NQF: Scrap fabric leftover into pillowcover

Ornate paisley prints tend to catch my eye, and this one was no exception when I first saw it...... 

two years ago. It was a remnant piece for sale at the MiniShop section of Bits of Thread (http://www.bitsofthread.com/supplies-and-services/shop/).

swirly paisley

There were grand visions of making giant floor box cushions, then reality struck.

So the paisley pattern waited patiently until I decided it was time to try to brighten up the dull beige couch that sits against a beige wall.

Paisley pillow cover

The couch and overall living room are a work in progress.

I've got enough fabric for a second pillow cover, hopefully it won't take two years to be inspired again.

Happy not-quite-free freestyling.

Assorted small ceramic planters

At the same time as the larger blue and white planter in the last post, I also discovered these smaller ceramic planters.  The larger ones have no drainage holes, while the smaller ones have drainage holes but there were no matching trays to be found when they were sitting forlornly next to the dumpster. This was not a deterrent.

I don't know what plants I'll use, but now that I have more containers I am inspired to take some cuttings and get them started rooting in plain water.  This method has worked well for both pothos and begonia cuttings, sounds too easy, but after a few weeks roots appear.  So far all of the transplants have all survived after moving from their rooting-water bath to regular potting soil.  

The next step is to eat yogurt so I can repurpose the plastic containers as planters by poking holes in the bottom.  Those plastic containers will be the right size for the two larger pots.

Happy planting and freestyling!

Ceramic surprise in blue and white

The end of the month means someone is likely moving out of our building, and chances are they will lighten their load and leave a few usable items behind.  April was no exception.  I found this lovely blue and white ceramic planter with matching square tray next to the dumpster.  Thank you mystery moving person for leaving it outside of the dumpster for someone else to find, and not hiding it inside of a trash bag or breaking it into pieces, good karma to you!

Each side features a different painted botanical design, but these two are my favorites.

 

This fern needed a new home after surviving both summer on a patio and winter indoors while sitting on a less-than-glamorous plain white plate. I think this new planter suits it, and so far the fern hasn't complained.  Maybe I'll even take it out of the plastic pot and plant it directly into the ceramic container, one thing at a time.

If you find ceramics or other items to repurpose as planters be sure to wash them thoroughly to avoid bringing plant pathogens and pests into your home.

Happy spring freestyling!