Christy's Thrifty Decorating

     I know.....I know.  Where have I been? I'm still here and still creating all sorts of things.  Mainly, turning junk into something usable.  I got involved with a antiques/gift store two years ago and it has so far worked out pretty good for me.  I rent a small space and sell things that I've created at home.  Lot's of fun, a little extra money and a way for me to channel my creativity. 
     I spent as much time as possible shopping in thrift stores and finding things that I can "alter" in some way to make it sellable.  It doesn't always work out for me, but most of the time someone out there appreciates it and I make some extra money. 
     I've also taken on some major home improvement efforts over the winter which I will post about soon. Took forever, it seems but well worth all the work.  So now it's spring in Atlanta and there is plenty of yard creativity and work to deal with so I'm feeling the ache in my back already!!

   Here is such one example of a "trash to treasure" that I've done and sold lately.  

 This little doggy was purchased in a thrift store.  I probably paid $3.00 for him.  He's made out of ceramic ( I think).  He holds a broken chain in his mouth.  My vision was to repair or replace the chain, add a welcome sign and give this guy a new coat of paint, which is pretty much what I landed up doing.

I cleaned him up and sprayed him with black Rustoleum paint.  I hand painted his collar with acrylic red. When it was finished-I sprayed a clear coat of vanish over him to seal up the colors.  I replaced the chain with new, black chain and attached the sign.

The sign is a small piece of black PVC sheet, but anything would work.  I used my new toy-the Silhouette Cameo to cut the vinyl letters out to spell Welcome and added a small red flower with acrylic.  Not really obvious in the picture, is his eyes.  I hand painted them to look like he actually have a little personality-and it worked.  Made him look happier too.  I brought him into the shop and he sold two days later. 

I am always amazed at what people throw away and what you can actually do with this stuff.

More to come!

Christy

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