Im just truly a thrift junkie, Connolly says of her auspicious career change. I was always seeing interesting pieces that needed a makeover," she adds, noting that she finds her fabrics everywhere: estate sales, eBay and in the trash. Throw in the green, recycled upside of her concept, her discerning eye for fabrics and furniture shapes that work well together and a laissez-faire attitude toward cutting up a vintage curtain or bedspread in the name of creativity, and youve got something totally unique: a near-new chair or stool that could quickly become the centerpiece of any room. Among her favorite pieces are chairs finished with appliquéd or screen-printed designs, or trimmed with vintage pompoms.
Find Connollys finished wares at Rejuvanest, 3719 West 32nd Avenue, or online at www.vintagerenewal.com and vintagerenewal.etsy.com; most online items are currently on sale for the holiday season. Or visit her Platte Street studio by appointment; call 720-984-7914.
Starts: Nov. 19. Daily, 2008