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“Reduce, reuse, recycle” croons Jack Johnson from our Curious George soundtrack. Maybe he is on to something. Seems like you can’t throw a stone without hitting something “green.” And, as far as I’m concerned, that is a good thing.

I am a huge fan of reusing furniture, accessories, fabric, clothes … you name it. Old draperies become my newest table cover, an old picnic basket becomes our favorite new craft carrier, my grandmother’s old writing desk is painted and becomes my sturdy little laptop stand, grandpa’s barn wood hangs our outdoor swing. The list goes on, and I’m sure you can add to it. The idea is finding pieces you LOVE and repurposing them in ways that fit perfectly into the functionality and feel of your home.

There is so much great quality used furniture out there, why always buy new? Not to mention the sentimentality that goes with owning something your grandparents used. To find these hidden treasures, peruse all the usual venues: your local antique or vintage stores, garage and estate sales, Mom’s basement or grandma’s attic, E-bay, craigslist and the like. Ask friends if they have anything they want to part with. You never know, that dusty piece of wrought iron in the garage may be your new quilt rack or funky wall hanging.

With a little ingenuity you can be reusing furniture and accessories in no time. And, if you aren’t into doing it yourself, there are plenty of places to buy vintage that is ready to use. Here are a few of my favorite blogs on old (but new to you) furniture, housewares and fabric and some fun shopping sites, too. Feel free to share your faves or any tips you have on this topic. Enjoy being green and regards!

http://www.lowimpactliving.com/blog/2008/01/01/vintage-used-furniture-find-green-gold/

http://vintageindie.typepad.com/vintage_indie/crafting_diy/index.html

http://plump-pudding.typepad.com/plump_pudding/

http://mediazene.com/

http://www.gono.com/vir-mus/village/bwemporium/furniture/barn%20emp%20furniture.htm

http://www.vintagevending.com/