Reusing Old Beauty

I am an advocate of recycling and some of the most beautiful recycling you can do is within your home. Furniture is a well recognized example of how to convert the old, tired and outdated into a new fresh look. Another lovely example is reusing old textiles.

I find some old table cloths, sheets, doilies, and handkerchiefs have exquisite work in them. They use hem stitching, and embroidery as well as appliques to create a timeless beauty. Those old pieces can be used for pieces of art, but depending upon their condition and age, they can become re-purposed. I have an old, elegantly embroidered sheet that I recently turned into a duvet for a beautiful new look. Adding a new sheet set with this old one, I backed the top sheet to make the duvet, used the old second sheet for the new top sheet and used the new fitted sheet to complete the revised set. It is a wonderful display of old hand work.

If you don't have a textile which was handed down from another generation (or two) visit flea markets, thrift shops and second hand stores. You will be amazed at the items you can find. Just remember, you may come across some antique pieces which would be a crime to deface. Save those pieces as art work and frame them or display them for their beauty.

Old quilts are another source of unique handwork.

Enjoy the creative spirit of recycling beauty.

Tips from the experts

Ty Pennington, host of Extreme Makeover, Home Edition, has some tips to share about the use of fabric in the home. His philosophy is:

"ADD STYLE WITH FABRIC
All of the rooms I design use fabric in one way or another. Fabric can add an important shot of color, pattern or texture. And it’s practical, too! I mean, what would you do without pillows and curtains? But, here’s the deal: fabric is also a great way to get creative. I’ll prove it you with the five easy tips for using fabric to add style and personality to your home."

 Using fabric in your home can change the mood and soften the edges of a too technical look. Regardless of your overall style, fabric is an important element to complete the room and personalize your space. From picture frames or mats, to lamp shades, pillows, throws, even the back of bookcases and book covers, fabric adds an instant impact to the space. 


My tip to you:


Want to improve the look of a ho-hum bookcase? Using wallpaper paste, cut and adhere fabric to the back inside wall of your bookcase. Or, you can make it a more temporary method by using foam core board, wrapping the fabric around the piece cut to fit the back wall between shelves, and snapping it into place. Change with the seasons or your mood. Don't be afraid to us a more bold fabric than you might normally. The items on the shelf will help to lessen the impact. But it is a nice unexpected touch.