I have a soft spot for vintage school supplies (and office supplies)- anyone else? So, I snatch up old school items whenever I see them at thrift stores. And once Fall arrives, I can’t help but get nostalgic for all things “Back to School”. From shopping for new clothes and school supplies, to the sounds of a marching band at a Friday night game. Read more ›
Craft Ideas and Upcycle Projects for Belts

As you know, some thrift stores are absolutely overrun with clothing. But the same can be said for accessories, such as bags, shoes, scarves, and yes- belts. Leather belts, woven belts, the silky ribbon kind- men’s and women’s. And I don’t know about you, but I just don’t wear that many belts these days! But I love them for various craft projects- there’s a surprising number of ways to upcycle them. Let me show you a few of my favorite repurposed projects with them, in case you’d like some inspiration.Read more ›
Craft Ideas for Adults on a Hot Day

I don’t know if it’s middle age, perimenopause, or what, but I like to spend a lot of time indoors at this time of year. It’s simply too hot and humid out to be comfortable! So, if you’re like me and are looking for some fresh inspiration for spending time indoors right now, then you’re at the right place. Because these craft ideas (for adults) are perfect for a hot day- since no painting, sanding, or other outdoors DIY work is required!Read more ›
Craft Projects with Shells

From the rocky beaches in St. Joseph, Michigan to the sugar sand shores of Southwest Florida, I’ve always collected shells. Which means I’ve ended up with a LOT of them over the years- especially during my post-college internship. And while I keep a lot of them stored in pretty bottles, I’m always looking for new craft projects with shells. And in case you are, too, I thought I’d gather some creative ideas for your seashell collection.Read more ›
Refreshing DIY Ideas for Wicker Baskets

Wicker baskets are plentiful at thrift stores and you may even have a few at home. And while they’re perfectly lovely in their natural state, sometimes it’s fun to give them a refresh. Here are some inspiring ideas to give your boring baskets a new look or purpose in life.Read more ›
Decorating a Bookshelf with Thrift Store Finds

Decorating a bookshelf with thrift store finds isn’t something I typically write about. But after writing about it for the Charlotte Region ReStores’ blog, I decided to expand upon the experience here. Especially since I’d thrifted a fantastic bamboo bookshelf at one of their stores.
Antique and Thrift Stores in Black Mountain, NC

Many years ago, my husband and I spent a long weekend exploring some of the small Western North Carolina towns that were located east of Asheville. One of those small towns was Black Mountain, and we were charmed by it from the start. Since that “Junkin’ Journey” blog post is now nearly a decade old, I decided it was time to refresh it. Plus, we’ve been anxious to visit as many WNC towns as we can this summer and fall, as they re-emerge following Hurricane Helene.Read more ›