Monday, July 16, 2007

damaged goods

I like damaged goods. I am all over those clearance aisles filled with less-than-perfect items. They actually have more character... they've shown they can last, endure... they've proven they have longevity.
And to be perfectly honest, I am not comfortable with shiney, new things. Really... they make me nervous. When will they show their true colors? Will they be able to withstand some wear 'n tear? And I find myself thinking "someone please put me out of my misery and ding the dang thing!" I really feel that way. And I know me, I would be so weird about wanting it to stay new, to stay perfect. I wouldn't want the kids to sneeze near it, much less touch it! So we just never bought anything new... except of course mattresses and pillows and such. As a result, I was ok with my kids applying the usual wear 'n tear cuz well, it sorta started that way anyway and we didn't pay much... and that's a good thing, right?!

So I was at Hobby Lobby the other day and I found this... one of the hooks was off, the screws missing and the wood, pretty beat up... which made it all the more charming and shabby and chic! Retail $49.99, I paid $10.00! All the vintage gingham aprons were found at my little thrift store for a dollar each. Check out the detailed handwork.


Can you believe it! I found this at Goodwill for $1.49! The glass was so dirty, buttons were missing and the sewing notions were not adhered to the fabric anymore. But look at that Penney's pattern! Clic the pic, cuz it says that "Buttons and Bows" was a hit song from the Paramount Picture "Pale-face" starring Bob Hope and Jane Russell!! Can you believe it! They named apron patterns after hit songs!!! And the ric rac has a 10 cents price tag! Someone lovingly framed these vintage sewing notions and then for whatever reason, discarded it. And now it's mine to preserve with love. I have always wanted to frame vintage sewing notions too! So my plan is to reposition the notions and add some more that I have and glue on more buttons and change out the fabric backing to... maybe a yellow gingham. I will be sure to post pics when the project is completed. In the mean time, I will continue to rescue and repurpose discarded damaged goods. It's what I do.

9 comments:

  1. One of the reasons I love the whole distressed furniture look is because then when my kids are hard on it, I don't have to stress out because it's meant to look that way! LOL Wish the same could be said for the carpet!

    That collage is so neat! The apron pattern alone is just fabulous, but I love the yo yos and the needle packet and everything! What a great find. Can't wait to see you you fancy it up! :)

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  2. Anonymous12:18 PM

    Such an awesome sewing-art find!! Doesn't it amaze you at some of the things which seem so personal you find thrifting?!
    It always makes me sad to see people's family fotos at the stores...

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  3. Love it! I filled up a frame with old needles. What? I promise, it's very attractive. They're all still in their pretty packages or on felt or shiny foil.

    We always figure it's the kids who can't be bothered with mom's things who get rid of stuff like that...

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  4. I often have trouble enjoying something "brand new", too. Sometimes I will pack it away, awaiting the perfect time to use the item- and it never happens! Where as a slightly roughed up new treasure, or something vintage seems to find its place perfectly within our home.

    Love the gingham aprons!

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  5. I just found your blog and was surprised to find the apron pattern among your sewing finds. I just posted about this pattern earlier today on my blog! Thanks for showing your "damaged goods" - aren't they wonderful?

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  6. Hey Linda, can you send me any quick ideas that I could do with my Balcony Girls this Fall? A craft that is inexpensive and takes an hr?
    I love your ideas!
    Come on over and read about Outdoor Movie NIght and WIN!
    Sandy
    For Reluctant Entertainers

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  7. That is so awesome the fram and then your fun you'll have adding to it! What a simply wonderful and playful find, good for you!! Love ya, Lori

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  8. Oh Oh Linda I have a piece of blue gingham fabric that has Pennys imprinted on it. I really like it but think it would look great peeking out behind those great notions. What do you think? I might be talked into sending it to you...just because I am so fond of you. Let me know!

    P.s. Love the sentiment about imperfection.. I feel the same way!

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  9. The apron hanger is super cute.

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