You can often find these at flea markets, barn sales, auctions, and sometimes even thrift stores. What are they? Well, they’re antique insulators. And you ask, “What in the world is that?” Back in the day, they set atop a telephone/telegraph/electrical pole used to insulate the electrical wires they carry, so that electricity didn’t leak into the pole or the earth. Today, I’m going to create some upcycled antique insulator decor with you. Are you ready?
My friend, Mandy, set these aside for me because she thought they are cool, but also that I would have the creative juices to do something with them. Let’s not disappoint Mandy, k?
DIY TIME
In all of my junkin’ years I’ve often seen them used in various ways. While some hang them out with bird food in them, others just rest them on a shelf in an antique display. Likewise, I’ve always been drawn to the ones used in sort of a mixed media art, so that is my goal today.
First, I begin by digging in my stash boxes of #trashure to see what sparks my creativity. While sifting, I find these 3 remnant pieces of wood that I saved from my headboard bench build seen HERE. Thankfully, I found 3 turned legs at the thrift store to use in my bench and this is what I cut off and saved for later.
Then, I chose to use these rubber furniture feet floor protectors to create a base for my upcycled antique insulator to rest in. Likewise, I use the E6000 glue to attach them to the top.
PAINT TIME
Next, in order to create cohesiveness, I use a layer of paint to unify my creation and create a base which to work with.
Finally, I add a bit of vintage typography to create a timeless appeal. Aren’t these mini advertisements cute?
In addition, I’ve used the J&P Coats thread ad on this side table, and the Goodwill Soap ad on this laundry bin. I just love typography!
END RESULT
Last, here are my upcycled antique insulator candle holders ready to go with my handmade beeswax candles.
I actually wanted to soften them a bit, so I add a bit of ticking fabric as ties around their bases. Doesn’t that look better? Which way do you prefer them?
Finally, I don’t know if you can smell them from your seat, but those beeswax candles sure emit a heavenly fragrance.
I’m super stoked to share these with you as my goal is always to inspire. Maybe the next time you see an antique insulator you’ll pick it up, turn it around, and find a use for it too. Additionally, if you’d love to have this set, you can find it available in my online shop. (SOLD)
Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130
In addition, pin and share to inspire others too!
Up next is my Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION time. To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
Also, more projects like my upcycled antique insulator candle holders:
Gosh, I love the way your brain works, Larissa, these are ADORABLE! I used to have a bunch of insulators that we handpicked from the side of the road when I was a kid during drives out in the country. Huge regrets getting rid of them, especially now after seeing this!
gah! That’s awesome you found them, but bummer you don’t have them any longer. I feel ya! Thanks for the love, Marie.
What an unique idea. I prefer them with the added ticking:. So creative!
Thank you, Donna. I just felt they needed and kind of fabric to soften them a bit. You could add whatever you like. 😀
They are so awesome and unique /antique-ish looking.
You have a very creative mind.
Have a wonderful weekend
Thank you, Colleen. This kinda craft is so fun to share and work on.
Several years ago I got a big box (23!) of these at a yard sale for a really cheap price. They have been languishing in my shed. Thanks for the cool and creative idea!
whoa…that’s crazy cool! You could do so many things with them. Have fun! 😀
Very cute! If you are looking for a good way to clean the soot off the insulators, I use Barkeepers Fiend-it is an oxalic acid based powder cleaner. (Don’t breath it in ). Soak in a solution of powder and water for a full 24 hours and clean with a stiff brush. There are good youtube videos about this method. You can also find information about how to identify the year and make of your insulator by the numbers embossed on them.
Thanks. I did you BarKeepers and use it all the time with safety precautions. It’s a blessing for enamel, porcelain, stainless, etc. A must-have in my house. 🙂