Here are some more ways to use interesting pieces that you might find at a flea market or vintage sale. These pieces were spotted at Gold Rush Days in Rochester and Oronoco, Minnesota.
I'm not sure what this is. A crib bottom? An industrial piece? A gate? Doesn't matter. They would all work well as a bulletin/note/picture board. Can't you imagine hanging this on the wall of the kitchen or office or bedroom and using clothes pins or clips to hang pictures and notes from this? If it's in good shape you can use it as is but it would look great spray painted. I'm seeing turquoise blue.
I would just clean this up but leave it as it is, patina and all. It could work in a casual room or even as a contrasting piece in a more formal (not super formal) setting. See all the niches above for storing silverware, candles, office supplies... If you use this as your buffet and you don't have to worry about spills, scratches or marks from hot plates.
Someone's already done the imagining on this piece. Bicycle parts, a stand and table surface combine to make an unusual table. If you had room near a front entryway this would make an interesting landing spot for mail, keys, purses and packages.
Add color and graphics to a child's room. The storage space inside is a bonus. These always seem to be available and if they're not a highly collectible box they're not expensive. For the most impact use them in groups.
Sometimes you find really nice new goods at a flea market. They're usually much less expensive than they would be in a retail store. Just check the quality carefully because you can't easily return items. These blankets from were so nice. Beautiful soft wool and gorgeous color. Blankets can also be used to cover up ugly upholstery or to upholster something that won't be getting a lot of use like a small bedroom chair or a corner stool. Find these Handmade Alpaca Wool Ecuadorian blankets at:
Stay tuned. I'm going to do at least one more post with my pictures from Gold Rush Days in Minnesota.