ANDREW’S RECLAIMED

NEW for Fall, Industrial Business Card Holders

2011-11-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

In this business card holder we bring nature and science together, with reclaimed woods and hard brushed metals.

With the warm glow of ages old re-milled cedar or fir, combined with the cold and hard stainless steel and aluminum, this warm and solid style might appeal to a variety of professionals.

The woods for these card holders came from old structures and will sometimes show a cosmetic surface irregularity or mineral streak. We think this adds character and makes each piece unique.

The color shown is medium red cedar in its natural state, with a light rubbed clear linseed oil finish.

Comes with cork nonskid pads.

We have lighter and darker woods as well, please let us know your preference upon checkout.

Cheers,

Andrew and Melissa

andrewsreclaimed.etsy.com

Providing for feathered friends… | Little Wool Maus

2011-10-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

Providing for feathered friends… | Little Wool Maus

This chipmunk has an incredible storage capacity

2011-09-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

This chipmunk has an incredible storage capacity

Having fun with piknik software

2011-09-23T17:52:00.001-07:00

squirrel feeder gimme nut
Originally uploaded by Andrew's Reclaimed Home and Garden

2011-09-05T15:29:00.001-07:00

Bird Cam Pictures

2011-09-05T13:34:00.000-07:00

At last, our first bird cam! Here are some of our first pics with the birdcam. We need some practice with natural lighting, but good results so far. The squirrel pic? I don't know, we were very lucky here. The pose, angle, lighting, nut, everything was just right. This was day 1. The squirrel feeder and bird feeder can be seen in better resolution at Andrew's Reclaimed.

2011-07-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

Reclaimed fir tool holder block

2011-07-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

Succulent planter cube, reclaimed wood

2011-07-01T15:13:00.001-07:00

A great way to brighten up a room. Succulents and cacti are easy to care for, and come in many unique shapes and colors.

Enhance your office or any room with color and a bit of history.

Old-growth reclaimed lumber is some of the best there is. Tight grain, nice patterns and color. These finely crafted succulent planters will look great on your desk or anwhere your office could use a touch of color.

The holes are just the right size for easy transplant from a standard small pot.

Comes finely sanded with a nice poly and beeswax finish.

May contain traces of screw holes, nail holes, tool marks, or weathering.

Each 3 x 3 x 3, with cork nonskid pads.

andrewsreclaimed.etsy.com

Downy Woodpecker Feeders, Made From Re-Sawn Cedar

2010-11-14T10:49:00.000-08:00

Woodpeckers have zygodactyl feet, which consist of four toes, the first and fourth facing forward and the second and third facing rear. This toe arrangement is perfect for grasping rough textures such as tree bark. Woodpeckers can walk right up a tree when foraging for food. In addition to powerful claws, woodpeckers have short strong legs. Their tails are rigid and act as a support along with their feet and legs.

I build these feeders from reclaimed western red cedar, a tough, somewhat oily wood that does well in outdoors. It has six feeding stations, two of which offer enough tail room for larger woodpeckers, though maybe not the very large pileated woodpeckers. At 11" tall, made for smaller downy woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches.

Complete hanging hardware including a 2 foot long cable. I roll my own logs from pre-mixed cakes for easier loading. It takes a minute or two to get the hang of it, but your woodpeckers will be fun to watch and so happy you provided them with this energy-packed treat they need!

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Hopper style bird feeder, eco friendly reclaimed cedar

2010-10-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

Your birds will enjoy plenty of food while perched at the base of this 11" tall bird feeder.

All of what I build here is made from "rescued" cedar wood. Reclaimed, repurposed, recycled, whatever the current tag is, all woods were either taken from or saved from waste. This job normally involves a lot of nail-pulling. Those nails that can't be found by the naked eye I find with an inexpensive metal detector, and extract them by drilling around the nail and prying it out. Most often, this reclaimed wood is of better quality than what you may find at the store, but you may find a bit of mineral staining or complete nail holes, evidence of the wood's age.

I use western red cedar, mainly. It contains properties that make it hold up in wet environments probably better than any other wood. It also has a nice straight grain and wonderful scent, and I like the color. It's a bit different from eastern aromatic cedar.

No live trees were ever sawn down for these products, which I am sure the birds will appreciate as much as you or I.

Snug-fitting roof and overall design will help keep squirrels out, but easy to re-fill, simply pull the roof up and pour in the seed. UV resistant plastic hopper will stand up in the elements.

I carefully craft these from re-milled old growth cedar wood for performance. The frame that surrounds the base of the feeder is glued and nailed in place.

Green vinyl-coated cable comes with hoop and eye screw from which to hang it.

Like most of my woodwork, this item ships with minimal packaging, just enough protection to carry it safely to your door, and whenver possible, 100% post-consumer use.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Andrew's Reclaimed, the Music Video :)

2010-08-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Wooden Soap Dishes, Re-Milled Western Red Cedar, Pack of 25

2010-08-19T14:42:00.000-07:00

These finely crafted wooden soap dishes can be the perfect way to present your hand-made soap. Simply place your soap on the dish, and wrap with your own brand giftwrap or ribbon.

I reserved only my very finest grain cedar for these soap decks.

2 3/4" wide, 3 3/4" long, 3/4" thick.

The stock for these wooden soap dishes came from large blocks of mill end surplus, a material which may help reduce strain on our natural resources.

100% natural, no varnishes of any kind. The natural properties of cedar will help protect it in wet environments.

Please note, as this is a natural product, color and tone may vary.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Seed Starting Trays, Eco Friendly Recycled Wood, Pack of Ten

2010-08-19T14:39:00.000-07:00

Seed flats are made from recycled wood, help your seeds germinate by regulating temperature better than plastic seed trays.

With a handy fixture which I will include with your order, these take very little time to assemble, about 2 minutes each. The only tools required are a pneumatic stapler and air compressor.

No plastic, no waste to go to the landfill, these durable seed trays can be used season after season.

Surprisingly durable, stiff, and designed with proper spacing for drainage.

One kit of ten includes...

300 stainless steel staples
80 re-sawn cedar planks
10 assembly spacers
assembly fixture

6" x 12" x 2.25"

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Mason Bee Nest, Orchard Bee Stacked Tray System With Rain Proof Shelter

2010-08-19T14:37:00.000-07:00

Stacking Tray Mason Bee Nest for the world's most powerful pollinators.

CAPACITY

The Mason Bee Mansion, with 23 1/2 linear feet of smoothly and precisely milled 5 3/4" long tunnels, has 2 1/2 times the capacity of my Mason Bee Block Size 2, which makes this an excellent value for a large garden.

FEATURES

One unique feature of these Osmia Lodge Mason Bee Boxes are the grooves. Terminating 3/8" from the end, no straws are necessary, but standard paper straws do fit perfectly.

By simply removing four bolts from the bottom, the Mason Mansion will come apart easily for cleaning, or for removing the mason bee coccoons. Carefully drilled bolt holes, precisely sawn parts, and quality hardware make this a bee box that you may rely on year after year.

INSTALLATION

With these carefully milled Mason Bee Boxes, you can bring greater yields from your garden. Simply hang it near your garden, preferably facing East or South, in a sunny spot where the box will be sheltered. An ideal location is on a wall that will receive morning sunlight. Also it is best to have some source of mud nearby. If you live in a drier area, a stray drip-line on a small pile of soil works well.

This model comes with its own shelter, and should be mounted on a south wall, facing sligthly downward, in a fixed location. Shelter assembled with tightly fitting components made from select yellow pine, waterproof glue, and stainless steel hardware. The assembled trays insie the shelter slide out easily for harvesting the bee cocoons.

LATE EMERGING SOLITARY BEES

If your bee box is not occupied right away, you may be pleasantly surprised to find other species of pollinators moving into any remaining unoccupied tunnels after your mason bees have completed their work. Alfalfa leafcutter bees emerge later, and pollinate other varieties of plants. Leafcutter bees and mason bees exist peaceully together, and can use the same nest house.

MASON BEE ACTIVITY 101. Please convo if you have any questions about mason bees.

Although the mason bee does not produce beeswax or honey, she is a proven pollinator, superior to the bumblebee and honeybee, due to its earlier start in colder temperatures. Their nesting activity starts as early as February in the lower latitudes and elevations, and as late as June in colder areas.

Unable to burrow nests for their young, Mason Bees usually nest in abandoned beetle burrows in dead logs. They have been shown to prefer smooth 5/16” holes, which I mimic using razor sharp perfectly round tools.

Upon selecting a nest cavity, the female Mason Bee starts collecting mud to build an initial partition at the far end of the nest cavity. Females usually nest near the site from which they emerged, and although solitary, they tend to nest closely together.

Once this partition is ready, she goes out to collect pollen to provide food for the eggs she will lay in a linear fashion from the bottom of the cavity, mud, pollen, egg, mud, pollen, egg until the cavity is nearly filled. The final layer is always a heavier deposit of mud, to protect her growing babies from harm. The following spring, the fresh bees emerge, to start the cycle all over again, collecting pollen and nectar, and pollinating your garden at the same time.

This particular style bee box may be disassembled in autumn for processing and storage of your mason bee nest coccoons.

MATERIAL

Yellow pine, spruce, or fir, from a mill which abides by 2005-2009 Sustainable Forestry Initiative standards.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Garden Trellis in Natural Cedar or Driftwood

2010-08-19T14:34:00.000-07:00

This unique and sturdy wood trellis for the garden or patio will make a bold impression next to your front patio.

Spaced from the wall and full of clematis or honeysuckle, this architectural element will present wonderfully as a combination of steel, wood, greenery and blooms.

Can be wall mounted or set up vertically on stakes.

Our Native Americans called cedar the Trees of Life. I used recycled clear cedar wood, routed and sanded to a fine finish, fitted with hand brushed galvanized steel pipe.

6'4" height.

20" wide at top.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Seed Starter Strays For Early Seed Germination, Recycled Cedar Wood, Ten Pack

2010-08-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

Recycled old-growth western red cedar. Comes with everything you need to make ten large and heavy duty old-style wooden seed trays.

170 re-sawn planks
75 or more stainless steel staples
28 or more spacers for your assembly fixture

Size 9 x 18 x 3

If you prefer stainless steel nails and screws for assembly, please specify substitute at checkout, and I will include them with your order at no extra charge.

With every pack of ten, I include a truly simple to use assembly fixture, that will make your assembly time short. I have included a short instructional video link here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gb5zpXZUPs

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Seed Starting Tray For Early Seed Germination, Cedar Wood, Single

2010-08-19T14:23:00.000-07:00

Single seed starting tray, fully assembled.

Re-sawn old-growth reclaimed lumber. Assembled with stainless steel fasteners and waterproof food-safe glue.

Made from decay-resistant cedar, these require no liners, and have the proper spacing for drainage.

Size 9 x 18 x 3

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Orchard Mason Bee House, Mason Bee Box, Repurposed Fir Wood

2010-08-19T14:21:00.000-07:00

Mason bee nest house, stackable, can be used with or without paper straws. If you are looking for the perfect way to take greater harvests from your small garden with an inexpensive, compact, extremely easy to use and re-use, 99% recycled material handmade-in-the-US gardening tool, this is it!

If you attract mason bees to your garden, you will notice a difference. About the size of the common house fly, gentle blue-black Mason Bees are our most powerful native pollinators. All around North America, and especially here in the Pacific Northwest, the native Mason Bee occurs in large numbers.

Unable to tunnel holes for their own nests, mason bees rely on existing holes, and have been shown to prefer 5/16” smooth holes, which I mimic using extra-sharp cutting tools. I have had great success with this method personally, and have had many come back to let me know, "it really works"!

Upon selecting a nest cavity, the female mason bee goes about her busy days of building her nests. First, she'll collect mud to build a partition at the far end of the cavity.

Once this plug is complete, she goes out to pollinate your plants, collecting pollen to provide food for the eggs she will lay in order from the bottom of the cavity, pollen, egg, mud, pollen, egg, mud, until the cavity is filled.

The final layer is always an extra-heavy mud plug, which will protect her growing larvae from harm. The following spring, the fresh bees emerge to mate and start the cycle all over again.

With these recycled wood mason bee houses, you can bring high quality yields from your garden. Simply hang it on a wall, preferably facing East or South, in a sunny spot where the box will be sheltered. An ideal location is on a wall that will receive morning sunlight, under the eave of your roof, at least 4 feet from the ground, and within 100 feet from the garden.

Comes fully assembled, with all hardware, instructions, and two small nails from which to hang it.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Bird House, Recycled Cedar Wood

2010-08-19T14:18:00.000-07:00

These bird houses are made from the recycled wood I have re-milled from the siding recovered from fallen barns.

The House Wren, occurring in a third of the 48 states and parts of Canada, is one of my favorite songbirds. Its small size, rich, bubbly song, and bold personality make this bird a pleasure to watch..

I carefully planned and built this wren house for high probability of occupancy and great longevity, that it may be enjoyed year after year.

And if wrens could read, I am sure they would love to find their home was built from reclaimed lumber, as it is not just better at insulating their babies from heat and cold, but is also better for their environment.

This wren house should be hung from its galvanized wire with a soft rope of any kind, tethered to a tree branch or other sun/shade location, between 5 and 10 feet up. It can be placed as close as 8 or so feet to your house, as House Wrens are generally comfortable around humans.

House wrens nest in April and May, and their cheerful song may be heard often, throughout the day.

8 1/2" wide, 8 1/2" tall, 7" deep.

The top can be removed by taking out the screws, for cleaning.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

.Seed planter tray, western red cedar wood

2010-08-19T14:06:00.000-07:00

Seed starting tray made from re-sawn fresh mill end cedar.

This kind of seed starting tray is like the ones our grandparents used. Very popular in Europe, and gaining popularity in the US, wooden seed starting supplies help your seeds germinate by regulating temperature better than plastic seed flats.

No plastic required, no waste to go to the landfill, these durable seed trays can be used season after season.

Surprisingly durable, stiff, and designed with proper spacing for drainage. I assemble these with galvanized or stainless staples and waterproof water based FDA food contact safe wood glue.

This small size is great if you want to segregate your different starts and label the fronts of the trays for organization and easier handling.

6" x 12" x 2.25"

Also available in kit form with a handy assembly fixture.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Planter Flat, Wooden Seed Starting Tray, Old Growth Cedar Wood

2010-08-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

Plenty early for your fall planting, medium size wooden greenhouse flats will help your seeds sprout more easily.

This item was featured in Etsy's Storque article. Please take a moment to read it here:

http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/eatsy-pickled-carrots-with-stone-barns-center-for-food-and-a-9741/

11.5" x 10.5" x 3"

Made from durable old-growth reclaimed wood.

Also available:

Packs of three for $43
Packs of five for $65

Built to endure. With strong clear grain cedar wood, corrosion resistant hardware, and waterproof food-safe glue, these seed flats will provide many years of seed germination.

Like clay pots, cedar wood naturally regulates temperature and absorbs excess water. Your plants' roots won't become too cold or too hot, thereby helping to provide your seeds with the very best conditions.

Although cedar naturally absorbs excess moisture, you may want to drill small holes in the bottom for better drainage.

When transplanting from this style seed flat, simply separate the seedlings by slicing through the soil between
plants with a knife, and transplant each piece of soil.

Growing your own plants from seed can be a rewarding hobby and allows gardeners to grow varieties that may not be available from local growers.

Starting seeds in containers like this one saves space as compared to seeding directly into individual pots. This type of flat is also very easy to label and organize.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Wooden Seed Starting Tray, Seed Germination Flat

2010-08-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

Popular in Europe and gaining popularity in the US, wooden seed starting trays are quickly becoming one of the best ways for a gardener to propagate seeds.

My wooden seed germination trays come fully assembled.

Standard 10 x 20 nursery flat size, 3" deep.

Accurately sawn parts go together with high strength food safe Titebond III wood glue and stainless steel staples for seed planters that will last season after season.

Because I use re-sawn mill end shorts, they are also as eco friendly as I can make them.

If you are interested in more of these, please contact me for a special order.

Two for $59
Three for $79
Four for $92
Five for $89

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Soap Deck For Small or Round Soaps

2010-08-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Finally here by popular demand, square soap decks. Great size and shape for your small round soaps, these will make a nice touch to your wonderful-smelling gift-wrapped artistry.

A bit unlike eastern red cedar, western red bears a pleasant and soft scent.

Makes a great gift presentation when combined with a high quality hand-made soap from one of my fellow Etsy vendors.

2 3/4" wide
2 3/4" long
3/4" tall

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Wooden Soap Dishes, Re-Milled Western Red Cedar, Pack of Ten

2010-08-19T13:52:00.000-07:00

Tall Three-Chamber Bat House, Pole or Wall Mount

2010-08-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Tall three-chamber bat house.

This bat house design is based on a mixture of input from industry guidelines, availability of quality recycled building materials, and customer's desire for quick and reliable installation.

Made from 100% post-consumer reclaimed wood.

Three chambers plus attic

30" height

7" body width / 9" wide roof

Rough cedar chamber divisions.

Heavily fastened fronts and backs

Heavy wire mesh landing pad

Water tight

Glued and caulked at every intersection, primed, painted waterproof construction.

Comes complete with installation guidelines including bat house placement and interesting bat FAQ.

***If your bat house is delivered to any of the following areas, yours will come with primer and satin-flat black paint:

Western and Northwestern Washington
Central and Western Oregon
California coast
Northern Idaho
Western Montana
Western Wyoming
Rocky Mountains
Northern North Dakota
Minnesota
Wisconsin
Michigan
Northern Pennsylvania up through Maine

For other areas, medium brown, or white for our hottest regions.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Aphid Buster, Organic Garden Pest Control

2010-08-19T13:47:00.000-07:00

Thank you for visiting Andrew’s Reclaimed, home of the original reclaimed wood mason bee boxes.

I'm pleased to present to you my nest block for the passaloecus aphid wasps. With proper installation, it's sure to bring organic aphid control to your garden, and help you control numbers of aphids without costly pesticides, naturally.

A few aphid-eating species of the gentle beneficial insect genus Passaloecus can be very helpful in the garden, as they reduce damage to your vegetable crops. They nest in holes such as those drilled by wood-boring beetles, and feed their young with aphids, which are some of our most voracious garden pests.

The female Passaloecus first clear debris from the tunnel with their mandibles, then visit trees for resin droplets, and spread a ring of sticky resin around the nest entrance, to prevent other predatory insects from entry.

She'll then lay her eggs, while providing 25 or so paralyzed aphids for each egg, in 7 to 15 cells per cavity, ranging from 3/16" to 1/2" in length, pasting walls of resin between each egg cell. When the hole is full of eggs and aphids, she will seal off the entrance with an extra-thick layer of resin.

The gentle and tiny Passaloecus wasp, about the length of a pencil eraser, is usually dull black with transparent wings, and occurs in almost all of the lower 48 states and Alaska. Populations are somewhat sparse in the southeast. They can be found hovering around shrubs, flowers and fruit-bearing plants, hunting for aphids.

The best place to hang this block is on a post or a wall in a sunny east-facing spot near garden plants prone to aphid attack.

Mount this block May or June, or when highs reach around 75 degrees. In many areas, the aphid eating wasps will be active through September. The developing young should be over-wintered in the block in a location that will be dry and cool, but not freezing, and hung up again when the weather nears 75 degrees the following year, that they may emerge, and start the cycle over again.

My Aphid Buster Nest Blocks are made from extra hard and dense reclaimed fir, drilled at high speed with over 10 linear feet of paper-smooth nesting tunnels, capable of holding about 500 larvae to feed on as many as 12,000 aphids.

I've installed a wire on the back, so the nest may be hung near your plants, from a stainless steel screw, which is also provided.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Mason Bee House, Recycled Wood

2010-08-19T13:46:00.000-07:00

Thank you for visiting Andrew’s Reclaimed, home of the original recycled wood mason bee boxes.

The perfect gift for just about any gardener, this accessory is sure to help bring more fruit and vegetables from the orchard and garden.

West of the rockies, we can extend our pollination well into summer with the the Osmia Californica, a later pollinating bee which prefers ornamentals, sunflowers, and garden vegetable flowers.

Our gentle native black bees, called mason bees or pollen bees, are solitary, and produce no honey, but can be one of the greatest creatures to have in your garden.

This mason bee nest house is designed to attract mason bees, naturally.

Unable to burrow nests for their young, Mason Bees usually nest in abandoned beetle burrows in dead logs. They have been shown to prefer smooth 5/16” holes, which I mimic using extra-sharp tools to cut the holes.

Upon selecting a nest cavity, the female mason bee starts collecting mud to build a partition at the far end of the nest cavity.

Once this partition is ready, she goes out to collect pollen to provide food for the eggs she will lay in a linear fashion from the bottom of the cavity, first mud, then pollen, egg, mud, pollen, egg mud, until the cavity is filled. The last visit is with a heavier deposit of mud, to protect her growing babies from harm.

The following spring, the fresh bees emerge, to start the cycle all over again in your garden, collecting pollen and pollinating your garden at the same time.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Mason Bee Nest Box, Recycled Wood

2010-08-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

Mason bees are gentle but amazingly powerful pollinators, superior to the honey bee due to their earlier start in colder temperatures.

Use this upcycled wood mason bee block to attract this beneficial insect to your garden.

Unable to burrow nests for their young, mason bees usually nest in abandoned beetle burrows in dead logs. They have been shown to prefer smooth 5/16” holes.

Upon selecting a nest cavity, the female mason bee goes about her busy days of building her nests. What she does first is collect mud to build a partition at the far end of the cavity.

Once this plug is complete, she goes out to collect pollen to provide food for the eggs she will lay in order from the bottom of the cavity, mud, pollen, egg, mud, pollen, egg until the cavity is nearly filled.

The final layer is always an extra-heavy mud plug, which will protect her growing larvae from harm. The following spring, the fresh bees emerge to mate and start the cycle all over again, collecting pollen, and pollinating your garden at the same time.

With these recycled wood mason bee houses, you can bring greater yields from your garden. Simply hang it on a wall or similar, preferably facing East or South, in a sunny spot where the box will be sheltered. An ideal location is on a wall that will receive morning sunlight. Also it is best to have some source of mud nearby.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Bit O' Eames Recycled Wood Business Card Holder

2010-08-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

It doesn't get more "businesslike" than an Eames-era inspired plywood laminate business card holder.

Tied up with a simple ribbon, makes a great inexpensive but unusual graduation gift or Fathers Day present.

Smooth to the touch, unfinished upcycled plywood cabinet scrap laminated under pressure, cut, finely finished.

The cutout where the cards lay I designed so the very first card will always sit a bit higher than the rest.

Also available by custom order with woodburnt initials.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Herb Gardening Planter, Recycled Cedar Wood

2010-08-19T13:37:00.000-07:00

Herb garden planter made from durable western red cedar wood.

I use mill end waste cut cedar for these, a step that reduces demands on our natural resources. Beautiful cedar trees can be found all over Washington State and the Pacific Northwest.

Simple durable style herb pot with smooth hand-rounded edges, and soft wooden texture and wonderful cedar scent.

Old-growth cedar planter boxes hold up to repeated use, and stay beautiful for years.

Can be used indoors or out for flowers as well as herbs. Also would make a nice cactus garden for smaller varieties.

Available with or without holes drilled for drainage. Please specify upon checkout.

Solidly built with precise joints and waterproof food safe wood glue.

3" x 4" x 11", perfect for three or four plants.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Soap Dish, Natural Old Growth Cedar, Fine Finish

2010-08-19T13:34:00.000-07:00

Nicely finished cedar soap dish with cross grooves will make your hand-made soap last longer. Moisture will wick away from your bar soap, and keep the bottom from becoming soggy. Makes a great gift!

These wooden soap dishes also help protect our natural resources. I re-saw blocks of the finest mill end surplus that would end up being used for firewood.

2 3/4" wide
3 3/4" long
3/4" tall

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Garden markers, large high-visibility label, ten-pack

2010-08-19T13:31:00.000-07:00

Galvanized and weatherproof PVC garden markers will outlast many other varieties of plant markers in your garden.

I make mine from the heaviest gage galvanized wire and these are so durable they can be used season after season.

Extra-tall legs and oversize bright white label make them easier to read from a distance.

Double prong design is stable for marking plants in the ground, and extra long prongs make these stay in your garden like no other plant marker out there.

The tops are large pieces of extra-wide and long recycled commercial grade PVC mini blind slats. PVC is one of the most durable plastics, and the powerful spring tension of the mini blind material holds like a clamp to the wire.

For marking, use grease pencil for a durable yet changeable label, or industrial permanent marker.

Also available in bulk or wholesale. For packs of 20, only $1.25 per marker.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Painting Panels or Photo or Collage Mount, 6x6. Also available in other sizes

2010-08-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

100% recycled cradled painting panels 1" x 6" x 6"

Made from fine straight grain cedar and cabinet grade plywood, these painting panels are more economical than canvas, and they won't warp, stretch, or tear.

Surprisingly lightweight and super flat, they can also be hung directly on a wall, as no frame is needed.

I used plenty of waterproof glue at every joint, and sanded all edges and face to perfection.

Will ship in carefully padded box, with extra padding between each panel. Made to order, please allow 7 to 10 business days to ship.

Also available in other sizes by custom order. Some sizes already in stock.

4" x 4" $45 / ten, singles $6 each
5" x 5" $52 / ten, singles $7 each
6" × 6" $60 / ten, singles $8 each
8" × 8" $67 / ten, singles $9 each
8" × 10" $75 / ten, singles $10 each
10" × 10" $82 / ten, singles $11 each
9" × 12" $90 / ten, singles $12 each
11" × 14" $112 / ten, singles $15 each

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Bird Feeder, Tray Style, Comes With Hanger and Bird Seed

2010-08-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Many birds love these cedar tray feeders, even larger ones like cardinals and band tailed pigeons. I like this style bird feeder because it's neat and tidy, and the birds like to sit in it to eat, and sing!

Ground feeding birds like quail will feed from these if placed where they can be reached.

Comes ready-to-hang from a garden hook or eve, fully assembled from eco-friendly and very durable recycled cedar, with 2 foot long zinc plated chain. Weather resistant galvanized mesh floor for drainage, and galvanized steel frame.

Even the galvanized wire was reclaimed. It came from a suspended lighting project years ago.

It comes with a small bag of fresh black oil sunflower seeds, which many birds love. You can also fill this feeder with bits of fruit, blanched peanuts, or cracked corn.

Measures 11 x 11 x 2" plus frame

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Compost screen sifter, reclaimed wood and galvanized steel garden sieve

2010-08-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

If you garden, you know the importance of recycling nutrients back into your soil by the use of compost made from kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and dry leaves.

This is also a way to reduce our waste going to the landfill.

Because your compost will break down at different rates, a sifter comes in very handy.

This lightweight yet heavy duty compost screen will help you easily sift the larger pieces from the usable compost.

Rocks, twigs, vines and more can be easily separated from the "good stuff".

Assembled with two 3" long deck screws in each corner. The 45 degree corner joints are snug, and filled with waterproof glue, to add even greater longevity to your screen.

Size 24.5" x 16.5" x 1.5" thick.

Custom sizes and smaller mesh also available.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Bird feeder, eco friendly rescued cedar wood

2010-08-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

Your birds will enjoy plenty of food while perched at the base of this 11" tall bird feeder.

All of what I build here is made from "rescued" wood. Reclaimed, repurposed, recycled, whatever the current tag is, all woods were either taken from or saved from waste.

I use western red cedar, mainly. It contains properties that make it hold up in wet environments probably better than any other wood. It also has a nice straight grain and wonderful scent, and I like the color. It's a bit different from eastern aromatic cedar.

No live trees were ever sawn down for these products, which I am sure the birds will appreciate as much as you or I.

Snug-fitting roof and overall design will help keep squirrels out, but easy to re-fill, simply pull the roof up and pour in the seed. UV resistant plastic hopper will stand up in the elements.

I carefully craft these from re-milled old growth cedar wood for performance and longevity.

Green vinyl-coated cable comes with hoop and eye screw from which to hang it.

5" x 5" x 11" tall plus 2 foot cable.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Leafcutter Bee Nest Block, Recycled Wood

2010-08-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Much like the mason bee, the leaf cutter bee is a cavity nester.

A variety of solitary pollinators is good to have in the garden, generally. Leafcutter bees and mason bees thrive together peacefully, and although they work in the same department (pollination), they work a bit differently, and the alfalfa leafcutter will pollinate later in the season.

Simply hang it on a wall from its stainless steel hook, preferably facing East or South, in a sunny spot where the box will be sheltered. An ideal location is on a wall that will receive morning sunlight.

Unable to burrow nests for their young, Leafcutter Bees usually nest in abandoned beetle burrows in dead logs. They have been shown to prefer smooth 1/4” holes, which I mimic using extra-sharp tools to cut the holes.

Upon selecting a nest cavity, the female Leafcutter Bee starts collecting leaf bits to build an initial partition at the far end of the nest cavity. Fascinating to watch, like a tiny electric can opener, the female leafcutter uses her mandibles to cut nearly perfect semicircular pieces from smooth, lightweight leaves to create cells and line her nests.

Once this partition is ready, she goes out to collect pollen to provide food for the eggs she will lay in a linear fashion from the bottom of the cavity, leaf, pollen, egg, leaf, pollen, egg until the cavity is nearly filled. The final layer is always a heavier deposit of chewed leaves, to protect her growing babies from harm. The following spring, the fresh bees emerge, to start the cycle all over again, collecting pollen, and pollinating your garden at the same time.

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Decorative Shelf, Recycled Wood, Hand Painted Coal or Snow

2010-08-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

Small wooden shelf, perfect for little items like spice jars, medicines, toiletries, perfumes, and the like.

Great shelf for the kitchen, bathroom, or entry as well. I keep one by the door, for my wallet, keys, and phone.

14" tall, 7 1/2" wide, 3 1/2" deep.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Wooden Keepsake Box, Upcycled Alaskan Yellow Cedar

2010-08-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Finely Crafted Keepsake Box, Classic Wooden Pencil Box Design, Re-Milled Yellow Cedar

I designed these from the basic shape of the old classic wooden pencil boxes from alaskan yellow cedar I re-milled from ages-old yellow cedar, which came from parts of a nearby pier, which had to be dismantled for replacement.

Yellow cedar is a wood normally used to build everything from decks and boats, to canoes, to musical instruments.

Carefully assembled, and worked to a nice finish, natural reclaimed yellow cedar still bears a lovely sweet and peppery scent.

The door slides smoothly through its tracks, and is fitted with a small nickel pull.

This would make a nice little storage box for anything from fine art supplies or keepsakes, to jewelry. A great gift for a man or woman.

9" long
3 3/8" wide
3" tall

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Small Elevated Dog Feeder

2010-08-19T13:06:00.000-07:00

Recycled wood elevated cat feeder or small dog feeder in your choice of five great colors.

I build these from fine grain clear cedar with rounded and sanded surfaces. All areas of these feeders are easy to keep clean, with a washable semi-flat paint, even inside the bowl rest areas.

The bowls are 1.5 cups, 4 1/2" wide, 2 1/4" deep. I use only heavy-guage polished stainless steel with turned rims, easily removed for filling and cleaning, and perfectly fitted to the table.

5 1/4" wide

12 3/4" long

4" height ideal for the following breeds:

Affenpinscher, American Eskimo, Australian Terrier, Bichon Frise, Border Terrier, Brussels Griffon, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Dandie Dinmont Terrier, English Toy Spaniel, Havanese, Japanese Chin, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Manchester Terrier, Norfolk Terrier, Norwich Terrier, Papillon, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Toy Poodle, Scottish Terrier, Sealyham Terrier, Shih Tzu, Silky Terrier, Toy Fox Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier.

***Also available 3 1/2" tall for cats. Please specify dog or cat, and color, with "message to seller" upon checkout***

I can also build these for larger dogs, in these great colors or other colors, by custom order.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

Coat Rack, Rustic Vintage Hardware and Recycled Wood

2010-08-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

Adorn your entry or hall with a bit of history, and a conversation piece for your guests to hang their hats on.

Decades-old sawmills would saw through trees circular blades, which left a nice rough surface on the stock as it went through the mill.

I got pretty lucky when I found this "ancient" reclaimed lumber.

I had found these old porcelain electrical insulators at an estate sale years ago. I have no idea how old they are, but they read "Sears, USA" on the front, and I have upcycled them to use as hooks.

I used a paint wash technique to make this old sawmill lumber resemble driftwood, and used solid brass screws to attach the porcelain knobs to the wood. The brass screws will take on a nice bronze patina after a year or so.

Very easy to mount, the outside knobs are on 16" centers, so attachment to a wall can be done without anchors. There is an "extra" hole behind each end hook, so the mounting screws will be hidden for a nice finished look.

Makes a great housewarming present, gift for Christmas, or birthday present.

21" long
3" tall
3 1/2" deep

To purchase or learn more, please visit www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Hanging planter, small, made from recycled cedar wood

2010-08-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hanging planters are a great way to make your patio look green and inviting. A hanging planter is also a great choice for condos or apartments or with a small patio area.

The solidity of a wooden hanging basket assembled with stainless steel and waterproof glue and simplicity of design give these planters timeless appeal.

Landscape fabric provides drainage, and is included, along with black nylon hanging cords.

Dimensions about 8" x 8" plus 2 foot ropes for hanging.

This item can be found in my Etsy shop, Andrew's Reclaimed

New size soap dishes in stock now

2010-08-13T22:18:00.001-07:00

One Dozen Wooden Soap Dishes for Round Soaps, Re-Milled Western Red Cedar
Originally uploaded by Andrew's Reclaimed Home and Garden

These carefully milled wooden soap dishes can be the perfect way to present your hand-made soap or shampoo bars.

I reserved only my very finest grain cedar for these soap dishes.

2 3/4" wide, 2 3/4" long, 3/4" thick.

The stock for these wooden soap dishes came from large blocks of mill end surplus, a material which may help reduce strain on our natural resources.

100% natural, no varnishes of any kind. The natural properties of cedar will help protect it in wet environments.

To find this and many other eco friendly reclaimed wood items, please visit my Etsy shop, www.etsy.com/shop/andrewsreclaimed

Bird feeder, eco friendly rescued cedar wood

2010-08-13T22:16:00.001-07:00

Bird feeder, eco friendly rescued cedar wood
Originally uploaded by Andrew's Reclaimed Home and Garden

2010-07-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog, and welcome to my very first Christmas in July sale!

2010-07-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

Christmas in July on Etsy this year is revving up to a great start. All kinds of great deals can be found this month on everything from housewares to art.

Here are just a few of many thousands of great handmade finds available during this special, my most popular mason bee nests, business card holders, and herb planters.

Free Shipping for Mother's Day

2010-05-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful Mommas out there, we wouldn't be here without you!

Lift her spirits and make her smile with a hand-made herb planter, keepsake box, or business card holder. Free shipping on ANY order from my shop over $40 through May 6th. Unsure what to buy? Gift certificates available too! I can print and deliver, or email a gift certificate to Mom, with a personal note, all the way up to May 11th.

Thank you, Mom!

Andy

Wooden Soap Dishes, Re-Milled Old Growth Cedar

2010-02-16T12:35:00.000-08:00

Thank you for taking a look at one of my favorite things to make. If you create your own hand-made soaps to sell, you know that branding and packaging play a major role in the success of your wares. These nicely finished wonderful-smelling cedar soap dishes will make your customer's hand-made soap last longer, and present nicely as a gift.

Tied to your brand soap, you may find a winning combination that will help you succeed at craft shows, farmers markets, gift shops, and online venues such as Etsy. Your customers will be happy they bought from you, not only because your soaps are the best, but you provide them with the means to make them last longer.
Moisture will wick away from your handmade soap, and keep the bottom nice and dry.

As for return customers, why not have your brand or website etched onto the bottom of your soap dish? "Where did I find this soap?" "Oh! It's right here: www.___________.com"! How sweet is that?

These soap decks are also as eco friendly as I know how to make them. I build them carefully and with pride right here in Washington State, from fresh high quality mill-end surplus cedar, a step that may help protect our natural resourses.

Thank you for taking a look at one of my reclaimed cedar crafts. To learn more, inquire about wholesale, or for purchase, please visit or bookmark my shop, Andrew's Reclaimed.

Cheers,

Andrew

New bat house design finally available!

2010-01-22T21:18:00.001-08:00

Bats, just like humans, are mammals. All bats are warm-blooded, and bear young which feed from their mothers just like human babies. Females generally have one offspring at a time, and their season is usually springtime.

Flying our night skies for over 50 million years, the bat has been one of our most amazing yet least respected or appreciated animals. With accurate and powerful echolocation, bats produce detailed images of their surroundings, even in absolute darkness.

Almost 3/4 of the world's bats are insect eaters. Many insectivorous bats can eat up to 1,000 mosquito-sized insects per night. Others eat fruit, or vertebrates such as frogs, birds, and rodents. Only a few species of bats consume blood exclusively.

There is still no definitive answer as to why bat populations are on the decline. Loss of habitat is commonly believed to be the main reason.

Bats require conditions for a suitable roost that modern building methods rarely supply. Warmth, protection from predators, and shelter from rain are some of the bat's needs.

This bat house design was based on a mixture of input from industry guidelines, availability of appropriate quality recycled building materials, and customer input for easier installation.

Made from 100% post-consumer waste, which is not only more eco friendly, bats love it too! Bats have been shown to prefer old wood roosts over new!

Why, Welcome to Etsy, Eco Chic

2009-10-27T20:11:00.001-07:00

And what a wonderful start!

A great-looking eco friendly product, bowls handmade using 100% organic cotton yarn. Yarn grown and spun without the use of any herbicides, pesticides, or other chemicals.

Just think of the endless uses AND end-users of this fine product. Paper clips, loose change, art supplies, who knows? One thing I really like about these is they are so simple, and look well-made. And I just LOVE the colors. I really do. I have to piggy-back Etsy's choice for the front page with this feature, with a set of three Organic Nesting Bowls in rich fall colors - Espresso, Spice, and Mustard.

One for your niece, who can use a nice-looking handmade change pot, one for uncle Sam, for holding seed or nails or his most-used office supply, and one for you!

It seems Etsy knows know bounds with respect to great, unusual, handy, eco friendly stuff. Eco Chic is no exception. Take a look, bookmark their shop if you like, I hope you will keep them in mind for gift giving this year.

Nice work, Eco Chic, welcome to Etsy, looks like you are off to a terrific start.

Cheers,

Andrew

Ooh La La, We Have Been "French Kissed"

2009-09-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a unique way to deliver your greetings, here's a must-see. French Kissed, a fellow etsian, who has an amazing way of delivering the romance, art, and photography of France directly to your PC.

Reclaim The Throne

2009-09-12T17:02:00.001-07:00

Back to blogging, thought I should get this going again with a "bang"! I am so pleased to present one of my favorites, Reclaim The Throne.

Reclaim The Throne strives to make their pieces fun, hip, classic and eco-friendly. Dealing mostly with reclaimed, unwanted chairs, Reclaim The Throne brings them back to their former glory!

A truly "ECO Chic" artisan, Reclaim The Throne has braved the crafting world with her high quality yet reasonably priced vintage furniture with a personal touch that makes every piece unique.

I hope you will pay her shop a visit.

I have included a description and picture of one of my favorites that sold.

This incredible bench is a genuine antebellum piece in the lavish victorian style, it has 1843 stamped into the wood on either side of the frame underneath. It has the original finish, with tons of chips and peelings where the layers have worn off over the years. The seat was originally caned but has been removed some time ago and replaced with a wood seat placed on top (not secured). This has been redone in DanaLeeDesigns' peach dupioni silk with new padding and completely finished underneath. The dimensions are approx. 20"H X 26"W X 16"D.

This gorgeous bench features sumptuous relief carvings and little fluted arms on either side. It was built years before the civil war, Abraham Lincoln became president, or Louis Vuitton was began. It was gracing living rooms when Charles Dickens was writing and John Tyler was President. This piece is 166 years old and still exhibits unbelievable charm and beauty!

Eco Fave of the Week, Cocoa Tree!

2009-07-24T11:36:00.000-07:00

So, I have decided to post, amongst other features, a favorite new eco-friendly etsy shop every week. For my first, I'm happy to have found CocoaTree. A new etsy seller with tons of green potential! It doesn't get much more eco friendly than re-usable, right? Her work makes perfect sense to me. What do you think? OH what I would do to take back all of the waste I have generated from disposable gift-wrap.
If you would like to enjoy a greener holiday, birthday, or check out her other quality items, check out Cocoa Tree.

OK, Enough Fun and Games For Now

2009-07-15T17:40:00.000-07:00

Back to business.

During my visit to the Pike Place Market, I almost walked right past a most alarming wake-up-call in the form of a gallery. But a photograph caught my eye, and it stopped me dead in my tracks. Do you know what the third image is? I entered, and I was pleased to run into the internationally known and respected gallery director, juror, and curator, Marita Holdaway, and she introduced me to the gallery's current highlight, Daniel Beltra.

It was a pleasure to speak with her about the work of Mr. Beltra, even amongst the earth-shattering prints that adorned her spacious, well-kept and professional gallery.

The following images depict some the work of Daniel Beltra, and in my opinion, ought to be a wake-up call for many. As these blog pics barely touch on the scope of his work, I urge you to take a look at his portfolio website, and to please return and comment on your feelings about it. I say we are lucky to have him, and we are lucky to have Benham Gallery and Marita Holdaway bring us this work, as I feel we have never before seen this destruction more clearly. What do you think?

Tasty Market

2009-07-15T12:54:00.001-07:00

Here's a new set of pics from a most enjoyable visit to Pike Place Market, the best attraction in Seattle in my opinion. Just look at that healthy spread of fresh produce, and the BIG spread of that octopus!

Meatbagz, Recycled Cotton Useful Bags

2009-07-05T16:38:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to take a moment to spotlight Meatbagz, a fellow etsy eco artisan.

Here's a clip from their super eco-friendly shop...

What ARE Meatbagz, you may ask? Well, Meatbagz are sturdy, well made totes with a wicked sense of humor. They are ready for anything. Pack them, store them, crush them, and manhandle them everyday and they'll still be ready for more! Everybody deserves nice Meatbagz, so join the reusable revolution and display your Meatbagz proudly.

Meatbagz uses sustainable recycled cotton, which may be the most environmentally friendly fiber on the planet. Made from pre-consumer cotton. Read more about recycled cotton, and find the great high quality handmade bags made from clippings that would otherwise be dumped into landfills!

The picture above shows my favorite. "An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
An apple Meatbagz tote keeps the nasty plastic bags away." I love it. Check out Meatbagz at www.meatbagz.etsy.com.

Hi, Mom!

2009-07-03T23:21:00.000-07:00

Momma Leaf Cutter Bee, that is!

I was so happy to discover this. I hope you all enjoy this view of my craft, and here's to more discovery and growth in all that you do.

I just discovered, by accident, a species of pollinating bee I was unfamiliar with. I was pulling mason bee boxes, and found one that was unoccupied, or so I thought.

Turns out, Mom was nesting there, in holes designed for another kind of bee!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27043469

Here is what I found, a late season pollinator of the leafcutters. This particular variety of leafcutter bee, so far as I have read today (researching once again, as there is always more to learn), chews its leaves to line the cells, as opposed to lining cells with cut leaf pieces.

You will see in the first picture the second to bottom plank, which, after gently photographing, I carefully reassembled, and put back where I took it from, so Mom can return to her job.

I love this side of my craft. It just goes to show, no matter how much we think we know, there is always something more to learn. Always some other angle from which to find more than you ever thought possible.

Cheers,

Andy

New Herb Planters in Stock, Three Sizes

2009-06-29T19:49:00.000-07:00

Jesse Mosher, Rock n Roll Folk Art

2009-06-20T21:37:00.000-07:00

''I gun for painted images that are as simple as I can make them. When working from photos, I seek to present the truest expression of the subject's soul. I always try to avoid leading the viewer's eye or telling them what to see. A great portrait for me is one that is open to interpretation, and can hold different meanings. It contains as little of my ideas or ego, and in doing so is free to be what it is. I never sign my pieces on the front, preferring to sign the back, reminding myself that I'm the man behind the art, not the art itself.'' --JESSE

Jesse Mosher, one of my favorite painters on Etsy, not only uses repurposed wood as his canvas, but, amazingly, paints images, full of life, with left over paint from various sources. Thank you for illustrating the heart and soul of our most loved icons, Mr. Mosher, and thank you for doing so in an eco friendly way.

The painting above, Johnny Ramone, which is my current favorite, can be found in Jesse Mosher's popular shop, amongst several others. I think his work would make the perfect housewarming, birthday, or wedding gift for the music lover in your life. See what this eco friendly artist has to offer currently at http://www.jessemosher.etsy.com/.

And video here!

Jesse Mosher, American, born 1977, Greenfield MA. After making and selling comic books as a kid, I began selling silkscreen prints in 1998. Over the years my art medium gradually changed to painting, entirely, in 2006. Including the print series, (500) I have made 1,242 pieces in the past 10 years. Prints and originals combined have accounted for over 17,000 signed pieces, 14,100 of which I have sold/traded. These pieces are in over 30 countries and all 50 states, every continent except Africa/Antarctica. I am driven to create nearly every day, with the idea that I am part of the evolution of American culture and arts, from Buffalo Bill, bop jazz, the beats, Rock n roll, Warhol, psychedelia, punk, grunge, the future. I want to see the day when I make my 10,000th piece, and with over 240 last year, there is no reason to think that I won't. The contribution I make to this culture, country and world is of being the animal/painter, bent on plywood under stage lights , in some rock club in the U.S.A, alongside my brothers in music, strangefeather, to the beat of a indian drum rock band. Not content to be fast or good, I am both, the man who signs his work on the back, to remind myself, I am the man behind the art, not the art itself. -Jesse Mosher

Brand New Item, Oriole Feeders!

2009-06-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Weatherproof and very durable re-milled alaskan yellow cedar oriole feeder.

3 ounce stainless steel cup can be filled with jelly or mealworms for a high-energy treat a variety of birds would enjoy. All joints securely fastened with weatherproof glue and stainless steel deck screws.

This quality feeder, with its soft finish, natural sunny yellow color, stainless steel hardware, and wonderful alaskan yellow cedar scent will present well as a gift, too.

And, Speaking of the Beach...

2009-06-17T22:21:00.000-07:00

This brings me to my next feature, 808Sunshine, a fellow etsy seller supplying fine artisans with the best natural sea glass from Oahu. Hand-sorted and drilled, there are few places to find sea glass of this apparent quality.

Pictures From the Beach

2009-06-17T21:53:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple pics of some new items I took pictures of at the beach. It was awfully windy. The tide picked up and almost swept a planter box away! How ironic, had I littered the sea with a reclaimed wood planter!

Zaq's Vintage & Design, SUPER Upcycled Vintage Luggage

2009-06-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

Well it doesn't get more eco friendly than upcycled, and Zaq's Vintage & Design is a master of their upcycling craft. They upcycle vintage suitcases, and will even do custom orders with your old suitcases. What a great idea. I really like their work, don't you? I mean, the way things used to be made, with heavier hardware, greater durability in general, matched with an eco-friendly edge and designer fabrics.

The picture above is an upcycled vintage American Tourister marbled yellow suitcase from the 1970's in almost perfect condition. The new lining is a soft and BRIGHT flower material by Alexander Henry. The artist even includes a handmade lavander sachet made from repurposed linen that can be kept inside to keep a nice fresh scent. This shop is just great! Find this suitcase and more at Zaq's Vintage & Design.

Black Wooden Planter Box, Small. Eco Friendly Reclaimed Natural Cedar

2009-06-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

Right Brain Thinker

2009-06-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to share with you another one of my Etsy faves, RightBrainThinker. This idea, this shop, is just right. Powerful and pretty scrubbies and more, made from recycled t-shirts, RightBrainThinker has the right idea in my own opinion. She even uses post-consumer packaging to ship.

"Right Brain Thinking is more than just being creative. In addition to the fun stuff, it is finding enjoyable, and sometimes beautiful ways to lessen our environmental footprint."

This is where I would go to buy scrubbies for my own kitchen or bath. Imagine what our world might be like if there were a high-quality and recycled option for everything we use.

You can find these and more at www.rightbrainthinker.etsy.com

FeltSewGood, a Master of Her Craft, Beautiful, Durable, Eco Friendly

2009-06-09T05:57:00.000-07:00

A green leaf silhouette adornes the side of this zippered pouch. The pouch was made from felted recycled wool sweaters. The top part of the pouch is a pale celery green wool and the leaf and bottom of the pouch are a soft sage green. This roomy three-dimensional pouch measures 9 inches wide by 6 inches high and is 2 1/2 inches deep across the flat bottom. It could be used as a small clutch, a cosmetics case or even to carry small electronics such as a digital camera or MP3 player. The pouch is lined with a pretty light green floral print cotton flannel fabric. The beaded zipper pull is made of glass beads strung on waxed cotton cord.

FeltSewGood, a fellow etsy artisan, creates a great variety of eco friendly goods from brooches to hand bags and the most adorable plush animals.

Check out this pouch and more quality eco friendly goods at FeltSewGood

Marmalime, eco-friendly accessories made with post-consumer and post-industrial recycled materials.

2009-06-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks for being green, marmalime, I love your work!

This sleek envelope clutch features a design created using upcycled consumer and industrial waste. It is perfect for those who don’t like to carry more than the essentials.It is approximately 13” wide and 7” tall and contains one cell for storing items.The white material is a durable plastic canvas used in a local plastic factory to transport non-toxic chemicals and plastic pellets. It has a slight rumpled texture left over from its previous life. The plastic canvas has been cleaned with a pressure washer, soaked, hand scrubbed in hot soapy water, as well as thoroughly rinsed to ensure it is clean and free of residue. This is an extremely strong water resistant material that can withstand quite a beating.The design was inspired by subway and train maps, created with fused blue plastic bags, and machine stitched on. The lining consists of blue fused plastic.All edging is double or triple stitched and industrial Velcro brand Velcro is used as a closure. This bag can also be created with a button, tie or snap closure if requested.Wipe with wet soapy cloth to clean. Check out more great 100% eco friendly accessories at www.marmalime.etsy.com

Chicken Pox Designs

2009-05-27T22:49:00.000-07:00

If you're shopping for a fresh, well made and cute

pouch, http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13274025

makeup bag, http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11840381

or coin purse, http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9535392,

you might want to visit Chicken Pox Designs.

In fabrics ranging from Amy Butler to a coin purse upcycled from a vintage tie, http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12666617 (Father's Day, hint hint, and hurry) you won't find a more colorful accessory. If I were shopping for a womens accessory, this shop would definitely be on my list.

Thank you for taking a look at Chicken Pox Designs

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5010516

Eco Artisan of the Week # 2, debs1967

2009-05-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

Next up we have debs1967. Her skill in crochet, seen throughout her shop, can bee seen in many different forms. From comfy and warm afghans of beautiful and complex designs, http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12786770 to sunny and playful sunflower kitchen scrubbies http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24292177 and unique clownfish totes http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17248189. Currently her shop is neatly organized into categories that even include the very coolest cell phone protectors you have ever seen. These are my favorite http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22222919. I think they would make a very nice Father's Day gift.

Hats off to debs1967 for also creating a line of eco-friendly products made from "plarn", which is a form of recycled plastic bags, combined into a durable and pretty yarn. From the decorative to the very useful, everything looks well made, and one glance at her feedback will show rave reviews for high quality and excellent customer service.

Please take a moment to peruse debs1967's shop, and see the quality, pattern, beauty, and utility of 30 years of crochet experience.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5813525

Eco Artisan of the Week, Dirty Girl Soaps

2009-05-26T22:10:00.002-07:00

Well, I'm back to blogging at last, and I'd like to begin with a weekly feature of eco-friendly artisans. This week's feature, Dirty Girl Soaps, a fellow artisan on Etsy, is a "soaper" dedicated to her craft and to our delicate environment. Her finely crafted soaps are hand made from scratch, and contain a variety of skin-loving oils and other natural ingredients such as clays, botanicals, coconut milk, and sea salt. They are of high quality and long-lasting. Some of them contain olive fruit oil, avocado oil, or grape seed oil, and they are available in a wide assortment of different scents, all pressed into beautiful shapes and colors, and would make an excellent gift.
Find her shop at www.dirtygirlsoaps.etsy.com

Here are just a few of her wide variety of hand-made soaps...

Bamboo Sugarcane Cold Process Olive Oil Soap – Rachel
Nectarine Blossom and Honey Cold Process Olive Oil Soap – Norine
Pink Grapefruit Cold Process Olive Oil Soap - Eva

2009-05-26T22:10:00.001-07:00

Some Interesting Bat Facts

2009-05-24T22:34:00.000-07:00

Most bats give birth to only a single pup each year, making them very vulnerable to extinction. They are the slowest reproducing mammals on earth for their size.

All mammals can contract rabies; however, even the less than half of 1% of bats that do, normally bite only in self-defense and pose little threat to people who do not handle them.

The flowers of the Pipe Organ Cactus only open at night also, and are pollinated by bats as well.

Nearly 40% of American bat species are in severe decline or already listed as endangered or threatened. Losses are occurring at alarming rates worldwide.

One bat can eat between 500 and 1000 mosquito sized insects an hour.

In the American southwest deserts bats play an important role in fertilizing the plants. The flowers of the Century plant are inactive during the day. Since they only open at night bats pollinate them.

In developing countries bat guano is a valuable resource. It is an excellent fertilizer.

The 20 million bats of Brackens Cave eat 250 tons of insects a night.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=brackens+cave&aq=f

The biggest threat to bats comes from humans. Bat populations are declining world wide at an alarming rate. Sometimes this is due to accidental disturbance of bat habitat by humans, sometimes by the intentional destruction of habitat and the killing of bats.

Moths are also known to take evasive action when they hear the echolocation calls of bats, sometimes plummeting to the ground in an attempt to escape.

For more information on bats, or to purchase one of my eco friendly recycled cedar bat houses, click here. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5707832&section_id=5989766

For my Dear Fuzzy Chiropterans

2009-04-28T16:49:00.001-07:00

Do you enjoy gardening? Bat houses can minimize the number of insects gnawing on what would otherwise be the fruit of your labor with a 100% eco-friendly and effective means of controlling them. Bats are amazing creatures, and they are better for our gardens and better for our environment than toxic chemicals.

Details

"From the outside, this one doesn't look much unlike many others. How is it different?"

*Eco-friendly materials. No plywood, or plastic-based composites. 100% of the extra-thick stock used in this house was taken "post consumer", from buildings and other structures which had to be removed. The roof likely came from old siding, the front and back from resawn barn beams or planks from a pier.

*Conservation group bat research. There are many bat houses to choose from, but few of them really meet conservation studies. Many bat houses found online just don't meet the important criteria necessary to make your purchase worthwhile. Some have cell divisions which are just too smooth to provide any of the many bat species with a foothold. Others contain improper chamber widths, air gaps, and overall poor design. I have carefully followed the guidelines from a variety of bat information groups, and applied a little extra care to ensure this house will be warm and serviceable for many years.

*Chamber division texture. Shown in the inset, you will see a stack of boards with deep grooves running through. I grooved each side of every piece of my very best quality dark red cedar chamber division stock to provide every bat with an excellent foot hold for roosting, making this house capable of housing more bats per square foot of area, ideal because bats tend to roost very closely together, to share body heat.

*Quality hardware. Only stainless steel screws and waterproof wood glue were used in your bat house construction. Hardware that will never rust, and glue bonds that won't deteriorate will ensure longevity during years of heat and cold.

*Side vent. This unusual feature ensures not only proper venting for a wider range of temperatures, but also precludes water damage. Water will only run over this vent, never through it. This is another feature that will ensure your bat house will serve its purpose for a very long time.

*Proper chamber widths. Chamber division widths of this bat house are just a little over 3/4", which is the highly recommended width to prevent wasp nests.

*Durable landing pad. Made from some of the best grade cedar, and medium-duty welded metal mesh.

*Extra-steep and wide roof ensures rain/snow runoff.

Dimensions

23" Tall
8" Wide
6" Deep

If your bat house will be installed in one of the areas below, it's recommended that you prime and paint your bat house a dark color. For only $7.00 extra, I can create a reserved listing for you, to include a careful application of only the best quality primer and flat black exterior paint. The natural medium-brown/red color of cedar wood is perfect for most other areas on the continental US. White stain is recommended only for the few extremely hot areas at Southern California/Arizona border, and central Texas.

Western and Northwestern Washington
Central and Western Oregon
California coast
Northern Idaho
Western Montana
Western Wyoming
Rocky Mountains
Northern North Dakota
Minnesota
Wisonsin
Michigan
Northern Pennsylvania up through Maine

My very first outdoor market, from 2008

2009-03-04T21:54:00.000-08:00

Give Away from MyFairyBabies

2009-02-21T14:58:00.000-08:00

MyFairyBabies has featured my best selling bee hives in her fantastic giveaway! Check out her shop here...
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5184529

and the giveaway here...

http://greenearthjourney.blogspot.com/2009/02/surprise-giveaway-from-andrews-reclaim.html

"Not One Tree. Not One"

2009-01-17T21:30:00.000-08:00

"Not One Tree. Not One"

I have always had a fascination with woodworking. One of our most ancient crafts, it is simply amazing to me how far it's come.

Let me tell you how I started on this journey into woodworking, and how a little resourcefulness and a bit of luck has brought my eco-friendly craft into our gardens.

It started several years back, when I had dabbled a little in woodworking. A little framing here, a bit of decking and fencing there. One sunny weekend I was helping out a friend of mine. He had recently purchased his first home, and was remodeling it. Where to begin? Well, he had decided that the outside would be the best start. He had already dismantled the deck in the back of the house, and was building a new one. All of the new framing and much of the decking he had already purchased, so there we began. Come dusk, when we were close to the end, we realized that we were going to be short on supplies, as the height of the deck was tall enough that it required a railing and balusters.

It wouldn't have been such a challenge, except the project was on a tight budget. What to do now? That night it came to me. Months ago, I had helped a neighbor friend of mine take down his old barn. The neighbor had not had any use for this decades-old mossy weathered wood, but frankly, I would have hated to see it taken to the landfill. I think even then, in the back of my mind, I knew I would bring this precious wood to good use. I had de-nailed it, and stored it for later use.

Could I re-mill this old gray heap into useful material?

The next morning I told my friend about my plans for this lumber pile. "Couldn't hurt, Andy". This is where discovery began. We went back to the house, collected the lumber, and off we went to the table saw. Hours of sawing led to the unveiling of the beauty and durability of this old gray stack of boards. It was beautiful old-growth western red cedar. It looked and smelled wonderful. With the railing parts ready to go, we completed his deck, and he was so happy with it. It was just lovely. A better quality wood by far. Stiffer, stronger, finer grain, and full of color, from cocoa brown to fiery reds and orange. It looked just lovely against his stone gray composite deck boards. It was so rewarding, as I knew this railing was built without having to fell a single tree.

Soon after that, I started my research into the usefulness of cedar. I had no idea that there were so many different species and grades. The year previous I had built my own deck of ironwood, and as beautiful and carefully crafted as it was, I imagined how it would have looked, had I used reclaimed cedar. If a deck could be built from reclaimed cedar, what other possibilities were there?

I had always loved the beauty and strength of an arbor, and decided to plan and build one from reclaimed cedar for next spring, for our own garden. I had always admired the craftsmanship of the European garden arbors and pergolas and their history. I began collecting reclaimed cedar wood beams and boards that autumn. From old decks and fences to large demolition projects, I collected, sorted, planed, and stacked. Every time I planed, I was never disappointed. The color and sweet aroma of this fine decades-old wood has never failed to amaze me, and I just knew that there was real potential for this reclaimed wood.

Once my first arbor was built, I had a drive. Over the winter, I continued learning, and after having built planter boxes, trellises, and other items from the same gorgeous material, I wanted other people to see the beauty of this reclaimed wood, and how useful it could be. I wanted people to see that there are many ways to use reclaimed lumber, and that there was no need to throw it away or burn it. And that there's another way to minimize our effect on our natural resources.

I remember the conversation my wife, Melissa and I had one day about how we could show people the beauty of this recycled material and how it can be "born again" into our gardens. Where could we possibly start? "How about a farmers market?!" By this time, I had completed several breathtaking garden arbors for neighbors, and I had also started dabbling in different designs, and had completed several custom orders. We applied for the local farmers market, and were accepted. As luck would have it, our first farmers market was a hit. It was so rewarding, the number of people who were fascinated with the beauty and eco-friendliness of reclaimed cedar.

During that spring and summer, between market days, I researched and designed, and began building a variety of useful items, such as the bat houses, Flutterbye Houses, and the A.R. Bee Keep. My goal was not just to build quality into eco-friendly garden structures, but to help others with their desire to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. One of my most important goals, one that I always strive for, is to always provide my customers with a high quality eco-friendly product.

Since my spring and summer of crafting for the farmer's markets, I have had the pleasure of being a part of Etsy.com, arguably the very best hand-crafted venue. I will tell you, the very fact that I have been part of the eco-friendly crafts movement has been such a pleasure. Having satisfied customers is for certain one of the most important things to me in my craft, but more than that, bringing more knowledge of eco-friendly material, and eco-friendly ways of being, is rewarding beyond what I can put into words.

I am really excited to see where the new year will take my craft, and look forward to bringing new styles out of the old barn beams and into our little corner of the world, and becoming a greater part of the solution for our increasingly eco-friendly lives.

FREE SHIPPING THIS WEEKEND ONLY on all bird feeders, mason bee boxes, and much more

2009-01-16T23:18:00.000-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5707832

Panoramic Shot From Hurricane Ridge

2009-01-08T12:14:00.001-08:00

Last year I took a trip to Hurricane Ridge with my wife, mother, and brother. What a beautiful sight from the top. Hurricane Ridge is spectacular. In a 14 mile drive to the top you will gain 5000 feet of elevation. It provides an easy route into the heart of the park, where one can see the great mountains and explore the high alpine country. The visitor center at about 5200' offers spectacular views of Mount Olympus and the Lillian Ridge and the surrounding fields can be full of wildflowers taking advantage of the brief growing season. Wander a little farther up, and there are also lovely views of the Strait of San Juan de Fuca and Vancouver Island.

NEW ITEMS ADDED TODAY, small sunflower bird feeder and peanut butter/suet feederhttp://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19366520

2009-01-06T01:32:00.001-08:00

Here's s fun gadget

2009-01-01T10:53:00.000-08:00

Here's a great gadget a friend sent me. Kind of fun. It's http://www.dumpr.net/ ENJOY! :)

Interesting Butterfly Facts

2008-12-25T14:32:00.000-08:00

These butterfly houses

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18623454

come with a small slip of interesting butterfly facts...

Butterflies are important economically as one of the major agents of pollination

There are an estimated 17,500 species of butterflies.

Butterflies can live nearly a year depending on the species.

Many species can remain dormant in their pupa stages and thereby survive winters.

In some species, the pupa can rapidly move its abdominal segments and produce sounds to scare predators.

A young butterfly needs to spend some time inflating its wings with blood and letting them dry, during which time it is vulnerable to predators.

The color of butterfly wings is created by tiny scales, which are pigmented with blacks and browns, but blues, greens, reds and iridescence are created by scattering of light.

Some butterflies show greater dark colors in the wet-season form which may have thermoregulatory advantages by increasing ability to absorb solar radiation.

Most butterflies feed primarily on nectar from flowers. Some also derive nourishment from pollen, tree sap, rotting fruit, dung, and dissolved minerals in wet sand or dirt. This they do for water, for energy from sugars in nectar and for sodium and other minerals which are vital for their reproduction.

Several species of butterflies need more sodium than provided by nectar. They are attracted to sodium in salt and they sometimes land on people, attracted by human sweat

Butterflies sense the air for scents, wind and nectar using their antennae

Vision is well developed in butterflies and most species are sensitive to the ultraviolet spectrum.

Some butterflies have organs of hearing and some species are also known to make clicking sounds.

Many species of butterfly maintain territories and actively chase other species or individuals that may stray into them. Some species will bask or perch.

While basking, many species will orient themselves to gather heat from the sun.

The flight styles of some species have courtship flight displays.

Butterflies have been shown to navigate using time compensated sun compasses.

They can see polarized light and therefore orient even in cloudy conditions.

Eyespots and tails are found in many butterflies and these divert the attention of predators.

The Ancient Greek word for "butterfly" primarily means "soul”.

In some cultures, butterflies symbolize rebirth into a new life after being inside a cocoon for a period of time.

Some people say that when a butterfly lands on you it means good luck.

Studies on the reflection of light by the scales on wings of butterflies have led to the innovation of more efficient light-emitting diodes.

The structural coloration of butterflies is inspiring nanotechnology research to produce paints that do not use toxic pigments.

Butterflies are the second largest group of pollinators.....next to bees.

Butterflies taste with their feet.

Butterflies can attain a flight speed of up to 30 MPH.

Worldwide the smallest are the Pygmy butterflies at 11mm.

When it rains butterflies find shelter in crevasses, in dense undergrowth and tree cavities.

Over-wintering species of larvae avoid freezing by producing glycerol.....a kind of antifreeze.

A butterfly has compound eyes: each eye is made up of about 6,000 tiny parts.

The largest butterfly has a wingspan of 11 inches!

Butterflies weigh only as much as two rose petals, but can fly thousands of miles.

Butterflies can’t hear, but they can feel vibrations.

Adult butterflies pollinate many different plant species, and many flowers have specific adaptations for attracting them.

Flowers use ultraviolet to communicate. The flower’s color, form, aroma and nectar work as signals to guide the butterfly to the nectar.

Humans need butterflies. They play an important role in maintaining the balance of nature and health of the living world.

Butterflies pollinate wild plants and crops, ensuring production of seeds and fruits required by plants and animals.

Due to their fragility to ecological change, butterflies are elegant indicators of ecosystem health.

There are approximately 17,000 species of butterflies worldwide.

Predators of the butterfly include birds, ants, wasps, lizards and man.

Herbicides and insecticides do tremendous damage.

Varied and healthy plants are the key to butterfly health.

The colors on the wings are caused by scales which refract and reflect light.

Large Size Bee Boxes Now in Stock

2008-12-25T14:25:00.001-08:00

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18994767

Thank you for visiting Andrew’s Reclaimed. I'm pleased to announce my higher capacity bee boxes for the world’s best pollinator, the Blue Orchard Bee, also known as the Orchard Mason Bee. With these handsome Blue Orchard Bee Boxes, you can bring greater yields from your garden. The buckle hanger that comes with the bee box allows the hole entrances to face slightly downward, to keep rainwater from entering the holes.The orchard bee is a proven pollinator, superior to the Bumblebee, due to its earlier start in colder temperatures. Their nesting activity starts as early as February in the lower latitudes and elevations, and as late as June in colder areas.Unable to burrow nests for their young, Blue Orchard Bees usually nest in abandoned beetle burrows in dead logs. They have been shown to prefer smooth 5/16” holes, which we mimic precisely, using extra-sharp tools to cut the holes.Upon selecting a nest cavity, the female Blue Orchard Bee starts collecting mud to build an initial partition at the far end of the nest cavity. Females usually nest near the site from which they emerged, though not always in the same cavity.Once this partition is ready, she goes out to collect pollen and nectar, at the same time, to provide food for the eggs she will lay in a linear fashion from the bottom of the cavity, mud, pollen and nectar, egg, mud, pollen and nectar, egg until the cavity is nearly filled. The final layer is always a heavier deposit of mud, to protect her growing babies from harm. The following spring, the fresh bees emerge, to start the cycle all over again, collecting pollen and nectar, and pollinating your garden at the same time.This garden accessory, once populated with bees, is sure to bring more fruit and vegetables to your garden, and do so in an eco-friendly way. All Bee Boxes are constructed of reclaimed cedar.

Blue orchard bee boxes. These come individually or as a bundle of three, and can be found in my Etsy shop, www.andrewsreclaimed.etsy.com.

2008-11-13T13:19:00.000-08:00

Made a few more blue orchard bee / mason bee boxes today

Whew!

2008-11-09T23:02:00.000-08:00

Long day on the Andrew's Reclaimed farm. Purchased an old barn from a neighbor last spring. The old beams and planks are finally dry, and today, I started carving into them with the mill. Gorgeous material, Alaskan Yellow Cedar. It has a sweet yet peppery smell, can be quite strong at times. Here's a shot of a few alaskan yellow cedar planters I made up from the same kind of material last year.