BCAA

iStock, Upcycle That, Upcycle Vancouver SPRING 2017 BCA A .COM 25 upcycling HOME CHALK IT UP WITH CHALK PAINT Chalk paint, an acrylic matte finish, is easy to apply and gives furnishings and other items a shabby chic, vintage look that's hot on the home front these days. Glass jars can be painted with undiluted chalk paint to upcycle them into vases or votive candle holders. Dark coloured chalk paint can transform a discarded board or other wooden surface into a chalkboard surface for scribbling notes or doodling. You can buy chalk paint ready-made at home decor and paint shops ( BCAA Members save up to 30% at Cloverdale Paint). Alternatively, make your own using just three ingredients: water, plaster of Paris and latex paint. First, mix half a cup (125 mL) of plaster of Paris powder with half a cup (125 mL) of water, stirring until smooth. Then add one-and-a-half cups (375 mL) of latex paint in a colour of your choosing. Mix well. Apply your chalk paint to a clean, sanded surface, as you would regular latex paint. Once you've finished, add a clear coat or wax to help protect the matte finish. Rediscovered treasures Carrie Thachuk, owner of The Passionate Home shop in Langley, offers reclaimed vintage, repurposed and chic one-of-a-kind pieces for the home, as well as workshops on simple topics, such as chalk-style refinishing. "Painting Grandma's dresser for use in, say, a child's room is as easy as choosing a colour and picking up a paintbrush," says Thachuk. "Upcycling offers those wanting to keep up to date with current style trends an affordable way to accomplish their desired look." Again, success is in the mix. Combining upcycled or restyled items with what you've already collected creates an environment loaded with character. "The [appeal of the] trend lies not only in restyling items, but in using found objects and furniture in their original condition," says Thachuk. "Mixing those items with current decor creates personalized spaces." Try this upcycle! Teacup candles: melt soy candle wax in a double boiler and pour into vintage or thrifted teacups. Put a wax- coated candle wick in the centre and prop on either side with wick supports (pencils or chopsticks work well). Allow to cool for several hours and then trim the wick. Thanks to: Upcycle That. TIP! Ask your home insurer if certain DIY activities are restricted. Some policies may exclude coverage if the application of heat leads to a fire claim. Try this upcycle! Tire ottoman: give old tires new life by stacking and painting them, and topping with upholstered foam or a cushion. Funky and functional! Thanks to: Upcycle Vancouver.

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