Think outside of the box when decorating the abode. Often there are items in your home that are on the verge of being tossed for being broken or missing parts. Instead of throwing these old friends into the garbage decorating magic can be made by saving the items from the trash. Don't be afraid to pick up interesting pieces you find as you stroll the block that others have thrown out either. Salvaging goodies into decor can be rewarding.
Ladders are the perfect salvaged item to repurpose for the decor.
Keep it rustic and worn for a country feeling or add a clean coat of paint.
- Separate the sides from the top platform of the ladder and lean them against the wall for a instant shelving display using the existing steps.
- Hanging a ladder side horizontally on the wall, the steps become dividers to use to keep books and papers in place.
- An old ladder simply standing opened using the existing steps as supports for planks to fit across makes an instant bookcase.
- Take two matching ladders and open them up side by side so they look like a giant Capital 'M'. Cut equal lengths of wood planks to fit neatly across both ladders' steps to create one large bookcase.
- Cut the top platform off of the sides of the ladder, then use the sides as end supports for center shelves. Add wooden shelves across to rest on the rungs on each side and screw them in. Walla, a beautiful bookcase.
- A ladder side can also make a great pot hanging rack in the kitchen. Hang it from the ceiling with chain anchored securing into ceiling beams then use hooks to hang pots and pans over a stove or island.
Broken ceramic dishes and glassware can be turned into a countertop, backsplash, table or work of art.
- Get out your stress by smashing the old dishes and glasses into smaller pieces to be used to make a beautiful one-of-a-kind mosaic to dress up the decor.
Rescue torn sheets from certain death.
Salvage the old worn out bedding and turn it into rag rugs and braided rugs.
- Cut the fabric into long strips to braid and sew together to create an old fashioned braided rug.
- For a rag rug, cut the sheets into small pieces that are sized to pull through a canvas with a latch hook to create an shag type rug for the decor.
Grab the old bed pillows that are destined for the garbage.
Open up the pillows and salvage the stuffing.
- The filling from old bed pillows can be taken out and reused to stuff new throw pillows made from repurposed items such as aged drapery.
Salvaging pieces from the garbage can be fun for the entire household. Turn it into a challenge game to see what new decor everyone can come up with found tossed treasures. Imagination can turn a pumpkin into a coach worthy of Cinderella, just use your wand and never be afraid to dance!
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