Arched Mirror Frame Makeover

I found this hunter green arch frame, in need of a little love, about a year ago for $2.00 at a tag sale and haven't had time to make it over until this past weekend. Here is a "Before" picture - dirt and all!

I was going to tape off the mirror part to paint the frame when I was pleased to discover that the mirror was able to be detached from the frame. However, in my excitement, I cracked a corner of the mirror - doh!

With a little tacky glue, I glued the corner back on and hoped it wouldn't be too noticeable by the end.

Next, I added two coats of a light green paint to the frame, breaking in between so it could fully dry. This frame is going on a dark blue accent wall and the rest of the room is this same light green color.

Because I had painted the frame flat on the newspaper, I had to do a tad bit of sanding on the backside to make sure the edges were clean and neat. After that, I cleaned the mirror and put it back into the frame, securing the rivets on the back and also adding some hot glue on the corners for added staying power. 

Once the frame was put back together, I added a few fabric leaves for effect...and also to cover that pesky little crack in the bottom corner, from earlier. 

And finally, here is the frame hung in its proper place; the hallway entrance to our bedroom. 

It looks great against the accent wall - for just a couple of dollars and a few hours of work, I couldn't have found a more perfect wall hanging in any store!

From the Archives - Tips for a Successful Craft Fair

Since I spent a good portion of the night making zucchini bread, here is a post from my archives. For you beginners, here are some things to consider before your next craft show, to ensure it is a success!

1. Check with the craft fair coordinator to find out what you need to bring and what will be provided; chairs, tables, tablecloths, etc. 

2. Be comfortable and prepared - wear comfy shoes and layers in case you get warm after set-up and some healthy snacks as there are rarely any provided. 

3. Decide how you will accept payment. If you accept credit cards, make sure you have your supplies and an electrical outlet at your booth. If cash only, have plenty of change and never leave your cash box unattended.

4. Make sure all items are priced and signs are visible. Customers don't like to waste time searching for prices, they are looking for the items that catch their fancy and are easily accessible. 

5. Be a happy seller! Wearing a genuine smile and having a good time are among the best ways to draw customers to your booth. Bring a friend, string some colorful lights and relax while enjoying all the compliments that will surely come your way. 

Good luck with your next show!

Thrifty Weekend Finds

In addition to my weekend crafting plans (still in progress, by the way), my hubby was nice enough to take me to a local indoor flea market yesterday. I love finding items that can be given a little love and made into something brand spanking new for our home. 

My favorite discovery was this spice/book rack - I knew with a coat or two of spray paint that it would look perfect to display some of the smaller, glass items that have been stashed in the cabinet. Since we have a lot of wood in the living room, I thought it would look good with a black finish, instead of the original wood. I have many black frames and decorations around the room so I think this will fit right in.

Another cute but dirty discovery is this arch mirror. My plan for this is to paint it a light green and hang it on the accent wall in our bedroom. Even though construction has been finished for some time, I still haven't finished the wall decorations. 

And finally, this little sleigh basket will have to wait until Winter so I can find the perfect use for it but I love it none the less. With some red, glossy spray paint and cinnamon scented pine cones - this will look adorable on a small accent table just about anywhere in the house!

I couldn't be happier that all these items cost me less than $10. I'll be sure to post before and after pictures once I have them...

Craft Fairs vs Flea Markets

Even though I normally love Mondays, today has just beaten me up! It started off well enough but when I opened my washing machine after the first load of clothes this morning - I realized that the brightly colored place mats I had recently salvaged from my Nana's house had run all over each other. No longer looking like fun fiesta decor, they now looked like I had let a small child near them with a box of markers.

My day didn't necessarily get any worse so that's good. I delivered the birthday gift that our subcontractor had ordered and he was thrilled with the results. His girlfriend's birthday is in 3 days so I can't wait to hear what he says after that!

Here's my question for all of you today - it was suggested to me that I try selling my crafts at a flea market. I've thought about it before but usually talk myself out of it thinking that everyone will try to haggle with me and I'll see my hard work sell out along with my spirit. What do you think? 

Have you sold your crafts at flea markets? How are they different than the average outdoor craft fair in the spring/summer? Do you have any tips or suggestions? Please let me know in the comments section - I'm going to post this question on Twitter too and I'll update with any great advice I get...