Our Gold Stackable Sawhorses: A ReadyMade 100 Finalist Project!

We are absolutely thrilled to share some exciting news that has been a long time coming! You might remember the robust, stackable sawhorse project we meticulously crafted a few months ago. It was a project born from a desire for functional yet stylish workshop essentials, eventually elevated with a striking gold finish. We poured our creativity into that design, not just for utility but also to make a statement, and proudly submitted it to the prestigious ReadyMade 100 contest. We recently received the wonderful confirmation that our project was selected as a finalist, and we couldn’t be more delighted to see it prominently featured in the April/May 2011 issue of ReadyMade magazine.

The Story Behind Our Award-Winning Gold Sawhorses

The journey of our stackable gold sawhorses began with a practical need: versatile and sturdy supports for various DIY and woodworking tasks. We envisioned a design that wasn’t just functional but also inherently space-saving, leading us to develop a concept for saw horses that could be easily stacked and stored away when not in use. This focus on efficiency and thoughtful design was paramount. The construction involved solid materials and a straightforward approach, making the project accessible for many DIY enthusiasts. We believe that good design should not only solve problems but also inspire, and the stackable nature of these saw horses was a direct response to the challenges of limited workshop or garage space, offering a neat and organized solution.

However, we didn’t want to stop at mere functionality. We decided to infuse a touch of unexpected glamour into our utilitarian design. The choice of gold paint wasn’t arbitrary; it was a deliberate decision to transform an ordinary workshop tool into something extraordinary. This gilded finish instantly elevated the humble sawhorse from a purely utilitarian object to a piece that could command attention, even serving as a stylish base for a temporary desk or display table. This blend of rugged utility with sophisticated aesthetics became a defining characteristic of our project, setting it apart and embodying the spirit of creative reinvention that ReadyMade magazine so beautifully championed. You can still find the original how-to guide for building these DIY gold saw horses on our site, detailing every step to help you create your own.

ReadyMade 100: A Prestigious Showcase for DIY Innovators

The ReadyMade 100 contest was more than just a competition; it was a vibrant celebration of creativity, ingenuity, and the thriving DIY spirit. Each year, it sought out innovative projects that exemplified smart design, resourcefulness, and a unique take on making. Submitting our gold sawhorse project was an exciting leap of faith, a chance to share our creation with a wider audience and be part of a community that values handcrafted solutions. The anticipation of waiting for the results was immense, as we knew the caliber of talent the contest attracted was incredibly high. To be considered among the top DIY innovators nationwide was an honor we genuinely coveted, and the selection process involved rigorous evaluation by industry experts and the magazine’s discerning editorial team.

Receiving the news that our project had been selected as a finalist for the ReadyMade 100 was an incredibly exhilarating moment. It was a powerful validation of our design philosophy – that practical, everyday items can indeed be reimagined with flair and originality. This recognition underscored the potential for everyday objects to become works of art, capable of both serving a purpose and sparking joy. The ReadyMade 100 contest consistently spotlighted projects that encouraged readers to think outside the box, to repurpose, to build, and to personalize their environments. Being a part of this esteemed group of finalists was not just about winning; it was about contributing to a larger movement of makers and doers, inspiring others to embark on their own creative journeys and discover the satisfaction of bringing ideas to life with their own hands.

Featured in ReadyMade Magazine: A Dream Come True

There’s a unique sense of pride that comes with seeing your hard work and creative vision manifested in the pages of a beloved publication. Being featured as a finalist in the April/May 2011 issue of ReadyMade magazine was truly a dream come true for us. ReadyMade was renowned for its commitment to inspiring readers with accessible, innovative, and stylish DIY projects, and to have our gold sawhorse project grace its pages was a significant milestone. The magazine provided an incredible platform, connecting us with countless other enthusiasts who shared our passion for hands-on creation and thoughtful design. This national exposure brought our simple yet impactful project into homes and workshops across the country, highlighting how a touch of creativity can transform even the most basic tools into something exceptional. We were delighted to be part of an issue that undoubtedly spurred countless readers to pick up their tools and start their own projects, fueled by the diverse range of ideas presented.

Insights from the Interview and Editor’s Praise

The experience was further enriched by an interview I had with the magazine, delving into the inspiration and process behind the sawhorse project. It was a wonderful opportunity to discuss our approach to DIY and the philosophy we bring to our designs. I must emphasize that I couldn’t possibly take all the credit for this project’s success, as Laura was an invaluable partner, lending her keen eye and unwavering support throughout its development. Her contributions were instrumental in refining the concept and bringing it to fruition, embodying the collaborative spirit often found in the best creative endeavors.

We were incredibly flattered by the recognition, and we wholeheartedly agreed with the insightful words of ReadyMade’s editor-in-chief, Andrew Wagner, who perfectly captured the essence of our project. He stated, “The stackable sawhorse is a great idea for any small space; add a little gold to the equation and this is a winner all the way around.” This quote resonated deeply with us because it acknowledged both the practical ingenuity of the stackable design, which is ideal for maximizing utility in compact living or working areas, and the unexpected aesthetic twist that truly made the project shine. It reinforced our belief that design doesn’t have to sacrifice style for function, and that sometimes, a simple, bold flourish like a coat of gold paint can elevate a practical item into something truly memorable and award-winning.

Celebrating Creativity: Other Incredible ReadyMade 100 Finalists

While we were incredibly proud of our own achievement, being part of the ReadyMade 100 meant we were in excellent company. The contest truly brought together an extraordinary collection of creative minds, each showcasing unique and inspiring DIY projects. It’s a testament to the vibrant maker community and the endless possibilities that arise when people combine ingenuity with a desire to create something new or better. We were captivated by the diversity and originality displayed by our fellow finalists, and it was a joy to explore their innovative creations.

Tess Wolfe-Stelzer’s Literary Lamps: The Grand Winner

The well-deserving overall winner, Tess Wolfe-Stelzer, crafted the mesmerizing literary lamps that beautifully graced the cover of the ReadyMade magazine issue. Her project was a brilliant example of upcycling and artistic expression, transforming discarded books into elegant and functional lighting fixtures. Each lamp was a sculptural piece, celebrating the written word and casting a warm, inviting glow. Tess’s ability to blend literature, design, and practicality made her project truly stand out and rightfully earn the top honor, inspiring countless readers to see old books in a new light.

Shelly Leer’s Upholstered Spool Ottoman: Comfort and Craft

Among our other favorite finalists was the ingenious upholstered spool ottoman by Shelly Leer. This project showcased a clever approach to repurposing industrial cable spools, transforming them into stylish and comfortable pieces of furniture. Shelly’s design combined the rustic charm of the spools with the refined elegance of upholstery, proving that discarded materials can have a second life as beautiful and functional home decor. It was a fantastic demonstration of sustainable design blended with an eye for comfort and aesthetics.

Tiffany Zachry and Laura Seaman’s Shim Wall: Innovative Texture

The shim wall by Tiffany Zachry and Laura Seaman was another standout, captivating us with its unique textural quality. This project utilized simple wooden shims, typically used for leveling, to create a stunning, three-dimensional wall treatment. The overlapping layers and varying depths of the shims produced a dynamic visual effect, adding warmth and intricate detail to an otherwise plain surface. It was a brilliant example of how everyday construction materials can be elevated into a sophisticated artistic statement, offering a fresh take on interior design.

Robert Niosi’s Vintage Fan Light: Retro-Cool Illumination

Robert Niosi’s vintage fan light was a masterful piece of repurposing, blending nostalgic aesthetics with modern functionality. Robert ingeniously transformed old, non-functional vintage fans into unique and stylish lighting fixtures. The project highlighted the beauty of vintage industrial design, giving new purpose to beloved relics of the past. It demonstrated how creative upcycling can result in truly distinctive home accessories that tell a story while providing practical illumination.

Sofie Sausser’s Cement Planters: Industrial Chic for Green Thumbs

Last but certainly not least, the cement planters by Sofie Sausser offered a refreshing take on modern gardening. Sofie’s project showcased the versatility of concrete, molding it into clean, minimalist planters that brought an industrial-chic aesthetic to both indoor and outdoor spaces. These durable and stylish planters were a testament to the beauty of raw materials and simple forms, appealing to those who appreciate contemporary design and a touch of urban flair in their greenery.

Join the DIY Revolution: Explore More and Get Inspired!

We are truly honored to be included among such an incredibly talented group of makers and innovators. The ReadyMade 100 contest was a powerful reminder of the boundless creativity that exists within the DIY community, and the magazine itself was a beacon for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their home and life. We encourage everyone to take a moment to explore the full spectrum of inspiring projects and designs. You can check out the rest of the finalists and delve deeper into their ingenious creations by visiting ReadyMade.com. Immerse yourself in the world of DIY, discover new techniques, and find the inspiration to start your own transformative projects.

The spirit of ReadyMade magazine, though its publication journey has concluded, lives on through the legacy of these remarkable projects and the countless individuals it inspired to create, build, and innovate. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting your DIY journey, there’s a wealth of knowledge and inspiration waiting to be discovered. So, grab your tools, let your imagination run wild, and join the ever-growing community of makers who are shaping their world, one project at a time. We hope our gold sawhorse story encourages you to embrace the challenge and immense satisfaction that comes with hands-on creation!