At the Shipshewana Flea Market, shoppers love stumbling across unique, handmade, and meaningful décor. One vendor who has been delighting visitors since 2013 is Suzanne Tuelker, a creative artist with a gift for turning overlooked items into one-of-a-kind treasures.
From yard sales and auctions to the Shipshewana Antique & Misc. Auction, Suzanne finds inspiration in old, discarded, or forgotten pieces. While many people might see an item destined for the dump, she sees something waiting to be made beautiful.
The Project: An Old Ironing Board Becomes Something New
One of Suzanne’s recent projects began with a simple wooden ironing board she found. To most, it was just an outdated household tool. To Suzanne, it was the perfect canvas.
She started with a base coat of dark paint to create a fresh surface. Then, using her artistic eye, she layered in a design of bold, cheerful sunflowers.
Using a vinyl stencil she cut with her Cricut, Suzanne added the words: “Abide in Me” — John 15:4
Finally, she added highlights and detailing to the flowers, sealing the whole piece so it could be used outdoors or indoors. For outdoor use, she recommends spraying a quick protective topcoat once a month to keep it looking fresh.
A Creative Process Built on Inspiration
Suzanne’s workshop is filled with treasures waiting for their transformation. Sometimes, inspiration comes to her immediately. Other times, an item may sit in storage for years before she knows what it will become.
“Then, BAM—it hits me, and I create it,” Suzanne explains.
Her projects have included everything from gas cans turned into cows to hand-painted signs, T-shirt designs, and jewelry. Every piece is unique, and many bring back memories of childhood or home for her customers.
Why People Love Her Work
For Suzanne, the best part of her work is when people connect with her creations. The ironing board with the scripture verse, for example, touched a buyer deeply because the verse held personal meaning.
That’s what makes Suzanne’s booth at the Shipshewana Flea Market so special—you’re not just buying décor, you’re bringing home something with a story.
Shopping & Vendor Tips
For shoppers: “When you find it and love it, buy it—because someone else might snatch it up before you get the chance.”
For new vendors: Suzanne shares, “1-2-3: Go, Slow, Grow. Year 1 you learn, year 2 you earn, year 3 you return.”
She encourages other vendors not to get discouraged, but to give their business time to grow.
Visit Suzanne at Her Booth
Suzanne has been part of the Shipshewana Flea Market community since 2013. When you stop by, don’t just glance at the storefront—step inside her booth to discover hidden treasures you won’t want to miss.
From auctions to flea market finds, Suzanne Tuelker transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. Her booth is a must-visit for anyone who loves upcycled décor, handmade art, and meaningful keepsakes.