We all are looking for ways to shrink our carbon footprint, and up-cycling is a fun way to do it!
I thought I would post an easy bit of up-cycled metalwork. All you need is an aluminum tray the right size, the old switch plate, a cold chisel or big old flathead screwdriver (that you don’t mind kind of messing up), a hammer, drill and bit, sandpaper or a file.
Use the old switch plate as a template to mark where you want to cut the holes. Set the tray on an old piece of plywood or a stack of cardboard. While wearing safety glasses, place the business edge of the chisel on the lines and gently tap in grooves on the lines. Double check with your template. Then just keep going over the lines again and again, deepening them each time until you cut all the way through. File the cut edges smooth. Drill holes as per the template. Give it a final polish and install your new switchplate!
I inherited my Nana’s collection of aluminum trays – probably 15 or 20. Some I use regularly, others I enjoy looking at, but how many aluminum trays can you hang on your walls? So, since we were remodeling the kitchen anyway, and I needed new switchplates, 💁♀️
Oh! The wall paneling is deconstructed pallets, stained. The shelves are original wood from the house (1932 Craftsman).