Trash to Treasure: Bookshelves, Fireplace Screen, Clock, Lamp

Robb Whittlef shares how to change drawers into freestanding bookshelves, turn old pickets into a decorative screen, use molding to make a clock and make a lamp out of old porch spindles.

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Turn kitchen drawers into freestanding bookshelves. Put two drawers end to end and attach with screws. Paint in one color to tie them together. The top can be used as a plant stand or small side table.

Use a wooden medallion for a clock face. Route out the back of the medallion for the clock mechanism to fit into (available at hardware stores). Add two old nails to the back to act as a stand. If you can't find old nails to go with the aged look of the medallion, just leave them outside in the rain and age them naturally.

Look for fence parts at a salvage center. Whittlef actually found his fence parts in shades of red, white and blue but you can paint your own those colors, if desired. Detach the fence pieces and reattach with multiple hinges at the middle and bottom.

Create a lamp out of spindles and a piece of old railing. Attach three spindles to a small railing section with screws. Use a 14-inch drill bit to make a hole from the bottom of one spindle to the top. Add the necessary electrical parts (available at a lighting supply store for about $8) and top with a lampshade.