As soon as Aimee from The Vintage Estate came across some ugly canvases, she knew they’d be perfect for replicating the pricey subway signs she’d been eyeing from Restoration Hardware. All it took was some paint and handmade stencils for Aimee to give the canvases new life. It just goes to show that you have to use a little imagination in the thrift store aisles and see beyond what is to what could be!
Whitney from Shanty 2 Chic knew she wanted a large chalkboard like one from Restoration Hardware for her entryway – just not for $300. And why buy one when you can make it yourself for about $15? And in one hour no less! Whitney’s easy DIY chalkboard tutorial builds upon an existing chalkboard that she purchased from Hobby Lobby. Whitney added on to the existing frame with some furring strips and pine casing, transforming the plain Jane frame into a real showstopper!
Melanie of The French Cottage had been holding onto a tear-out of a Restoration Hardware chalkboard for years. However, she says her “inner frugalista” would not allow her to spend $499 on a chalkboard. Melanie also knew she could build her own chalkboard for much less and did just that for $50, which isn’t too shabby for a ginormous framed chalkboard. The fact that this chalkboard has a vintage schoolhouse look makes it perfect for Melanie’s son’s playroom. It’s a piece that both mommas and children can enjoy!
Jenna of Jenna Halvorson Designs needed to find a use for a leftover six-foot slab of butcher block that was taking up precious space in her garage. Her husband had the genius idea to build a coffee table and found the perfect inspiration in a wood and metal table from Restoration Hardware. The couple purchased some steel and enlisted the help of a friend trained in welding. Jenna says, “It looks like a thousand dollar table and is sturdy as a rock. Which is great because it will double as a train table most of the time!”
Inspired by glass cloches, like those from Restoration Hardware, Susan of saf affect was on the hunt for a thrifty alternative. She scored two industrial glass light fixture globes at a Habitat for Humanity Restore for only a few dollars. Placed on a tray with a few interesting objects, you’d never guess they were once used for lighting. What a great repurpose!
