"Anxiety is the hand maiden of creativity" -T.S Elliot

  Im tired of looking at my stuff. One of the most difficult things in my life to manage is the unrelenting need for change. New environments are exciting to me, despite the stress often associated with change; I find that it is positively stimulating. The problem with craving a change in scenery is the financial aspect of it. Wandering can be quite expensive. So, to satisfy my urges I've decided to start with the scenery with in the for walls in which I reside in. There is no real strategy in place to decide what changes are needed. Let's just say it's more of a feeling and whatever I happen upon (that I can afford) a I aimlessly wander though thrift stores. Which is absolutely one of my favorite things to do, its such a relaxing and surreal activity. It's crazy to think that all these objects were once owned and cherished by past individuals who we never knowingly met, but I digress. 
So, far I've come across many nice wooden shelves, "Knick-Knacks" and great Thrift store art, those places never cease to surprise me. 
  In addition to wandering in second hand shops, I also enjoy searching for my next DIY fix. I would love to be knowledgeable and confidant enough to create the things I need around the house. Knowing how to create things from scratch seems, to me, like a very valuable skill to have. The project that I have recently completed reflects that aspiration, I found it on Pinterest (pure genius). I loved the rustic and simplistic quality it brought to the image. So, I've recently finished it and would like to document the steps in hopes that someone else is inspired by the ease of creating and decide to DIY rather than buy. 

Step one: Acquire some wood. 

 I'm sure that I would have enjoyed making this completely from scratch, but unfortunately for me, I do not have the financial means nor the space to embark on that sort of venture. So I opted to go to Jo-Ann fabric store. They (and most craft stores) tend to sell these crates for a good price, I've found that attempting to find "vintage" crates can result in complete exhaustion of the mind and the bank account. 

Step Two: Stain without Hesitation 

 I chose to use two colors , to try to create the feeling of randomness; Like I acquired all of these crates over time. So after much deliberation, I chose Red Mahogany and Dark Walnut. The staining process was easy enough. With each brush stroke or after you have completed a side (depending on how saturated you want the stain to be) wipe the excess stain from the wood with a cloth or old shirt. Though it was easier than I expected, I did have trouble keeping up with the drips to other parts that either already stained or had not yet stained. It all depends on the results you are looking for. 

Step Three: Location and Arrangement

 Of course, this is completely up to your own discretion. The original image that I saw the crates were all horizontal and held together by brackets. I decided to switch up the direction and leave them detached so I can move them around for when I inevitably rearrange my furniture. 

Step Four: Summon your inner 'Old Lady'

 Like I mentioned before, I tend to collect random objects that appeal to me without having a place to display them in my home. NO LONGER!! Now, I can show my friends (whom I never invite over) what an old lady I really am and the crafts that fill a good majority of my time.






  All in all, this feels like a great step in direction of self sustainability. I feel accomplished but of course, not satisfied. There is more to do! 
 I'll keep you apprised of all developments in my DIY attempts. :)

Paz