Ken Winans travels the country making and selling interesting items made from recycled tires.

What do some old tires, some ingenuity and a new truck add up to? A lucrative and interesting business for Ken Winans, of Fleetville, Pennsylvania.

Not only is Winans making some neat and sturdy items out of the used tires, he is also making a healthy profit.

Winans set up his self-contained miniature factory several years ago, as a way to make a little extra income for his retirement.

His workshop - aka the back of his truck - has everything needed to make a useful product out of a discarded tire, including fold-out tables, platforms, stools, and storage areas - so his work goes where he goes.

He and his wife drive from place to place to sell their wares at fairs, flea markets and air shows. As soon as the Winans set up shop, curious onlookers begin gathering around his modern-day "peddler's wagon" to see what all the fuss is about.

The Winans’ products are sturdy, durable floor mats that can that can be used in almost any environment or vehicle. From homes to shops, stables to gyms, or what have you. The Winans have even lined the entire bed of his pickup with what he calls "pedestrian pads". And he also has a full set of recycled mud flaps on the truck. (Self-promotion is key in these situations!)

But he doesn't stop there. The inventor also makes a flexible version of a traditional mat (held together by nylon rope - not the traditional metal rods.)  He also weaves rubber-strip log carriers (complete with grips), and anti-skid pads that would come in handy in any mud or snow situation imaginable.

Ken Winans’ recycling business is booming, according to him. And why not? There's simply no reason why an enterprising soul shouldn’t enjoy the fruits of his (recycled) labor!

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