Here is my latest edition to Ethos Upcycling. I purchased an old oak video cabinet.

This item was heavy and cumbersome, and had issues with one of the 'doors' not shutting properly.

I had a look over the piece and decided that with the issues it had drastic action needed to be taken . . . 

Once the video cabinet was opened up its full potential became obvious.

Everybody needs good storage, however the weight of the item as a whole was not very practical so I decided to break it down into sections to create Pigeon Holes.

These photographs show the finished products with the Pigeon Holes being put into use.

These two items will make a lovely addition to any home and I will be sorry to see them go.

The smaller pigeon holes can be used as shown or on its side as more of a low unit, either way what a fabulous way to showcase your prized possessions.

Now available for sale via Ethos Upcycling Online Shop

Damion

I've acquired this apple crate and thought it's far too good simply to store apples and thought there must be a use for it around my home.

I'm always looking at ways to repurpose items when I can.

After a lot of trial and error I came to the conclusion that it would be ideal for book storage.

I had considered maybe giving it a wash of paint but decided to leave it in its original rustic form.

The crate is made from well used wood, nailed together with a natural unspoilt finish. 

This final picture shows it stacked with books standing in pride of place next to another classic retro lamp from the 1970s.

In the foreground is a fantastic wooden plant stand which also adds character to the living room.

All of these pieces in their own little way show my likes and personality.

So what would you store in your apple crate?

Damion

I made a purchase of this cable reel, being one to like a challenge, as I felt it had some potential to be re-purposed into something useful.  It's made from ply wood and came to me looking a little tatty.

After much thought it was obvious really - it's obviously a coffee table!

After giving the cable reel a sand, getting rid of glue and splinters, I dusted it off and then it was time to paint.

I applied a coat of Duck Egg Blue Annie Sloan Chalk Paint all over to begin, and then when dried put on a second coat of Night Jewel Dulux Matt paint leaving the central column the original Duck Egg Blue to give a two tone effect.

Once this was completely dry wax was added and polished to complete the look.

When waxed I decided the project still needed a little something extra - something was missing.

After lots of coffee and thinking it hit me - a vinyl record was the answer.

Digging through a few vinyls I came across an old Black and White Minstrels record which had 'His Master's Voice' across the centre.

By adding this record to the centre of the reel my aim to produce a quirky, practical coffee table was complete.

So now the coffee table has pride of place in my living room I have started to put all the available storage to good use by adding some books and DVDs.

It's surprising how much storage is available.

Now it's time for a well earned beer but before I go just one question:

What would you store on yours?

Damion