinets or bookcases or made into frames for art.
Thrift stores, junk shops, and even junk yards are also wonderful sources for interesting pieces that you can use in brand new ways.
Usability is an issue to keep in mind. Unless you have a staff of handy carpenters, welders and upholsterers, making your vision a reality may cost more time and money than it is worth. That said, some projects such as the simple wiring for a lamp, might be well worth your time to learn.
