Today we’d like to introduce you to Tom Bates.
Hi Tom, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I create one of a kind home décor using recycled and gently used materials I discover at Thrift stores, transforming trays, boxes, tins, bottles, and wood pieces into vintage inspired treasures. Each item is carefully decoupaged with patterned rice papers, book pages, fabrics, or lace, then sealed for everyday use. I love giving old materials new life—sourcing them from thrift shops and flea markets—and turning them into charming, eco friendly pieces full of character. Every creation is unique, sustainable, and made for others to enjoy.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
At 73, stepping into an entirely new craft with only a little knowledge was a true challenge. Thanks to social media—YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram—I was able to learn, refine my skills, and grow into the artist I am today. Now I proudly showcase my work at numerous local, in‑state, and out‑of‑state craft shows.
I often lose track of time in my studio, spending hours watching tutorials, experimenting with new techniques, and developing fresh ideas for my projects. I’m always searching for ways to elevate my craft. While the learning curve has been steep, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. There are days when I look up and realize the entire day has passed without me even noticing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work is a celebration of reinvention, imagination, and the quiet beauty of handcrafted art. In my studio, time seems to dissolve as I explore new techniques, blend vintage textures with modern inspiration, and transform simple materials into pieces that feel storied and soulful. What began as a late‑in‑life leap of curiosity has become a deeply meaningful creative journey, shaped by patience, discovery, and the joy of learning something new every single day. Each tray, plaque, and decorative piece I create carries a bit of that journey — the spark of an idea, the thrill of experimentation, and the satisfaction of bringing something beautiful into the world with my own hands. This craft is more than a passion for me; it’s a way of sharing warmth, character, and artistry with others.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Luck has played a subtle but meaningful part in my craft business, but always in partnership with hard work. I have been fortunate to discover passion at a moment when learning online, giving me access to techniques, teachers and inspiration which did not exist for decades. I have had lucky encounters with the right customers, the right shows and the right opportunities which helped m work get noticed. But that luck only mattered because I was already showing up, learning, experimenting and putting my creations out into the world. In many ways, luck simply opened the door – and I am the one who walked through it with courage, curiosity and commitment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carolinacraftandart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinacraftandart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584583322718
