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G-Word's face off between Evette Rios, The Salvage Queen of New York, and her friendly rival Tiffany, may have gotten you thinking "I could do that!"
Not only is it fun to find something free to use in your home (and in the case of Evette and Tiffany, competitive!), it's one of the most eco-sensitive things you can do. Salvaged furniture requires zero new resources, except for paint and varnish if you decide to refurbish, all of which you can find in eco-friendly forms. Plus, found furniture makes for great cocktail conversation at your next dinner party!
These insights are from L.A.-based designer Charlie Trainer, who shares insights gleaned from years of dumpster diving.
- Trash Day Rocks: The night before trash day marks the beginning of any salvager's treasure hunt. Charlie cruises the streets on his bike so he can look for things he'd otherwise miss in the car. If you come across an item that's too big to carry, return with your car and load up.
- Count on Craigslist : The nation's bulletin board, Craigslist continues to deliver when it comes to salvage-worthy finds. Check out their "Free" section and keep an eye out for "curb alerts," in which good Samaritans inform others of curbside booty locales, some even posting photos. The invaluable "Garage Sale" section notes dates and time: be sure to arrive early.
- Make it a Family Affair: Thursday night was "trash picking night" for Charlie, his mom and sister. Even though it embarrassed him at the time, it clearly struck a chord since salvaging is something he still does-and loves-both personally and professionally. At minimum, you'll be spending time together as a family.
- Paint It! "Everything looks cleaner, brighter, and newer with a fresh coat of white, semi-gloss paint," says Charlie. In fact, he often finds paint in the trash too–taboo on the eco front (paint is actually considered household hazardous waste and needs to be disposed of responsibly). Purchase V.O.C.-free eco-friendly paint at your local hardware store.
- Pull Up a Chair: Chairs are one of the most common finds – at least in Charlie's L.A. nabe! Seats are usually screwed on, so simply unscrew them, remove the fabric (making sure the foam is still good) and use a staple gun to cover it in the remnant or organic fabric of choice.
- Pass It On: You don't have to necessarily be in the market for home furnishings. Save a cool piece, fix it up a bit-or not-and sell it yourself online. Make money and decrease landfill fodder, all in one shot.
"You can get such a high from alighting upon that one perfect thing," says Charlie. "It fuels you for the next find." Have fun-and keep your eye on the prize.
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