Junkin4Humanity Blog Log

Pumpkin Dog Biscuits for Health Conscience Dog Owners

2013-12-01T14:48:00.002-05:00

Stop giving your dogs crap from China that is killing our dogs!! Here is a Pumpkin Recipe that is healthy for them

Pumpkin Dog Biscuits

2 eggs
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
2 tablespoons dry milk
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
2 1/2 cups brown rice flour *
1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Preheat oven to 350.

In large bowl, whisk together eggs and pumpkin to smooth. Stir in dry milk, sea salt, and dried parsley (if using, optional). Add brown rice flour gradually, combining with spatula or hands to form a stiff, dry dough. Turn out onto lightly floured surface (can use the brown rice flour) and if dough is still rough, briefly knead and press to combine.

Roll dough between 1/4 – 1/2″ – depending on your dog’s chew preferences, – and use biscuit or other shape cutter to punch shapes, gathering and re-rolling scraps as you go. Place shapes on cookie sheet, no greasing or paper necessary. If desired, press fork pattern on biscuits before baking, a quick up-and-down movement with fork, lightly pressing down halfway through dough. Bake 20 minutes. Remove from oven and carefully turn biscuits over, then bake additional 20 minutes. Allow to cool completely on rack before feeding to dog.

* Brown rice flour gives the biscuits crunch and promotes better dog digestion. Many dogs have touchy stomachs or allergies, and do not, like many people I know, tolerate wheat.

Makes up to 75 small (1″) biscuits or 50 medium biscuits

Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas

2013-11-07T21:55:00.001-05:00

The holidays are here and if your like me, every year I get into the spirit and want to do something different for the holidays. Today I wanted to share with you some holiday decorations that are not just easy to do, but quite the conversation piece as well.

Chrysanthemum Covered Pumpkins

To Decorate your Home or your Entryway

All that is needed is an awl, make "holes" and fill with mums

Fabric Covered Fruit

With some thrift store fabric and needle and thread you can make this awful fruit basket

and then hot glue craft leaves to the tops.

Dressed Up Entryway

Nothing says elegance for the fall like beautiful pumpkins and cabbage flowers.

Gourd Wreath

Take a thrift store wreath and upcycle it with your favorite gourds,

add mossy green and pumpkin-color ribbon to make a beautiful wreath.

Pumpkin Filled Lanterns

Thrift Store Lanterns in any color can be transformed with spray paint,

then add your favorite fall items and dress up any room or front porch.

Snowman Shaped Pumpkins

Be creative and add some flair to pumpkins by sitting them on each other to make a statue.

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H
#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Upcycled Birdcage Light- Not Just For The Birds Anymore

2013-11-05T20:45:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite finds at the thrift store is birdcages. There are so many different things that you can do with them. This one initially had been a wedding envelope holder, but was perfect for what I had planned.

Great Deal at 3.99

Items Needed:

You will need a light. This one is pieces I had left over from a .99 light I had used the glass pieces from for the Upcycled Silver Plated Spoons Plant Hanger.

A small lamp shade that attaches to your light bulb, as well as any other decor you want to add.

Directions:

1. First dissassemble the light socket if using an old light, unless you are using a store bought candelabra or edison type and unscrew the cord.

On mine I had already cut the cord to reduce the length.

2. Next feed your cord through your decorative hardware that you may be using if needed, then through the birdcage. You are now ready to reattach your socket.

3. To make sure that my decorative hardware stayed in place, I hot glued it to the top of the birdcage.

4. Then reconnect the top to the bottom of socket. I painted my lamp socket to a hammered brown color also. Make sure that when you reattach your socket to the cord that you put the bottom piece on first before rewiring the socket.

5. Then add your lamp shade. I chose a lampshade that clipped to my light bulb. Although, I think an Edison bulb would look great here.

Thrift Store Bird Cage $3.99
Thrift Store Light (on hand) $ .00

——————————————————————————————————————

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $3.99

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

A Beautiful Basket Case-Upcycling Thrift Store Baskets

2013-11-03T22:24:00.001-05:00

To keep up with more ideas for the holidays, I found this thrift store basket that is uniquely shaped. Perfect for a catch all for yarn, toys or even magazines. So why not spruce it up for that special someone?

It was a great basket, large enough to use for many purposes, although somewhat drab. With the colder weather coming on I wanted to add a little outdoor flavor to bring the outside, inside.

And even better was the price, another .09 find!

I first took white latex paint and dry brushed the outside. By dry brushing you only want to put a little paint on your brush and then spread it as far as you can. The purpose is for the paint to not cover your project completely. This gives a weathered look to your piece.

Next I taped off the bamboo pieces and covered the bottom. I spray painted the top and handles with black spray paint and let dry. Then recoated with a second coat.

After everything is dry, remove your tape and then apply a wood conditioner or another secret soy sauce to enhance the old bamboo.

I wanted to bring a little bit of the outdoors, indoors. I found some leaves (which are readily available right not lol) and sprayed adhesive in a can on them and placed them on the outside of the basket. Then took Mod Podge and applied several coats to seal them so they look the same over time.

Thrift Store Basket $.09
Mod Podge (on hand) $.00

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $.09

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

2013-11-03T10:39:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Katy Hancock winner of the Wired Turquoise Ring Giveaway! Remember to bookmark us and follow us on http://www.facebook.com/Junkin4Humanity and our website http://junkin4humanity.com for more giveaways!

Creative Chalkboard For The Holidays

2013-11-02T19:50:00.002-04:00

Here is a cute idea for a gift for the person who loves shabby chic, or just likes to stay organized. Instead of buying that expensive chalkboard or the even more, expensive chalkboard that you find at your neighborhood craft store, why not make one?

I found this cute wood display at the thrift store and loved its "bones", so I decided I would make it into a chalkboard that I have been meaning to make for my kitchen.

What a deal .09!!

Directions

I started out by sanding it down first.
Then painted it with a black spray paint to give it some aesthetic texture for the final result.
After drying I painted it with a white wash; 2 parts paint with 1 part water.
Removed the backboard and painted with chalkboard paint.
While chalkboard is drying, I sanded the white frame for a distressed look and then applied liquid black antiquing. (remember a little goes a long way of this stuff.)
I then reapplied the chalkboard to the back of the frame.
Add any type of hardware, design, or stenciling.
Where the gap was, I added a piece of brass that use to be on an old vintage window and cut to fit. Giving it more flair as well as covering the gap.

There you have it!! A Custom Made Chalkboard for a fraction of store prices. Even if you were to give as a gift, no one will ever know that you spent next to nothing. All they will see is all the love that went into a custom gift just for them.

After I made this, the next morning my wonderful guy left me my first note to wake up to. He really is the best!

Thrift Store Wood Display $.09
Chalkboard and Paint (on hand) $.00

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $.09

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Holiday Gifts Under $5

2013-10-29T20:18:00.000-04:00

Reuse cardboard drink carriers and empty bottles to make a cute gift for sweet and salty treats

Ask The Barista for a clean cup and lid. Stuff with brown and white tissue. Slide Starbucks gift card inside

Wrap frozen homemade cookie dough in parchment, print out recipe on white paper, and wrap

Did you say nothing? When you were asked what you wanted for Birthday, Anniversary, Graduation or Christmas. Don't you remember saying NOTHING Well this time someone heard you, searched high and low and found this perfect gift for you.

Buy a couple really of pretty bars of soap it's so pretty you won't need gift wrap

Make Magnets from Bottled Starbucks Frappuccino

Pick up a couple packets of seeds that are suitable for a windowsill garden – chives, cilantro or basil, perhaps – some small pots and soil for an inexpensive gift that will keep giving all year.

Give the gift of snuggly warmth in the form of a nice, thick pair of socks. For the best deal, buy a multi-pack; and divide it among several people on your gift list.

Most grocery stores – and many big-box stores – now sell reusable shopping bags for 99-cents a bag. Pick up five of them for the perfect eco-chic gift. Or put your gift inside for a bag they won't have to throw away.

Put ingredients for a recipe in a Decorative Jar.

Tonight's Blog is a Poll

2013-10-28T22:25:00.000-04:00

We want to know what you want!

Please take a moment just to check a box and let us know, we value your feedback.

Salt Dough Ornaments For The Holidays

2013-10-27T22:41:00.001-04:00

Spending Quality Time With Family

Whether money is tight during the holidays or you just want a new craft to do with your kids? Salt Dough Ornaments are the best thing to do either. Made from things you already have in your cabinet, you can make special keepsakes with this recipe from Halloween pumpkins, to thanksgiving decorations and even Christmas ornaments. Nothing is more special than making a homemade memories, spending time with your family and keeping your keepsakes for years to come.

Directions for Salt Dough Recipe

Ingredients 3/4 Cup of Shortening 3/4 Cup of Sugar 1/4 Cup of Brown Sugar 1/2 Cup of Molasses 3 Cups of Flour 1 TBSP Cinnamon 1/2 TSP Salt 1/2 Cup to 1 Cup of Water (more or less) Directions Cream together the Shortening and the Sugars in a large mixing bowl until mixed well. Stir in the Molasses, again until mixed well. In separate bowl, combine the Flour, Cinnamon, and Salt and stir to combine. Begin to alternately add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Add the flour mixture and 1/4 cup of the water at a time until ingredients are mixed and you have formed a good dough. At some point, it's best to just get your hands in there and start mixing, as it will quickly become a challenge to stir with a spoon! You may need to add a little more water or flour to get your dough to the correct consistency. You want to be able to touch the dough with your finger and have it not stick to it. So when that happens, it's ready. Shape your dough into a large ball. Cover it with plastic wrap and set in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. If you plan to be using your dough for cut-out ornies (using cookie cutters, etc), what I like to do is sprinkle my counter with cinnamon. This helps the dough to not stick, but it also adds extra cinnamon to the outer layer of the dough, which I like. But this is totally optional. I also suggest you buy your cinnamon in large bulk containers; it's much cheaper that way...and get the cheapest cinnamon you can find. No sense spending a lot of money on something you aren't going to eat! For cut-outs and small ornies (like the cinnamon bun ornies), bake these at 350° for for 15-20 minutes. It may be more or less, depending on your own oven. They will harden quite a bit while cooling. Just be sure they're cooked through and let them cool completely. For larger items like pantry cakes or very large cinnamon buns (I've done full size ones on occasion), I usually bake them at 325° for 20-30 minutes, again, oven times will vary, and the thickness of your item will be a big factor too. And if you're going to dip your ornies or other baked dough items in wax, just make sure they are cooled completely before doing so.

Braided Apple Sweet Bread with Cider Glaze (therapybread.com)
Feeling Crafty? Homemade Salt Dough Baby Hand/Foot Print Ornaments! (confessionsofacrockermom.wordpress.com)
Salt Dough Ornaments (roseg1394.wordpress.com)
Salt Dough Ornaments (liefdeliebelove.wordpress.com)

Primitive Wreath Made from old Maps

2013-10-26T19:37:00.000-04:00

The primitive look is quite the rage for many crafters as well as home decorators. It is not just a fad, its a way of life. It is a decorating style that is simplistic, giving a feeling of warmth to a home. I love it because, it is a way to come in from the world into your own private space that quietly whispers a "welcome home" and tranquility to it.

One of my favorite things is old maps, atlases and globes. I always snatch them up when I'm thrift shopping. Since I had so many on hand, I thought I would make a wreath from them.

I got this wreath for .69

Removed the flowers

I then took an old book filled with maps I got for .25 and cut the maps into leaf shapes.

Then measured them out by laying them around the wreath. These leaves I wanted to fit the contour of the wreath itself. I then took the map leaves and soaked them in coffee to give more of a vintage look. Then laid them on the wreath to dry and fit to the contour of the wreath.

For the map leaves that would be stemming from the wreath, I also soaked them in the

coffee mixture. Then laid them out in an egg carton to allow them to dry to a wrinkled look.

After they were dry, I alternated them with the ones I allowed to dry on the wreath and hot glued them.

I then added ribbon to the wreath. This one I made a rose out of the

ribbon and hot glued it to the wreath to stay in place. If you need

help on making a ribbon rose Factory Direct Craft has a good illustration.

wreath $ .49

ribbon $1.97

Old Atlas Book $ .25

--------------------------------------------

Total Of Today's Project $2. 71

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Remodeling The Den

2013-10-25T21:39:00.000-04:00

Today I started in the Den, It is the darkest room in the house, having one entire end of the room with a built in cabinet. Nothing but paneling in the house. Paneling has to be the biggest mistake of the 1960's. Something that was once popular will, if given enough time, almost always circles back into popularity again. I'm not talking about full length solid wood paneling, that is a different story. But the veneer paneling... that should have stayed gone. Instead it has found its way back to becoming popular. I am going to pass up that train and go with something else.

As you can see my camera can't even take a good picture because of the darkness of the room.

And to make things worse...the same green paint theme continued from the kitchen.

So my first project is to paint the built in. I wanted to start there because even though its causing a lot of darkness, it still is a focal point in the room.

I used the dark paneling in a positive way by painting my new color over it and allowing the dark brown to show through. Taking a dry brush and wiping back off the wet paint to make it look distressed.

I wanted the built in to look more like a piece of furniture than just a built in.

You can already see how much it brightened up.

I then changed the hardware to some vintage pieces.

Then painted the remaining walls a light beige to compliment

Added Thrift Store Valance $2.00

And painted the trim white.

Paint (dent sale) $5.00

Paint for built in (mismatched) $5.00

Thrift Store Valance $2.00

--------------------------------------------

Total Of Today's Project $12.00

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Kitchen Remodeling Project Day 2 by Junkin4Humanity

2013-10-24T23:10:00.000-04:00

Kitchen Remodeling Project Day 2

Tonight I want to finish up our kitchen project. Yesterday we got the wallpaper hung. Although, I never thought I would ever hang wallpaper again. Today I started painting the walls a lighter color over top of the light green walls. Don't get me wrong, I love the color of green, but this color had to been given to the person who painted this room. No one would have bought this on purpose, mismatched paint or not. I went with a white with beige undertones on the wall and it's amazing how much it brightened the room.

On the other wall I needed to take care of the 2 holes that were hidden behind a unsightly curtain and paint the wall as well. I opted for a contrasting color above the uppers that complimented the wallpaper.

As far as the holes, I decided to go with a handmade creation. I found 2 mirrors (.99) in my "shed stash" along with some silver forks (bag for $1.00) I had. I flattened the forks out and bent the tines and hot glued them to the glass.

I then took a board that originally came from a dresser drawer bottom (donated). It was an antique newspaper that had been pressed onto the board years ago. I then placed the mirrors on top, measured my wall openings and cut to fit.

The plaques were hung over the holes and I also added chicken wire and a chalkboard sign (leftover from previous projects). I love to be able to change the bible verses their each day. It also helps us to learn them as well.

On this wall I took a old rod iron plate holder ($2.50) and painted it to go with my "metalware" look. I love all the old tins and brasses.

The curtain ($2.00) I searched high and low for at the thrift stores. I needed something with the colors of all the metalware that I had. This was the closest thing I could find but unfortunately was a panel, not a valance. I hate to sew so I took burlap (roll $3.00) and drew them up to make it more aesthetic. Then hot glued old vintage hardware (shed stash) to the burlap.

Before and After's

.99 cent Thrift Store Canoe Picture

Miscellaneous Metalware (.49-2.00)

Starting on the Den Tomorrow's Blog!

2 mirrors $ .99
silver forks (bag for $1.00) $1.00

dresser drawer bottom (donated) $ .00

chalkboard sign (leftover from projects) $ .00

old rod iron plate holder $2.50

burlap (roll) $3.00

Thrift Store Canoe Picture $ .99

Miscellaneous Metalware (.49-2.00) $6.00

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $14.48

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Kitchen Remodeling Project By Junkin4Humanity

2013-10-23T22:48:00.000-04:00

As I had mentioned in previous posts, I have been redecorating my home room by room with my thrift store finds. Decorating is not only fun, but the satisfaction of how much money you can save doing it through thrift store finds is incredible. Where else can you spend little money, have it look exactly how you want and your husband not be mad at you. By the way, the perfect time to go is while he's watching football on Sundays, he'll never know you've left the house!

Kitchen Makeover Before

When I met my fiance, his theme was the "divorced-my-brother-gave-it-to-me" look. I'm not saying he didn't give it a good try, but there was some finishing up that needed to be done....extensively. Over the next couple of weeks I will take you through my journey as this house becomes a home.

First, in the kitchen were blinds, green walls, and white cabinets.

Here you see the 2 holes that used to be covered up by a very bad "curtain". Not sure what it use to be, but I knew it needed some work.

Here you can really see the green paint!

Yep, Thats John!...the green paint and old wallpaper.

green paint and leftover wallpaper...Nice...Not.

Another Bad Angle (They are all bad though on this wall)

Kitchen Makeover After

Here is my 3 rolls of wallpaper for .99 cents. Although I swore never to wallpaper, the incredible deal made it look even better. It also gave me a good look for a contrast wall that I love to do in each room.

On this wall I painted the upper above the cabinets a contrasting color to the wallpaper.

Then a beige color for the walls.

Finishing up the Kitchen on Tomorrow's Blog!

paint for kitchen walls $16.99
Contrast color above sink $ 4.99
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $21.98

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Vintage Lighting Forever Lighting The Way For A Bloggers Addiction

2013-10-22T22:59:00.000-04:00

Many of my blogs are written on my furniture finds, but the truth is I am really a Light Fanatic. I can't seem to pass one up that's a great price. They always find a way into my cart...then into my shed or my home. I have so many that are literally waiting in line for their makeovers. Between furniture refurnishing and remodeling my house room by room, I don't seem to get the time to give them the attention that they deserve until I am needing one. So today's blog is designed to give them the notice they deserve.

Upon looking through my "shed stash" I realized that all my fav's are different. Although lighting has changed over the years in many ways, the truth of the matter is that many are still relevant even for today. I can hear my mother now, "Wow" that's from when I was a kid! To which I reply, "I know, isn't it cool? It may not be my mom's style anymore, but to much of the world, it's back and better than ever! Designers and wanna-be's alike, swarm thrift shops to get their hands on vintage lighting and I am one of them. Here are some of my favorite that are in my home:

Lighting us more than just a light source, It's an expression of self. How do you express yourself?

1950's Lighting

1960's Lighting

1970's Lighting

1980's Lighting

various vintage lighting $ .99-$5.00

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT Memories

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Wood and Rod Iron Coffee Table Upcycle

2013-10-21T23:09:00.002-04:00

My furniture is always changing. I find my ugly duckling furniture pieces and drag them home a couple of times a week. But normally I fix them up and sell them after my project. As I went on my daily trip to the thrift stores today I came across this table which didn't need much done to it and I LOVED for myself! Even though it was more than I ever pay for a table I decided to buy it for my sun porch.

As you can see it has wonderful simple design, but what I didn't like is the dark wood that was on the finish. I wanted something with a lighter colored look.

I sanded off the old varnish making sure to go along the grain. I then added a maple stain but kept the darker sides for depth and within a half an hour, I have a new table.

table (thrift store) $10.00

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $10.00

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Dressed Up Dresser Upcycling Thrift Store Furniture

2013-10-20T21:40:00.002-04:00

Nothing is more fun than fixing up an underdog, they are always my favorite. Finding that ugly piece of furniture is like that sad faced overlooked puppy at the pet store. It may be ugly, but underneath is the same skin and bones.

I found this small dresser and it looked like it used to belong in a child's bedroom. Spiderman stickers, gum, and well...lets just stop there. I knew it needed saved and I was the one that would do it! Of course there was prettier dressers, even for a thrift store, but this dresser kept tugging at my "underdog heart strings".

First make sure that you remove all paint, stickers, gum etc. Especially the loose paint like this one had. It had spray paint over the base paint. I do believe spray paint has a purpose on base wood at times, but not visa versa. It just doesn't stick well over latex.

I even left some of the base paint on because it allows a "bleed" through with the top layer of paint after sanding. As you can see I even left the colors just the way they were as well.

After the sanding is complete. Choose your paint color. I am using some surplus mismatched mismatched-paint (basically mismatched paint from Lowe's I remixed with other mismatched paint). Since I have such a surplus and it doesn't like the cold weather that's headed our way I chose this color. So this way, I don't have to drag as many paint buckets back into the house over winter.

Then to add interest and more "bleeding" I poured a small amount of a darker blue into the paint WITHOUT mixing. Jut leave it in a swirl pattern. When ready to paint dip your brush straight up and down into the paint to keep the swirled paint on your brush just like it is. Then apply to your project thin coats at a time allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.

While waiting on the paint to dry, this gives you time to take care of the hardware that was on your project. The knobs I had were white and I opted for a nickel color instead. So I spray painted these with a can of Dupont Spray paint in nickel.

After all paint has been applied to your taste, then take a sander with small grit sandpaper and just add your distressing to it. If you are not into the "distressed" look, then leave as is. You now have a custom styled dresser you can proudly display. No one will ever believe it was that sad puppy in the store!

Paint onhand $.00
dresser (thrift store) $.09
included $.00

----------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $.09

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Junkin4Humanity Is Having A Giveaway!!

2013-10-19T23:41:00.001-04:00

Wire Wrapped Ring Made with a 10mm Turquoise magnesite dyed/stabilized Coin Bead
Value $25.00

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The 10 Things you should ALWAYS Buy Used

2013-10-19T17:47:00.000-04:00

There are things that simply aren't worth the price new. And then there are things that are actually better used! Here's what resale shopkeepers across the continent, who see all the mistakes coming out of their clients' closets and cupboards, think are the things you should always buy used.

Special occasion dressing. If you'll be wearing a ball gown for four hours, a mother-of-the-bride outfit for three, or, heaven help you, a clown costume for two hours, why buy new? You can save enough buying such outfits gently-used to have a much more special occasion!
Holiday photo attire. Same reasoning here: Sure, little Britney would look adorable posing in that red velvet and lace concoction, but face it: she'll be wearing it for 20 minutes. Buy her outfit second-hand and save enough to order extra prints for the family!
Holiday attire of any kind. Sure, that Halloween sweatshirt's cute, but you'll wear it what, 3 times? Buy it used for a few bucks, and it's not frightfully expensive. Buy it new for $40 or $50? And pay $15 per wearing? Enough to scare the daylights out of your budget!
Books. As one resale shopkeeper said: "The words do not get read off he page! Let someone else pay the new price!" The average student spends somewhere in the vicinity of $400 dollars per semester on textbooks. Textbooks are updated regularly, often for reason.
Toys. Children's interests change so fast, chances are the toy you find in a

consignment or resale shop has barely been played with. And chances are also good that when it ends up in the bottom of your child's toy box, there will be another child eager to play with it, so you can reconsign it!
Home accent pieces. Artwork & other home decor items rarely show wear but do show the

homemaker's tastes and interests. Interesting pieces from exotic lands or other times, are readily found at reasonable prices in resale shops of all types.
Kids' clothing. Just about anything you could put on your child is better bought secondhand: Newborn clothing abounds in resale, especially because an infant simply grows too fast to wear all the darling outfits purchased as gifts.
Jeans. They ALWAYS fit better used. Someone else gets to have them shrink after the first washing.
Video Games/ DVDs. Why spend $50 when your child beats the game in a week. Same with movies. And most places give a warranty on these items.
Accessories of all sorts. Who wants to look like they bought their jewelry at the local department store? Their belt at the same mall store everyone in town goes to? Quality accessories show your style and taste. A gently-used authentic designer piece costs little more than the cheap illegal knock-off bought from dubious sources. By shopping often, you have a better chance of finding the items everyone snaps up right away-- as well as, parts to sets of things-- like specific china patterns, collectibles, etc.

Making it in Rough Economic Times with Thrift Store Finds

2013-10-18T21:57:00.001-04:00

Thrift stores, they're so much more than inexpensive places to shop. They're treasure chests filled with the kind of unique items that can make you and your home look terrific for a fraction of the cost of regular stores.

This blog is to give you a hand on what thrift stores can be for you and your wallet. I hear some people say there isn't anything they see in thrift stores that they need, they have an aversion to dirt, no patience, or just bad luck. Well maybe you aren't looking with the right frame of mind. The truth is that anyone can be a good thrifter if they keep an open mind. It's as simple as recognizing when an object needs a good cleaning, a coat of paint, or even just a new context.

With today's economy hunting for an item that you need can be a family event. For example: shopping for a coffee table could be a form of entertainment with your family. Find a large box and by refinishing it or painting it, you have a coffee table that can be a work of art and a conversation piece and family time spent together. Not to mention the money you save and you end up with something that defines who you are, more than a coffee table that a manufacturer thinks is your style.

Dishes: You can find mismatched dishes in a range of colors and patterns at any thrift shop. Use them to build a collection, hang a wall of plates, or make them into mirrors.

Artwork: If you're thinking of hanging a wall of clustered artwork, thrift shops are a great place to build a cheap, out-of-the-ordinary collection.

Shelves and Secretaries: Storage pieces are always useful around the house. Clean up shelves with paint or wallpaper. Although old-fashioned, secretaries are really useful pieces that can easily transform into a home office, bar, or linen closet.

Sweaters and Blankets: Have these dry-cleaned, and then use them to add some coziness to your home by reupholstering it or covering a footstool.

Trunks, Suitcases, and File Cabinets: Industrial trunks and storage pieces or vintage suitcases are easy to find at flea markets and thrift shops. Clean them up and use them as occasional tables.

Dining Chairs: Whether you're looking for a whole set or a single side chair, dining chairs are always waiting to be scooped up at second-hand shops. If your chair needs a little love, try painting it, reupholstering a seat, or staining it.

Dining Tables: Simple thrift store tables can be used for kitchens, dining rooms, or repurposed as a desk. If the table is scuffed or needs some DIY love, try restyling it with paint, fabric, or even just a tablecloth.

Lamps: Sometimes all a lamp needs is a new shade and a good cleaning to make it brand new. If you find a broken lamp at a thrift store, you can always try rewiring it.

Rocking Chairs: Rockers are great for a child's room, a porch, or even a corner that needs a big piece. If your chair is a little dull, try painting it.

Fabric: If you've got basic sewing skills, thrift stores are the perfect place to look for fabric scraps to use for pillows, napkins, tablecloths, curtains, and any other project that could use a stash of mismatched prints. Just make sure to wash your fabrics before using them.

Tip- Abandon any preconceptions you might have about thrift stores. Today's thrift stores aren't unclean low-end shops. Thrift stores vary by chain and by store. But while many people may think of them as being scary places of questionable quality and safety, many stores are bright, clean and extremely professional.

Here are some popular misconceptions I've heard:
"Thrift stores are only for people of low income": Not true! Thrift stores are for anyone who is willing to look for a bargain.

"Pre-used things are not sanitary-- I only buy new.": Most thrift store items are easily cleaned. And think of it this way-- when you go to a restaurant or a hotel, you are eating off dishes and cloth napkins, and sleeping on sheets, with likely more people pre-using them than you ever would at a thrift store. So shed any fears about thrifting and go for it!

By shopping often, you have a better chance of finding the items everyone snaps up right away, as well as, parts to sets of things, like specific china patterns, collectibles, etc.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT Priceless!

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Not Just A Bed Anymore- Repurposed Bed to Bench

2013-10-17T22:01:00.001-04:00

The thrift stores are filled with headboards and footboards and if your lucky an occasional side rail or two. But for upcycle fanatics all that doesn't matter. What we are interested in is it's design.

Nothing is more fun than taking old beds and making them into new items. In an earlier blog, I posted on Queen Size Headboard Turned Into A Coat Rack. Today I want to share with you my Bed to Bench project. I know this is not a new concept, but I thought I would share my project design.

This was actually my first attempt at this and found this headboard and footboard really cheap, so I thought "why not"!

The important part is do your research first before making any cuts. There are so many variations to end up with your final bench. I finished this project this past summer before I was blogging so I don't have step by step details on this project. But, hopefully this will give you some inspiration if you would like to do one for yourself.

It's just a matter of taste and design and you can make a bench from a bed as well within a day or two for yourself.

Paint .50 at Lowes x 2 $1.00
bed (thrift store) $4.99
various vintage hardware $ .00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $5.99

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

What To Do With Leftover Paint

2013-10-16T22:10:00.001-04:00

My daughter came up to see me last week and we had a field day running to thrift stores and antique malls. I never realized I lived within minutes of the top 5 places in Ohio to do either one. That just made my day. Some of my daughters dabbled in a project here or there, but never seemed to take off with it like I have...I think the word is "addiction", so its probably just as well. But this day was different and I wanted to share with you what just a few hours and some leftover paint can do for a thrift store find of a chair and basket. We first found this chair and even though it needed some updating, it had good bones.

I let my daughter dig through some of my mismatched paint that was mixed with other mis matched paint and she began to paint away. It was so much fun doing something with her that I love so much! She decided on a blue and green paint that I had mixed together and had it and painted and distressed it within the hour.

We then took a basket which we also got that day and just dry brushed white paint randomly to match it up with the chair for a corner she wanted in her house.

The last thing she bought was a carpenter box at the antique mall. To some it may have just been a boring box, but to us it was a palette.

She decided on white paint and we picked out hardware from my boxes of treasures and applied them.

Not only is shopping for treasures fun, but upcycling them and staging them are as well. Within no time she had a couple of new items to decorate her home with in just a short time.

Thrift Store Chair $ .99
Spray Paint (on hand ) $ .00
Project Paint (on hand) $ .00
basket (thriftstore) $ .99
Carpenter Box $10.00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $11.98

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Uptown Farm Table

2013-10-14T23:30:00.000-04:00

Nothing is more important than the dining room table. It is a place that we are supposed to come together, communicate, share and listen.

Here are some dinner statistics to chew on:

Children not eating dinner with their families are 61 percent more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs;
Children who eat dinner with their families nightly are 20 percent less likely to drink, smoke, or use illegal drugs;
Teens who share frequent family dinners are less likely to have sex at young ages, participate in fights, or be suspended from school;
Teens who eat dinner with their families are at lower risk for thoughts of suicide;
Children who eat with their families are more likely to eat healthier foods and more balanced meals; and
Family dining improves communication and family connections.

So even though my blog is not about statistics, it is astounding that the table is more than just important. But, the dining room table doesn't have to be expensive to achieve the above results.

Our furniture is an expression of our family. There is so many different types of looks and decor and for each family it is different. I want to share with you a table that I found at the local thrift store and refurbished for my daughter. It just goes to show you, a lot of cash doesn't have to be spent to get the look that your family desires.

I will never understand why anyone would give up a solid wood piece of furniture. Yes, its definitely seen better days, but there is a beautiful surface under those years of abuse. So I guess I am thankful to those who don't choose to redo their wood treasures, or I wouldn't have anything to blog about.

I basically started with alot of sanding. The tabletop did not take too long and the legs thankfully had not much lacquer still remaining. Even so, I took a shortcut to sanding and spray painted the legs with basic white spray paint. The spray paint seems to stick easier to the lacquer and the latex paint adheres to the spray paint very well.

The chairs were leftover from my next door neighbor's yard sale. She had them stored in the garage for years. They are solid early 1950's chairs that like the table, were stored and just forgotten about.

As sometimes I do when I am so into a project I did not take pictures of every step. But here is one I took only minutes after sanding the tabletop. Within a few minutes you begin to see the raw wood that is just waiting to come out.

After much deliberation with a another daughter, who always helps me out on paint choices. We searched the internet for the right color's and decided on a nice "green distressed" farm table with black accent to set it off. We then added a provincial stain to keep it authentic to a Farm Style Table.

We then painted the chairs with the same black accent. This allowed the dark maple color on the back of the chairs to stay their original color and give them a nice contrast with the table.

All in all, this was a a large project that I enjoyed seeing the final result. It's also very satisfying knowing that while my daughter and her family sit at their custom made table that I had a hand in, they can share their day as they come together and I can somehow be part of that.

Thrift Store Table $11.00
Spray Paint (dollar store) $1.00
Project Paint (on hand) .00
4 Chairs (leftover yardsale) .00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $12.00

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

How to Cut A World Globe In Half For A Pendant Light

2013-10-13T21:13:00.000-04:00

This is a project that I have been gearing up to do for sometime now. When my daughter asked for my help in redesigning their basement, I decided to get this done. I have been looking for that "just so perfect" lighting for the basement project, so I'm hoping this goes well with the final theme.

After much research in finding the easy way of doing this, I found very few. When I did find one there was not many pictures. So here is my attempt to show you step-by-step.

First you must unassemble the globe from its stand by taking and pulling on each end of the stand it should come out easily.
After removing it you will then be ready to cut your globe in half. (This is the tricky part). Depending on what type of globe you have there may be steps that you will need to follow or omit.

First begin by removing the paper seal that is along the equator. This will be where you will need to divide your globe into separate pieces. After that is removed you can may be able to see where the globe is joined together like mine. Underneath it is glued together with a band that gives it some sturdiness.
I had to use a small hand saw to begin the "opening up" of my globe and then when I had enough room to insert a screwdriver I used it to help pry it open (but do this carefully).
After doing this you will have what the picture shows below. Then remove the band from the inside of the globe as shown below.

If you are wanting to use these as globes then take your pendant light that you will be using and measure the cut you will need to make to insert your light. I am using lights I bought at my local thrift store. They are easy to insert because of the removable ring (shown below).
I used a paddle bit to drill my hole, being careful not to push to hard to collapse the globe. Then used a pair of snips to trim the opening of the hole.

What the other sites failed to mention is that at the top of my globe was a metal insert, I suppose to help the integrity of the globe on its rotating stand. I then had to snip out the metal little by little to remove the metal ring because I needed a large opening for my pendant. If you were going to run wiring down through the middle and connect it to your own light fixture you could probably use the metal ring instead. After removing the metal disc and cutting the hole to the measurements of the pendant. You will insert it as shown.

From the underside, screw the ring to the part that you inserted from top and screw together.

Once that is done you should have a new light that is not only beautiful, but a conversation piece as well.

Thrift Store Globe $5.00
Thrift Store Lights $1.00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $6.00

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Upcycling Mid Century Furniture Without Losing Its Flavor

2013-10-12T20:03:00.003-04:00

I love mid century items and furniture. Not always for their look, but for their design. I come across alot of furniture that seems to sit around in the thrift stores and sheepishly sits in the garage of the neighborhood yard sales. Many times you can get them for next to nothing.

Two weeks ago, that is exactly what happened. My neighbor finished her garage sale and then asked me would I want to come over and get anything that was leftover. She knows how much I love to tinker with things. When I arrived, there sat a pair of mid century end tables. Not exactly beautiful in color, but definitely had style.

I really liked how they were very deep and narrower across so to fit nicely between furniture. As I studied them, I did not want to take away from their "era", but did want to upcycle them into something more appealing than their drab brunette color.

They were topped with a laminate, so I knew there was not much I could do there. So I decided to match the paint with the laminate color.

First I taped off the area where the laminate was and spray painted lightly the entire surfaces of each. By doing this you help the next layer of paint adhere without having to do much sanding.

Then I painted a top coat of white latex over both tables and allowed it to dry. Doing a "dry brush" effect so that the wood from underneath could somewhat show through. Then I painted a color that was complimentary ( wheat color) with the laminate on top over the white paint and the spray paint showed below. Just as us women love to get our hair colored with highlights and lowlights, I love doing this with furniture as well. It allows the colors from underneath to show through. Always making sure to paint each coat of paint so not to completely cover the coat from underneath.

After these three coats, I then put on a final coat of a slightly darker color (yellow-gold) overtop of the wheat color, once again letting the layers from before slightly show through. As this was drying I removed the handles from the drawers and spray painted them a weathered gray. I then spray painted the drawers with spray paint followed by a coat of latex white paint. I allowed them to dry and then roughed up the face of both drawers and replaced the handles. Next I distressed both tables to give them a worn look and then replaced the drawers. I wanted to keep them white to give a contrast to the tables and the laminate tops.

I was very pleased with the outcome. The tables look more current, but have still kept their "mid century flavor".

Paint .50 at Lowes x 2 $1.00
tables (donated)
Spray Paint "Ollies Discount $1.00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $2.00

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Bar Stools Get A Step Up

2013-10-11T22:24:00.000-04:00

I have a friend who always calls me after their annual yard sale. She gives me items that I pass on to my ministries and to whomever may need the items that they have left over. This year as I was going through the items she gave to me, I came across these wonderful bar stools. I couldn't believe that no one bought them and they were leftover from the sale. There was nothing wrong with them that a little TLC couldn't fix.

After a little upholstery paint, (yes they make upholstery paint), they look as good as new. I found the paint at an outlet store for .99 cents. I then polished up the chrome with some steel wool and "good as new"!

Paint (onhand) $.99
bar stools (donated)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $.99

JUNKIN4HUMANITY.COM

#J4H

#REPURPOSEDONPURPOSE

Burlap & Bar Stools Pt. 2 (figuringoutfabulous.wordpress.com)
Kitchen Bar Stools: Sitting in Style (inmanteam.wordpress.com)

Junkin4Humanity wants to know what you would like to see in our blog for the upcoming holiday season?
Small Craft Making Ideas DIY Decorating Cooking Ideas Craft Ideas For Kids Handmade Gift Ideas
pollcode.com free polls

Junkin4Humanity Blog Log

Pumpkin Dog Biscuits for Health Conscience Dog Owners

Stop giving your dogs crap from China that is killing our dogs!! Here is a Pumpkin Recipe that is healthy for them

Pumpkin Dog Biscuits

Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas

Chrysanthemum Covered Pumpkins

Fabric Covered Fruit

Dressed Up Entryway

Gourd Wreath

Pumpkin Filled Lanterns

Snowman Shaped Pumpkins

Upcycled Birdcage Light- Not Just For The Birds Anymore

Items Needed:

Directions:

——————————————————————————————————————

A Beautiful Basket Case-Upcycling Thrift Store Baskets

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Creative Chalkboard For The Holidays

Directions

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Holiday Gifts Under $5

Tonight's Blog is a Poll

We want to know what you want!

Salt Dough Ornaments For The Holidays

Spending Quality Time With Family

Directions for Salt Dough Recipe

Related articles

Primitive Wreath Made from old Maps

Remodeling The Den

Kitchen Remodeling Project Day 2 by Junkin4Humanity

Kitchen Remodeling Project Day 2

Before and After's

Starting on the Den Tomorrow's Blog!

Kitchen Remodeling Project By Junkin4Humanity

Kitchen Makeover Before

Kitchen Makeover After

Finishing up the Kitchen on Tomorrow's Blog!

Vintage Lighting Forever Lighting The Way For A Bloggers Addiction

1950's Lighting

1960's Lighting

1970's Lighting

1980's Lighting

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wood and Rod Iron Coffee Table Upcycle

Dressed Up Dresser Upcycling Thrift Store Furniture

----------------------------------------------------------------------

TOTAL OF TODAY’S PROJECT $.09

Junkin4Humanity Is Having A Giveaway!!

The 10 Things you should ALWAYS Buy Used

Making it in Rough Economic Times with Thrift Store Finds

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Not Just A Bed Anymore- Repurposed Bed to Bench

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What To Do With Leftover Paint

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Uptown Farm Table

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How to Cut A World Globe In Half For A Pendant Light

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Upcycling Mid Century Furniture Without Losing Its Flavor

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bar Stools Get A Step Up

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Related articles