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 ›
Summer Decor from Thrift Store Finds
June 9, 2025 · By · Leave a Comment
There are a lot of directions you can go in when it comes to summer decor. Coastal colors, patriotic themes, and brightly colored florals are just scratching the surface. But a lot of summer decor can be made by upcycling a few things from the thrift store. From cake pans to light fixtures…sea shells and baseballs, any number of thrift store finds can be transformed into summery accents for your home. Here are some fabulous upcycle ideas to get you started.Read more ›
Rose Candles in Oui Yogurt Jars
June 6, 2025 · By · 2 Comments
Once upon a time, we went out to dinner with friends and the restaurant had covered the table in rose petals. It was a birthday dinner for two of the friends, and the eatery had gone a little “extra” in helping us celebrate. And me being me, I made a plan with my friends to help gather all the petals before we left. Why? Because I wanted to craft with them…and make rose candles!Read more ›
Upcycling Ideas for 4th of July Decorations
June 3, 2025 · By · Leave a Comment
The 4th of July is right around the corner. This means that it’s time to decorate your home with all things red, white, and blue! To keep things on budget and personalized to your own tastes, DIY is the way to go. And, of course, upcycling is the thriftiest way to enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank.Read more ›
What to Do With Used or Old Sports Equipment
May 31, 2025 · By · 2 Comments
If you go to any thrift store, you’re bound to find at least one shelf or corner that houses the used sports equipment. Tennis rackets, hockey sticks, bowling balls, you name it- all of that old sports equipment often ends up at thrift stores or yard sales. So, if you’ve ever wondered what to do with old sports equipment, then you’re in the right place. Because there are tons of upcycle ideas for all those rackets, bats, balls, and more.
Summer Wreaths to Make This Season
May 28, 2025 · By · Leave a Comment
Now that summer is officially here, it’s probably time to change out your front door wreath. And if you’ve been craving something different for the warm and sunny season, maybe one of these summer wreaths will catch your eye. From bright colors to patriotic colors, summertime sports and coastal themes, there’s bound to be an upcycled or DIY wreath here for you.Read more ›
Creative Ideas for Painted Wine Bottles
May 25, 2025 · By · Leave a Comment
As glass recycling disappears across the country, wine and other glass bottles end up in the trash instead. And it’s such a terrible feeling to throw out something that can be easily recycled- or repurposed, craft-wise. So, whether you’re in that predicament or not and simply want some inspiration for painted wine bottles, then you’ve come to the right place. These glass bottle crafts will definitely have you thinking about new ways to reuse all the bottles and jars that end up in your bins, that’s for sure.Read more ›
Craft Ideas for Handkerchiefs
May 22, 2025 · By · 1 Comment
Vintage handkerchiefs are one of those things that I have a weakness for when I see them at thrift stores and vintage shops. With their pretty colors and gossamer fabric, they’re just too lovely to hide in drawers. And since most of us prefer using tissues instead these days, hankies can get lost in vintage limbo. Thankfully, though, there are lots of craft and upcycling ideas for them- let me show you my favorite projects with them.Read more ›
Upcycled Projects with Cookware and Bakeware
May 19, 2025 · By · 2 Comments
When it comes to thrift stores, there’s no shortage of cookware and bakeware options on the shelves. Pots, pans, lids, and more- there’s always an endless array of items that had once been used in the kitchen. But if you aren’t interested in cooking or baking with them, have no fear- for there are a ton of ways to upcycle those cookie sheets and frying pans. Here are some fantastic repurposed projects to get you thinking outside the box- or, at least outside the kitchen.Read more ›
Upcycled and DIY Ideas for Fake Plants
May 16, 2025 · By · 2 Comments
Houseplants have become a huge trend in home decor again, but let’s face it: not everyone can keep plants alive. So, you’ve come to the right place if you need some DIY or upcycling ideas for fake plants. Because these plants require zero maintenance, look fantastic, and are completely unkillable.Read more ›
