Getting to know Creator's Studio member @EllaVatedCrafts 👋🏼
Why did you join Creator’s Studio?
I enjoy creating things, sharing ideas, getting inspiration and learning from others.
What’s your favorite part of the Creator’s Studio community?
The expert help offered from the amazing Rust-Oleum team is my favorite, but I enjoy the challenges and the inspiration too. I feel I can conquer any project with the help of the experts at Rust-Oleum.
How would you describe yourself/occupation to a complete stranger?
I have 17 rescued cats and I "make it" a great day! I have more power tools that most guys and know how to use them all well. I also have a sewing studio in my home and compete a few times a year. I have won the golden scissors trophy twice. Once for a dress I designed and another time for a pet palace I created for my rescued pets.
What creative areas do you like to focus on?
I like to salvage items that no longer have a purpose or that have seen better days.
What is your favorite Rust-Oleum product? How has it helped with your DIY projects?
Rust-Oleum has so many great products that choosing one is nearly impossible! One of my favorites is the classic black stain that I recently tried in the Mystery Challenge. I have already purchased more and used it on other projects. It helps me create professional looking pieces and achieve exactly the look I am going for.
What interests you most about DIY projects?
The ability to create something that will last and look fabulous. I save money by creating my own pieces and get exactly what I want or need.
What’s the best DIY project you have completed and how did you accomplish it?
I would say the catios I made for my 17 rescued cats. It gives them access to the outdoors, but the safety of a fully enclosed area. They get to choose if they want to be inside or outside during the day.
What’s the most difficult project you have tackled?
Building a 10' X 12' shed with a loft in 110 degree weather.
If you could create any type of project (with no limitations), what would you design and why?
It is my dream to buy property and build an animal sanctuary. There is a huge need and I love all animals! I grew up on a small farm. I learned to repair, build, sew, craft, garden and care for animals. I can fix or build nearly anything with the right equipment. I hope to sell my home and start building my sanctuary. It would be great to team up with a sponsor and create a video series!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know about you.
I grew up in poverty on a small farm. I sold handmade crafts to friends and teachers starting in 3rd grade. My brother and I worked for many of the neighbors and the local feed store from a very young age to help out. We would mostly mow lawns, care for animals and clean up properties. I used to be embarrassed to tell people, but I learned to do so many things and have no fear of trying new things. It was a blessing in disguise!
What’s the best advice that anyone has ever given you?
Try and try again! If you try something once and it fails, try again.
What book(s) are on your nightstand right now? What shows are you streaming?
Gardening books are on my table right now. I have my seeds started and will be tilling the garden next week. I rarely have time to stream any shows, but if I do they are true stories or how to series.
What’s your all time favorite food?
French fries are my favorite.
French fries -- yum! Thanks for spending some time with us @EllaVatedCrafts.
