Fix-It Chick: Hardware items can be repurposed

Everything you find in a hardware store has a purpose, but with a little imagination, the possibilities are limitless. Consider these options:

  1. PVC plastic pipe and fittings are lightweight, affordable and can be used to build a frame for almost anything. Bend thin pipe to make a low tunnel hoop house for gardening. Use elbows, tees and pipe to create yard games, racks, stands, toys and so much more. Spray paint specifically formulated to stick to plastic makes the possibilities almost endless.

  2. Galvanized and black iron pipe are heavier and more expensive than PVC pipe, making them the perfect choice for building heavy-duty bookshelves and furniture. Mix some reclaimed lumber with the iron pipe to achieve a modern industrial look for most any project.

  3. Metal conduit and copper tubing can be cut and bent to form custom curtain rods for nearly any part of the room. Pipe strap and other tubing hangers provide many options for hanging the custom rods.

  4. Hose bibbs can be mounted to a piece of wood and used for coat hooks, towel holders or even drawer pulls.

  5. Large c-clamps can be clamped to a shelf and used as decorative and functional bookends.

  6. Screw-type hose clamps can be used as napkin rings, and bandanas can be used as napkins.

  7. Old or new drawer knobs and pulls make great hooks. Use a hanger bolt to attach a few directly to the wall or onto a painted board. Add a cork to the back of a knob for a unique and practical bottle stopper.

  8. Store everything and anything in glass canning jars. From nuts and bolts, spices and leftovers to kitschy craft items, glass canning jars are the perfect storage containers for almost anything.

  9. Save those old shower curtains or buy a new one and use it to protect the back seat or trunk of a car. Shower curtains are less bulky then tarps and more durable than plastic drop cloths and they are very affordable too.

  10. Line a drawer with pegboard and use dowel rods to divide the drawer into sections to keep everything neat and tidy.

  11. Staple hardware cloth across the opening of an old frame or window to create a handy bulletin board or organizer.

  12. Repurpose old garden tools into art. Clean them up and hang them on the wall.

— Have a question? Email Linda Cottin at hardware@sunflower.com.