BREAKING NEWS: Brisbane’s own DIY sensation, Geneva Vanderzeil, has just released her latest book, New Again, a transformative guide to upcycling and restoring furniture. This launch comes as the creative community in Brisbane and beyond is rapidly embracing the art of DIY, driven by a growing desire for sustainable living and personal expression.
Sitting in her vibrant studio in Highgate Hill, Vanderzeil describes her new book as a culmination of nearly 15 years of experience and discovery in the world of crafting. “New Again is a masterclass in transforming and upcycling, and restoring your furniture and decor,” she states passionately. With over 1.3 million followers on Instagram and 750,000 on TikTok, her influence is undeniable, inspiring many to see the potential in everyday items.
Vanderzeil’s journey from a former town planner to a DIY queen began in 2010 with her fashion blog. Since then, she has transitioned into a full-time creator, sharing her innovative projects with a global audience. “People say, ‘I want to have your brain,’ but it’s actually just a unique perspective on seeing what’s in front of you,” she explains.
One of her most talked-about passions is her obsession with dollhouses, where she creatively repurposes everyday objects. “The dollhouse addiction has been a bit of a journey,” she admits, showcasing her collection that includes a cafe dollhouse and a clock dollhouse. Vanderzeil now offers comprehensive online courses covering a range of topics, from creating dollhouses to furniture upcycling, featuring 40 to 50 detailed videos for each project.
Living in Brisbane inspires Vanderzeil’s creativity, especially the city’s unique kerbside collection program, which she encourages local residents to explore. “I am addicted to kerbside collection. It’s amazing what you can find that just needs a little love,” she says. Vanderzeil emphasizes the potential of quality timber furniture, urging enthusiasts to look beyond initial imperfections. “It doesn’t have to look perfect to have a lot of potential,” she adds.
For those ready to dive into DIY, Vanderzeil advises starting small. “Just start with a project and gather your toolkit as you go,” she suggests, making crafting accessible for everyone. Her innovative approach has led to viral trends, such as her “trash to terracotta” concept, which encouraged thousands to transform ordinary vases into stunning decor.
Looking forward, Vanderzeil is pivoting towards promoting self-care through crafting. She plans to focus on quick, engaging projects that can be completed in just 10 minutes, such as embroidery and knitting, allowing individuals to find a moment of calm in their busy lives. “Crafting can be a form of self-care, and it’s important to incorporate it into your daily routine,” she explains.
As the DIY movement gains momentum, Vanderzeil’s work stands as a beacon of inspiration, showing that creativity can spark joy and transform lives. With New Again now available, readers are encouraged to explore their creative potential and join the exciting world of DIY crafting.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and the crafting community continues to grow!
