I love to repurpose items and make something old out of something new. I believe that discarded items can be used again in anew and interesting way that gives them a whole new life. and I take it on as my job to figure out what the new life for that item is.
Laurel Uenaka
I am in grad school to become an elementary school teacher.
I also teach group exercise classes at fitness clubs.
I absolutely love my niece puppy!
One of my favorite places in the world is the Paris Flea market.
What got you started crafting?
I have been crafting as long as I can remember. My grandmother used to always have something for us to make together when I saw her. She taught me how to paint, collage, draw, mosaic, and even pastel. Since then I have been encouraged by my mother who is an elementary school teacher to make something if I wanted it.
I love watching home decor shows and reading style magazines. When I went to college I made my room look like on a from a magazine using all garage sale and thrift store finds. My friends thought I had spent a fortune! I love to re-paint and repurpose anything and everything.
What is your source of inspiration?
I love to repurpose items and make something old out of something new. I believe that discarded items can be used again in anew and interesting way that gives them a whole new life. and I take it on as my job to figure out what the new life for that item is.
What have you made recently?
Recently, I made a pencil or pen holder that goes on a desktop from a vintage book that was being discarded. The book is titled, "Ideas for Writing", so I thought a pencil holder would be a great idea. I took out all of the pages from the book and basically made a box out of it using balsa wood. I kept the top open and covered the balsa wood with pages from the book. Then I filled the box with rice almost to the top and stuck my pencils in it. You can find it within the next day or two on my etsy shop. I think this a unique and fun way to dress up a desk and bring a quirky conversation piece into a room. Plus, it gives and old item a new life!
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
I sell my creations on etsy. However I do not sell my bigger items on etsy because shipping would be too big of a hassle when the item is a dresser ;)
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
Handmade to me means made with love and with a purpose. People have to really like what they are doing and believe in it to be making it by hand. It gives me a chance to put a part of myself into everything I make and every piece I save from the landfill.
Find Me
LocationCalifornia
Email Address
Laurel Uenaka
Personal Website
http://shophana.etsy.com
Store Website
http://shophana.etsy.com
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