Round mirror reflecting art, potted plant, perfumes, candle, and crystals on a glass table.
7 Iridescent Items That Will Instantly Liven Up Your Space
These galactic-inspired home items will add to any decor.
Jun 6, 2019
How To Condition Leather Furniture
Leather furniture can last for decades if properly taken care of. Prolong the life of your piece by using this simple, all-natural leather conditioner. Vinegar Linseed oil Essential oil (optional) Jar with a lid or spray bottle Microfiber cloth Wipe down your furniture to be sure it is dust-free in preparation for the conditioning treatment. 2. Mix 1 part vinegar with 2 parts linseed oil in a jar with a lid. Close the lid and shake vigorously.
Jun 5, 2019
How To Make a Fruit Fly Trap To Get Rid of Fruit Flies
We’ve all experienced it at one point: fruit flies, first a few then an infestation surrounding your fruit bowl. They’re pesky little critters, but we’ve found the best way to rid your kitchen of them. Here are our quick instructions for making a fruit fly trap with just a few simple materials. Vinegar, fruit or wine (apple cider vinegar works especially well) Glass or jar Sheet of paper Tape Find a suitable glass or jar.
Jun 5, 2019
8 Patterned Wallpapers That Are Totally Removable
Affordable and easy-to-install, removable wallpaper is a goof-proof way to revamp your space without committing to something permanent. And good news: Amazon offers an array of stylish peel-and-stick wallpaper options so you can upgrade your place in a pinch — for cheap.
Jun 5, 2019
#2: ELVARLI Storage System
IKEA says: Whether for a walk-in wardrobe, hallway solution or a business, ELVARLI storage system provides open storage that’s easy to get just right, while looking nice. ELVARLI storage system is the result of some innovative development at IKEA to create flexible, beautiful and lightweight storage. ELVARLI storage system is elegantly designed with attention to small details like seamless joints and invisible fittings.
Jun 5, 2019
#9: BARKABODA Wood Countertop
IKEA’s description: The herringbone pattern has a beautifully pleasing geometry to the eye. In BARKABODA countertop the pattern in dark brown wood adds true elegance to the kitchen. The countertop is made durable with a layer of solid wood that covers a particleboard core. This technique not only gives a genuine expression of solid wood, but is a good environmental choice as it’s resource-efficient.
Jun 5, 2019
Kim & Scott’s Happy “Yellow Brick Home”
Name: Kim & ScottLocation: Logan Square, ChicagoSize: An itty bitty 650 square feetYears lived in: 2.5 happy years A perfect tour for small spaces month, here is an expanded look at the colorful condo that is the inspiration behind the blog Yellow Brick Home. Located in Chicago in a nearly 100 year old building, this recently renovated Logan Square space got a strong dose of individuality from its owners.
Jun 5, 2019
The Cutest Bookends You Can Find on Amazon for Under $30
Because your books deserve to be housed in style.
Jun 4, 2019
5 Ways to Separate Your Living and Sleeping Spaces in a Studio
How to create a proper sleeping zone in your small living space.
Jun 3, 2019
8 Outdoor Accessories That Will Take Your Next Summer Party to the Next Level
Summer is here and there’s no better way to celebrate than having a little fun in the sun. So to help jumpstart your sunny season shenanigans, we rounded up some playful summer finds that will take your summer from humdrum to “so much fun” in seconds.
Jun 1, 2019
How to Responsibly Buy Home Decor Abroad
“I really don’t like to travel,” is not something you hear too often.Most of us can agree that traveling is the gift that keeps on giving. You can immerse yourself in a new culture, experience delicious foreign food, take stellar photos of the coolest places on Earth, and buy some beautiful home decor from all around the world. But filling your home with pieces that exude wanderlust is easier said than done.
May 31, 2019
Give Old Luggage New Life With These 5 Brilliant DIYs
In my neighborhood, it’s common for residents to set out piles of unwanted items with friendly “free” signs, meaning that you never know when you’ll head out for a walk or to run an errand and come back with something interesting and useful. After seeing these amazing luggage transformations, I’m majorly hoping that one of my neighbors will toss an unneeded suitcase or two to the curb. Looking to work some DIY magic of your own?
May 29, 2019
Blanket Ladders are Equal Parts Stylish and Functional, and We Can’t Get Enough
To be entirely honest, many of the home accessories I normally love don’t have a real purpose other than, well, to look cute (which, in my opinion, is entirely ok). That said, it’s always rewarding to be able to find pieces for your space that look nice but are also super functional—like a blanket ladder.
May 29, 2019
We’re Seeing This Muted Tangerine Rug Everywhere—and You Can Find It on Major Sale Right Now
It's the perfect blend of contemporary, traditional, and eclectic.
May 29, 2019
Fool Your Friends With These Faux Houseplant Tips
The year was 1995, and there was a ficus tree that lived in the corner of our living room, beside the couch. The tree had a wicker basket over the base with shredded moss covering the soil. The leaves were a deep green, splattered with soft yellow variegation. My mom never watered it, but it never died. I thought, at the ripe age of six, that if I did not touch the tree as my mom demanded, it would grant me a wish. Unfortunately, the ficus was not a magical fairytale tree.
May 26, 2019
Your Walls Need This Whimsical Magnetic Wallpaper
Imagine the possibilities.
May 26, 2019
7 Decorative Mirrors That Double as Wall Art
A good-looking mirror can upgrade any area of your home in seconds. But what to do when you want to be able to check your lipstick in something with a little more pizazz than a traditional wall mirror? Good news: we did our research and discovered that the web is brimming with beautifully designed mirrors that look more like artwork than functional decor. From a lip-shaped stunner to a woven starburst style, here are seven artsy mirrors that will instantly liven up your space.
May 21, 2019
How To Choose the Right Size Lamp Shade
Whether you’re buying something new or updating the old, pairing a new shade with a lamp can be tricky. We’ve got a few tips for you to keep in mind while you shop for that perfect shade. Measuring tape Lamp Remember these five things: The bottom edge of the lampshade should fall midway on the neck of the lamp. You don’t want the socket or the switch to be visible. When shade shopping, the shade size refers to the width across the bottom of the shade.
May 21, 2019
We Reimagined Famous ‘Game of Thrones’ Castles as Modern-Day Homes, and We’re Ready to Move In
Welcome to UnReal Estate, where we take characters from pop culture and reimagine their fantasy spaces into homes fit for the “real world.”After eight years, more than 70 episodes, and innumerable fan theories, the grand finale of HBO’s epic fantasy series “Game of Thrones” is finally here. Now that our watch is officially ended—and after this, let’s just say, controversial final season—we thought it would be fun to have some lighthearted GOT fun.
May 19, 2019
This Drink Dispenser Is All I Need to Throw Perfect Summer Shindigs
Summer entertaining is the best. Getting everyone together, enjoying the weather, throwing something on the grill or just bringing some potluck dishes—it’s sociable and just makes you feel good. But what’s perhaps even better? Some libations added to the mix.
May 16, 2019
7 Stylish Ways to Decorate with Vintage Typewriters
Despite all of the technological developments of the past several decades, typewriters are still a staple in many of our homes. Whether we inherited one from a relative or picked one up at a favorite vintage shop, many of us just can’t get enough of them.
May 16, 2019
The Broke Person’s Guide to Making Your First Place Feel More Adult
Moving apartments is often bittersweet, no matter the occasion—adjusting to a new neighborhood, routine, and floor plan can be both inspiring and challenging. Relocating to your first adult place—whether it’s post-college, post-gap year, post-high school, or just when you feel ready—comes with its own level of excitement and ambiguity, and often, no two newly-minted adults are exactly the same.
May 14, 2019
You Can Now Rent Art, So You Don’t Even Have to Commit to that Gallery Wall
When it comes to shopping for art, the potential purchasing conundrums are endless. From getting a piece home only to notice that it doesn’t work with your overall aesthetic to obsessing over a print that’s too far out of your design budget, art lovers can all attest that choosing that perfect print isn’t always the simplest task.
May 13, 2019
How to Style Your Dresser So You Can Actually Still Use It
Dresser styling can definitely pose a bit of challenge. It’s easy to plop a TV on top and call it a day, but that isn’t the most visually exciting option, not to mention, there’s generally not much space left when it comes to actually getting ready. Dresser tops can hold a mix of practical and whimsical items, but the key is to not crowd the area too much.
May 12, 2019
The One Accessory You’re Probably Overlooking When Thrift Shopping
Within the past year and a half, I’ve become an even more active thrift shopper, having found some amazing scores on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and even at the local Goodwill. While searching through someone else’s old stuff with the hope of finding treasure can certainly require some time and patience, it’s so worth it—especially when it comes to lamps.
May 11, 2019
NY Good Questions: How Can I Hide These Security Bars?
Hello AT, I’m looking for a solution to hide really ugly security bars on my living room window.I need a solution that still allows light to enter the room because the room is dark.Any suggestions are appreciated!Thanks! Emily(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first.)Dear Emily,This is a perennial NYC question and one that we wish was answerable by simply saying TAKE THE BARS DOWN, but we know that is not reasonable for everyone.
May 10, 2019
Switch Up Your Pillow Covers with These 9 Affordable Options
You can never truly own too many throw pillows, right? I mean, just scroll through these pillow-filled rooms and take a look at how comfortable and stylish they seem! But for those who are short on space or prefer a more minimalist look, I maintain that purchasing a few great inserts and then swapping out covers from time to time is the best bet.
May 10, 2019
How To: DIY Paint Ceramic Tile
Got a bathroom or kitchen with an outdated colour palette? That burnt umber and avocado green tiling not floating your boat in the kitchen or bathroom any longer? Tiling around kitchen backsplash, floor tiles non-sink countertops, fireplace tiles and wall tiles all can be repainted even if they have a shiny finish (continually and regularly wet tiling require an epoxy formula). You might want to consider repainting those eyesore tiles rather than replacing them.
May 9, 2019
IKEA’s New Collection Will Add Some Much-Needed Calm into Your Home
If nothing excites you more than a brand new IKEA haul, then prepare to empty your wallet now. The Swedish retailer recently announced a new limited collection called TÄNKVÄRD, and it is a feast for the eyes. It’s also got a pretty interesting story behind it, too. According to IKEA, the new line is all about self-care and “bringing beauty and calm to your home.” (I mean, who wouldn’t want that?
May 9, 2019
9 Rooms That Prove Neutrals Aren’t the Be-All, End-All When it Comes to Rugs
Sure, I love a classic jute rug from time to time, but no one ever said that rugs have to be neutral-colored. Some rooms of the house just call for a little something extra, after all. Whether you’re sprucing up your living room, dining room, bedroom, or nursery, don’t be afraid to play the pattern or color card. These images are bound to inspire. This isn’t your grandma’s oriental rug.
May 8, 2019
How To Build an Interior Window
Contemporary homes are built with open floor plans, great rooms, and high ceilings — a result of current tastes, as well as programmatic and structural changes in residential architecture. Unlike homes from the mid-century and prior, the contemporary home incorporates the previously private kitchen into the public living space and capitalizes on longer span beams to create rooms that flow together.
May 8, 2019
How to Make Modern Cement Planters
I started making these eco planters for gifts a year ago and haven’t stopped. They are simple, stylish and downright lovable. Each pot is unique and has an organic, handmade feel. It is not an instant gratification project and you will have to commit, but the results are well worth it. I like to make about six at a time.
May 7, 2019
Before & After: Thrift Store Painting Transformed
Although it’s not terribly difficult to make your own frame for a canvas, it can be more work than required. Check out this thrift store painting — not many would consider hanging it in their homes as is — but with a Bambi makeover, I’m all over it!Over at Under The Table and Dreaming, Stephanie Lynn has been hard at work revamping this red barn into something a little more modern and fresh for her space.
May 7, 2019
How To Make Your Own Shade Sail
I’m sure in certain parts of the world people are looking forward to the start of Spring and warmer days, but here in Australia it is hot hot hot and there is never enough shade. So I’m making my own! No heavy plasticky shade sails for me… I’m opting for light white muslin to let the light in but take the edge off.MaterialsAs much fabric as you need to cover your chosen area. (As mentioned above, I used muslin.
May 7, 2019
Before & After: DIY Sofa Upgrade On the Cheap
Re-Nest reader Abigail recently sent us her super thrifty sofa upgrade: A hand-me-down from her parents, she’s been living with the sofa for 3 years trying to disguise it with a floral slipcover and lots of pillows.
May 7, 2019
Before & After: Diane’s Dandy Chandi Makeover
This brass chandelier may have a lot of life left in it but it’s definitely a bit dated. Of course, that’s nothing a little paint and patience won’t fix!Reviving an old, dated piece is always the greenest option versus replacing it altogether. So I’m delighted to see that Diane, over at In My Own Style, was able to modernize this dated brass chandelier.
May 6, 2019
Before & After: A Brassy to Classy Lamp Re-do
When Alissa received this lamp as a hand-me-down from her grandparents, she loved the shape but not the dated brassy finish. Spray paint and a little imagination to the rescue!I see what Alissa means about the shape of this lamp — now that it’s painted! I admit that I was too distracted by the old brassy finish on the lamp to appreciate its finer qualities! Now that its been painted white I love it — especially that tall finial!
May 6, 2019
A 30-Second Organic Air Freshener… Made From Trash
We’ve all heard of the old real-estate trick of sticking a cookie dough log in the oven and waiting for it to magically sell your house (or burn it down). But this process seems wasteful of food, or at its very best—when you stuff down your over-baked cookie deodorizer—disrespectful to the privilege and pleasure of eating. Here’s a way to freshen your home with garbage, yes, garbage.
May 6, 2019
5 Cities Where Millennials Are Actually Finding Those Mythical “Starter Homes”
It’s no surprise that the American housing market is pretty inhospitable to first-time homebuyers: Not only have available “starter homes” (the least expensive third of houses on the market) decreased by 23.2 percent in the past five years, these homes are also gaining value with incredible speed—57.3 percent over half a decade. And while you might have heard that we’re set to swing into a buyer’s market soon (we are!
May 6, 2019
Framing Artwork: Glass vs. Plexiglass
There comes a time when you purchase a piece of artwork — that photograph you’ve been ogling, or that screenprint that you’ve been in love with for years — that you are faced with the very grown-up decision of how to frame. Do you go with plexiglass? Or regular glass? Here are a few facts that might help you to make a decision.I’ve worked in fine art galleries and museums for years.
May 6, 2019
Before & After: Salvaged Stool to Colorful Plant Stand
This before & after project is a great example of how a good imagination is often the key to a great makeover. Kind of makes me feel better about all that daydreaming I did during algebra class.This makeover was featured on Sunset, and I love that this plant stand wound up costing $3.19, the cost of the Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch spray paint in Sun Yellow. If you needed to buy a pot, the project would cost a bit more, but still far less than a wrought iron planter.
May 6, 2019
Before & After: Adjustable Lamps Used As Plant Stands
It’s about that time to start bringing your plants in from the cold. Take them in, help them adjust, and make them stand out… literally.I wanted to prepare this year by possibly purchasing some plant stands. I was researching online and happened to stumble upon this adjustable pot. I loved the modern/industrial look. The inspiration plant pot resembled an adjustable light. I realized that I could use some of the broken lamps around my house.
May 6, 2019
Warm Winter Style: Choosing a Warm Throw Blanket
Winter has settled in, and it’s time for hot cocoa, good books and snuggling up in our favorite reading nooks. There is nothing better than finding that perfect cozy blanket to wrap yourself in as the days grow colder.Finding the perfect blanket can be difficult, especially if you’re not familiar with the fundamentals of heat retaining properties of certain materials. Some fabrics are warmer than others, but knitting is also important in determining warmth.
May 6, 2019
Before & After: Tuna Can Turned Desk Storage
A humble tuna can has more possibilities than filler for your recycling bin. Give it another life with a pinch and a pull. Want to see what it looks like now?We checked in with Camilla over at Family Chic and although this craft isn’t a lavish one (heck there isn’t even a hot glue gun involved) that doesn’t mean there isn’t beauty in its simplicity.
May 6, 2019
Before & After: Paint that Monkey!
This is a classic tale of boy-meets-pair-of-monkeys, monkeys prove too expensive, man loses monkeys, man finds single monkey years later, man questions monkey love, man gives monkey a chic and sleek make-over (monkey) tale/tail.
May 6, 2019
Before & After: Two-Liter Artistry
One way to remove the evidence of my, er, I mean ANYONE’S serious Diet Coke addiction is the recycling bin. That way may be eco-savvy, but the neighbors can count, so it’s not terribly stealthy.Perhaps illustrator and character creator Eric Barclay’s way is better. And way more colorful than just green.“Ranjit and Indira,”Eric then applied gesso so that the surface had a bit of texture to it (acting somewhat like a high-adhesion primer).
May 6, 2019
How To Make Natural Garden Pesticides
Garden pests make otherwise enjoyable gardening frustrating. Whether it’s snails taking over your lettuce or aphids sucking on your roses, a pest infestation is definitely disappointing, but it’s not a reason to reach for harmful, toxic sprays. The sprays might eliminate the pesky culprits, but they are harmful to you and the environment. Instead, try whipping up one of these simple recipes with ingredients you most likely have on hand.
May 5, 2019
How To Make an Alphabet Shadow Box
We’re always on the lookout for new ways to display the alphabet in a child’s room. Using an old picture frame and some wood, you can construct a shadow box, stencil letters onto the glass, and fill it with tiny, found objects to represent each letter. Click through for the complete how to.
May 5, 2019
Before & After: Mekenzie’s DIY Version of the Versailles Chair
Mekenzie was dreaming of the Restoration Hardware Versailles chair for her basement but at almost $2400 it was out of her price range. Like a true DIYer, Mekenzie decided to mock up her own version of the chair using this tiki chair as a base…The first step in Mekenzie’s makeover was applying a custom blended gray paint over the chair’s original finish.
May 5, 2019
How To Baby Proof Your Rental
Uh-oh. Has that baby of mine really worked out how to get in the refrigerator? Already? And the cabinets? Time to baby proof our rental. But how, when there is so little we can change? Here are a few of the challenges we renters face when baby-proofing, and the simple steps we can take to overcome them. If you can, start at the very beginning. When looking at a property, speak to the landlord about any safety concerns you have about the space.
May 5, 2019
How To Make Homemade Citrus Cleaner
I have been eating my way through crates of winter citrus, and recently decided to use some of the peels to make a homemade cleaner. I added orange peels to vinegar, and let them sit in an airtight container for a couple of weeks. The result: a powerful, inexpensive, natural cleaner.
May 5, 2019
Before & After: Andrew’s Long Time Coming Bungalow Kitchen Update
When I shot Andrew’s Vintage Berwyn Bungalow house tour, the kitchen was in the early stages of being torn apart for a rehab. It took almost two years but Andrew finally put the finishing touches on his new kitchen and is ready to share it with the world. Before I show you the “after” photos, let’s take one more look at the dated old kitchen that Andrew inherited when he bought his house: Those cabinets! That ceiling fan! Oof!
May 5, 2019
Before & After: Gender Neutral Doll Stroller
Usually when someone spends the time and effort on a makeover it’s because the original object is ugly or in bad shape. Neither is true in this case. Laura made over a brand new and super cute toy to appeal to both her daughter and her son. Terrific! Here’s what Laura had to say about this project: I wanted to find a good quality wooden stroller that both my son and daughter could play with.
May 5, 2019
Hide That Remote! 5 Pretty Storage Boxes
Advances in technology are making excessive wires and cables slowly go the way of the buffalo but, the remote? It looks like we may be stuck with that one for a while. So if you can’t beat it, hide it! (Along with those goofy 3D glasses that seem to come along with every new TV.) We’ve rounded up a few options that you won’t mind leaving out based on the average size TV remote (7.5”) though you may want to check them against your own. 1.
May 5, 2019
How To Make Your Own DIY Vintage Plate Tiered Dessert Stand
Here’s a quick and easy project for parties of all types; whether for kids or adults, casual or formal. These tiered stands are inexpensive to make, and a great way to use old dishes destined for donation. They also look just fancy enough and add great height to a dessert table — all good things.
May 5, 2019
Before & After: Rusty Filing Cabinet Makeover
Have you ever been intimidated by refinishing metal furniture? Joanna shows it’s entirely possible, and gets great results with a little time and elbow grease. She found this little cabinet in a parking lot and instantly saw its potential. Want to see the result of her work? Read on… The cabinet is now totally bright, cheerful and ready for its new life in Joanna’s house.
May 5, 2019
Before & After: Jenna’s Revamped Planter Stand
Jenna found this planter at a junk store for just $2. Though it was in rough shape, she saw its potential. See how she transformed it into a totally cute vessel for indoor planting.From Jenna: My apartment is small and I have lots of terrariums around the house, but am always looking for fun ways to bring more greenery inside. I found this planter stand at a junk store for $2 — a new coat of paint in a herringbone print, plus some jars I had lying around and voila!
May 5, 2019
Before & After: Jérémy’s Painted Vintage Fan
Today’s Before & After comes from Jérémy, a very talented 16 year old designer from Canada. Here he transforms an old vintage fan from boring to bold with just a paint job. From Jérémy: Old machines are phenomenal artistic works, provided with the refurbishment if they need it. Here’s how an old Eagle Aire fan can be rejuvenated after 50 years without losing its “vintage look.
May 5, 2019
6 Ways to Send Party Invitations Right From Your Phone
Is your calendar looking as packed as mine with holiday functions to celebrate with friends and family? Party Planning 101 states it’s good habit to prepare invitations with the “who”, “where”, “when”, “what”, and “how” for any planned gathering during Thanksgiving, New Years, or for your winter holiday party.
May 5, 2019
Try This DIY Art Project: How To Make a Handmade Bird Mobile
Here’s a great idea for a DIY art project you can make, inspired by the art of Mark Hearld. Hearld is a British artist whose gorgeous prints, illustrations, and ceramics depict British fauna and flora dancing with color and movement. His installation at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a huge flock of painted wood birds suspended over visitors— something I dreamed of hanging in my house. Alas, I’ll have to (happily) make do with this DIY bird mobile I concocted instead.
May 5, 2019
Get Laken’s Look!: DIY Dorm Bed Canopy Project
Yesterday we saw the reveal of Wash U freshman Laken’s spruced up new digs. Today, Laken is showing us how she created the custom bed canopy shown above. If you like the look, you can make one for yourself! Materials Large 24″ diameter embroidery hoop Two curtain panels (we used one package of IKEA Vivan, for $9.
May 5, 2019
A Secret Kids Room Through the Closet
Many kids fantasize about having a secret, child-size room just for them. My own kids have a secret room, but it’s more accurately called “hide behind the couch” or, sometimes, “throw a blanket over your head.” Parents Fey & Mark in Cleveland Heights, Ohio discovered they had unused space below their stairs and decided to do something really special with it.
May 4, 2019
Before & After: Creepy Metal Eyesore Gets a Second Glance
Ick. Even for the most intrepid DIY folks, this old metal cabinet is daunting. It is rusty, peeling, and no doubt has some sharp edges on it somewhere. Along came Graham who saw potential in the project, and set to work transforming it. Many thanks to Krista Winters for sharing Graham’s success! Re-edited from a post originally published 2.13.
May 4, 2019
How To Lean Art (Without It Looking Like You Forgot to Hang It)
Along with looking super cool and casual, leaning art — instead of hanging it on a wall — also makes for a flexible home. You don’t have to whip out the hammer and nails every time you want to rearrange the look of your place. Folks whose art collections are growing out of control will appreciate having alternate ways to display, too. We’ve got ideas so it doesn’t just look like you’ve been too lazy to hang your art.
May 4, 2019
Christmas DIY Craft Project: How To Make an Etched Snow Globe
Has it snowed yet where you live? No? Then here’s a quick and easy project to create your own Winter Wonderland, using glass etching cream and some tape. Faux snow globes are great for mantel decorations or the table. You get all the snowfall, without the boots or mittens! Here’s how to make one yourself… Materials Glass dome or cloche Etching cream Paintbrush Painters tape Hole punches (at least two sizes is ideal) Instructions: 1.
May 4, 2019
One Minute Tip: How to Make Felted Soap
Before there were loofahs and washcloths, people used an old fashioned bar of soap sewn into a felted wool covering. The wool was exfoliating and had antibacterial qualities, and the soap created a nice lather without wasting its suds. In the last few years, felted soap has come back into fashion (it’s popping up in lots of Etsy shops as well as Anthropologie, and is a popular gift item this season). Today, we show you how to make it!
May 4, 2019
How To Make a Rooftop Cutting Board
Inspired by Danish rooftops, Ferm Living has turned useful kitchen accessories into design-worthy décor. After coveting these, along with Susanna Vento’s self-made cutting boards, I decided it was absolutely necessary that I made one of my own. Here’s how to make your own rooftop cutting board… Upon research I found that maple and ash hardwood has a nice tight grain — suitable for daily use.
May 4, 2019
Easy & All Natural Wallpaper Removal Tip: Use Vinegar and Hot Water
Over the holidays, I finally started on the spare bedroom in my Mom’s house. It has not seen any decorating love since the 80’s, and it was time to strip the wallpaper and give the walls a fresh coat of paint. I was a little apprehensive because I had never removed wallpaper before, but I soon realized it was more tedious than difficult. I also learned that it was a job that could be made easier with our favorite friend: white vinegar.
May 4, 2019
How to Make a Cloud Nursery Mobile
I’ve had this idea for a cloud mobile tutorial for months now, but there was always something more pressing to do (I should clarify that, in most cases, neither the mobile nor the more pressing matter was accomplished). This was actually a very easy little project, I’m surprised to say. You never know, when you delve into something new, whether it will go as planned or end up in the unfinished pile in the corner of the closet (along with the partially knitted baby blanket).
May 4, 2019
How To Make Dip-Dyed & Painted Paper Lanterns
Taking inspiration from the IKEA summer catalog and Designers Guild, I decided to dip dye paper lanterns to replace the grubby, aging ones currently hanging from my balcony. The 4th of July holiday gave me a good deadline to finally get this DIY project off the back burner. This is one of the cheapest and easiest DIY projects that I have done.
May 4, 2019
Before & After: Birdcage Avoids a Date with the Landfill
If I had a dollar for every birdcage I’ve seen at yard sales, I’d be in Belize right now. I always note them, but never know what to do with them, which is why this project piqued my interest. See what Kathy and Karen did with a cage they found on the curbside on trash day…. After painting the cage, and removing one of the walls, they outfitted the whole thing with shelves and mounted it on a wooden base.
May 4, 2019
DIY Project Idea: How To Tie Dye Napkins with Permanent Markers
Years ago my grandma gave me a huge stack of napkins and, even though I knew that those plain white ones weren’t really my thing, I politely took them. Fast forward to a recent afternoon of marker tie dye fun! I’m a little embarrassed to show you how easy it is and I can truly say I really had fun creating these little masterpieces. • Rubbing alcohol (min.
May 4, 2019