Spring is the start of something new and as we transition from snow to sunshine, we can’t help but get excited to get outside and inspire people to bring change into their home. Whether it’s upcycling something old into something new or recycling around the house, we are passionate about finding the beauty in what you have and breathing new life into homes. From green remodeling ideas to creating a cozy living space for you and your loved ones, we enjoyed sharing how to stay warm and create warm places the affordable way, regardless of how cold it is outside. Now that spring is here, we are excited to help you move into the new season, whether it be with a new fireplace or a new design all together. Start getting inspired by flipping through our free full-colored catalog and consult our blog for design inspiration from around the world.
Green Living Tip: How to Reuse Wood Ash
We decided to, “Go Green,” this month in St. Patrick’s Day spirit, but instead of pinching those who weren’t wearing green on March 17th, we were motivated to pinch our wallets by Going Green with eco-friendly practices. We shared some great ways to remodel the green way, and now we have more tips to help you extend the life of your fireplace ash.
Reusing your fireplace ash and charcoal is one of the best ways to cut down on waste and recycle. It’s a common practice to just get rid of ash and charcoal as soon as our fire is out, but did you know that it’s great for use around the house? Or in your garden? Here are some tips on how to use ash around the house:
- Wood Ashes Repel Insects. Wood ashes absorb water and when you sprinkle them around plants they can prevent snails and slugs from feasting on your produce and flowers. Be sure to only use small amounts of ashes around the base of the plant to avoid causing chemical burns to it.
- Fertilizer Ashes. The circle of life is never more evident than in fertilizer. Wood ashes are a great source of nutrients and minerals like: potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, trace amounts of iron, manganese and more. Plants just drink it up.
- Unclog Drains with Wood Ash. Wood ash has something called lye, which when released from the ash, will bind to greases, fats, oils and such stuck in drain pipes. No more need for toxic chemicals! Before you use them to unclog your drain, allow ashes to cool and scoop the finest white or gray powdery ashes into a metal container. Do not allow the ashes to get wet. Pour 1 cup of powdery ash with equal parts rain water (or water without extra chemicals). Let sit for 2-3 hours, and then flush the drain.
- No More Skunk Stink with Wood Ash. If a skunk sprayed you or your pet, reuse your fireplace ashes (once fully cooled) and wear gloves, before rubbing a handful into the affected area. Leave on for a few minutes before rinsing your skin or your pet’s coat thoroughly. Repeat if necessary.
Who knew leftover ashes could be so useful? Breathe new life into used ashes by using them effectively around the house. What else can you reuse? What tips do you have for recycling things like ash and charcoal? Share with us on Facebook or Twitter!
From Drab to Divine Décor—Upcycling Decorations
You might not know it, but around you are a number of things waiting to be upcycled into décor. That mug you never use? It can’t wait to add pizazz to your mantel. An unused pillowcase? It’s yearning to bring color to your fireplace. You don’t need to spend your green to redecorate and you can start the art of upcycling (taking something old and upgrading it to something new), by decorating around your fireplace.
Contemporary fireplaces showcase their lux design and complement the beauty of your room with their clean facades and simple lines. These types of cast stone fireplaces are also the perfect foundation for your personal decorating touch.
For example, do you have a broken mirror? Wear sturdy gloves and be careful when creating a mosaic of your own on an old plate, tray or flat surface. Let your creativity do the talking by showcasing a beauty like the one you’ve created above your fireplace mantel. Not using your fireplace for warmth? Tell your creative story by placing books inside the unused hearth instead! Stay tuned to our Old World Stoneworks blog to be inspired by some ideas to get you started on your upcycling journey, especially after spring cleaning!