Bright Flowers from Salvaged Materials

I was wandering around Etsy when I came across this lovely flower. Imagine my surprise and delight when I saw that it was made out of salvaged wood and metals! So of course I contacted the owner of Salvage and Bloom to see if she would let me show my readers! I was delighted that she agreed.



I love the spring wreath above, it is made from barn wood, recycled metal and has hand painted details that make it truly unique. The outdoor decorations at right can be ordered in a variety of colors.

I asked the owner of Salvage & Bloom if she could tell us a little bit about herself and shop. This is what Lynda, the artist who made these gorgeous creations has to say about her work

"Nature is filled with strength and beauty - and exists without waste or a hidden agenda. I operate my business with that in mind. I use sustainable practices in my work, and remain dedicated to you, my customers.

I create each of my wood and metal flower sculptures to not only stand up to the elements – but to also stand the test of time - and become a keepsake that lasts season after season, and collects enough memories to become a treasured heirloom.

Reclaimed Fabric

I have a supply shop on Etsy called Deb Upcycles Supplies where I sell fabric, lace, needlework kits and more. In the past I only listed "new" fabric yardage I found in thrift shops, In other words, fabric that hadn't been used for anything else, but I've recently started a section in my shop for reclaimed fabric.  I've collected so many curtains, sheets, tablecloths etc. to make things out of that I need to cut down my supplies.

Since I'm all about upcycling and reusing why not sell it in my supply shop? The fat quarters above started out as a sheet. I was going to tear it up for rag rugs but it was in excellent condition and such a pretty print!

I also have tons of fabric samples like the one on the left. They were bought to make pillows and some of them will make pillows but I just have so many.

The large piece of fabric on the right was a tablecloth, The edges were a bit tattered but the fabric itself was in very good condition. Again, I had bought it to make rag rugs but it was much too pretty to cut up. Anyway, what do you think? I like the idea of reclaiming good fabric from finished items, how about you?

Found an Awesome Etsy Shop!

Tea Light Candle Holder

Recently I was cruising round Etsy's forums trying to be helpful and learn stuff (OK, I was wasting time)  when I came across this new shop called Pava Creations devoted to upcycling. As soon as I looked at it, I knew I needed to tell all of you about it.

Essential Oil Diffuser 

The tea light candle above was what first caught my eye, I love it and had to explore her shop more. I found this really cute essential oil diffuser, too. Isn't it great?

Elegant Tea Lite Holder

I sent Victoria, the shop owner, an email asking for permission to use her pics and to tell us a little bit about herself and her shop. This is what she said 
"Up Cycled One of a Kind Creations for your home!
Fabulous Finds from Local Thrift Stores are my main inspiration, I love to work with jewelry pieces,and gently used housewares; it is challenging to take these wonderful finds and create something beautiful and useful.
That must have item that makes our eyes light up at first glance, it's all about the bling!"

So if you have a few minutes check out Victoria and Pava Creations on Etsy for some wonderful upcycled items.