apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

O.K. so I have done a million (or so it feels) searches online and can't seem to find a decent black blanket. I know a black blanket may sound crazy, but it is something I need to fold on the end of a bed to pull in a random black chair in the room (that won't be moved or re-painted). I need to have a blanket that is twin-sized, NOT a throw-size, as I want it for an additional bed blanket. I am open to a larger size and then cut it down, but not sure how easy that would be. I don't want any acrylic or polyester fabrics - either 100% cotton, wool, cashmere, or a blend of any of those would be ideal (basically something that just feels nice against the skin). My budget is decent (I think!) at $100-$300, so hopefully someone out there has an idea for where in the world to find something like this! Thanks in advance for your help. One more thing... nothing too girly if possible, this is for a guy's room.

This is a tough one, I know. Ralph Lauren has a black cashmere blanket, but it's $995. You might check out the black Vellux blanket at JC Penny: http://tinyurl.com/349x4l

Hi~ Does anyone know the diameter a round table has to be in order to seat 8 people?

You may not want a throw, but Bluefly has black Kashmere blankets for $180 which is a steal. I have one and love it.

Sol,
This site:

http://www.wholesale-table-linens.com/Seating-Setup-Guide.html

says a 60 inch table seats 8 and has other sizes/seatings as well. Hope this helps!

I can KNIT you one of 60x50" dimension, in any color you choose....even BLACK ... out of wool & acrylic yarn .

Super warm, and comfortable!

thanks peardown :)

I want to repaint a dresser I have. The problem is, I don't think its real wood. More like particle board and wood together, then coated in something. It's from Walmart from years ago, but still in great shape. But it has that cheapy manufactured feel. How would you recommend I treat it in order to paint it? sorry I can't be more specific about what its made of because I don't know.

Warning! I tried to use Home Depot to install an entry door. After many weeks of back and forth, it turns out they will not install doors above the third floor unless they are HURRICANE proof--yes, that's right, hurricane-proof in Chicago. Since manufacturers won't vouch for that product type in the midwest, the contractor won't install...Don't even think about wasting your time.

mabaker, here's a down comforter, 100 percent cotton shell at Target.com. You might keep it in mind if you don't find anything else.

And, just in case, they also have a microsuede duvet in ebony, but although it's a poly/cotton blend, microsuede usually has a nice hand and is supposed to be very durable.

Pendleton's Acacia National Park blanket has a black field...you could fold it so that only the black shows. Pendleton wool blackets are so warm, my son sleeps in an unheated room with just a sheet and blanket on his bed.

http://www.pendleton-usa.com/jump.jsp?itemID=676&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C6%2C777&iProductID=676

Ok, this might sound a wee bit silly but I haven't had radiator heat in ages.

A big chunk of ours walls have giant radiators. Giant as in surface area but they're mostly built into the wall. Can I put things in front of them? like an open backed bookcase or upholstered bench (for extra seating)?

Or will it damage the furniture & make our apartment cold?

Chijenna, lightly sand the dresser with fine sandpaper (or steel wool) to scuff the finish, then primer it, then paint it. Use a foam roller for smoothest finish. The primer's important, otherwise the paint won't stick.

Thanks for your comments about the black blanket! Right now I am leaning towards the Kashmere one from Bluefly (thanks MC!). Its a throw, but it seems to be the largest throw as far as dimensions (56"x83") which is better than nothing. Thanks callbob for the offer, but I need something larger than 50"x60" - a twin blanket is around 67"x90", so that is the ideal dimensions for whatever I go with. The black comforter from Target may work too, but I already have a down duvet so it may be too much fluff. But, I am definitely open to a coverlet-style/thickness rather than more of a blanket... but I couldn't find those in black either. MC - I know the Ralph Lauren one is ridiculously priced, but I can't even find that online - do you know where I can find it? If anyone else has ideas I am still open - thanks so far!

Shawn is spot on. In case you run into some bleeding when you prime your chest of drawers, Chijenna, us Kilz. It comes in a water base. After you paint the piece, you might consider a clear coat. Keep in mind that it can yellow with age, so consult the dealer about the best sealant.

mabaker, I had a few free moments to look some more, and here's what I found.

Milano 800 Thread Count Duvet Cover Set in 100 percent cotton

Deco Squares Matelasse in bedspread or coverlet size

Nautica reversible comforter set (reverses to khaki)

Barefoot Dreams cableknit throw that's probably a little small

another Barefoot Dreams knitted throw This one is still a little small, but Oprah thinks they're awesome! ;-)

Thanks for the advice Shawn and Kurt!

Probably a little late--may have to repost on tomorrow's open thread--but does anyone have any thoughts on this sleeper sofa? I love the way it looks.

http://www.chiasso.com/shopping/modern-furniture/modern-sofas/aero-sofa-with-arms.aspx

I didnt write the post on the Ralph Lauren blankets, but your best bet might be the Michigan Ave store. The Barefoot Dreams blankets are so hot. Unless you keep your temp at artic levels, they are almost uncomfortable.

I need an endtable does anyone have any suggestions?