I haven't done this for a while, but I decided to do a link roundup today of projects I wish I could tackle ... if I had enough, space, time, money and patience.

Until I do, I'm just enjoying reading other people's creative solutions.

This blogger used an IKEA lamp and small plates (it doesn't say that they're plastic, but I'm guessing they are) to make her own Sputnik Chandelier.  It is super cool, but it looks like it was a lot of work.

This tutorial for a vintage-phone toilet paper holder? Coolest thing ever, seriously.

I also enjoyed this Apartment Therapy post about the couple who turned unused paint cans into coat hooks. What a good idea for storing gloves, dog leashes and other things you need to grab before running out the door.

I also like the look of these industrial-style, DIY tables - but not enough to replace my 1950s boomerang, Formica coffee table.

I've been thinking a bit again about replacing our countertops - obviously, Rob might have some time this summer to tackle this, but we'd have to do it on a pretty small budget.

So far, I've been drooling over DIY instructions for slate countertops, salvaged from blackboards, and those made from zinc. Rob vetoed the latter as "too expensive," so we're going to have to come up with some other creative solution. Anyone have ideas? Or a great source for blackboards?

We're going to stop by PACA tomorrow. A quick trip to the Restore over my lunch hour revealed a small amount of turquoise laminate with boomerangs. I'm pretty sure I couldn't get away with it, though.

How about you - what are you drooling over these days? Any of you have big plans for summer DIYs?

Photo is of Sputnik lamp DIY, by Jenny Komenda. Used with her permission.