Catch as Catch Can 61

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

You guys rock! You linked up AND linked back—thank you! I wish I could “catch” everyone. These are just a few of the projects that caught my eye last week.

Special places map from Megan via Elizabeth & Co

Making it Homey

4 the love of wood

This is Life Shaken Together

art is beauty

paint chip art by designing by numbers

subway tile backsplash tute by DIY Project-a-holic

Snug as a Bug Baby

Your Favorite:

Harbour Breeze

If you were caught, grab a button! Or click this to tweet!

Thanks!

gail

Blissdom12 TWO weeks!

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Oh my! As the time draws nearer, I’m feeling tons of emotions!

I’m thankful to Gorilla Glue for making it all possible.
I’m nervous about meeting so many people and not recognizing someone or forgetting someone’s name.
I’m thrilled to finally meet my friend Rose @ Confessions of a Curbshopaholic.
I’m excited to be going to Nashville, because I’ll be seeing Jamie and Andy. I’ll also be meeting their new pooch Lucy.

I had a Uprinting.com giveaway at the end of the year, and I got some new business cards, aren’t they awesome? Jamie designed them for me. I love them! I got the half circle cards (die cut) in High Gloss. Thank you jamie for all you do for me!

Here’s the new grand-dog, Lucy. I will be meeting her after Blissdom is over.

Two weeks! It’s hard to believe it’s actually almost here!

gail

ps don’t forget to “like” Gorilla Glue to be eligible for a free fleece!

Prescription Savings Club at Walgreens

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:02:00 +0000

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

That pretty much says it all! There's a way to save money at Walgreens. Have you heard about the Prescription Savings Club at Walgreens?

More than 5,000 brand name and generic medications.
Over 400 generics priced at $12 for a 90-day supply - that's less than $1 a week!
10% reward on purchases of Walgreens brand products and photo finishing services*
Medications in all drug classes covering most common and chronic health conditions
Includes insulin and diabetic supplies
Can be used for pet prescriptions
No age limits, health restrictions, medical exams or prior authorizations required
Can be used at any Walgreens retail store nationwide
© Walgreen Co.

All of that for $35 a year for a family membership. This covers everyone in your immediate family including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger AND your furry kids as well! (pets) Can I get an awwwww ? Join and receive discount prices on your prescriptions. The price for individuals is $20.
I have two local Walgreens stores near me, and I love the convenience of stopping in. Everyone is so friendly and helpful.
You can follow Walgreens on Twitter and Walgreens on Facebook.
I think you should check out their Prescription Savings Plan. You can sign up online or at YOUR local Walgreens store.
gail

Giveaway-The Rusted Chain

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Aren’t these pieces so sweet?

I love the look of stamped jewelry! I have even tried stamping myself, but it wasn’t really a successful attempt. When I was contacted by the Rusted Chain, I happily checked out the items available. I don’t wear much jewelry, I have sensitive skin, and can only wear gold or sterling silver pieces. I opted to review a keychain .

You may remember that my word of the year is YES! This is going to be a year of great opportunities. I want to remember it always. Isn’t this perfect?

The Rusted Chain is offering a $50 gift card toward a purchase in their shop.

How to Enter:

Visit The Rusted Chain look around and leave me a comment below telling me what you just HAVE to have.
Follow My Repurposed Life? Leave a comment below for a bonus entry.

Limit two entries. Giveaway starts today and ends Tuesday February 14, 2012 at 9 PM EST. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and announced on this blog by Thursday, February 16, 2012. Winner must be 18, US Residents only.

gail

disclosure: The Rusted Chain did provide me with a keychain to review, however as always all opinions are my own.

Desk Drawer Repurposed into a Chalkboard

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Do you remember this desk?

I took it apart to make this tall chest of drawers.

I used the drawers from the left and right sides, but had one drawer left, the middle drawer. I removed the hardware.

With it standing on its end, you can see that it won’t hang flat against the wall due to the drawer front not being flush with the drawer.

I put it on the table saw and gave it a “trim”. To do this I had to remove the “guard”. Please know that I take my safety (and yours) very seriously. I only remove the guard when I absolutely have to. As soon as I finished trimming this drawer, I put it right back in place.

I removed the tray that was meant to hold pens and pencils. I want to use it, but I want to move it.

As I place it in the drawer, you can see that it is too large. I trimmed it up on the table saw also.

That’s better!

In this picture you can see where the tray was, and where I moved it to. I am testing some options for adding a “memo” function.

I painted the entire drawer with a quick coat of chalkboard paint. I used Gorilla Wood Glue to attach the tray.

I gave it two more coats of chalkboard paint.

To attach the memo board ($$ Tree) I used Gorilla Glue on the back of the board . . .

I dampened the drawer where the memo board would go. Gorilla Glue “damp it/clamp it”.

This is my clamp! hehehe

I added some hooks for keys and other items.

The tray will easily hold chalk, pens, pencils, whatever one needs to keep handy!

Because the entire drawer is a chalkboard, it can have reminders anywhere.

I don’t think I’m finished with this desk . . . I still have the top! hmmmm

Don’t you love a great chalkboard?

gail

New Following Tool by LinkyTools

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 15:31:00 +0000

Some of you may know that Google Friend Connect will no longer work for NON Blogspot bloggers. Let me rephrase that. IF you are a Blogspot Blogger, your Google Friend Connect will probably not be affected.

But for Wordpress and other blog platforms, GFC will go the wayside. I was part of a Beta test with Brent @ LinkyTools. He has launched a really great alternative to GFC. I will be placing it on my sidebar for those of you who would like to take advantage of it. (for now it is the very bottom of my sidebar, because I don’t want to confuse non-bloggers)

It’s really easy to sign up, follow and read blogs through this new widget.

One last thing, the inevitable question: can my GFC followers be automatically moved over? NO. Google won’t allow access to those accounts but more importantly, YOU really shouldn’t sign up someone to a new service. They should voluntarily sign up themselves. You’ll need to ask your GFC folks (and all your blog readers) to follow you using Linky Followers but its easy, quick and did I mention, free? They’ll love the tool. It’s a cool way to organize and follow the blogs you love.

gail

Catch as Catch Can 60

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Craptastic

Mama With a Dash of DIY Drama

Design Dreams By Anne

Beyond The Picket Fence

Art Is Beauty

Decorating the Dorchester Way

Why Cuz I Can

The Dandelion Girl

Have wasted space under your stairs? Check out what A to Being Creations did with this space!

You don’t need a cutting machine or fancy stencil to achieve this look! Sarah @ Savvy Young Something did it old school!

You will NOT be disappointed when you click over to see the after @ my fabulesslife

My friend Rose @ Confessions of a Cubshopaholic redid her outdoor kitchen bar tops with CONCRETE!

It’s Just Me changed her table, then she changed it again, and again. LOVE the latest look !!

Super Sunburst Tute @ A Mother and a Daughter

YOUR favorite:

Linda @ Coastal Charm

If you were “caught” grab the button!

If you are linking up this week, and want a chance to get “caught”, you must link up with this button or at the very least a text link. Those of you who have my button on your sidebar, thank you, no need to put it in the post.

Let’s see what you’ve been working on!

gail

Twin Headboard Repurposed (Photo Display)

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

If you follow me on FaceBook, you’ve already seen the “after” of this project.

Last fall my nephew Kevin gave me these two pieces, a headboard and a foot board. I really didn’t know what I was going to do with them. A few weeks ago, I gathered some items (which included one of these) to take to the basement shop so I would have something to work on during the cold weather.

I sanded the headboard to remove the shine and filled the holes with spackling, then a little wood putty.

I painted it black.

Then I shopped for some clips. I checked a few stores including Staples. I couldn’t find anything that I thought suited my project. I shopped online and found bulldog clips and clipboard clips. I know a lot of people use the bulldog clips, but they really weren’t what I was looking for. I went with the clipboard clips.

EDITED TO ADD: These clips are very shiny and scratch easily. I roughed mine up with sandpaper which gave them more of a brushed nickel look to make them match the coat hooks.

The clipboard clipsare very strong and difficult to attach without an extra hand. I struggled through it, but it was definitely a challenge. I bent one, then attached two, and ended up removing them moving them higher. I like the way they curve with the top of the board. (note: clipboards do not come with screws)

I added some coat hooks to the bottom, but I felt like it was missing something. (besides pictures!)

I designed a phrase in my Silhouette Studio. The font is LoosieScript. I’ve also been working on tracing/cutting out jamie’s work logo. It’s really amazing how you can upload and TRACE!

awwww, that’s better! Those are jamie and andy’s engagement photos.

What do you think about the clipboard clips? Better than the bulldog clips? This piece will be for sale, and I can see that it could be very helpful for a busy family—think school notes etc, with backpacks ready to go!

I have one more, what do you think I should do with it?

gail

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disclosure: Amazon links help support my blog because I have an affiliation with Amazon. Thank YOU!

Linking to:

Great tips for Transferring Images

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0000

In yesterday’s post Citrasolv Transfer Method I explained how I had tried and failed to do an image transfer with a copy from my printer.

Failed attempt.

Suzanne Why Cuz I Can mailed me some images to test out.

The images she sent me worked perfectly!

I had a lot of great comments with some great tips, suggestions and questions. I know some of you who read my post in your email or reader may miss some of these, so I decided to share them with you.

Kristen said...

I found a way to transfer an image using my ink jet printer and freezer paper - it worked really well. Here's the tutorial -
Hope this helps!
Kristen
My Covered Bridge

✿ⒹⒺⒺ✿@ A Lapin Life said...

I transfer using the woodworkers transfer tool. No messy liquids.
I have it on my sidebar.

Cath said...

Gail,
YAY I'm happy to hear you had success.
I have a Brother laser printer (it was less than $120 a few years ago) and the prints from this work super.

Cath also added in an email:

Hi Gail,
It seems the brother model I have is discontinued. It was really a good buy and is a fast printer 23 ppm. The model is Hl2170w. Brother most likely has a similar replacement. Also holds 250 pieces in the paper tray which is nice.
Hope this helps.

Korrie@RedHenHome said...

I've had the same issue, and it's incredibly frustrating! ONCE I went to Office Max and got the "right" copies, but every other time I've been there, it hasn't worked. Wondering if they've changed copy machines on me! The suggestion I have heard is to take some CitraSolv with you to the copy center, and test the first copy that comes out to see if the ink will smear. If not--try another machine!

I think Korrie has a great suggestion! I would add to this, if you are unsure, copy another small thumbnail (fleur-de-lis?) in one corner and use the CitraSolv on that area. Just be sure to do this AWAY from the copiers. You could just put a dab on a cotton ball and put it in a baggie.

Carol Stuck said...

I have transferred images using the heat transfer tool and it worked quite well for me. I had my images copied at our local Staples store. I had them copy the images on their darkest setting using dry toner based laser machine on #24 paper.
I am going to try the citrasolv next and compare the results. I figure if I don't like it as well, I can always use the citrasolv for its intended use...heehee!
hugs!
Carol

Carol-Thank you so much for those detailed directions! Please keep me posted if that works with Citrasolv.

Stacie Czech said...1

Hi Gail... I have one more tip... when using CitraSolv to transfer onto a painted wood surface, it must be painted with Acrylic paint. Laytex or Spray Paint won't work.... I tried and completely ruined a stool I had spray painted. Re-painted with Acrylic and it worked like a charm! P.S. I'm intimidated by those copiers too!

Great to know Stacie! thanks for letting us learn from your mistake!

Now for a few questions:

Debilou ~ Mississippi Mama said...

I've seen this method on another blog but havent tried it yet. Glad you figured it out. Where do you buy citrasolv?

I bought mine online, but I heard you can get it at health food stores. Make sure you buy the concentrated formula.

Cassie Fields said...

Does it need to be ink jet or can you use laser jet printing?

It must be a toner copy. Ink jet and laser printers do not work. (I tried)

paola said...

Well done on perseverance, now i need to know whats in the citrisolv as i live in South Africa and need to find something equivelant. TFS
smiles
Paola

I didn’t have any suggestions for paola, do you?

This comment made me chuckle!

Sylvia said...

Glad it worked for you. Are you seriously intimidated by copy machines? Now, that is funny!

Sylvia!!! your comment cracked me up!
Me, queen of the power tools intimidated by copy machines? Yep, I think it all goes back to that math! LOL Percentages, blowing it up, decreasing... ALL those buttons! too confusing!

I have the best readers ever! Thanks so much for sharing your links with us.

gail

Citrasolv Transfer Method

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

I recently ran across a Citrasolv tutorial from a very nice blogger-Suzanne over at Why Cuz I Can.

I mentioned to her that I had tried but failed with the Citrasolv method.

Failure!! I got my copy made at Staples, and the young man that helped me assured me that it was a toner machine. WRONG!

So, after I left a comment on Suzanne’s post, she very kindly offered to mail me some images.

As soon as I saw the images, I knew they would work. They looked very “inky”.

I tore a piece of scrap drop cloth off a larger piece and gathered my supplies. I taped (hinged) my image onto the drop cloth scrap.

Taping it this way allows me to check my progress without the image moving.

I was very surprised how little Citrasolv I had to use. I used tons in my failed attempts thinking I wasn’t using enough. Bonus? The kitchen smelled nice!

After dampening the image, I burnished it with the back of the spoon.

I peeked to see if it was working. OH my! It worked, and it worked will very little effort and very quickly.

How did Suzanne know I love fleur-de-lis?

More bad news! Suzanne recommended getting a copy made at my local library. While running some errands, I went to Staples to try again! Their self service counter intimidates me. I have never quite understood copy machines! They were very busy. I looked around and decided all of their machines are just too “state of the art”, so I left.

I went to the library, and paid my 10 cents per copy. When I did the first try, it didn’t look dark enough, so I darkened it and tried again. I brought it home and tried it, FAIL. hmph! I need a place to get an “old school” copy!

BTW the images I took to the library? They were of course from Karen @ The Graphics Fairy. They had images and words…duh! I forgot to mirror them. So, even if they had worked, they wouldn’t have worked, cause they would have been backwards!

Thank you very much Suzanne for you help. I no longer feel like a failure.

Have YOU used Citrasolv? Where do you get your copies made? What have you transferred images to? Fabric? Wood? Something else?

gail

Easy Chalkboards from paned Cupboard doors

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

This is a story about a couple of chalkboard/magnetic boards. Have you used magnetic paint? I have a couple of times, with very little success. I decided to break it out again, and give it another try.

I was making two chalkboards. I cut some luan (very thin plywood) to size. I proceeded to tape off the wood so that only a portion of it would be magnetic, but all of it would be a chalkboard. When I opened the paint and stirred it, I noticed it had a pinhole in the bottom of the can and it was leaking. I poured the paint into a plastic bowl and continued stirring. The plan changed-I decided to paint one board completely and the other board as planned.

SEVEN coats later and the magnetic paint will still only BARELY hold a very strong magnet. So the moral of this story is I will not be using this paint again. Too many failed attempts. I did apply a couple of coats of chalkboard paint over the magnetic paint, so it wasn’t a total fail.

Please excuse the (saw)dust on the camera lens. This is the reason I do not have a big expensive camera!

Let me blow that dust off—wewh wewh

That’s better . . . This magnet is barely hanging on. After taking these pictures I decided the divided chalkboard panes needed a little something more.

I used my Silhouette to cut out some vinyl days of the week. The font is MV Boli, and it weeded very easily. I put boxes around my words so that it is easier to weed. As I was pulling the waste off I noticed how the “stickers” would make great stencils.

I placed them on the chalkboard (which you can see is not exactly smooth due to the layers and layers of magnetic paint) and dabbed on some white paint. Because of the rough texture, there was a LOT of bleed. I had to work very quickly, and I’m surprised I thought to grab the camera before I washed this off.

Meanwhile I used the letters and placed them on the other chalkboard. (the one that only had two sections of magnetic paint).

I bought these glass-less cupboard doors at Tickled Pink recently. I knew they would make great chalkboards and more!

After I got done with the lettering, I decided to make another set of labels. Again I pulled off the “waste” and applied them onto the second chalkboard.

I picked out these two cupboard doors and paid for them. As I was about to drive off, I got back out of the car, and picked out two more. Why didn’t I get more…. I think they are sooo cute!

I’m working on building something out of the other two. I may not be able to show you that till next week, you know that whole “waiting for paint to dry” thing.

Besides these, my favorite would be the one hanging in my kitchen that I use all the time. It was made out of a curbed armoire door.

What’s the best thing you’ve made into a chalkboard?

gail

Linking to:

Catch as Catch Can 59

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Lots of variety this week. Thank you all for linking up and linking back to Catch as Catch Can in your post or on your sidebar!

Tattered & Inked

Villabarnes

Making it Homey

Pigs logs and tater berries

On the V Side

Maxwell House Interiors

june and bear

The Homeless Finch

frou fruGal

Chrissie’s Collections

Yankee Doodle Designs

Toqua’s Crafts

Your Favorite:

The Life of CK & Nate

Starting tonight I will be pinning all the features. I've pinned all of this weeks features, and the are getting lots of attention. Tons of likes and repins going on!

If you were “caught” feel free to grab this button:

If you are linking up this week and you’d like a chance to get “caught” you must link back in the post with this button or a text link. (those of you who have my button on your sidebar, no need to link in the post—thank you!)

Let’s see what you’ve been up to!

gail

Getting excited about Blissdom’12 4 weeks!

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Four Weeks!!! I can’t believe it! Some of my most favorite things all rolled into one fabulous weekend!

jamie
nashville
rose
blogging
friends
food
fun

Blissdom 2012 starts on February 23, 2012. I can hardly believe that the time is so near! I so look forward to networking and meeting great bloggers, learning about blogging (I’m sure I’ll be like a sponge soaking it ALL in).

For those who don’t know, my daughter Jamie lives in Nashville. The only bad thing about the entire weekend, is that I probably won’t have time to go thrifting. Blissdom is so packed with activities, there just won’t be time.

So, that covers N’ville and Jamie—Rose is next on the list! I have a hard time remembering when I didn’t know Rose! We were on the HGTV Trash to Treasure Message Boards forever! Then several of us branched out and started our own Yahoo group. Mine and Rose’s friendship grew strong from the get-go. We started chatting online for hours on Saturday mornings, then we exchanged phone numbers, and the rest is history. Rose spends some time on the road for her job and phones me on a regular basis for us to catch up and make her travel time less mundane. So many years, but yet we’ve never met in real life! Rose will be flying in on Thursday morning (in FOUR weeks) and I’ll be picking her up from the airport—look out Nashville!

Anyone who knows me in real life knows how much I enjoy blogging. I refer to it as my own language. When I talk to family and friends I speak blog, blog, blog, but they hear blah, blah, blah! Even Jamie use to get tired of me talking blog. Then she started writing owlReally and finally one day while we were talking, I told her “we speak the same language”!!!

That brings us to friends/food/fun! It just doesn’t get any better than that!

If you are going to Blissdom, please let me know in a comment below.

I want to thank The Gorilla Glue Company for their support and sponsoring me to go to this blogging conference! They really are special people! Do you “like” them on facebook? They are currently having a great giveaway!

If you don’t have time to hop over now, no worry—they are on my sidebar when you have the time, be sure to “like” them! They really are very likeable!!!

gail

disclosure: although The Gorilla Glue Company is sponsoring me to go to Blissdom’12, they never ever tell me what to say. All opinions are 100% my own. I just love them and their products that much!

Cupboard with Repurposed Windows Pt II

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

It’s been a long time in coming, and I hate to break the news to you, but this cupboard is still not finished.

Do you notice that something is missing? I don’t have any drawer pulls.

Okay, let’s back up a little. In case you missed the beginning, check out this post: Tall Cupboard with Repurposed Window Pt 1

I asked you to guess what this lumber was—no one figured it out. It was from a water bed that has been stored in the furthest corner of the basement for years!

This is the design stage, trying to figure out all the math.

It looks like I’m well on my way, but I still did some re-designing after this picture. The middle piece that separates the drawers was replaced.

I wanted this cupboard to resemble an old farmhouse cupboard rather than some shabby chic cabinet. I opted for some of the bead board for the back.

In this picture you can see that I have replaced the drawer separator with a thinner slightly smaller piece. The other piece made the windows/doors fit a little too tight.

The windows had some bad putty. I removed said putty and replaced it with spackling. (drywall mud) Since this window will not be out in the weather, and I didn’t have any glazing compound, I went with what I had on hand. (don’t I always?)

The cabinet was painted Crisp Linen White, then I went over it with a wash of Cyprus Grass, both from Glidden.

I lined the shelves up with the panes in the glass of the windows.

In the upper and lower section I made a shelf that is removable in case someone has “tall” items to display.

You can see the DIY drawers by clicking that link.

Upper shelf removed, lower shelf in place.

You can see I used a primitive method of drawer guides instead of modern sliders.

You can see both removable shelves in place here.

I used the original hardware on the windows.

Do you like the two-toned look? How about the hardware? Do you think I should have made it more shabby chic, or are you in to “farmhouse”?

I’m hoping I can find some drawer pulls that match. If I can’t, I suppose I’ll buy 4 that match and remove the two I already have installed.

gail

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FAQ

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

I receive a lot of emails asking me questions on range of topics. This post is to address some of those. Maybe you’ve been wanting to ask a question? If it’s not covered in this post, leave it in a comment and I’ll do my best to answer it for you.

I have more “friends named Terri and Suzanne (sue etc) than I can imagine. These emails are not all from the same Terri.

About Painting

Hi Gail

I hope you don't mind if I pick your brain a little . I am painting some nightstands for my daughter using my Command sprayer. This has happened to me before though, even using regular ol' spray paint and always seems to be more of a problem when using black paint. Do you know why some spots seem shinier than others? I try to do clean, even strokes across the piece with my sprayer, but yet after the paint dries, I always see some areas that are shinier than other areas. This makes me crazy...do you ever have this happen or know of something that I may be doing wrong? I just finished painting a "secretary" last week with a tan color and I don't notice this happening at all...it could be that it is there, but not noticeable on that particular color, but I really don't think so. I am going to give them another coat, but I am not holding out a lot of hope...I really don't want to "poly" over the top because it will make them too shiny (I am using satin finish now) although I know it would probably "even" out the sheen. Any thoughts?

Thanks so much,

Terri

Terri,

do you sand between coats?

I can't really say I know what you're talking about. I don't think it has happened to me. IF you do poly, get wipe-on satin. It IS fabulous! just enough, barely there. Depending on how many coats. Use a rag, no brush strokes, great finish, dries pretty fast (depending on the weather)

when you do a "top" of a piece do you lay it down so you are spraying it as though it were the "side" ??

I did the gossip bench, and a stool base, but I don't think that has happened to me. I used a semi-gloss (cause that's what I had) BLACK.

I do notice that there are some droplets noticeable prior to drying, but after drying it all evens out.

Maybe you're just more meticulous than I am? Maybe it does happen, but these old eyes don't see it. The gossip bench is gone, so I can't check. I did bubba's hutch with my Harbor Freight sprayer, (black) but I don't remember it there either. I bet I just don't notice it like you do.

followup:

Hi Gail

I have a ton of things going on but I decided I was going to take the time to give those nightstands another coat of "thinner" paint. It flowed out of the sprayer perfectly...I did forget to adjust the amount of spray before though and that was kind of mess...ooops! I made it ridiculously thinner than I have been, but I just wasn't sure and it seemed to work...however, because I could see that it could easily "run" down the piece, it was probably a little too thin. I do hope Santa brings you a video camera so you can make a little tutorial on this . Anyhoo, I am happy to report that it completely evened out and there are no inconsistent spots anymore! Thank you so much for all your help...I know you are super busy as well and you are so kind to take the time to answer my questions!

Have a great day!

Terri

Hi Gail,

I was wondering if you still loved your command Max paint sprayer. I'm in the market to buy a sprayer to re-paint some old furniture I have (role top desk, shutters etc...) and would love your advise. I'm doing this as a hobby, not as a business, so it doesn't have to be the best of the best, just something easy to use that does a good job.

Thanks for your time and help!

Teri

Teri,

I do still love my commandMax sprayer! It really is the perfect "project" sprayer. For the price, I think it can't be beat!

Follow up from Teri:

Another paint sprayer question for you! We went to Home Depot today and they said the sprayer to get would be one that would paint in any direction... point at floor, ceiling etc... like the Wagner Power Painter Plus. I don't think that the Command Max has this feature from what I've read... you can only use it pointing in front of you. Is this correct? If so, do you feel like this limits you or does it bother you? Thanks for all your input. It's nice to have info. from someone who has used these before and knows what they are talking about!

Teri,

The Wagner Power Plus has overspray. It would be great to paint a house or a fence, but not furniture. I own it, and it uses a LOT of paint due to the overspray. I had to fill it up several times. I really don't think you would be happy with it at all for furniture or projects.

The CommandMax has a tube that is adjustable (when you set it up) You can point the end to the front or the back depending on your project. I have never filled my paint cup more than half full. The paint goes a LONG way, because it sprays out in a fine spray.

I have three sprayers, a cheapo from Harbor Freight ($20) that i use with my compressor. It would work great if I had a larger compressor.

CommandMax (electric)

Wagner Power Plus (electric)

If I need to paint anything, the CommandMax will be the sprayer I'll reach for.

I get nothing for recommending it, I just love the ease of it. It's easy to clean, easy to use. One reader had some trouble getting the dilution (water) right. But after several emails back and forth, she got it straightened out and loves it now.

My friend Rose has painted her beadboard ceiling and some wainscoting in her dining room. Check out her posts.

Hi Gail!

I LOVE your blog; it is so inspiring! I have a quick question for you about the Command Max sprayer. I have about ten pieces of furniture to paint; and I'm tired of inhaling all the carcinogenic ingredients in the aerosol paint cans. I want to buy a sprayer; but I am not a patient person (I wish I was; but try as I might, I haven't changed that); and when I get frustrated with a gadget, whether it be a computer or anything else mechanical, I just want to quit. So, my question is: Does the Command Max require a lot of tweeking and adjusting and futzing?

Do you have any tips for using it?

Thank you VERY much!!!!

LOL Lisa!

ohhh, aren't we all this way!

There is one adjustment to make on the commandMAX, and that is "how much" paint comes out. It's a little dial near the trigger that will allow the trigger to engage more or less. Not technical at all! I laughed at it when I first realized how it worked.

This is a FINE finish sprayer, meaning it gives light coverage. That is what I prefer, a few light coats. If you've used a HVLP before, you will know what I mean.

It is not a heavy coater, not good for painting fences or siding of a house. (that would take forever) (staining a fence would be okay, because stain is so liquid)

If you saw the giveaway post, you have seen all the projects I've done with mine. It is very easy to clean up. There are NOT a lot of fumes, BUT I always recommend wearing a respirator for safety.

I've never had it spit when the cup empties, because I "point" the little tube according to the direction I'll be painting. (the tube that sucks up the paint)

For the price, I really don't think you can go wrong with this sprayer. I LOVE it, and should something happen to it, I will buy another instead of reverting to my HVLP (compressor sprayer) or my Wagner Power Plus (which would be GREAT if you ARE painting a house) The Wagner is a heavy coater.

Gail... I'm so glad I stumbled onto this post. I've been wanting a paint sprayer and this looks like the perfect match. I do have a question, though and hope you can get back to me (Christmas is just around the corner LOL).
Do you HAVE to thin the paint when you use a sprayer or do you just prefer to? Can you only use water based paints? And, lastly, if you have to thin the paint, how do you know how much to thin it by?
Obviously I'm clueless, but would really appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks again,
Lora (no-reply blogger)

Lora,

Since you are a no-reply blogger I had no way of reaching you. But I will answer your questions.
Yes, you do need to thin the paint. You thin water based paints with water and oil based paints with lacquer thinner. As for the consistency, it’s very difficult to describe. I think thinner is better.

About Painting in General

Hi!!
I love your blog and projects! I've dabbled with repurposing/upcycling in the past. But I recently became a SAHM and I'm eager to do more projects! A couple of years ago I took a 1950's solid wood dresser and stripped and painted it. The drawers stick where the drawer faces touch the main structure and I don't know why. I did some googling and I suspect it has to do with the paint and/or primer I used (both latex water-based, kilz primer and Walmart's Colorplace satin paint). Even the top of the dresser is slightly tacky still. Things like picture frames and the lamp (that only get moved once every week or two for dusting) get stuck.
Before I start doing more projects, I want to make sure I know what I'm getting into.
Do you have anything on your blog that helps newbies like me know what types of products work best on various surfaces (primarily wood, obviously)? Or a good website I could refer to? I feel a little overwhelmed with the plethora of info available online. I'm hoping to find some sort of FAQ on the general process of painting/refinishing wood and such.
Thanks!!
Amanda

Amanda--As far as paint goes, I use anything and everything I can get my hands on. I am surprised that after a couple of years it is still tacky. (especially with a satin paint) I'm guessing it has more to do with the stripper you used, rather than the paint.

If you want to know how I typically paint, you can check out how I painted my kitchen cabinets. It's basically how I would recommend anyone paint just about anything. In a nutshell it is:

sand
light coat of primer
light coat of primer
light coat of paint
sand lightly with in-between coat sandpaper
light coat of paint

Polycrylic IF you want to seal. I did NOT seal my cabinets. I used a semi-gloss paint and I am STILL loving them and they are perfect a year later.

As for your dresser, I'm wondering if you should seal it with a wipe on poly or polycrylic. I recommend letting pieces cure really well before using them, at least 2-3 weeks before putting items on (that don't get moved)

Perhaps it is the humidity you have in your house?

I think the real key is light coats. If you can afford a sprayer $80 ? Home Right CommandMax is wonderful! I love mine, and I get nothing for recommending it to you. ;)

That's all I can think of at the moment, if you have any more specific questions, I'm always just an email away.

gail

Sidenote—we figured out that it was indeed the stripper (perhaps not washed off completely) because Amanda remembered that she had used the paint on another piece and it worked just fine.

Hi,

I wanted to ask you a question via comment on your blog but I thought I would email you instead. First of all your kitchen looks absolutely amazing and thanks for sharing your journey! I have been looking at the Giani system for some months now but always a little nervous to try it. I actually have the exact same cabinets you have (in oak) and wanted to paint them white and also use the Giani Bombay black for a grayish tone countertop. You have inspired me to go on and purchase the Giani system and go for the DIY cabinet transformation as well!

My question is what did you use to paint your cabinets and how did you prep them? I've been looking at a couple indoor paint+primer selections at the hardware store and just not sure what to get that would come out looking great like yours. They are so BRIGHT and pristine looking - they look like brand new cabinets. How many coats did you use and did you seal them with any protective coat? I changed out my old brass cabinet pulls to stainless steel to match my appliances but the rest of my kitchen needs a cheap updated overhaul! Thanks for your time and any advice you can give,

thanks for contacting me about my kitchen! I still am in love with it, and so glad (1 year later) that I painted my cabinets and my floor. How I painted my kitchen cabinets is the second most popular post on my blog. Take a look at that post and if you have any questions after you read over all my steps, I'd be happy to answer them for you.

I did a lot of prep work because I wanted to make sure I didn't get nicks and scratches exposing the natural wood. NOT a one so far! The Dutch Boy paint wipes up really well. I noticed a yellowish something a couple of days ago on the fake little drawer under the sink. I still have no idea what it was, and it thought because I didn't catch it right away it might not wipe off, but it DID!

I have a random question for you...I'm painting a dresser white right now with the too stained dark walnut. The top looks good and is done but the bottom, I'm using a latex and painting with a sponge brush and it's taken almost 4 light coats! Has that ever happened to you? It normally doesn't require more than 2 but it's not fully covering. I did pre-sand but am questioning if I didn't sand enough?

So frustrating! Anyway, maybe I'm a weirdo asking you but your current piece is white as well so thought I'd ask. (:

Thanks, Kelli

Kelli,

When I paint dark wood (I'm assuming it is on the dark-ish side) I follow these steps:

sand
primer
primer
paint
sand
paint

I am happy that you are doing light coats, but I think you'd get better coverage with a bristle brush (purdy, although expensive is my favorite go-to brush)

good luck, be patient, it sounds like it's going to be beautiful!

About Building

Oh, Gaily Gail ... I need your help. It's funny anytime I get stuck with something I think of you. I have this awesome wood box/crate that I'm thinking of making into a bench for the girl's bathroom. I took 4 of my spindle legs that I picked up at a garage sale (screw thingies in them to attach to something) ... like how I get all technical? Anyhoo, I'm stuck on how to attach them inside the box/crate. I was thinking I would "print" something on the side like NY Shipping Co. once I finish with it. Any ideas what would be the best way to attach the legs? Hubby says I should just use "L" brackets but I want it to be sturdy and I don't want any screw heads on the outside of the box. I'm stumped ... I probably could figure it out but thought I would go to the pro : )

~ D

In this instance, the legs were attached to the “spindles”, then the scrap pieces were then attached under the table top.

Thanks for your kind words about the table. (one of my favs) Yes,
you can use the screws already attached (drill a hole in the scrap to
screw it into.)
I would definitely use some Gorilla Wood Glue to guarantee a good
hold. ;) gluing the top of the spindle to the scrap, and gluing the
scrap to the bottom of the bench. have fun!

Hey there Gail~ was scrolling through some old post ...well, clicking away from your recent post about your greatest accomplishment...fireplace surround... anyway~

I have a question about this Kreg Jig. I looked at them at Lowe's and I'm wondering with this jig are you pigeoned holed into using the Kreg brand screws and the longer screw tips to get into the holes? Or can you use your own tips in your drill and any ol' screw with the longer neck and less threads?

I may copy this comment and email you. Because inquiring minds wants to know~

thanks a bunch~ Pat

Pat,

I don't believe you have to use Kreg screws, but I do believe you have to use "pocket hole screws". The screw bit has a squared off indention--I guess I should know the terminology for that, but I don't. I have never had any screw fail me. They never strip. I recommend the lower end, cost efficient Kreg Jig jr. (around $40) and worth EVERY penny of it. I get nothing for saying this, nothing for recommending it. They are missing out on a great spokesperson! hahaha

About Silhouette

Hi Gail,

I'm enjoying your blog, especially the tutorials on stenciling with your Silhouette. I'm planning to purchase my Cameo soon and I have a question: Are the stencils sticky enough to reuse? Or are they single use only? Also, in one of your posts you wrote, "I cut the contact paper out with my Silhouette". Do you use regular contact paper for your stencils instead of the special stencil vinyl from Silhouette?

Thank you for your time in answering my questions. And thank you for sharing your projects with us.

Candace,

The stencils (in my opinion) are not worth trying to use again. They stretch out too much when you remove them. I use contact paper for about 75% of my "vinyl". I use white contact paper a lot, and I use ugly clearance priced contact paper exclusively for stencils. You have to dial the speed and thickness way down for contact paper though. (because the backing is so thin, it will cut clean through.

Gail, I am loving my Silhouette and love seeing the clever things you are doing. I'm having some problems with vinyl not adhering to the surface I'm trying to apply it to and also having issues figuring out how to get it to cut some fonts without picking up the letters it is cutting along the way (grrr!). After unhappiness with Silhouette vinyl, I tried Expressions Vinyl and it was much better, but I still have some issues, so my question: Have you noticed that it is experience or different vinyls that make the difference?

When you say trouble adhering, does that mean AFTER you remove the transfer tape that it doesn't want to stick? OR you're having difficulty removing the transfer tape and leaving the vinyl behind. Please let me know.

Small delicate fonts are difficult for me to get cut and weeded. (smaller than 1 inch) Did you read the part about weeding from right to left? (when doing words)

I have used silhouette regular and premium vinyl, contact paper, and oracal (oh my crafts) vinyl. I had difficulty with everything BUT oracal on my CAMEO. I'm still not sure that there isn't something wrong with my blade. LOVE the SD. It's never really failed to cut anything.

So, I suppose in answer to your question, experience does make it get a little easier, but having a good vinyl also make s a difference. After oh my crafts sent me the vinyl to review, I ended up buying more. I like it and their (sale) prices are very reasonable! No, I get nothing for saying so, or encouraging my readers to buy from them.

Follow up from Erin:

Dear Gail,

Thanks so much for your quick response. I really appreciate how much care you put into what you do...it always makes me smile. Anyway, what I was referencing in my questions was AFTER removing the transfer tape, the vinyl doesn't want to stick to its intended final location. I can't seem to figure out any rhyme or reason for my successes vs. my failures. Some walls it loves, some it doesn't. My most recent project was adhering vinyls to painted wood to create relief painting (ie., the vinyls were eventually removed after being painted over). Same wood, same layers of spray paint, and one set of vinyl lettering adhered better than the other. This I attributed to different quality vinyl, but then I took the "good" vinyl and made a sign for my son's bathroom and had a really difficult time getting the vinyl to stick to the wall (it was crazy making).

For my plaques, I gave up on smaller lettering (but it would have been awesome!) and went with big letters. For my son's bathroom, it was big letters, except for the author's name, which I couldn't get to stick to the wall ever (so he can just tell people who ask that it is a quote from Abraham Lincoln). So, by the time I sat down to try to catch up on some blogging, I was frustrated and thrilled to see your post.

What have you run in to with applications of vinyl such as these?

Erin,

You're so sweet - thank you!

I have never put vinyl on a wall, can you believe it? I've never had trouble getting it to stick. I've used contact paper as transfer tape, and had a difficult time getting it to let go of the contact paper, but after I got it released, it has always stuck to my boards.

Were the walls cold? slightly textured?

My niece asked me about some vinyl (a pre-designed piece) that her son bought for her from Kohl's. She was having trouble getting it to stick. I think she just kept burnishing it, and it finally stuck.

Sorry to be of little help. Do you have a squeegy (sp) I have a small one from silhouette and a really nice (large) on from Oh My Crafts. I've always used a credit card until I recently got those two.

Gail, can you help me - I went in to download the free download today and it didn't download. What am I doing wrong? It says I have it but it does not show in my library. This has happened before when I purchased several and I had to recapture it to get them to go into the library. I sure hope that this becomes easier. Thanks for the information about the size of the wood. And thanks for saying that there will be more tutorials cause I need all the help I can get. Where do you live?

Shirley

Shirley,

Do you have the Silhouette Studio program open when you download? I always have the program open, then over on the left there is an open book, and a mouse. I click on the mouse, and do my shopping, putting items in my cart. They are always there. I know it's a little different with a Mac, so I'm thinking that might be what is happening to you.

About Blogging

About Facebook:

I am about to join with my blog, and have finally found how to join as a celebrity,band or business, and not as an individual, but I don't see a category for blogs or anything bloglike. Which category do blogs belong in, or which did you put yours in?
(And the reason I'm emailing instead of asking on your blog is pure vanity. I didn't want to flaunt my stupidity to all your readers.)
Thanks!

I did mine as a business.

after you have 25 "likes" you can get your vanity url

facebook/myrepurposedlife

they (fb) need to update just for us bloggers!

Hi Gail - I was wondering if I could pick your brain a little. I am in the process of doing a little blog re-design. I want to have a "menu bar" below my blog title like you with the various subtitles. When I click on your Gallery 1, for instance it shows almost like a "link party", which when clicking on, takes you to that particular post. Can you tell me how you did that? I am trying to "clean up" and have less items going down the side, but I have no idea how to do it. Without wasting a lot of your time, can you tell me how to do it, or point me in the direction of some help?

Terri,

I'm assuming that you are blogspot?

When you write a post in blogger, you have the option of a "page" Those are pages under my banner.

As for the thumbnail links... I think all the linky places charge now for you to be able to have a "link party". Those thumbnails are a private link party that I get to have because I pay a subs fee to host my Catch as Catch Can party each week. (think it's $20 a year ??) Mine is coming up for renewal next month.

If you scroll down, you can see how I use to highlight my posts. I'm afraid to remove the original pictures/links because you never know about linky things. If they go away, I don't want to have to redo all of it.

Gail:

Gail, is there any way to offer a message after I've visited you blog? I don't belong to facebook or twitter or anything else. I love you ideas and finished projects and I wanted to comment but I have tried and tried but no luck. I really like the dog bandanas. And one day I want to be able to purchase the ink kit. I received the Cameo for Christmas and I can't wait to use it but I am scared to start. So any help will be appreciated.

Hi there!

Thanks for the nice words! Some people sign up for a blog just so they can leave comments. Meaning they create a blogger profile. Generally I have anonymous comments turned on for giveaways. I have turned them off for the last few days, just because they fill up my inbox so much.

From GChat:

quick question if you're on here. How do you find older posts in live writer...it only brings up recent posts?

mine is different, because I have three blogs....

up at the top, it seems the default might be "show 25 "

click that and you can open up to 1000

use to be only 500

Hi Gail

I received an email from someone wanting to know if I had

linking opportunities or guest post options available...

Now, they didn't give any blog information only an email. I didn't know what to say, so I just said that I'd consider any offer... and asked what they had in mind. (thinking I could always say "NO." )

Do you have a post anywhere on your blog that you could send me the link to...or maybe elsewhere that you could recommend reading on this topic?

OR...any ideas????

thanks in advance.

All the "big" bloggers recommend not doing this. I'm not sure why exactly, but I've never done it. I know one blogger who was contacted about putting a link on an older post, and was paid $60, but never heard back from the guy. Go figure.

Miscellaneous

Hi Gail,
I am especially interested in learning about using a Dremel in my jewelry making. Any place you know of that can give me some good tips and tutorials?
Best, Suzanne

http://www.ehow.com/how_5182101_use-dremel-make-jewelry.html

You can try that link. I'm happy you love my blog, but I know nothing about jewelry making.

I only use Dremel oscillating tools, but the full line of rotary tools can be viewed on Dremel.com

Good luck!

So, do you have any questions that weren’t answered? Ask away!

gail

Giveaway at hometalk!

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

I recently signed up to be a member at a site called hometalk. It’s a great community with lots of knowledgeable people on all topics ranging from building, to gardening, design and MORE!

I posted my first project last week, perhaps you’ve seen my repurposed crib into a plate rack?

The very nice folks at hometalk asked me to participate in their weekly giveaway. I’m sure you have no problem figuring out my choice for a giveaway, right?

Hometalk is giving away a $250 The Home Depot gift card to one of their members. It really is a great community, and the interface is very similar to FaceBook. Hop on over and check it out, become a member and answer the weekly giveaway question about MY project to be registered to win! Easy Peasy!

How to enter:

Become a HomeTalk member.
Answer the weekly giveaway question here for a chance to win a $250 The Home Depot gift card. The hometalk weekly giveaway is open to both US and Canadian residents. Giveaway ends Sunday 1/29 at midnight. HomeTalk announces the winner every Monday morning.

gail

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post. I like to keep my readers informed of sites I think you will love and of course who doesn’t love a great giveaway?

Catch As Catch Can 58

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Y’all never cease to amaze me. So many great projects last week. Thank YOU for linking up and linking back to My Repurposed Life! YOU rock!

In no particular order:

FabRehabCreations

Design Dreams By Anne

Susan @ Elizabeth & Co.

Mom on Timeout

My Salvaged Treasures

(you gotta click over to see what Betsy made out of these treasures!)

Today’s Fabulous Finds

island from an old door! LOVE it!

Pudel-Design

You don’t have to have a Silhouette to make great works of art!

Rook No. 17

Blowing Dandelions

YOUR Favorite:

Turnstyle Vogue

If you were featured, feel free to grab the button:

If you are linking up, and you’d like to have a chance to get caught next week, please display this button: (or at the VERY least, a text link)

Thanks!

gail

Tall Cupboard with Repurposed Windows Pt 1

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

I bought some windows at Tickled Pink for $4.00 each. I’ve been wanting to make another window cupboard. I have made hanging window cupboards, and even a double window cupboard that was side by side. I suppose after making the tower of terror, I’m into “tall” these days.

This is the 1x’s I’ll be using for this cupboard. I’d like you to think about what this lumber use to be. I’ll show you next week, it’s a great repurpose!

For the most part, I left the lumber the original length. I laid out the windows to try to figure out my configuration.

I ripped one of the long boards to make the side and top front pieces (rails and stiles). Which I refer to as “front facing”.

source

Because I had enough room for both windows with a little extra room, I decided to add a drawer. This drawer is from the desk I repurposed into my kitchen island. I cut it down (depth) only to discover that it wasn’t going to be wide enough.

I went looking for more drawers. I found this simple drawer, and thought to myself . . . “I can make drawers myself”. So that is what I did.

I’m still in the process of laying it all out – doing the math to see where everything goes.

After I felt reasonably comfortable with the measurements, I decide to start putting together my front facings. I drilled some pocket holes with my Kreg Jig Jr. I use the speed square to make sure everything IS square.

I lay the front facing on the “frame”. The windows are being held up by the shelves (not yet attached). Trying to figure out the bottom trim.

I mitered my corners, used some gorilla glue and affix it all with my nail gun.

I do two layers, mostly so that the “footprint” of this piece will be larger and more sturdy. Looks good, eh?

Until I stand the shelf up. If you look closely, you will see that there are two layers on the side, but oops! only one layer in the front.

After taking it apart and redoing it, I’m very pleased. Two layers on both sides and the front.

When I put the drawers in, I noticed that I put the drawer front on the wrong end of the drawer. They were too wide, and too short. I had to remove the drawer front and turn the drawer around and reattach it.

This cupboard has been a big pain in the patootie!

I put a piece in the middle (no idea what to call it) to keep the drawers stable when they shut.

I glued and clamped the top trim.

At least it’s finally resembling a cupboard! Have you been thinking about what this lumber use to be?

I have started painting the cupboard, but the windows are being a little stubborn . . . ugly glazing. Hopefully I’ll be able to show you major progress early next week.

Want to know what else you can make with matching windows?

Meet the twins.

Don’t forget about Catch as Catch Can tonight!

gail

CommandMax by HomeRight winners!

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

HomeRight was kind enough to furnish TWO sprayers for TWO winners! The original giveaway link.

Congrats to:

You will LOVE your sprayers! I’ll be in touch!
Thank you to everyone who entered!

By the way--Jamie over @ Owl Really is having a giveaway!

Rebekka Seale’s Sparrow Print. It’s one of Jamie’s favs! Click on over to Owl Really and enter!
gail

Pair of Nightmare Tables

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

Last spring I picked up these two tables for $12 for the pair.

I thought they were cute, and I liked the price.

I received some Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and decided to use the Paris Gray on these tables.

I painted them and distressed them—it was June 2011. It wasn’t very hot, but I overworked myself, and ended up in the emergency room due to low potassium which made me feel like I was having a heart attack. This was the second summer in a row this happened to me. It wasn’t until I was leaving the emergency room that it occurred to me that it was the exact same symptoms.

That’s why I never blogged about these tables. I never really liked how they turned out, and since I had such a bad experience with them, I just left them in the “to be blogged” folder on my computer.

I suppose I’m finally over them. I used the dark wax to glaze them.

I’ve not used the paint or wax since. I suppose I was scarred for life!

Funny story-I ended up selling them at a yard sale for $10 for the pair. The fella tried to talk me down, and I said NO. Then a couple of weeks later I saw them at one of our peddler’s malls for $22 for the pair. They were still haunting me-maybe I am NOT over them after all.

Had they not sent me to the hospital, I would have reworked them. But I guess they found a new home, because the next time I went to the Peddler’s Mall they were gone!

Y’all remind me when it gets hot to stay in the basement shop and to drink my Gatorade, okay?

gail

Linking up:

Re-post Key to My Heart

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 14:07:00 +0000

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and it’s probably my least favorite day of the year. I won’t be doing any projects this year, so I’m going to show you some from the past. Up today, is “the key to my heart”.

I started with a thrifted frame in all it’s chippy glory.

A door (knob) plate, also chippy! A filigree gold frame, that are a dime a dozen at thrift stores. (I so love these frames, we had them all over the house as I was growing up)

I spent a couple of hours washing and sanding the chippy paint off the door plate. I still have mixed feelings, were I to do it today? I’m still not sure what I would do. But I really love how it looks in this picture.

I had a Christmas ornament that I had picked up on clearance after the holidays. It was a little new looking and had a curve to it, so I hammered it flat.

Gotta have a glass knob with all of these components. I secured everything with E-6000. The paper? I didn’t have any cute scrapbook paper so I did a “watermark” print on some plain cardstock.

I couldn’t decide whether to include the filigree frame on top of the gold frame, or leave it off.

Sort of thinking maybe I should have used the filigree frame INSTEAD of the chunky frame.

I sold this on Craig’s List to a very nice young fella that bought it for Valentine’s Day for his sweetheart.

awwwww

gail

Linking here:

Express Scripts elects not to partner with Walgreens

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 01:01:00 +0000

This post brought to you by Walgreens. All opinions are 100% mine.

I think we all are in agreement that insurance and healthcare costs can be overwhelming and sometimes difficult to understand.

I was discussing this situation with a good friend who enjoys the convenience of her Walgreens pharmacy. However, she recently received a letter stating Walgreens and Express Scripts are no longer enjoying a partnership. I was confused and I thought Walgreens was in charge of this change. After reading up on the situation I find out that Walgreens put forth a huge effort to keep their contract with Express Scripts. Walgreens offered to hold rates for a new contract flat and did not seek an increase in rates. The response from Express Scripts was to insist on being able to unilaterally define contract terms, such as what does and does not constitute a brand and generic drug. I find this very unfair. Express Scripts is the "middle man" and they are dictating terms that do not have the consumers best interest and welfare at heart.

Upon further reading, I learn:

Express Scripts could offer substantial savings to its clients by promoting 90-day refills at retail pharmacies, but it conflicts with its own mail order 90-day prescription business that it profits from. In addition, while profits per prescription among retail pharmacies have been flat or declining in recent years, Express Scripts’ profits have grown at a rate more than two times the average of peers in health care.

So, now my friend can no longer get her prescriptions conveniently filled at her neighborhood Walgreens. I'm sure you know that Walgreens has more 24 hour and drive-thru pharmacies than any other pharmacy in the country. The drive-thru option is very important for elderly patients and moms with sick children that don't need to be dragged inside the store while feeling sick.

Walgreens customers are being forced to change pharmacies. As you know, your pharmacist is nearly as important as your physician when it comes to your health. Having a good relationship with your pharmacist is very important.

Our military is covered under Tricare. Express Scripts’ rejection of Walgreens offers means that Tricare’s nearly 6 million beneficiaries will no longer have in-network insurance coverage for prescriptions they fill at Walgreens and Duane Reade pharmacies starting on Jan. 1, 2012.

I appreciate the sacrifices of our armed forces and I wonder how Express Scripts can put profit before our country's heroes.

If you are affected by this change, speak up. Let Express Scripts know you are upset. You can contact local media, and don't forget the social media! Please support Walgreens on Twitter and Walgreens on Facebook.

Because Express Scripts has chosen not to have a partnership with Walgreens, there is an alternative: Prescription Savings Club at Walgreens. In a nutshell, it's like a savings plan. An individual can join during a special January promotion for only $5, or $10 for a family membership, and receive savings on more than 8,000 brand name and all generic medications. More than 400 generics are available with a three-month supply for less than $1 a week. Regular annual membership is $20 for an individual and $35 for a family. This is a great plan, but act quickly before the end of January for the best deal.

Walgreens, always there for you, right around the corner!

gail

Installing Kwikset SmartCode & SmartKey Locks (winner)

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

When I was contacted by Home Depot to review their Kwikset SmartKey locks, I got right on The Home Depot website to do some window shopping. I was really intrigued with the SmartCode SmartKey deadbolt. I spend a lot of time outdoors working in the shop and/or mowing. I carry my spare key with me and I’m always afraid I’m going to lock myself out.

With this SmartCode deadbolt, I can program a 4-8 digit code, which allows me push the “lock” button on the way out, and enter my customized code to get back in! LOVE it!

I also chose a SmartKey knob to go along with it. The best part? I keyed both the deadbolt and the knob to work with my existing keys. That enables my family members who have keys, but don’t live here to gain access without me having to hunt them down to give them new keys. LOVE it!

I have only installed locks once. I am not expert! The deadbolt was a little challenging to install, hence the ScotchBlue painter’s tape. After installing however, it was so easy to set the code.

The doorknob literally only took me about 3 minutes to switch out from start to finish. You can see some videos below. I edited them, so there is no talking. Be warned there is some annoying music piped in. I wanted to make sure I used royalty free music.

I did have a little trouble the first time I tried rekeying. I had to call tech support. They were very helpful. Rekeying is VERY simple. I’m just challenged in things that don’t have to do with wood.

I know why you’re really here. You are wondering if you won the $50 The Home Depot gift card. Thanks to everyone who entered, y’all had some great reasons why you would love this SmartKey system by Kwikset.

The winner is:

Congrats KittenJen! I’ll be in contact to get you in touch with your gift card! Thank You The Home Depot for allowing me to participate in this promotion!

gail

The Home Depot partnered with bloggers such as me to help promote their KwikSet Lock product. As part of this promotion, I received compensation. They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about the products. The Home Depot believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. The Home Depot’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.

My Word of the Year 2012

noreply@blogger.com (gail) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0000

From Layla at the Lettered Cottage:
Basically, you choose one word that has the potential to inspire you and create intention in your life, all year long.

My word of the year is YES! I have a tendency to say “maybe”, or “I’m not sure” or “I don’t think I can do that”. 2012 is the year that I will not pass up any opportunity, no matter how scary it may be. Doors open? I will muster up the courage to enter! I must have the confidence to take on challenges, and to push myself, to say YES!
Want to know the best part? YOU are the reason-- the change in me! YOU think that I can do anything! The kindness and the support YOU have shown me over the last year has changed me. YOU didn’t know that I was a shy child, a young bride that rarely ventured out of the house alone. YOU didn’t know that I lacked the confidence as a young mother, making a nurse dress jamie to bring her home from the hospital.
So, my word is YES, and I decided that long before I ever heard of the “word of the year”. The change started back in the fall, when I was contacted my a producer for the Martha Stewart show asking if I would be interested in appearing. They liked my Today’s Menu. My first thought . . . Me? I can’t do that. But I quickly decided to say YES. Alas, nothing came of it. But that was okay. Several bloggers had been contacted while Martha was still on vacation (The Dead Sea). I suppose when she got back, there were meetings and they went a different way. But—I said YES! :) YOU have no idea how difficult that was for me.
The Ultimate Craft Throwdown that I blogged about last week is another example. I was contacted, and I said YES. Will anything come of it? I dunno. But this time last year, I would never have said YES.

Thank YOU! I wouldn’t be who I am without YOU!