In Random Recast, we find new uses for ordinary things. This week: Rope.
Photo by: ASoftPlace.net; Black Kat's Design
A plain glass vase makes an impressive gift with just a little bit of glue (and okay, lots of rope). Depending on the thickness of the rope, you can create very different looks: Thinner twine offers a more refined look, while chunkier sisal rope reads more rustic. For the twine, use hot glue; for a really thick rope, you might even want to use tile adhesive.
Another idea: Use this same coiling technique to make a cat scratching post. Instead of wrapping the rope around a vase (unless you'd like your cat to shred that), wrap it around a rectangular piece of cardboard.
Missed this week's abbreviated Random Recast: Rope? Here's a recap...
Day #3: Nautical Mirror Makeover
Photo by: Haus Interior; Ballard Designs
This simple DIY recreates the look of a high-end mirror for a fraction of the price.
I fell in love with both of these nautical-inspired mirrors, but the $120+ price was just not in my budget for a mirror. (Even if it would be cute in my navy bathroom.) The design isn't too complicated: Just take a thrifted mirror and cover its frame with layers of rope. But the key to the sophisticated design lies in using a really thick sisal rope. Easy to find, yes, but also difficult to bond. Normal hot glue just won't have enough tack to keep the chunky rope in place. Instead, try Barges Cement, a specialty glue normally used in leather crafting. It'll securely bond the rough rope to any surface. (As with any kind of strong glue, be sure to use it in a well-ventilated area!)
Day #2: Woven Rope Rug
Photo by: devaburger, flickrThese woven mats are used all over the place on boats. When knotted, the rope is super-strong, durable and reasonably weather-safe.
Traditionally used on sailboats, rope mats have crossed over into the mainstream, showing up at countless boutiques. We've spotted some mats going for $200 and up, which is a bit silly when you realize that it's just knotted rope. OK, the knotting method (which is called the Turk's Head Knot) is a bit complex, but we've found a tutorial that demystifies the process over at Summit Post.
As for rope, you'll want to stay away from the "hairy" natural sisal variety: It'll just wreck your hands as you work. Nylon-blend (or plain cotton) white rope will look just as pretty without scratching up fingers.
Day #1: Coiled Coasters
Photo by: SeasideInspired.com
Whip up a set of coasters (or placemats) in minutes by coiling rope into a spiral. A set of 4 makes a great party favor.
Whether white or neutral-hued, rope stylishly pulls its own weight (ha...ha) in the decor-DIY realm. It always looks right for summer, lending a nautical air to whatever it touches. And who doesn't love the nautical look? (Says the girl who is typing this while wearing a jaunty seersucker blazer and boat shoes.)
This is my absolute favorite decorative use for rope: Coiled coasters. This is one of those crafts that barely need any instructions, because it is that simple. But I'll give them to you anyway. Just snip a length of rope, then coil into a spiral, gradually adding hot glue to the coil to keep things secure. And then you're done. You can use this rope-coiling method to also make larger mats and trivets, just make sure to be generous with the hot glue.
Want to catch up with past Random Recast projects? Check out... Random Recast: New Uses for Grocery Bags Round-UpRandom Recast - New Uses for Aluminum Foil Round-Up
Stay tuned for next week's Random Recast. What will it be? You'll have to wait and see...
