Many folks do a spring cleaning, but I always like to do another similar cleaning before we start running our wood-burning fireplace insert and settle in for the winter. During the darker, cold days, my workshop gets mighty frigid. Because of that, I like to clean house and make as much room as possible in my tiny space. Here’s a look at a tiny bit of my stash I put together to see what I could come up with. Time for some salvaged wood decor fun, don’t you think?
You can see some scrap pieces of bed rails that I recently also used to build a scorched wood shelf. Also, a vintage tennis racquet frame, a piece of sewing desk top I upcycled, see the desk HERE & what else it became in this post), and a skirt front I took of this nightstand.
DIY TIME
Let’s get this party started. First, I pick up that tennis racquet frame I salvaged off the curb. Do you remember these? Back in the day folks played with a wooden tennis racquet. In order to protect the racquet, you would use this frame, plus four wingnut bolts on the corner to secure it. We have a tennis playing family, so there’s no way I could toss this in the burn pile. I’m pairing it with the leftover bed rails.
While rummaging around, one person came to mind…Paula of Sweet Pea, who loves tennis & sports in general. This sweet woman has been a friend of mine since I began blogging over nine years ago. She’s a teacher, but also such a creative genius that inspires folks with her endless creations. Sadly, in the last few years, Paula has been dealt a bout of cancer. Though it’s been a tough road, but she isn’t quitting. I ask you to not only read her story, but lift her and her mother up who is also dealing with cancer. Leave her some love!
While I work, I pray for Paula and her mother. To begin, it’s a pretty simple build that works up fast. After assembly, I cut out a pieces of chicken wire to line it from the inside.
Meanwhile, I also take that nightstand skirt and cut it up to make corbels.
Then, I sand down the sewing machine top and attach it with the corbels to a scrap piece of wood I didn’t even need to cut. woot! Here’s my salvaged wood decor in the rough.
NEXT STEPS
Then, I set up my small spray shelter and get ready to paint. However, before I paint it, look at the sweet signature left by the original owner. I love it!
After one coat of paint, I let it cure and then have at it again. Spraying paint is fun and a genius idea by whoever figured out canning it or making a sprayer.
Last, I wax the gorgeous walnut veneer on the shelf top and paint the corbels a beautiful blue.
THE REVEALS
Well, I know my way of thinking makes people scratch their heads, but I have fun! Here’s my two salvaged wood decor pieces ready for creating whimsy in the home.
First, my tennis racquet frame turned chicken wire cloche. It’s quirky, fun, and perfect for filling with whatever your heart desires. for my purposes, I filled it with rusty bits and baubles of story-filled pieces.
Second, I have that shelf made from sewing machine desk, a nightstand, and scrap wood. Isn’t junk fun?
Not only is the blue/green fun, but that wood…wow. Most wouldn’t see the beauty in it, but that grain really pops!
SHARE LOVE
Above all, I’d love to hear what you think of my creations. Either way, I had a blast making use of what most would call trash. However, I call it #trashure. If you would, please remember to show my friend, Paula, some love at Sweet Pea. There are so many blessings we can bestow on others if we just take the time. This is for you and your mom, Paula.
Additionally, if you’d like to own either of these pieces, you can find them available in my online store.
In addition, if you would pin and share my salvaged wood decor, you will make my day. Thank you!
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Mother Deer says
Both pieces are awesome, but the tennis racquet frame repurpose really speaks to me. Thanks for the inspiration 🙂
Larissa says
Thank you. I just love tennis, so I’ve been waiting for just the right time to repurpose that frame. 🙂
Rebecca - NC says
My prayers are with Paula and her Mother!! I know how tough the fight against is. But with God’s love and the support of those around them, they will find blessings and hopefully a cure!! ? Much like your project, new breakthroughs are being made daily and what may look hopeless is actually the answer in disguise. What a good friend you are. Love to all and Happy Thanksgiving!!!
❤️??❤️
Larissa says
Thank you, Rebecca. We all have battles and don’t know what the person next to us is going through. It’s the least we can do to lift each other up. Happy Thanksgiving!!
Pat says
Honestly, I never cease to be amazed at your ideas! God surely gave you such a creative mind along with the hands to make your ideas happen! I love the tennis racket brace cage, it’s awesome.
Larissa says
awww…Pat, you’ve made my day. Thank you for the smiles! That’s my favorite too.
Jill Smith says
I’m always SO inspired by your posts, for building/crafting and on a “heart strings” level. It’s always good to think of others and for us to remember to be grateful for all the things that we have! ?
Now, I think I’ll take a look through my junk pile and see what new things can be put together! Thanks for the inspiration!
Larissa says
That makes me skip-happy, Jill! 😀 I truly enjoy sharing and creating and it’s a bonus even more to hear from those I write/create for. Thank you!
Marie B. says
I’ve been praying for Paula and her mom from Canada since their diagnosis. Paula is battling with such grace and positivity, she is an amazing and inspiring woman. Then there is you, a gal who inspires me in so many ways. Seriously girl, what you come up with from scraps time and time again blows me away. Wishing you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving from Canada! xo
Larissa says
Yes, me too. My heart aches to do more for so many who suffer. Sending you hugs of thanksgiving for your friendship, Marie. It means so much.
Mary says
I think we could name your blog…”Do you see what I see?? .. Probably not!” 🙂 As others have said, I echo…amazing what you “saw” in those pieces of scraps Larissa. And God bless you and your family for your generous heart in repurposing and sharing such gorgeous projects filled with Love for the recipients. That is such an encouragement to the receiver and a blessing to the giver, as you know. I will definitely keep Paula and her mom in my prayers. So many needs this side of Heaven. One day, cancer and all diseases will be No MORE! Some days, that day cannot come soon enough. ❤️ Giving thanks for your inspiration.
Larissa says
You are a hoot, Mary. I so needed that smile…thank you. Yes, I cannot wait for that day when we all can be relieved of the woes of this world. Oh, the rejoicing there will be! 😀 Wishing you the best.