me and the plumbing supply store guy

I thought that might get your attention.

I got this awesome book called Home from the Hardware Store for Christmas.  It's all about repurposing hardware and plumbing parts, and it's super cool.  Like Brooklyn hipsterish cool, with lots of references to French flea markets.  

I was especially attracted to what the authors describe as "machine-age candlesticks," made from plumbing parts.  John and Gus waited outside the plumbing supply store (no way was John subjecting himself to this), while I bravely tucked my craft book under my arm and headed inside, muttering "hex bushing" under my breath.  

these are hex bushings.
who knew?

After scanning the aisles for about 30 seconds, I gave in.  In my most confident voice, I asked where I could find hex bushings and unions.  And then I blew my cover, blathering on about candlesticks and repurposing and crafting.  But then, when I showed the nice plumbing supply store guy the pictures, he brightened at the picture of the candleabra, suggesting a menorah. A kindered spirit, right there in the degreaser aisle!  

The project could not be easier, but it also couldn't be more expensive.  I'm reminded of the other cool thing about using salvaged and reclaimed items:  they are generally cheap (except when I get carried away at an auction for the coolest. croquet set. ever.).  The whole shebang was so expensive, I didn't buy the unions, which came in at a whopping $18/per.  Hopefully this spring I'll hit the tag sale of a retired plumber with lots of hex bushings and unions to get rid of.  

The sudden disappearance of the unions allowed me to add my own twist/new obsession:  

giant washers
and check out that awesome tag sale scale! 

sweet

home

So here they are, all dolled up for a housewarming present (sweet home, home sweet, get it?).  Thanks, Brooklyn hipsters.  If the trend continues into 2013, you'll be moving to Northampton any day now, and we will welcome you with open, crafty arms.