Creators, we are delighted today to be showcasing another long-term member and Superfan, @kelleysdiy!
Why did you join Creator's Studio?
I was on the Rust-Oleum site checking out the products. I was a newbie to DIY. I was so inspired by the project catalog! So many inspiring makeovers. I then came upon this site on Instagram, and immediately joined 4 years ago.
What's your favorite part of the Creator's Studio community?
Oh, my favorite part of this community is the people and moderators for sure! The members are so friendly, and I am so inspired by all their fabulous creations. I learn so much from both the members and the whole Rustoleum team! If I have a question about a product, I can find experienced people who can help me. I love being able to see just what a new product can do when members get a hold of it!
How would you describe yourself/occupation to a complete stranger?
I'm very outgoing, I value life. I'm a former child psychologist working with abused children and families, and have such a special love and respect for children.
What creative areas do you like to focus on?
I just love doing makeovers! I love the whole process of coming up with new ideas and figuring out how I can create them. Finding something on the curb that has been abandoned, and bringing it home to bring it some life.
What is your favorite Rust-Oleum product? How has it helped with your DIY projects?
Oh there are so many products to choose just one, but I have to say that I use the Ultra 2x Spray paints so regularly, and I love the way my projects come out using it! It sprays on easily and efficiently. Never leaves my projects with streaks. And the colors, oh there are so many beautiful colors and finishes. I loved one of the spray colors so much, I had Home Depot match the color in a paint, and my front doors came out beautiful! I love all the Rust Oleum products, I really trust their brand.
What interests you most about DIY projects?
I have such a feeling of pride and confidence when I complete a project with my own hands! I love creating new projects and updating or repurposing! It makes me happy!
What's the best DIY project you have completed and how did you accomplish it?
This is a hard one. I think my favorite project would be my Patio Set makeover, because it was the first time I did a makeover. It was a long process of sanding, priming and painting, and it came out just how I saw it in my head. It was the first time I won the 'trash to treasure' contest here at Creators Studio. I felt so happy and proud.
What's the most difficult project you have tackled?
The most difficult project I tackled was my first kitchen makeover. I started with the cabinets. I removed them all and sanded them down, then I painted. It came out great, but plain looking. I decided to add molding on all 32 cabinet doors and drawers. I had never done molding before, and after some mistakes, I finished and I was so amazed at the kitchen and me!
You can see the before and after below.
If you could create any type of project (with no limitations), what would you design and why?
What I would really love to do is design a home from the foundation up! I have been designing and flipping houses for a few years now, and would really love to design my own home that would be perfect for me!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know about you.
In college I was kidnapped. Long story short, the car sped out of control at 120 mph, rolled down an embankment and I was tossed out on my head. I thought I would never get to finish college. It was 7 years after that I went back to college and finished my masters.
A good thing is: I won MVP award for my pitching. Don Drysdale presented my trophy and autographed ball, which I treasure!
What's the best advice that anyone has ever given you?
I think the best advice that I cling onto even now is when I was young my mother used to tell me before a competition, or any important event "Just do your best ". With most everything I try to do my best. I do get frustrated when my best isn't enough, but it's all I can do, so it's alright with me.
What book(s) are on your nightstand right now?
I had planned to travel this summer, but with the virus I had to postpone. So on my nightstand is a book on Rome, and a HGTV magazine!
What's your all time favorite food?
This one is easy......I love Seafood! Shrimp, Scallops, Lobster, and any fish that doesn't taste fishy.
Thanks for sharing your story with us, @kelleysdiy!