A grouping of mounted hardware
pieces makes an interesting
focal point.

At just about every flea market, you'll find baskets and tables loaded with the household hardware of yesteryear. Keys that don't have locks, knobs free of doors, and small decorative metal surrounds for those locks and knobs.

Artful and elaborate, the detail work on these items makes them delightful as decorative accessories. To showcase the intricate workmanship on these piece, simply mount them to a piece of wood that's been covered with wallpaper, paint, or fabric that suits your decor. Place a frame around the mounted items and display as you would any picture in your home.

All sizes, all shapes, this
collection of buttons makes a
becoming wreath.

Another flea-market commodity item is buttons. Gather up a collection of one color scheme to create a charming decorative wreath. Cover a small straw wreath by wrapping it with a coordinating color of fabric or wide ribbon. Sew different sizes and shapes of buttons to the fabric, varying the thread colors. For variety, use thin ribbon to attach some of the buttons.