We asked readers to send in photos and stories about how they’re putting old things to work in new ways, and the responses did not disappoint. As you’ll see on these pages, North Carolinians are masters of artfully putting seemingly worthless items to work. These are a few of our favorites.
Comfort by the Barrel
Daisha Gaines, Goldston, a member of Randolph EMC
It Gets Great Reception
Robert and Betty Watkins, Hillsborough, members of Piedmont Electric
Saw Blade Scene
Claire Louise Witmore, Pembroke, a member or Lumbee River EMC
Eclectic Lighthouse
Patsy Fletcher, Vilas, a member of Blue Ridge EnergyEclectic Lighthouse
Bird on a Line (Insulator)
William Ivey, Marshville, a member of Union Power
Grand Little Library
Kelly Puglisi, Nebo, a member of Rutherford EMC
New Life for an Old Lane
Natalie Grengs, Voluntown, a member of Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative
Reclaimed Screened Door
Gordon Byrd, Pembroke, a member of Lumbee River EMC
Outdoor Ambience
Kim Smith-Nagel, Asheboro, a member of Randolph EMC
Sewing the Fields
C. Sherlon Wheeler, Statesville, a member of EnergyUnited
One Fancy Birdhouse
Ralph Allen, Lumberton, a member of Lumbee River EMC
Tire Wall
Norman Walls, Creedmoor, a member of Wake Electric
Share Your Thoughts
Have a question about this story or just want to share what you thought? We’d love to hear from you!





































