{idea notebook} Rediscovered Treasures

Rediscovered Treasures: A New Life for Old Objects (available on Amazon 2/7/11) is a true gem. Written by two Norwegian stylists: Ellen Dyrop and Hanna Kristinsdottir, the book beautifully unfolds showing readers how to transform old objects into beautiful, and purposeful, housewares. I am absolutely loving the reuse of silver shown throughout the pages. Using heirlooms in interesting, fresh ways throughout your decor immediately gives your modern day room a soul. There is a great step-by-step "how-to" guide, which includes templates for stenciling projects (as shown above on the refurbished teapot and wash bin), found at the back of the book. So go ahead and rediscover all of your hidden treasures lying around... you never know what you might find!

*This book personifies the shabby-chic look I adore and is perfect for those who have an interest in, junk-shop decorating and antiques.

*Photography via Home Shopping Spy and Amazon

{idea notebook} Fancy a Hook From Reusable Finds

Recycle old outdoor faucet handles or vintage hand drills to create a great and one-of-a-kind storage solution. I love, love, love this idea for back entry ways, kitchens and baths.

How To:
Outdoor Faucet Handles
1. Determine your desired fixture length & buy tubular pipe cut to size.
2. Pull together an interesting collection of faucet styles and colors from local salvage yards, flea markets or your own garage.
2. Have a welder attach the faucets & piping to complete the tubular coatrack.

Hand Drill Coat Rack (directions via Junk Beautiful pp.85)
1. Cut recycled floorboard or new wood to fit your space.
2. If using recycled floorboard scribe curve of board onto trim piece & cut following your line. Do one for each end of the board.
3. Sand the trim pieces to smooth the rounded cuts.
4. Attach trim pieces with finishing nails, one to each end of the floorboard.
5. Stain trim to match floorboard or stain the new board and trim a medium tone.
6. Measure and place hand drills an equal distance an equal distance from one another on the board.
7. Attach hand drills to the floorboard or new board with plastic fasteners.

*Photographs via Junk Beautiful by Sue Whitney & Ki Nassauer