the start of cotton and rust
cotton and rust started on Etsy in 2016 where I made paper crafts, woodworking projects and began to repurpose vintage finds. After a while, building a new home sparked a passion for using collected, vintage materials, fixtures and textiles in the design. I leaned into the styling and photography process and thus began my journey sharing on Instagram @cottonandrust. I have grown creatively from there, selling vintage and handmade items, connecting with the vintage and design community and turning my passions into a small business.
about amy
Hi, I’m Amy, a happy wife to my soulmate Mike and the creator of cotton and rust. I’m a proud American who finds joy spending time in nature, a Southern way of living, and giving glory to God while cherishing the people I love most.
I owe so much of who I am to my parents, who were two of the most wonderful people to ever walk this earth. They are waiting for me in heaven and I hope to make them proud in everything I do. My mom is the reason I adore blue and white anything. She taught me to sew and gave me the courage to take creative leaps in her honor. I tagged along as she sold her handmade textile bags at farmers markets and craft fairs using a display Dad built her out of old shutters. Today, I can still picture her sitting at her sewing machine in her cozy craft room with her music on, creating. Our favorite days were spent treasure hunting at antique malls or searching for more cobalt blue pieces to add to her collection.
Dad inspired my love for books, writing, and history. He had endless patience, wisdom, and curiosity about the world. Growing up, I never understood why he had to stop and read every historical marker on family vacations, but now I smile because I do the same thing. He and Mom were the kindest people I have ever known and I'm so thankful for the solid foundation they built in my life.
My loving husband is a first responder with a career to be proud of. A few years ago we sold our small Florida farm (where I became a little bit chicken obsessed) and now we are patiently awaiting our new build in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains in Tennessee. Upon its completion we will be trading the beach for the mountains and continuing to build our dreams.
Through cotton and rust, I carry on the values instilled in me through my loved ones. Life is all about faith, family, and appreciation for things with a story. I experience happiness creating and finding pieces that bring warmth and character into homes.
Thank you for being here. I hope you find inspiration to embrace what you love and fill your space with meaning.
decor through the seasons
Home has always been my favorite canvas. Whether it’s bright summer blooms, cozy autumn textures, or the soft charm of spring pastels, each season inspires a new way to blend vintage finds and handcrafted details.
