Tag Archives: Goodwill

Make Me Over Flashbacks

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My old school jam Flashlight to listen to for Flashbacks!  Me, music and projects are like the three musketeers…

It’s Throwback Thursday as they say in FB World, so I figure I’d do a quick flashback review of  my “Make Me Over” projects.   I didn’t tear down walls, rebuild, or create drastic changes (yet – smiles) but these were simple projects using  paint and fabric and a bit of creativity.

I’ll start with the most drastic transformation of the lovely slipper chair.  I know call me crazy, but when I spotted this on “bulk trash day” I was ecstatic about picking it up.  Of course, I was told I lost my mind, but that’s okay.. because it’s one of the best chairs in the house.

Shortly after that came the sofa.  Dragged in from the streets – I paid $35.00 for it and paid $150.00 to have it re-upholstered.

 

 

 

The rattan high back chair was purchased for $20.00 at a garage sale.  Transformed for $80.00 (it’ll be transformed again)

 

Up next is the freebie I did myself:  This cabinet had a good structure but could use TLC.  It was being thrown away, but now it’s home with me.   My first intention was to use it as a bath cabinet but it was a tad bit too big.  However, it’s perfect in the foyer under the mirror.  Just 2 cans of Rustoleum metallic silver spray paint and a simple mirror cut ($12.00) to place on top adds a special touch.  This piece costed me $20.00 to complete:

Two other freebies I created were the doggie beds for Ms. Koko.  Using the boxes from Costco, old pillows, paint and few embellishments these were too simple not to do:

The footstool was another freebie.  The store was going out of business and it didn’t have a price tag, so the guy said – take it… so … I took it.   I love the green/copper combination.

Dumpster dive freebie was this – I guess- bar stool bottom.  It’s been transformed into a plant stand for less than $5.00.  I used Valspar white spray paint and brushed the tips with Martha Stewart metallic gold.  The tile topper was caught on sale at Lowes.

The transformation of my office was really a blessing for me:  I needed my  own work space and without building or taking away a room, this proved to be an asset to the home.

Using an unused tray table, a picture frame and chalk paint – a new welcome station is used in the guest room:

The revamp of the Martha Stewart wastebasket was a winner:

Then there’s this corner table.   I used Valspar Ivory Bluff spray paint to freshen up the look.  I know some would cringe about  painting wood, but I really wanted a brighter look for it.

A simple, easy-peasy project was to create an earring holder from an antique mirror.  Just hot glued a piece of  screen, used Krylon nickel spray paint to freshen up the look.  Total cost $0.50 (lucked up & got the paint at a yard sale)

Outdoor projects like the diva chick was a blast.  In fact I won 1st place in a garden contest with it…. yipppeeee!

The herbal cart and bistro set were featured on Hometalk.. I was very happy about that:

Scrap fabric was used for the outdoor furniture cushions update:

Added a bit of whimsy to the garden with this firescreen purchased from Goodwill:

Be creative with objects and re-purpose them.  The rusted plant stand makes great use in the bathroom.

Or this rusted light fixture used as a plant holder – There are lots of things that could be multi-purposed….

Last but not least – paint and stencils gave the outdated wine rack a new look

 

and my sister did this chair for her daughter with just paint and fabric.  The power of paint, fabric and creativity goes a long way.  So, the next time you come across something, take a second look and use your imagination.  You’ll be surprised what you create.

Always remember to crank up the music to the get the project party started.  You might even find yourself doing a dance or two to keep the rhythm going.. it really makes it all the better!  I hope you enjoyed my Flashlight-Flashback!   Happy Thursday!!!

 

 

 

Friday Finds

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Hey there everyone! It’s Friday- and a big Woohoo!! Your thrifty girl has been finishing up a couple of little projects to began my larger project, (I’ve finally mustered up the desire to freshen up the dining room).   But moving along – I’ve had this planter hanging on the wall and just didn’t get to buying the coco fiber to re-line it.

Back in the winter I dressed it up with natural clippings

Well it’s summer (almost over) and I still haven’t touched it yet…Then I remember seeing how burlap was used as a liner, well, I didn’t have any of that either.. but what I do have plenty of is fabric.  So – I figure I’d give that a try.   I found this in the pile and figure it blends perfect with the shabby wrought iron look.

Found a plant that needs re-potting (my staghorn fern) and a few cactus for filler..  Simple little project finished for zero dollars.  The fabric adds a bit of color to the wall space.

I tested it out and yes the water goes through.

Awhile back I received lovely new art ordered from HoeMama.  His artwork is inspired by women who love to nurture, encourage,  and build people up – sort of a “gardener of people”.  I fell in love with this particular piece.  The beauty of the woman and how he depicted her in the garden was very eloquent.  I can’t wait to get it framed and hung.  You can view more of his pieces here:

Let’s move onto Friday Finds:

This vintage bird cage was $12.00 –  I have plans for it and it doesn’t include a bird  🙂

A mirrored tray always comes in handy – a Goodwill find for $3.75

And this cute little hand painted birdie planter by Bob White for Napcoware for $1.00

I’m not usually into birds, but there was something about this one that caught my eye to bring it home and like I said for $1.00 it sure didn’t break the bank – giggles…

not such a bad find…I’ll figure out some use for her.   One last thing,  I want you guys to find some friday fun to start a great weekend!  Cheers to you!  Kick your feet up, relax and have a happy… See you Monday !

It’s All Set!

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Friday is finally here and your thrifty gal was on a roll this week.  Began the garden weeding (which I hate so much – I wish the plants would grow as fast as the weeds.. uggghhhh!! WEEDS BEGONE!! but the beds are looking fuller.  I finally painted the porch swing and completed that cozy space and last but not least for this week’s projects… I found the paint color to match the chairs.  Remember these – my thrifty score for $25.00

They were paired with my lonely table.

Well.. I found the matching color which is “Lafonda Mirage” by Valspar and now it’s all a set. I’m too thrilled about this set.  I’ve developed a love for rattan and this set was all thrift store deals.  The table base was $30.00 purchased years ago.. the glass top was taken from another table that was rickety..(perfect fit).. the chairs completed the look.  Total cost for this look $85.75

The outdoor rug was purchased on line from World Market  for $19.99 but it’s actually on sale for $9.99 (drats).  I should have waited.. oh well.. my lost.. chuckles.. can’t win them all..

Remember the wall vase? (you can see the before here) I  added some faux seasonal flowers and sprayed some tree branches

I was on a spray craze, and also did the placemats.. What the heck.. they were only $0.75 cents.. chuckles..

 

The adorable little vase was another Goodwill purchase.. for $2.75.  I fell in love with the color and how it’s accented with the little white dots (it was made handmade pottery by someone name Amy Sizemore in 2002  – how I know – she signed the bottom)

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I know, cute little toss pillows are missing but that’s ok… they’ll come in due time…but in the meantime, it’s perfect to enjoy breakfast, smoothies, lunch or dinner on the deck.  Time for me to take a little rest and I hope you all have a smooth-ie weekend!  Ciao!

Swing Along

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I can’t believe how fast summer is going.  It seems like yesterday I worked on this corner of my porch, but it’s been over two weeks.  I finally got the paint for the swing on other half.  I found it in the “oops” section at Lowes.. It’s a pretty mint green.    Here’s the swing that needs updating.  I bought it a few years ago at a yard sale for $20.00.  I never painted it but realize it’s time for a new look.

So, I cranked up some mood music to get me going and let the paint party begin.  Two hours later and this is the new look:

Added a few extra items to cozy up the space and here it is completed;

 

 

 

 

 

The chain and iron arms were spray painted silver metallic.  The little marble top table (belonged to my belated grandmother) use to look like this but was updated with a quick white spray paint.  It use to have a glass top but I broke it..(uggghhh) luckily I kept this marble piece that was on another table that has been disgarded.. (the hoarder in me) – so I married the two and they look pretty good together.  The blue bottle (Italian made glass) was a Goodwill find for $2.75.

It’s a perfect place to kick your sneakers off and gently swing while reading a magazine

The wicker stool was picked up at a yard sale while I was in Jersey last week  for $3.00

The vintage macrame plant holder was a thrift store find for $2.00.   I’ve been contemplating to have the caribbean  art framed.. I decided I will once I find the right frame for the right price.

The only thing left is to find the perfect light fixture to complete the look.. I’m still hunting and will be happy when I find it.   But in the meantime, I’ll just swing along in another cozy (thrifted) space.

 

 

Friday Finds

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Hey friends! It’s Friday and it really feels like this week went  fast to me.  I came back from my visit to Jersey – still on my “Goodwill high” and needless to say I’m all “chaired up”  – from the ghost chair  I found while there to this exciting new one I’m showing you today.   The urge struck me to visit my favorite Goodwill in Columbia and as soon  as I stepped in the door ” BAM!!”  there she was…   !!!!!!   Scream with me please!!!

 

This was confirmation that the Goodwill Fairy does exist and has become my guardian thrift angel.  I immediately snatched that ticket off and ran to the register.  Ok.. here’s the “to die for” moment… the chair was tagged for $22.75.. I was freaking ecstatic – but when the  she said I can get a senior discount (my aunt – I haven’t quite reached the age limit yet) – get ready to pass out… because I was actually faint after she rang it up with the discount – $18.00 YES $18.00…     You’re probably like me – wondering what’s wrong with it…. well I’ll show you..

 

….a small wear on this arm – yea – whatever — really?? ..that is definitely a “no big deal”er .. See the name of the maker..  It’s the Mindy chair which retails brand new for $1099.00  which you can view here to see for yourself.

Ok… time to call Jamil with my frantastic -(no typo – frantic and fantastic) good news.  Why doesn’t he get excited like me – I’ll never know- but he was happy about it.

I took it to his place and was happy to see it matches his bedding perfectly

 

His bedroom is coming along… slowly but surely – piece by piece.  Once we get everything together.. I’ll show you his place.   Remember my motto… “Patience is a virtue”.

Oh and I also found this long bed pillow for $6.99  (4.00 after disct) which I added to his bed.  He’s not feeling it because it’s kinda girly .. but I disagree… but I figure I’ll show you..

 

Do you think it’s too girly???  We’re still battling with it..chuckles…  I told him..he’ll thank me later- because it’ll come in handy when he wants to sit up in bed.   Well – that’s it for this week’s Friday Finds .. I hope you have a Grandtastic weekend!   Ciao!!