“We didn’t know, for the longest time, how to describe our passion for repurposing old stuff,” Terry said. “That was until we found the perfect description in an antique magazine.”
Terry and Danny found the word “Bricoleur,” a person who makes resourceful use of old materials at hand, regardless of their original purpose.
In 2010 Terry created a blog called, “The Vintage Bricoleur,” not knowing that in just a year the Sjotvedts would have their own storefront under the same name. Their first show was at the Sacramento Antique Faire in 2009. Since then, it has been their home away from home.
They’ve established connections with local ‘bricoleurs’ and have made life-long connections within the fair’s community.
We started small,” Terry said. “Then we grew with the help and support of every vendor at the fair and we now haul whole furniture pieces over.”
You’ll find a plentiful assortment of refinished treasures at Terry and Danny’s vendor, like a 1940’s nightstand touched up with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, a high-demand product sold only at select stores. The Vintage Bricoleur not only carries the antique-friendly paint, they host workshops on how to use it effectively.
They continue to update their blog regularly, sharing creative innovations including but not limited to: cabinets, dressers, benches, suitcases, file cabinets, anything vintage and on its way out the door.
Now their store is fittingly located inside an old converted fruit warehouse in Loomis. There, they sell repurposed items like a 19th century tea kettle lamp, a wreath made from vintage composition paper, and much more.
With the grand opening of their store, which Danny and friends built in less than a month, the Sjotvedts proved that any old, run-down thing could be given a makeover.
The next generation of Bricoleurs are blooming as well.
Angela Sjotvedt, 16, following in her mom’s footsteps, recently started her own line called Random Bits. Her contribution to the store are bracelets made from old tape measures
Trevor Sjotvedt, 14, shares his dad’s interest in finding old books.
Arica Sjovedt, 11, had a hit during the holidays. Handcrafted gift tags.
“Now we’re doing things we never imagined,” Terry said. “It just goes to show that even without a college degree, if you work hard toward your passion, it’ll bloom.”
Check out Sacramento Antique Faire’s Facebook page to stay updated on the latest findings.
To find out more about The Vintage Bricoleur, go to their blog.
