I love the challenge of repurposing or upcycling an object. This month I found something very unusual. Can you guess what it is? It’s a metal basket of sorts on a narrow stand with bent, hook-like prongs at the top. I love the graphic look of it and the shadows it creates. It’s a great conversation piece.

I used it in 3 different ways.

First as a lamp shade. It has a steampunk look when paired with a vintage-style Edison light bulb. (Thomas Edison invented it in 1879, in case you didn’t remember!)

Of course, it’s perfect as a funky art installation. I elevated it on an old stove pipe cover (bet you wouldn’t have guessed what that was either!). Then I filled it up with random things that are important to me. I bought the little crown and number 77 in Paris. It’s art I can change every time I redecorate.

Finally, almost everything works as a candle holder and this isn’t any different. A cut crystal votive and candle will add atmosphere to any room.

Have you guessed what it was originally used for?

It’s an apple picker basket!