David Burgess upcycles pallets into handmade items for the home. Here the account manager for an affiliate marketing company explains how he has turned his lockdown project into something positive
If you had to describe your life so far, what would you say?
I am a married father of two boys – and a dog – so life is usually pretty busy! But I also enjoy taking time out to enjoy some peace and quiet wherever possible.
What’s your ‘day job’?
I work as an account manager for an affiliate marketing company.
How was everything looking for you at the start of the pandemic and how have you adapted?
Strangely, the pandemic was the starting point for Positively Pallets. The lockdowns meant that I had more time at home than usual, so I used this extra time to launch and create products.
When did you first have the idea for Positively Pallets and what’s the thinking behind it?
It started with some items I created at home when we decorated. A friend really liked them and asked me to make some and mentioned he thought others would be interested if I started an Etsy store. Upcycling is more and more popular and it’s nice to be able to offer products that fit with other people’s ethos.
When did you launch and how has your workmanship been received so far?
I launched via Etsy back in April this year and later launched an Instagram page following my first craft fair in the summer. Feedback has been positive. People are surprised at how pallets and unwanted items can be transformed into something useful.
Where do you source your pallets?
Mainly from Facebook Market Place as people are often trying to get rid of them following deliveries.
How important is upcycling to you, in the current climate?
It is important to me as there are so many single use products and so much waste. I generally try to reuse as much as possible and have been surprised at how easy it can be.
Would you recommend anyone give it a go?
Definitely. I have really enjoyed the creative process and it’s always nice to hear the feedback from people. I have also met loads of great and likeminded people from local business at events and via Instagram!
Any plans you can share?
I have already started widening my product offerings and am always trying to think of new and useful designs!
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