Inspiring Home Decorating Ideas

Unique Bud Vase Floral Arrangements

2008-10-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

Looking for a ideas to decorate a reception hall, or how to decorate a church for a wedding? Maybe you are looking for a nice centerpiece for a dining room or living room. Unique bud vase floral arrangements are a great solution for all of these decorating needs.

When you are decorating a reception hall or a church for a wedding, you want something unique and beautiful. I found these unique and interesting bud vases at www.coniartglass.com that are handmade in Europe. They are extremely affordable, and make wonderful gifts too. They are versatile in that they can be used as a bud vases, oil lamps, or even as reed diffusers. Coni Art Glass will send you the hardware to use them as oil lamps if you wish, or reeds in case you wish to use them as reed diffusers, just let them know. For any purpose, they are a perfect solution for many decorating needs.

These bud vases come in many colors, shapes and sizes, and are extremely affordable. Contact www.coniartglass.com to order today.

Fragrance Lamps for Aromatherapy and More

2008-08-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

Aromatherapy is known to be good for reducing stress, preventing insomnia, and many other health benefits. In addition, it freshens the scent of a room, which is an added benefit. Fragrance lamps are one of the most decorative ways to use aromatherapy essential oils.

One of the hottest and newest trends in aromatherapy and home fragrance today, fragrance lamps are not actually a new product. Also known as Lamp Berger, perfume lamps or effusion lamps, these scented oil lamps were first used in the mid 1800's. They use a catalytic combustion process to purify the air, destroying odors and killing bacteria while adding fragrance the air.

Fragrance lamps quickly fill the air with your favorite scent of essential oil. They are quite beautiful, usually with a decorative collar or cap on top of a lovely glass base.

These fragrance lamps are not only a nice decorative accent piece for use anywhere in the house, but eliminate odors and perfume the air.

You can find these fragrance lamps in many sizes, shapes and colors at www.ConiArtGlass.com. Each lamp comes with complete step by step instructions for use, stone wick, vent cap, snuffer, funnel, and individual glossy gift box.

Glass Hearts and Weddings!

2008-07-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

Incorporate wedding favors into your wedding or party decorations. I've said it before, you can use many different types of items to decorate the tables at your reception which may also double as favors.

An item that I particularly like are glass heart ornaments. ConiArtGlass.com offers lovely glass hearts in many beautiful colors. Use them many ways. For example, attach your place cards to a glass heart and place it at your table setting. If you are not using place cards, attach a small note thanking your guest for attending your nuptials. It's a gift that your guests will treasure forever.

These hearts are handmade, mouth blown glass ornaments produced in Eastern Europe. Every color is carefully selected to make the most beautiful, pleasing pieces.

Cornel Plescan, the glass artist that produces these unique, collectible gifts, works with each customer to be certain that the colors are just perfect for your event.

Tips to Protect Your Art Collection

2008-07-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

Any lover and collector of art will do his or her utmost to protect their art collection. Artwork is not only a major investment these days, it is also an essential part of the fabric of any home. It is rare to find a home with no prints, sketches or paintings on the wall, not to mention sculptures figurines or art glass adorning mantelpieces and sideboards. It is vital that collectors take proper care of their artwork to make sure that no piece is degraded in any way, shape or form.

There are a number of ways that you can keep your artwork in perfect condition, but careful planning is required from the start. Put a strategy in place to protect your artwork before you even bring it home from the gallery or fair. Think about where you will place or hang the artwork to avoid any hazards that may turn into situations that leave the art damaged. For example, if a glass window does not protect the shelf on which a piece is to be placed, it may be wise to purchase a case in which to put it before it is actually placed on the shelf.

The majority of measures that you should take concerning the placing of your artwork are common sense really. For example, you should not place any art in the kitchen or above a fireplace because the heat, steam and fumes can cause untold damage. You should also avoid smoking in the vicinity of your artwork because this is liable to cause irreversible staining. Similarly, placing art in direct sunlight can cause it to fade, and this would instantly be noticeable to the untrained eye as well as other collectors. If you have pets or young children then artwork should always be kept out of their reach so that no accidental damage occurs.

The placement of artwork, as you can see above, can be extremely hazardous so it does require serious thought. It may be necessary to try a piece out in a few places during the first day that you own it so you can make an on the spot assessment of where its permanent home should be.
When you do buy the art in question then you should always ask the attendant that oversees your transaction whether or not any special measures need to be taken in order to preserve its condition. Some galleries actually hand out care leaflets when a sale goes through, whilst others may have extremely knowledgeable staff that can give you hints and tips that they have picked up over the years. There are also various publications that you can purchase to give you a good grounding in the care of artwork. You should read at least one of these if you are an art collection beginner.

The final thing that is essential in the preservation of you artwork is actually the cleaning regime that you have. It goes without saying that you should avoid using furniture polish and other similar oily substances in the vicinity of your artwork because that can cause irreparable harm. However, it is essential that a certain level of care be administered to regularly maintain it. For example, all sketches, paintings and prints should be framed wherever possible, and all sculptures and models should be encased in a protective cover. Although advice is usually specific to the nature of the piece and the materials present in its composition, it is fairly safe to pass a dry and clean cloth over all artwork from time to time to remove any dust build-ups. Dust can be just as harmful to art as any chemical, so it is essential that it is removed.

The golden rule of caring for your artwork is to always ask for help whenever you are unsure. Always think carefully about what you are doing and do not take the art for granted. One moment of foolishness can work out to be extremely expensive!

Set up a Home Office for Your Business

2008-06-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

For those people who have decided to start their own business, or who already work from home, what they need is a work space so they can work in peace, take care of their endeavors, and concentrate on taking care of the needs of their business. For many individuals, this means a home office.

With the success of online businesses, more and more people have decided to work at home; which places the fate of their financial future in their own hands. Today, the internet has become an essential part of people's everyday lives: this new trend of working at home reflects the increasing use of the internet in the business world.

It is important that a home office is treated with the same respect as a regular office since it is where work is done and transactions occur. Basically it is the place where individuals earn their money: whether on the internet, via phone, or video conference. It is possible you may have clients coming to your home office to conduct.

It is essential that a person who wants to have a home based business set aside a space in their home that will provide them with comfort and privacy adequately conduct their business.
Where to set up a home office.

Ideally a separate room in the house is the best place for a home office. The best area is away from congestion noise: such as the children's bedroom or play area, the kitchen, or the entertainment room.

How to furnish your office

A home office should be orderly and give the appearance of a professional workplace. It should be contain the equipment that you would find in an office: such as a phone with an answering machine that is capable of transferring calls, making conference calls, etc.
A separate phone line for the home office is necessary so that personal calls meant for the family and business calls do not interfere with each other. Having a separate phone line in the office will also allow for concentration on business without any distractions.
Other equipment you will need is: a computer that has an internet connection, fax machine, copier, organizers, and other office supplies. Things that a person will need in a home office will also depend on the type of business he/she is operating.
Setting up a home office will probably mean acquiring furniture: this includes a desk, lamps, tables, and professional looking chairs. The most important piece of furniture needed will be a comfortable office chair –invest in a really good office chair that provides comfort as well as stability. Since a person working in a home office will spend numerous hours in his/her chair, it must be one that does not induce backache and/or make your body feel stiff.

Before purchasing any of these items, you should know how you will conduct your home business so that only necessary items are purchased. This way you will not be spending money for things that you do not need or are not necessary.

Choose your colors wisely

Color scheme of a home office should not be distracting to the person(s) working in the office. This means that bright pastel colors, and gaudy colors like shocking pink and neon green would probably not be appropriate. If you have clients and/or hold business meetings in your home office, a professional atmosphere should be attained; so be wise when it comes to choosing your decorating colors. Neutral colors are best; since they are not distracting but consider using a few brighter and contrasting colors for accessories to add accents and interest.

Setting up a home office is serious business. The right environment will be attractive and conducive to a good working atmosphere. Those who are thinking of setting up a home office should pay careful attention to detail when creating their office since they will be spending many hours working in it. Take the time to make your home office a comfortable and wonderful place!

History of Murano Glass

2008-06-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

Murano, Italy has been the longest lasting center for glass making in history. It has been a popular location for the art since the 9th century. The craft has gone through a variety of changes and has some of the most creative and elegant artwork and the region has survived its successes and failures and despite everything it has found the ability to bounce back amid adversity.

Murano is situated as a small island in the North West of Venice, Italy. The history of glassmaking in the region goes back to 800 AD in Rome, along with a mixture of influences from Asia and the religion of Islam. As Venice was a major port, trading of multicolored beads with African, Asian and Islamic neighbors became a mainstay of the region.

According to historical records, Murano became a center for glassmaking after frequent fires in Venice forced authorities to move its factories to the Island of Murano in 1291. Consequently, the Murano style is often interwoven that of the Venetians.

Murano held a monopoly on the craft for centuries and craftsmen on the island developed and improved several technologies like crystalline, aventurine which has threads of gold, lattimo - milk glass, smalto - containing enamel, millefiori - containing multicolors, and artificial gemstones. Even today, craftmen in the industry are said to follow these same techniques. However, now Murano has given way to a wide range of glass art including contemporary, jewelry, as well as chandeliers.

The art of Murano glass is rather complex and normally uses a technique known as lampworking. Silica, which turns into liquid form at high temperatures, is used to make glass. While the glass cools from the liquid to a solid phase, the artisan is able to manipulate it to make it into a desired shape or form.

Murano glass, over the centuries, has faced its moments of praise as well as decline. Nonetheless, region's glassmakers also strive toward quality and perfection. The glass art from the region is especially well known for its esthetics, which has set it apart from its competition. And no other region has been able to reproduce the esthetic superiority of Murano glassware. Throughout the history of glassmaking, the hollow blown glass technique from the region has made its stamp on the art of fine glassware. Clearly, the hallmark of Murano glass lies in its variations. A variety of glassware including multi-colored glazing and others that are light and transparent all represent the history of Murano glass art.

Murano art glassware is also part of the European Glass collection at many galleries. This collection includes mouth-blown cranes and flamingos that are often large in size. The art of producing Murano glass vases has been popular for the craftsmanship that stems from the glass-blowing method. Murano glass art can include a variety of fish, birds and ducks. These small animal collections or figurines are made utilizing the glass blowing technique from Murano.

Collectible Glassware from Romania

2008-05-27T08:37:00.001-07:00

Romanian Mouth-Blown Glassware Makes Its Way Into Mainstream Art
By Cornel Plescan

The art of glass making holds a special relevance in Eastern Europe and particularly in Romania. What is quite extraordinary about Romanian glass manufacturing is that it combines traditional themes from Rome and Constantinople, lending vivacious color and ethnic design to the glasswork. Eastern Europe has lots of fine sand, which allows glassmaking to flourish in the region and Romania in particular is well known for its exquisite art glass pieces.

Glass making in Eastern Europe and Romania emanates from the Murano style in Italy as most of the artisans studied glassmaking there. Up to the 13 century, European glassmaking was exclusive to Venice. But frequent fires prompted Venetian authorities to shift the furnaces to the island of Murano.

There has been a long history of making glass in Romania. Romanian glassmakers have successfully passed on this art for several generations and the craft continues to thrive in this part of Eastern Europe. In Romania, it is said that artisan's only pass on the secrets of glass making to members of their family. More importantly, there is a rigid hierarchy in obtaining the coveted position as a glass blower. For example, a young man may take years before he can get to that stage within this strict hierarchy.

Romanian glass is comparable to any great piece of Eastern European mouth blown glass. And they are nothing like the ones that are made by machinery or inexpensive duplicates. Traditionally Romanian factories and glass studios manufacture clear glass utilizing pellets that are distinct and commonly found in Western Europe. And depending on the artisan, German pigments are popularly used for coloring or painting glass. The combination of this blend makes Romanian crafted glass truly a superior product anywhere in Europe. Though Romanian glasswork is normally not made from crystal, nonetheless, it carries a similar purity and shine. Glass products in Romania are not just great looking, they are also being produced to suit a host of lifestyles, from the traditional to modern and the line of products are guaranteed quality glassware that is both functional and decorative.

Romanian mouth-blown glassware is made by highly skilled artisans. They are very creative pieces with exceptional quality. They are also a prized collector's item. Some of the work includes vases and bowls that are made as centerpieces as well as plates - the artisans who create these masterpieces learned their skills in Murano itself.

When it comes to Romanian glassware, each piece is distinctly unique. Each of the mouth-blown glassware may be described as an individual masterpiece in itself. They are exceptionally colorful, creative and elegant. Some of the works made by glass artisans in Romania are the most sought after pieces of contemporary art and have been on display in several galleries across the world. They are also prized as some of the top-notch pieces of glassware in the craft of modern blown glass art.

The contemporary glassware is not just placed in galleries to be on display, they also make great gifts, particularly wedding gifts, and decorations especially in restaurants, businesses and hotels. They can also be used as decorations while designing your home.

A Romanian glass artist and designer, Cornel Plescan now lives in the United States. For more information about him and his products go to: http://www.coniartglass.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cornel_Plescan
http://EzineArticles.com/?Romanian-Mouth-Blown-Glassware-Makes-Its-Way-Into-Mainstream-Art&id=1193127

A Garden for the Entire Family

2008-04-25T10:15:00.000-07:00

A Garden for the Entire Family

You can have the most elaborated back yard from the entire neighborhood, but if it isn’t functional you have built it in vain. We all want to have beautiful and flourishing gardens, but when we have a family, we must also take into consideration the needs of the other members of it. Divide the space of your yard in two or three visual spaces, one for play and relaxation, one for gardening and maybe one for pets.

An open space, covered by lawn is ideal for your children. Here you can install a table for open air lunches or for a romantic summer evening dinner.

Do you have a fireplace? Keep a portion of your garden especially for depositing fire woods, but make sure it is at a considerable distance from the house or animals that can cause damage.

How about pets? You can build for these little members of your family special spaces, in which they can play and exercise. Before you plant bushes and ornamental plants, surround the pet space. Cats and dogs tend to be attracted exactly by the things we try to keep them away from.

Keep the by-passers’ eyes away from your personal life. Before planning the scenery, you must have in sight a place for the garbage cans. It wouldn’t be very nice to have a wonderful garden right next to the garbage cans. These can be efficiently hidden in some kind of surrounded space, decorated on the sides with life fence.

Functionality is an important factor in your garden, so you have to think about children, little pets and family assets before you plant anything. Save a portion of the yard especially for you, in which you can plant whatever you want and leave for the others some space to breathe freely.

You will find it more satisfying this way, once the whole family is happy with your garden and they might even bring their personal ideas for it. It is important that personal space is respected and that is why the garden must not be very wide, taking up all available space. Build from time to time a pathway or some benches where you can just relax and admire your work.

Tag: gardening

You Can Use Your Pottery Collection

2008-04-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

Great Uses for Your Pottery Collection

If you are just starting to collect pottery here's a little secret that avid collectors know all too well: pottery is infinitely useful and extremely versatile. What this means is that most pottery has multiple functionality. Just make sure that there aren't certain restrictions on the pieces you purchase. Normally, pottery dealers will let you know the necessary care instructions and precautions that should be taken when you make the purchase.

You will find that most pottery is dishwasher and microwave safe (depending on the glazing method-Raku pottery is not), food safe (again this depends largely on the glazing method and any paints that may have been used), safe for use in the oven, and able to hold liquid. So, you have a lot of options with most pottery pieces that go well beyond the uses for which the specific piece may have been designed to carry out.

Storage. Vases and other vessels are great for holding things. They are by no means limited to flowers or fruit. Small pottery pieces are great for holding perfumes, particularly those with stoppers, or oils, and countless other small treasures you have lying around. Larger pieces of pottery are perfect for storing large amounts of food. And various medium sized pieces make excellent canisters in the kitchen for storing so many different things.

Display. Of course there are many pottery pieces that you will want to showcase and display but did you realize that pottery could also be used to display other items you want to show off in your home. For example, use a pottery spoon rest in the bathroom as a soap dish. It's great for displaying special hand soaps in the bathroom and will add a little splash of color to the bathroom counter top.

Cooking. You may not know that pottery can withstand fairly high temperatures with grace and style. Therefore, it's an excellent choice for cooking. Use pottery in the microwave and the oven, though never on the stove top for preparing and serving all kinds of dishes. If you are wary about using these beautiful pieces for cooking, they can make excellent choices for serving food.

Dining. Stoneware is a very popular style of casual dinnerware these days and with good reason. Not only is it a beautiful addition to any table but it is also quite versatile. You may also find mugs, plates, and bowls that are thrown or hand built for your dining pleasure. Regardless, most tables are greatly enhanced by the addition of pottery rather than many other choices on the market today.

There are so many thingsyou can do with your pottery, so don't miss out on much of the versatility that many find the primary incentive for investing in pottery for the home. Pottery is a beautiful addition to any home, so don't hide it away but use it fully and regularly in order to enjoy the true value of the pieces and get your money's worth. The true value in pottery is in how much it enhances your life; it won't enhance your life very much if kept locked away in the kitchen cabinets!

Tag: pottery collection uses

Six Popular Collectables

2008-04-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

It's never too late to start a collection. Some people start collecting when they are young - baseball cards, stamps, coins, or other items. Others may start later in life. Whatever you collect, make it something that you love.

Personally, I love to collect various rocks, crystals, or seashells when I travel. Someone else I know collects porcelain figures. There are so many things to collect, and many of them can net you a good profit a few years later. We've all heard about people who made a fortune from one stamp or a baseball card.

If you have collectables that are suitable, make a nice display in one or more rooms of your home. Family photo collections make beautiful displays. I know one woman who has at least 50 family photos, all in sterling silver frames arranged on top of her grand piano in the living room. The ebony grand piano makes a lovely backdrop for all of the various shaped sterling frames, and she can enjoy seeing her children and grandchildren everyday.

Another friend of mine has a collection of Lladro porcelain from Spain. She displays them tastefully in groupings around her home. Art glass is also a highly sought after collectible, and welcome decorative pieces for the home.

Here are six items that make popular collections:

Cookbooks or travel books
Kitchen gadgets - vintage
Photos - family, travel, pets...
Art Glass
Figurines
Linens and pillows (of the same type or vintage)

If there is something you love, start a collection now to enjoy for years to come.

Spring Cleaning

2008-04-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

Spring is a time of renewal. The flowers are starting to bud, and the weather is changing - hopefully for the better.

Now is the time when we start thinking about our spring cleaning. Just last night a friend told me that to de-clutter is to renew the life.... I'm not sure that I understand this (she's from Brazil, so maybe it didn't translate well) , but I do agree that clutter is not good.

Start with the closets, and here I have a great idea for you. Get motivated to clean out the closets to find things to sell on eBay! Everyone is doing it. I know one woman that is netting more than $1000 per month just selling her "junk" from around the house. She is litterally selling old shoes and used designer jeans, but I understand that household goods, decorative accessories, and the like are also good sellers. Maybe you inherited or were gifted a collectible that is really not to your taste, or doesn't fit your decor. You may do very well with an eBay auction. You never know until you try...

But please, anything that you can't sell, give to a reputable charity.

Spring Decorating Ideas

2008-03-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

Spring Decorating Ideas

Spring is a wonderful time of year - a time of renewal. It is in the Spring when people across the country begin shaking off the final dregs of winter, opening their windows, and hanging clothes on the lines to dry. It is also the time of year that most people associate with cleaning; however, few people associate Spring with home decorating. Interestingly, there are very few times of year when it is more appropriate to decorate your home. Let's face it, for most of us, this is one of the few times of year that we are actually happy about cleaning.

Most likely, during the summer months we clean because the kids (young and old alike) are constantly tracking dirt, mud, grass, and goodness knows what else into the house. Cleaning in these days tends to be a chore and yet we still manage to bring out the patriotic colors and celebrate America in style for July 4th. Goodness knows how we find the time with all the extra cleaning and nearly double amounts of lemonade and iced tea being consumed daily. Still we manage to decorate for the summer holidays and take great joy in doing so as if some right of passage has been achieved by our home decorating efforts.

During the Thanksgiving and Winter months we clean house because we just have no other choice. Friends and family will be visiting and they expect our homes to be well decorated and clean for the holidays. This I must tell you is quite an accomplishment with the rush of the holidays and yet somehow we manage to muster up some Christmas cheer when others are around while playing Mr. Scrooge when it comes to running the mop and the broom around our rooms.

Spring is the one season of the year in which our cleaning efforts are nothing short of inspired. Yet it is also the spring that often eludes us when it comes to inspiration for decorating our homes. Perhaps we are over tired from all of our cleaning efforts to seek the inspiration to decorate. If this is the case with you, then my hope is that some of the ideas mentioned below will help bring some serious decoration inspiration your way:

Flowers. Spring is the time when flowers start blooming. Flowers are all around us. You can use fresh cut flowers and candles to create beautiful arrangement and centerpieces throughout your home. Find beautiful colored vases to use in all of your rooms.

Candles. While briefly mentioned above candles deserve their own spot among the top five decorating ideas, to say the least. Candles and small oil lamps can be soothing, relaxing, invigorating, inspiring, beautiful, elegant, and simply smell good. Candles are great no matter what time of the year it is however, if you select candles in bright spring colors and fragrances you might be amazed at exactly how uplifting these candles can be.

Linens. Use towels and other linens to brighten up your spaces. In your kitchen and your bathrooms use bright, bold colors that signify spring, birth, and renewal. These little touches can make a huge difference in not only your attitude about cleaning and decorating but also your attitude about cooking.

Fragrance. Although most people do not realize it, the fragrances we use around our homes is a type of decoration. It makes our noses happy to some degree but also the potpourri and candles are often beautiful decorations in and of themselves. Put out bowls filled with brightly colored and lightly scented fragrance balls, dried fruit, and other delights. Gourmet potpourri can be found in all kinds of gift and fragrance shops and is a rather inexpensive way to add a fragrant touch to your home decorating as well as the fragrance of your home.

Fruit. Place bowls throughout your home filled with fresh fragrant fruit. Not only does this add yet another layer of fragrance to your home but it is also visually appealing and edible. There are three checks in the 'pro' column for this simple decorative step and I have yet to find one in the 'con' column unless you consider the fact that it must be eaten before it gets too ripe.

For those needing springtime home decorating ideas and inspiration I hope this has helped. If you haven't found some outstanding suggestions above I at least hope that you will have been inspired to find your own fabulous finds for spring decorating.

Gussy Up Any Room with Equestrian Home Décor

2008-02-28T14:09:00.000-08:00

Gussy Up Any Room with Equestrian Home Décor

Want to give your home or room a lift, then equestrian home décor could be the solution. Horse décor is one of the most popular animal décor to grace our living spaces. It's versatile and beautiful, not to mention widely available. Horse lovers like to have anything equestrian in a room. Here are some ideas to help you decorate your home with horse décor.

If you feel that bigger pieces are overbearing, start with small accent pieces. Try something like a small horse statuette on your study table, a Texas star wall clock, bookends with horse figures, or wall art with horse motif. Smaller pieces are great for small spaces. Or, put out a large welcome sign or doormat with horse and/or cowboy design to set the tone or mood of the home.

Furniture accents like a country-themed drawer chest or armoire in deep color with horse design can also be a good place to start. This piece can serve as the focal point of the room, or it can be placed in a corner of the room for accent. A horse figure can also serve as a base for a coffee table or side table.

Another easy idea is to use a horse figure as a base for lamps. Or you can have a beautiful horse scene in the lamp shade. When lit, the shade will illuminate the room with beautiful western colors. If you love to decorate your room with tea light candles and oils, you can find a horse motif oil lamps made of ceramic where oil can be burned to provide the scent that you want, or candle holders which are of horse design made from wrought iron.

Try hanging some horse art in the wall. Big or small, the size depends on your preference, as well as on the size of the room. If you want bigger horse designs, you can paint a mural on one wall or use wallpaper with horse designs. This is a great idea for a child's bedroom. What little boy or girl wouldn't enjoy a cowboy or cowgirl theme for their bedroom?

Other accent pieces you can use are throws, rugs or throw pillows with a horse or equestrian motif. These pieces can make a cabin-styled or country home interesting. You can also have a comforter, beddings and pillow cases with horse designs. This is perfect for a horse-loving kid's bedroom. Add a rocking horse, and your child may never want to leave his room anymore.

Horse motif pieces also blend well in country-style bathrooms. You can add a horse towel bar, tissue holder, shower curtain or rug with horse design to your bathroom. You can also place a few decorative tiles with horse design in your sink.

Your kitchen can also be filled with horse décor. Use horse figures in wrought iron as plant or magazine holders, or horse figures as cabinet door knobs or pulls.

An individual's fascination with horse décor can be because of different reasons. Surprisingly, some who incorporate horse décor are not even horse riders nor are they of western or country origin. They simply love the horse form. For more formal or traditional rooms, go for the medieval style knight on the horse motif.

There are many sources of equestrian home décor. Visit a home furnishings store in your locality. We found many beautiful pieces, such as those pictured above at Design Toscano, where there are many designs available. You're sure to find one to accentuate your home. Let the beauty and grace of our equine friends shine when you find a piece to suit your home.

Tag: equestrian horse home decor

Budget Bedroom Make Over Ideas

2008-02-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Budget Bedroom Make Over Ideas

People can always spruce up an old bedroom for less, by using a little bit of ingenuity, creativity, and some vision. Renovating can make an old bedroom look as good as new, or even better!

A person does not have to spend a lot of money to make an exciting change. There are many ways a person can redecorate his/her bedroom for less! Ideas can be obtained by watching shows on television, talking to friends or reading magazines.

Here are some tips to make any bedroom look fabulous:

Splash the walls with colors
Repaint the walls. This simply gives your bedroom walls a new face lift! It will lighten up, and completely renew the look of any bedroom! This is a great chance to add some spice to your old, dull, and boring bedroom. Choose your favorite color to add warmth to the bedroom. But if you want to go crazy, you can pick wild colors and create your very own artwork on your walls. This is a great way to add a personal touch to a bedroom. It also will showcase your personality
Make old furniture look good as new
Re-upholster old furniture. It’s amazing the difference this makes in the overall look of a bedroom. Individuals don't have to spend a lot of money on new furniture either. They can as easily restyle their old furniture using unique fabrics, paints, etc.
Just let their imagination run wild! The best thing is that they totally control the finished appearance of their furniture, since they decide what will be done to refurbish the furniture.
Accessorize the bedroom
Strategically place some decorative scented candles around the bedroom to give the room an elegant look. They exude a sense of tranquility once they are lit.
Another great idea is to hang artwork on the walls. It does not have to be expensive, as inexpensive pieces of good quality are readily available. Select reproductions, or photographs! Even better, if they are adept at art, use some of their own creations and make the walls into their very own personal gallery.
Go hunting at a second hand store
Numerous treasures can be found in second hand stores! You can purchase second hand furniture as well as decorative lamps, antique mirrors, etc. for bargain prices at these stores
Garage sales are also great places to unearth hidden treasures. Just drive around the block or watch the newspaper to see if there is anyone who is hosting a garage sale in your area.
Develop a theme for your bedroom
A great way to give a bedroom a fun and exciting look is to use a totally different theme. If you want to go with a Bohemian look for your bedroom, you just build around this theme by picking up things that will suit this motif. Also, try digging through old chests in the attic for items that would compliment the new style of your bedroom.
Decorate your Bed
Purchase new bedspreads and pillows that will compliment the new style of your room. Pay a visit to the linen department of any mall: browse through their selection of beautiful sheets, bed skirts, comforters, and pillows. The bedroom is a person's sanctuary: that is why it is important that it offers comfort. After a hard day's work, people just want to lie down in bed, relax, and forget about the day that has just passed. Their beds should offer them maximum comfort so that they are rejuvenated for the next day. The condition of the bed is of utmost importance - it is the most essential part of any bedroom makeover!

Renovating a bedroom does not have to cost you a fortune! Just making key changes will make a world of a difference. Those who are on an extremely tight budget do not have to redecorate their bedroom all at once; they can make improvements as their finances allow. Giving a bedroom a much needed makeover can be an exciting and challenging activity. It can give people just the right boost they need to start their day out right.

Let's face it, who wants to wake up to a messy and/or dreadful looking bedroom? By renovating their bedroom individuals can give themselves that much needed change of environment that will help brighten their day!

Tag: budget bedroom decorating make over ideas

Valentine's Day - Decorating and Gift Ideas

2008-01-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

Here's a great idea if you are decorating for a Valentine's Day event, or would just like a nice keepsake gift for loved ones. The hand blown glass hearts at ConiArtGlass.com make great party or wedding favors, gifts, and year round decorating accessories for your home.

In the image on the right, you can see one way they can be used as party or wedding favors. Put one at each place setting to let your guests know how much you appreciate their participation in your event.

Another idea to to hang them in windows to let the sun shine through them - beautiful! Or, put them in lovely bowls or centerpieces. There are so many ways to use them. Need a gift for a co-worker or friend, they also can be used as paper weights.

The glass hearts come in several unique and beautiful colors, and ConiArtGlass.com will sell them at wholesale or retail prices, depending on the number of pieces you require.

So if you are looking for a unique and beautiful party or wedding favor, decorating or gift idea, take a look at the mouth blown glass hearts at Coni Art Glass!

Tag: valentine's day decorating gifts wedding favors

Re-upholster for Low Cost Decorating

2008-01-28T07:23:00.000-08:00

Re-upholster for Low Cost Decorating: It’s more than Just Saving Money

With everyone these days talking about the problems in the economy, and the need for everyone to save money, here is one low cost decorating idea that makes sense!

Although you may think that re-upholstering their furniture is only done to save more money, in reality, it can offer more advantages than just cutting expenses. However, cutting expenses can be a great thing too!

Some people argue that re-upholstering is expensive; even more so than buying new furniture. The debate continues over whether it is more economical to re-upholster furniture or buy new.

What many people fail to realize is that re-upholstered furniture is often preferred for a number of reasons other than saving money. Statistics show that 8 out of 10 people would rather re-upholster their furniture and their main reason is not even about money.

Do you want to know why more and more people are considering re-upholstering than buying new furnishings? Here’s why:

To preserve the quality of the furniture
Survey shows that nearly 85% of the items being re-upholstered have damage on the outer surface only. This means that most of the damages are minor; padding that is sticking out or damage to the upholstery. If the damage is not to the framework itself, it is an indication that the framework is probably still in good condition and it would be better to preserve it and have it re-upholstered than to purchase new furniture.
For remembrance
Nearly 75% of the people who had their furniture re-upholstered contend that they wanted to preserve their memories of the furniture; perhaps it was the first furniture acquired after their marriage or it has been handed down from generation to generation.
If the fabric of their furniture is worn out, give it a sparkle and a new life by re-upholster it because some things are worth preserving!
For adaptability of desired patterns
One of the best things about re-upholstering is that people can choose a quality material and designs that they prefer for their furniture. They can have the look that they have always wanted without compromising the price.
Re-upholstering for low cost decorating cannot be underrated because it offers more advantages than just monetary saving.

Tag: reupholster furniture for low cost decorating

Home Storage Ideas to Add More Space

2008-01-25T08:47:00.000-08:00

Home Storage Ideas to Add More Space

Do you live in an apartment building with small or nostorage space? Just because a room is small does not mean you can't turn it into your dream space. Below are some creative strategies to maximize your space and manage your stuff!

Organize.com! 12% off $125.00 or more purchase (Coupon Code: A4564)

Examine your room for hidden spaces. You do not have to look for secret doors. Look instead for spaces among your things, above and/or below. Just think of other areas where you can place your stuff.

The suitcase stack. Typically, you can find vintage suitcases for fairly inexpensive prices at yard sales. Use them to add extra storage space to your home by stacking them up (in a horizontal position) with the biggest at the bottom and the rest placed one on top of each other creating a pyramid of suitcases.

Make use of folding furniture. If you do not have enough room for a kitchen table, you can use a folding table that is mounted on the wall. You can easily fold it up when you don’t need it.

Store items under your bed. Obtain a few plastic boxes in which you can place small items. This way you maintain orderliness under your bed.

Put spare blankets in a bag to increase space.

Stack dishes on shelves and craft multi-level storage cabinets or utilize a small cubbyhole for cans of vegetables and consommé.

Dressers are not only meant for the bedroom. Dressers add more storage space. You can also place them in your living room or kitchen. To remove the seemingly bedroom-like impression with the dresser, try painting it a color that matches your living room or kitchen.

Use shoe racks to organize your shoes. Do not place your shoes under your cabinet. This will only make your cabinet more disorganized.

Containers: Classify items according to their use and place them in small or large containers. Place all your hair care products in one container and put it near the shower so that it can be easy to reach.

Be practical yet creative in decorating your space. Build shelves on top of doors or window to add more storage space. You can add small decorative items to make it more attractive.

You can also put up shelves for small items at the sides of your cabinets. There you can place your shoes, hats or handbags.

Tag: organize home more space

Wedding Decorating - Unique Wedding Favors for Each Table

2008-01-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

Wedding Decorating - Unique Wedding Favors for Each Table

Provide unique wedding favors for each table at your wedding is a way to let your guests know how much you appreciate their attendance at your wedding. Standard practice is to give each guest the same favor, but if your centerpieces will vary from table to table you may want to vary the favors as well. This is a great idea for those couples who cannot settle on one overall theme for their wedding. You may choose to have a different theme for each table. As a result, you may also prefer to have a different wedding favor for each table. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of offering unique wedding favors for each table at your reception.

One of the most obvious advantages to offering unique favors at each table is it prevents the couple from having to select just one wedding favor. There is a wide variety of wedding favors available and many couples have a great deal of trouble selecting just one favor. This may be because they are not agreeing on which favor would be the most appropriate or because they each have several different favors which they really like and are having difficulty narrowing down their options. For either of these cases, the idea of giving different wedding favors at each table is a great idea.

Another advantage to giving unique wedding favors for each table is that the couple can branch out and either choose several different themes or one overall theme which they vary slightly from table to table. Once you know your table arrangements and seating chart, you can also vary the favors accordingly. This can make the process of shopping for wedding favors a lot more fun for couples who enjoy doing this. However, couples who feel stressed out by the process of selecting wedding favors would be wise to simply stick to one wedding favor because the process of selecting several different favors can make the planning exponentially more stressful.

One of the major disadvantages of offering unique favors at each table is the couple will not likely be eligible for bulk order discounts. Many wedding favor manufacturers are often willing to offer discounts to couple who are ordering a large number of the same favor to distribute to all of their guests. However, couples who are ordering different favors for each table will likely not qualify for these discounts. Most weddings have approximately 8-12 people at each table. This means the couple will not be ordering many of each favor and will most likely have to pay full price for each one.

Another disadvantage to providing unique wedding favors for each table is it can make setting the tables more complicated. If each table will also have a unique centerpiece and the wedding favors are designed to match the centerpiece, special care must be taken to ensure the correct favors are placed at the correct table. This may be obvious if the favors are unwrapped but if they are wrapped it can be incredibly difficult. Someone familiar with the favors and how they were wrapped should oversee the process of setting the tables to ensure the correct favors are placed at each table.

Another disadvantage to giving unique wedding favors to each table is it may create discontent among the guests. For example some guests may feel as though the favors given to one table are nicer than the ones given to the table at which they are seated. This is not a major concern as most guests will not make these types of comparisons but if the couple is concerned about this possibility they may wish to keep the wedding favors the same for each table.

Tag: wedding decorations favors

Home Decorating With a Nautical Theme

2008-01-21T07:56:00.000-08:00

Home Decorating With a Nautical Theme

For those who love the sea and everything it represents there is no better theme to bring into their home decorating plans than a nautical theme. The theme itself is perfectly lovely and suitable for homes and homeowners that are not so in love with the mystery and romance of the deep blue sea. For those who do love the idea of sailing off into the sunset however, this is an excellent choice for home decorating.

There are many ways that a creative mind can incorporate a nautical theme into the home decorating plans. One of these ways is by using darkly stained wainscoting for the lower half of your walls along with a chair rail in order to imitate the wooden interior of finer sailing vessels. This imitates the interior of a sailboat and some powerboats. This is an impressive addition in most homes and quite ambitious in some as it is not the least expensive method of decorating. The effects however are stunning when used for this purpose.

Another great idea is to use a marine shade of blue for curtains and window coverings and have them made of the same type of materials that sail covers are made of on a sailboat. If you are truly ambitious you could elect to paint the walls in this marine shade of blue and select another color for the curtains or wooden blinds instead. However, white walls are perfectly acceptable when it comes to creating the look and feel of the interior of a boat.

Rope is another great tool to use in order to make the nautical theme a bit more authentic. You can twine rope around picture frames, candleholders, and all manner of other things in order to incorporate the rope into the room without having it look out of place. If you are truly ambitious you could even string a hammock in some forgotten corner of the room in order to hold coats in the wintertime or merely to authenticate the theme to some degree.

Portals, clocks, barometers, and such make excellent art in a nautical themed room. Other great additions would include items such as seashells, sand dollars, model boats, and artwork depicting the sea. For many, this is where we feel most at home, we derive our inspiration, and we literally feel as though we can truly commune with Mother Nature.

No nautical themed room or home is complete without a lighthouse to guide weary sailors home at the end of a long journey. Do not neglect an important feature such as this in your nautical themed home decorating ventures and purchases. If you are lost as to how to subtly incorporate this into your room you may want to look up a talented artist by the name of Thomas Kincaid. He is known as the painter of light and has managed to capture the essence of lighthouses in a manner that no other artist has been able to duplicate. One of his paintings would make an excellent addition to your nautical theme.

A nautical theme for home decorating is a great way to go for many families and for many reasons. All in all it isn't the most expensive of decorative themes though it isn't by any means the least expensive either. The good news is that there are very few absolutely right or wrong ways in which to achieve the look and atmosphere you are hoping to achieve.

Tag: home decorating nautical theme

9 Ideas to Help Organize Your Kitchen

2008-01-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

9 Ideas to Help Organize Your Kitchen

You may think that it is an easy task to organize a kitchen. You may realize that it can also be difficult to do tasks in the kitchen if it is not organized. You must set steps and routines for you to follow and have an easy time working in your kitchen.

Here are some pointers that you may use in organizing your kitchen:

You must keep your kitchen clean for you to work conveniently and free from any time consuming activities before you cook. Discard any items that you will not use and place them in a place where you can locate them easier when the time comes that you will need their use.
If there are medicines, spices, or food that have already met their expiration, you can put them in the trash or discard those things immediately.
Store cooking utensils, pots, and pans in an area near to where the stove is placed. You can congest the cooking materials for you to have more space in cooking.
If there are large materials and cooking utensils that are seldom used in the kitchen, you may want to remove them and place them in a cupboard. There are even appliances that are not used in your everyday cooking. You may consider adding to your kitchen an appliance barn. This can store your juicers, toasters, blenders, and other appliances on the countertop with order and arrangement.
Place the silverwares and dishes close to your dining area. It can be accessible for you to get these items when you are about to eat. You may need silverware holders and racks to have more space.
You have to be aware of the materials or tools that are reachable by your children such as knives, cleaning chemicals, and alcohol. Keep them in high places where they cannot be reached.
You may use a bulletin board or the refrigerator to stick or hang reminders and schedules. These can help you to have an enjoyable and organized time in the kitchen. Designate spots for your mail and bills and check them out everyday.
Always keep you refrigerator clean and neat both inside and outside. If you see mystery foods, discard them at once. Sometimes there are unknown items that are placed in the refrigerator.
If you are through with the kitchen, you must check everything before you leave the kitchen. Do not forget to turn off the lights and the ceiling fan and everything that you used with electricity. The key to an organized kitchen is maintenance.

Do Your Taxes The EASY Way—For FREE. Use TurboTax Online Free Edition today. Start Now

Tag: 9 Ideas to Help Organize Your Kitchen

Home Decorating with a Native American Theme

2008-01-15T10:16:00.001-08:00

Home Decorating with a Native American Theme

There really is no style of home decorating that can be identified as decidedly Native American. There are however touches that can be added to almost any style of décor. The trick is always a matter of incorporating these things without making them seem out of place. Of all the design styles that exist, and of course depending on the tribe in question, the southwestern style of home decorating and design would actually make a good match for many Native American artifacts, touches, and artwork.

Pottery is central to a Native American theme. Different tribes had different styles of creating pottery. If you have a favorite tribe or a favorite style of pottery you may want to build the remainder of the room or design area around the pottery you love as it is quite personal to many people and not all styles of pottery will match all other styles of weaving, carving, basket making, or artwork. Pottery is very useful in a kitchen if you plan to use some of it in this room. Not only can most pottery be baked when cooking but it also works wonders for storing things like utensils that you would like to have in reach, strays, napkins, and any other things you can think to store within the pottery you have available. If you are going to pay for it you may as well put it to good use.

Speaking of artwork. There are some beautiful Native American prints as well as some 'sand art' that is a must have for a room that is trying to capture the spirit of the Native American or at least a specific tribe and incorporate that spirit into their homes. I think this is a beautiful idea for those who wish to pay their respects to those who are ancestors to many of us. Not that the pottery mentioned above isn't art work in and of itself but the addition of art that can be placed on the wall is a welcome addition in many homes.

Keep in mind also that many Native Americans played the flute. Some people display a collection of Native American flutes next to their prized pieces of art. There really is no wrong way to go about home decorating when it is your own home that is being decorated. Select the things you like, omit the things you do not like. You do not even have to be loyal to one tripe, design, style, or region when decorating your home. Some people have happy little collections that are filled with all kinds of odds and ends pieces from a wide variety of artistic styles along the way.

For those who are hoping to stick with a somewhat Native American theme baskets are once again a good selection to add to the collection. Baskets are not only lovely but also incredibly useful for holding blankets, throws, rugs, pillows, knitting supplies, magazines, and anything else you do not wish to have cluttering the living spaces of your home. They are even quite good about hiding remote controls for the electronic equipment when you place them cleverly throughout the room.

The best suggestion for those who wish to honor their Native American neighbors and ancestors by incorporating the artwork and designs into their home decorating plans is not to spend too much time planning. The Native Americans appreciated nature and allowing many things to happen naturally. Use this opportunity to learn this very important lesson while incorporating other great things you appreciate about them into your home.

Tag: home decorating with a native american theme

Decorating an Apartment on a Budget

2008-01-13T08:46:00.000-08:00

Decorating an Apartment on a Budget

Renting your first apartment may be a bit challenging especially you're on a tight budget. It's not only the rent and the other bills that have to be paid monthly but also the maintenance costs should you decide to make any decorative changes.

When anyone rents an apartment, the apartment owner will typically ask for a deposit and a few months rent in advance. The deposit will normally only be returned when the lease ends and if there is no (or little) repair needed before it can be occupied by another tenant.

Here are some cost-saving tips when decorating an apartment;

If you have any posters, one good idea is to use straight pins to hang them, and make the smallest holes. If they are framed, use the smallest nail possible so that when the lease ends the holes will be easy to patch using a spackling compound.
If the apartment is fully furnished, cover the furniture with decorative and colorful throws to prevent it from getting dirty or stained.
Buying a disposable rug or carpet would be better than an expensive one to protect the floor. Outlets such as Home Depot offer some great choices that are nice looking and very inexpensive. Should the carpet become soiled or stained you won't feel badly about throwing it out due to the small investment.
Check out retailers like Pier One Imports or IKEA for inexpensive furnishings and accessories. IKEA has many options from which to choose, and is quite inexpensive.
Inspect the apartment with the landlord before you move in to check for existing damage, or cracks or holes in the walls from the previous occupant. These should be duely noted so that you are not charged for this damage at the end of your lease.
Tenants can usually paint or apply wallpaper only with permission from the owner. In many cases landlords will allow the walls to be painted, and will even pay for the paint, if they approve the color. Most owners who will allow repainting will specify the color which is generally an off white, but you can negotiate. Be sure there is sufficient paint saved for any touch up that needs to be done later.
If you want privacy use curtains that can be hung using spring tension rods. These are both easier to assemble and disassemble than standard curtain rods.

When starting out on a small budget, cover all the bases and you will save money decorating the apartment. It will also help make the apartment a comfortable place to live until you decide to move elsewhere.

Tag: decorate apartment on budget

Types of Closet Organization Systems

2008-01-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

Types of Closet Organization Systems

Getting your closet organized by accessing the available space requires you to decide on the type of closet
organization system you want to use. There are three types to choose from – hanging rods, shelves, and drawers. Of course there are various accessories you can add to enhance the space you have in your closet, but these are the main types of closet organization systems you have available to work with.

Hanging rods can be much more versatile than just a long bar that hangs across your closet, as most of use having hanging in our closet. You can choose to install a second hanging rod, and double your hanging space instantly. You can also choose to have a hanging rod that only goes across half of your closet, in one tier or two. This is a great way to access the remaining space in your closet for other closet organization products.

Shelving units in your closet are an excellent way of getting it organized. You can use simple dividers to make several small shelving areas. Have you ever piled too much on the top shelf of your closet only to watch everything topple over? Or you simply have to dig through the pile each time you want to wear a particular item? Having multiple shelves makes separating your clothing items and accessories a very easy feat. You will be able to find everything you want in an instant.

You can make the shelves as long or short as you desire. You can also choose the depth. Depending on the type of material you use to device the shelving units, you may be able to adjust them later on as your storage needs change.

Baskets and drawers are great for storing anything you can think of in your closet. Make sure you choose a closet organization system that offers drawers or baskets that slide in and out with easy. Again, you can choose the width and the depth of these baskets and drawers to suit your needs and your closet space. You may have to make them skinny, you can add depth to get more in them.

Take your time to find the closet organization system that works best for you. There are so many different set ups and types of materials to choose from that you may have a hard time making up your mind. If you are unsure of the best set up for you, look at various resources available to you. The internet is a great way to find information on various closet organization systems. You can find several websites that allow you to enter the dimensions of your closet and see what you can come up with. Try a layout in many different materials to see what you will be the happiest with.

You will save money if you purchase a closet organization system or kit over purchasing the various products individually. You will also be assured that they all fit together properly, with only one customer support center to work with in the event you have complications while you try to get everything installed.

The internet is a great place to compare the different manufacturers of closet organization systems. You can find out about designs, the level of skill needed to assemble them and the cost. It is also a good idea to read reviews about the various closet organization systems to find out what other consumers are experiencing with the one they chose to purchase.

tag: types of closet organization systems

Asian Inspired Home Decorating

2007-12-30T05:24:00.000-08:00

Asian Inspired Home Decorating

Few home decorating themes capture the imagination quite like an Asian inspired theme. One reason is rich colors, fabrics, and textures that are the hallmark of Asian style decor. Asian décor inspires a simplistic elegance that is almost impossible to imitate with other decorating styles. Isn't it stunning to walk into a room or a home that has been decorated in an Asian inspired motif.

Beware, this is not a bargain style of décor. The simple, almost stark elegance comes at a rather high price for the average consumer. However, the minimalistic aspect of this home decorating style makes it possible when other styles with this sort of price tag would not be possible. Asian style décor relies heavily on color and texture.

Dining rooms are particularly stunning when decorated in an Asian flair. In this room not only can the furniture added to the room serve to improve and enhance the décor but also the placemats and linens on the table can serve as an important to
tool in establishing the theme of this elegant room. Chopsticks and dishes, particularly tea servings are other great accessories which enhance an Asian dining room.

You don't have to decorate every room in your home in the Asian theme. Due to the expense involved in many Asian themed home decorating styles, it is recommended that only one or two rooms in the home should be created based upon an Asian theme. This will keep your costs down as well as make those rooms the focal points in the home rather than having the splendor lost in excess.

Which two rooms? In addition to the dining room, the bathroom is another excellent room in which to incorporate an Asian inspired theme. The bathroom is the room in which people go to relax and wash away the worries and stress of the day. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that some of the more tranquil and relaxing design accents of an Asian décor would be appropriate. Candles, figurines, calligraphy (waterproof of course), and Asian artwork make excellent accessories for a bathroom, as do the more tranquil wall colors of some Asian inspired rooms. Fountains are another beatiful addition to the room for an added sense of relaxation. Be sure that there is plenty of storage space. Clean lines and an uncluttered surface are important for the overall peaceful affect you are hoping to achieve.

If the dining room or bath are not areas of your home in which you desire fan Asian theme you may want to take the theme into your bedroom. In the bedroom use fabrics to create a romantic atmosphere, rice paper window coverings for privacy, and candles throughout the room to finish off the creation. Furnishings in the bedroom should be sparse and uncluttered. Use Asian screens to 'section off' the room or hide the piles of laundry or cluttered areas. Fans make a lovely decoration for the walls in a bedroom as does other types of Oriental art or framed calligraphy in the words of love. Use wall sconces and indirect lighting instead of harsh, glaring overhead lights.

An Asian theme can be one of the most elegant and peaceful in the realm of home decorating if you are truly willing to invest the time and money it takes to do this theme properly. Beware! If you choose cheap and tacky decorations rather than quality accessories, it can also be one of the most gaudy . If you choose to incorporate an Asian theme into your home I hope you will keep that in mind while you are shopping.

If you are interested in more information about decorating in the Asian style, find out more about Feng Shui the art of living in the Asian style. Feng Shui incorporates the art of "placement" or how to place furnishings, artwork, and other pieces in the correct areas of the home for the proper flow of energy through the home, and much more..... This book, Home Design With Feng Shui A-Z (Hay House Lifestyles) is one of the easiest to use, and best that we have found to date. Give it a try!

tag: asian style feng shui home decorating design

Winter Decorating Ideas

2007-11-30T16:04:00.000-08:00

Winter Decorating Ideas

Too many people begin the winter home decorating process with a bang only to end with a whimper, while far too few people realize that Christmas is only the beginning of the winter season. Although Christmas decorations are a lovely addition, they are also a temporary decorative addition in most homes lasting no more than a month if that long. This leaves at least two more months of winter with a sparsely decorated home in many cases.

There are many things that are associated with the winter season. However, many of these things have been grouped under the category of Christmas décor and their value as simple hallmarks of winter have been forgotten or relegated to the mere distinction of yet another Christmas decoration. Winter months for much of the world are long and cold. Anything that adds a feeling of warmth and cheer to the home is usually an excellent idea as a winter home decoration.

Believe it or not, hibernating animals for many people inspire a feeling of winter. For example, try using black bears as a home decorating theme to make your home feel a little more cozy and better prepared for the long cold nights of wintertime. Flannel fabrics in warm reds and blues are a great companion to these delightful black bears and can be used in throws, bedding, and curtains in order to complete the look with style and finesse.

In fact, you might want to throw in a few flannel pillows so that you can try to hibernate along with the cuddly black bears. Bears and other animals are popular home decorations these days so you should have no problem finding a bear or two. Another very popular animal motif these days is the penguin. You can find them everywhere unless you happen to be in my neighborhood because I've probably snapped them all up already.

Do you have a fireplace? I can't say enough about the ability of a nice roaring fire to add warmth and a wintertime glow to almost any room. It really isn't winter for many people unless there is a nice fire burning in the grate. The warmth is more than merely physical; it is also soul soothing and comforting to watch a fire burning brightly before your eyes while warming your cold hands, feet, and backside after coming in from a nice afternoon of sledding. fireplace can add a touch of romance to your winter nights so be sure to keep cozy blankets and candles close by as well.

Speaking of candles. Much like a fireplace candles and oil lamps add a warm cheerfulness to the rooms they touch. There are certain fragrances that are perfect for wintertime candle burning. An appropriate fragrance in the winter months provides the soft glow and ambiance that makes the world seem so much smaller and friendlier in the process. Keep this in mind when you go shopping for your winter home decorating accessories as well as the fact that fragrances matter when creating an atmosphere so choose the fragrances appropriately to the season.

The oil lamps pictured here, are handmade, mouth blown glass vessels that may be used as oil lamps, reed diffusers (for fragrance), or vases. I love them because they are so versatile. I have several shapes and sizes that are offered by Coni Art Glass. In the dining room I use several small ones in different shapes and sizes as bud vases. In the bedroom, as reed diffusers, and in my living room as oil lamps to provide soft, beautiful lighting.

Don't forget to use pillows and blankets in your winter decorating to add layers of warmth and comfort as well as visual appeal. Isn't it amazing how these items convince the mind that you that you are warm, safe, and happy when you are surrounded by warmth. However, if blankets and pillows lining your sofas and chairs doesn't convince you there is always the option of just bundling up and letting your body convince your mind. Thereis something so soothing about the comfort and close softness of the pillows and blankets whether you are in perfect health or really feeling the chill of winter down to your bones.

Whatever you do this year, don't let the celebration of winter end when you take the Christmas tree down. Use one of these many ways to incorporate warmth into your home decorating style that only winter can accommodate. Embrace the season with affection and laughter and all that enter your home will be charmed by the charming atmosphere inside.

winter decorating ideas

Small Table Christmas Decorations

2007-11-28T11:04:00.001-08:00

Small Table Christmas Decorations

Often we have a small area, such as a small table to decorate for the holidays. Here are some ideas for small table Christmas decorations.

If you live in an area where pine trees are abundant, don't hesitate to decorate with nature. Use small branches and pine cones to add fragrance and beauty to any area of your home. Holly is another great plant that grows in many parts of the US that can be cut and brought indoors for the holidays.

Another idea is to use small candles, small oil burning lamps, or reed diffusers in holiday colors. They will add fragrance and color to your small table area, creating a focal point for your room.

Small Table Christmas Decorations

Decorating with Elegant Christmas Decorations

2007-11-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

Decorating with Elegant Christmas Decorations

Every year, millions of Americans decorate their homes for the upcoming holiday season. Are you one of those people? If so, what kind of Christmas decorations do you plan to use? While you may not think that there is a difference in Christmas decorations, there is. The difference is often in the overall quality of materials used, as well as the design. If you have not started decorating for Christmas, you may want to think about decorating your home with elegant Christmas decorations, which are very en vogue this year. You will find that there are a number of benefits when doing so.

Before we focus on those benefits, let's take a look at elegant Christmas decorations, namely what they are and from where they can be purchased. When it comes to elegant Christmas decorations, you will find that each individual will have a different view of what it is. Despite these many different views, you will usually find that elegant Christmas decorations simply look better than most other decorations. For example, instead of using cardboard to create a table centerpiece, an elegant Christmas decoration would likely include a porcelain, crystal or glass centerpiece. Likewise, handmade, mouth blown glass ball ornaments from Europe, such as the ones pictured above, look much nicer than plastic ornaments, and so on....

In addition to the refined look of elegant Christmas decorations, you will also find that their cost is different. In most cases, you will find that the more elegant Christmas decorations cost more than some of the traditional decorations. Aside from the better quality materials and design, you will find that this has to do with where you can purchase the decorations. Usually the most elegant Christmas decorations can be purchased online, from specialty retailers, or from specialty Christmas stores. Many of these retailers are priced higher than others. One of the reasons for that is because most elegant Christmas decorations are handcrafted. A large amount of time, and skill go into creating handcrafted Christmas decorations; thus the increase in costs.

Perhaps, the greatest benefit of using elegant Christmas decorations to decorate your home is the feel they will create. Elegant Christmas decorations tend to create a more formal or elegant feel or environment. If you take great pride in your home, you will also be proud of the results created when using elegant Christmas decorations. Your guests will be impressed as well.

If you are planning a Christmas party or dinner in your home, elegant Christmas decorations can help set the mood and tone, especially if your party or dinner will be more elegant or formal in nature. It is no secret that decorations are the key to any party. The decorations that you use will likely have an impact on the mood of your party; therefore, if elegant and formal is what you were going for, elegant Christmas decorations may do just the trick.

Elegant Christmas decorations can add just the right ambiance and environment that you are planning; however, you do not have to only use formal decorations. It is your home, your own personal space, so decorate with what makes you feel the most comfortable.

Tags: decorate with elegant christmas decorations

Holiday Entertaining Made Easier - Find Free Recipes Fast

2007-11-27T13:54:00.000-08:00

With the holidays just around the corner you're all probably busy decorating and shopping. There is so little time to plan a good meal and cook these days, but you may be looking forward to entertaining friends and relatives in your home.

Here is a life saver - the recipe toolbar. Just download it and you're ready to look up any recipe that you need for your holiday entertaining, or just a simple family dinner.

I've been using it for a while now, and want to share this great tool with you, too.

Give it a try, you are going to love it!

Tag: find holiday recipes

Room Colors and Feng Shui

2007-11-21T15:34:00.000-08:00

Room Colors and Feng Shui

When it comes to Feng Shui home decorating, designers should not forget the subject of Feng Shui colors.

The entire Chinese culture is based on the metaphysical system of "I-Ching," which classifies everything in the universe into "Yin" and "Yang." This "Yin/Yang" concept further branches itself into the "5 Elements," which are Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth. From here comes the interesting concept of the manipulation of the various forms of these elements.

For example, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the lungs are of the Metal element; the kidneys, water; the liver, wood; the heart, fire, and the stomach, earth. It's the careful balancing of these five elements in the forms of their various representations that this type of medicine, one of the finest and oldest in the world, has been founded upon.

At the same time, in Feng Shui, the directions are also classified into different elements: West is of the Metal element; North, water; East, wood; South, Fire and center, earth. Thus the whole game of Feng Shui home decorating is just how well these 5 elements are utilized according to the unique characteristics each element dictates.

In terms of Feng Shui colors, "Metal" is represented by the colors "golden, silver, and white," whereas "Water" is "blue, gray and black;" "Wood," "green and wooden-like;" "Fire," "red, orange, pink and purple" and "Earth," "brown and yellow."

Of course, the utilization of these elements can be carried out in a very general way. But one can also go very deep and be very precise in the presentation of their significance in a very detailed fashion.

For example, it is often read from many a book on the subject of Feng Shui that, in order to enhance the well-being of the Eastern part of the house, one can simply put more of what represents the Wood element over there, such as plants, green pictures, wooden furniture, etc. just because East is Wood.

But this practice is, although partially correct in theory, very misleading in actuality because that is not how Feng Shui decorating is to be done.

Ancient Feng Shui texts dictate that one is to deduce the correct choices for element employment from the further interaction of the "Yin" and "Yang," rather than just with the elements themselves.

In other words, the true Feng Shui master will order the employment of various elements based upon not just the directions themselves, but the configuration of the "Flying Star Feng Shui" which is a calculation methodology that blends together the interactions among the 5 elements in various dimensions. Namely, such methodology takes into account the time space spectrum to come up with the "Flying Star Table" which will serve as the blueprint for authentic Feng Shui tips to be applied.

To completely understand the "Flying Star Feng Shui" methodology will take a very long time of thorough study; however, to apply what it reveals can be easily done - just as one doesn't have to be an electrician to be able to use electricity by flipping a switch.

Therefore, the most correct applications of the Feng Shui colors will only be done in accordance with the configurations dictated by the "Flying Star table" itself. Hence the need to come up with the most appropriate set of numbers within the "Flying Star table" with which to reflect the various positions of these 5 elements before the right Feng Shui colors are put onto the right place.

Tags: feng shui colors

Decorative Aromatherapy Reed Diffusers

2007-11-19T15:21:00.000-08:00

Decorative Aromatherapy Reed Diffusers

A good alternative to scented candles is the aromatherapy reed diffuser to bring an ambiance to your spaces. These lovely diffusers are not just decorative, but also are a safe choice for people with pets or children, or anyone who doesn't want to use an open flame when scenting a room. We found these at ConiArtGlass.com where glass artist Cornel Plescan offers a variety of shapes and sizes of handmade, mouth blown vessels which may be used as vases, reed diffusers or oil lamps. He provides the reeds or oil lamp hardware at your request. Prices start at $15 retail, but he also sells at discounted wholesale prices for store owners or anyone buying in larger quantities.

Tags: Decorative Aromatherapy Reed Diffusers

Christmas Home Decorating

2007-11-15T11:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas Home Decorating

When it comes to decorating, Christmas is the one time of year that most people pull out all the stops. There is no such thing as excess and the person who gets started last is the one who often finishes last. Every year the trees, displays, lights, and sounds grow larger and more complex. Unfortunately, most people cannot keep up with the newest, latest, and greatest in Christmas decorations. However, these people should not worry. Christmas is a celebration of good will and not a competition to have the biggest or brightest display (at least that is what it should be).

Hopefully, some of the ideas below will help you enjoy decorating your home for Christmas. It is important that you choose Christmas decorations that have meaning for you rather than the decorations you feel your friends and family will like. Christmas is very personal. Different people celebrate the holiday in different ways, according to their family or cultural traditions. Therefore, not everyone that celebrates the Christmas holiday will celebrate in precisely the same way.

I am a fan of Christmas decorations . I love blinking lights and the beauty of the greenery mixed with bright shades of red and gold. I love how 200 different houses can be decorated for Christmas inside and out without any two looking the same. I love the fact that for one month out of the year children of all ages are looking out their windows in awe at the bright lights and the cheery characters that light up the cold wintry rooftops all around.

If you don't have any decorating ideas of your own, my best suggestion is to pick what you like most about Christmas and choose your home decorating style around that one thing. As the years go by, inspiration will strike, and you will find more things to like or dislike about Christmas. Your decorations can change accordingly. Maybe the best thing about decorating your home for Christmas is that nothing is set in stone. Be creative and decorate in your own style, and with what you love.

Some great ideas or themes for Christmas decorating in the home, office or elsewhere, include the following: snow globes, glass ball ornaments, cherubs, angels, Santa Clauses, snowmen, birds, candles, wreathes, and stockings. While this is by no means an full list of Christmas decorations it is a good place to start when ideas are needed. Favorites of my family include a nativity, gingerbread men, gingerbread houses, balls, grape clusters, and ribbons.

There are many wonderful ideas and resources when it comes to decorating your home for Christmas that it is incredibly difficult to point to one specific idea and say ‘this is it’. However, finding a theme that speaks to your heart is what Christmas is all about. That and spending time with those persons who mean the most to you in the world.

Tags: Christmas decorating decorations

Decorating with Art for Those on a Budget

2007-11-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

Decorating with Art for Those on a Budget

Decorating your home can be fun, but so many people neglect to decorate their home because they are afraid that it will cost too much. Home decorating doesn't have to be an expensive endeavor. Even if the look you're hope to achieve is on the elaborate end of the spectrum, it is possible to create a change that will make you smile both when you look at your home and in your pocketbook.

Try to make small changes over time instead of one huge change. Artwork is one way to make a big difference in the look of your rooms and is a decorating idea that you can easily reverse if you don't like how it looks.

What is the first thing you notice when you walk into a home? Probably the walls, right? Walls surround the home, giving a thematic impression. If your walls are empty you've got to get to work to on them. Wall hangings can often be expensive, but that's only if you purchase something by a famous dead artist.

You can create your own artwork without having any art education whatsoever. First, consider your theme. Let's say you want add some small artwork to a bathroom. You could consider framing some beautiful sea shells. Simply arrange the shells creatively onto either a sheet of colored paper or onto fabric, and frame them.

If you have hundreds of pictures and have no idea what to do with them, you could arrange the photos into a huge wall photo collage. Examples include pictures of places you have visited, weddings, or children growing up. Although it's more fun creating your collage yourself, there are companies that will create one for you. One of my favorites is SmugMug. They'll mount your digital prints on canvas, ceramic tiles and more, to create a work of art that no one else will have but you!

Consider pressing leaves or flowers and framing your work; the best ones to use are flat. Place the leaves or flowers in a book, with papertowels on each side, to allow them to dry flat. As soon as they become crisp, they are ready to be framed. It shouldn't take longer than a week or two for them to dry.

You are only limited by your imagination when you decorate your home with artwork. Be creative. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of art - artwork is easily reversible.

So, be imaginative and creative and design your artwork.

Tag: decorate home art budget

Brighten Up Your Home with Candles and Oil Lamps

2007-11-12T14:22:00.000-08:00

Brighten Up Your Home with Candles and Oil Lamps

These days candles and oil lamps are available in many shapes and sizes, and in a range of scents. Round, votive, tapered or multi colored are all just a few examples. Here are some ways to use candles and oil lamps to brighten up your home decorating.

Candle light can make an attractive addition to the decorations in your home. Scented candles or oils delight the senses and bring relaxation at the same time. Use them in the bathroom to create a romantic focal point when you are with someone special, or they can help you relax with a good book. Be careful not to let the candles tip over the edge of the tub. The heavier jar candles or oil lamps won't slide off easily and can be a good choice.

Make great looking decorations on an end or coffee table using tea candles, which are inexpensive. The candles can be scented if you like. Place them inside heavy glass cups, votives, or quality stemmed glassware is a great way to make a beautiful impression.

Show your creativity when you use tealight candles to make a dramatic display on your fireplace mantle. Long tapered candles are good accents for flower arrangements on the dining room table. Use the smokeless and non drip candles for the best and most enjoyable eff, and keep the greenery in the floral arrangement away from the flame.

Another idea is to use glittered candles. Just roll the candles in glitter for a dramatic elegance.

Pillar candles tend to be large and heavy, but can be used in many places in your home for a glorious effect of light. You don't need a special holder for these candles, although you can find lovely decorated candle rings at stores like Michael's, or use a nice plate or tray filled with stones or seashells.

You can use small or large plates, trays, deep soup bowls or even large serving platters to create a fresh look. Displaying several pillar candles in different sizes together makes for an awesome display. A word of warning - keep the candles at least three inches apart to prevent them from melting into each other.

There are other types of oil lamps and candles that you can use to decorate your home. Create dramatic effects using floating candles in your pool for an outdoor party. Use your imagination and creativity.

A final word of caution: If you use candles or oil lamps in your home, always think safety first. Never leave candles or an open flame burning overnight, or in an enclosed room with no ventilation. Dangerous fumes like carbon monoxide can build up, or a stray flame can cause a fire.

Be careful to place candles so that they won't fall over, and never allow young children to have candles in their rooms withoutstrict supervision. Always be extra cautious when burning candles in your house.

Tags: oil lamps candles decorate home house

10 Ways to Give a Room an Inexpensive Facelift

2007-11-11T15:38:00.000-08:00

10 Ways to Give a Room an Inexpensive Facelift

It does not have to be expensive or difficult to decorate a room in your home . You can often achieve fabulous design results by spending small amounts of money on items that make a big impact, or by using items you already own. (Don't forget to check out your Grandmother's attic.)

Paint will achieve the most dramatic difference and the most "bang for your buck" for your home. New paint automatically gives a room a fresh look for minimal cost; and, if you are able to do the work yourself, then there are even more savings.
Rearrange your furniture. Try different configurations to see what adds space to the area, or alternatively to make a large room more cozy. Sometimes we get so used to a room as it is that we tend to forget to try the easy fixes.
Bring pieces of furniture or other items in from other rooms. Or if a room is over crowded, take some pieces out. This is virtually cost-free and can make a huge difference in a room's look and comfort level. Use your imagination.
Adding or changing the window coverings can create a different look and pulls a room together. Use fabric or materials that fit in with the rest of the room's decor. Save up to 85% Off Curtains & Draperies at American Blinds, Wallpaper & More
Cover a sofa or chair with a beautiful throw or slipcover. It is a quick and inexpensive way to dress up old worn furniture.
Use linens such as tablecloths to decorate tables, or new towels to spruce up a bathroom. Linens are an inexpensive and fun way to change a room. And, you can decorate for any number of seasonal or holiday themes with linens.
Use different lighting effects to change the setting and bring an ambiance to your room. Often, just moving a light fixture or lamp to a different location in a room can make a big difference.
Use plants to decorate, if you have a green thumb. Nice plants are a great way to add a sense of newness to a space. If you do not have a green thumb, consider very nice silk trees, flowers and plant. Today, they are very life like, and easy to take care of.
Add art or pictures to the walls. Be creative. Make a collage of the places you've been, your kids, or grandchildren. Something as simple as a favorite photo blown up and put into an old picture frame can create a beautiful look.
Try an area rug to change the look of a room. If you try laying the rug at different angles, you can achieve a look that is out of the ordinary.

Use your imagination and some of these decorating tips. You may just be able to make it look as if you spent a fortune and put a huge amount of work into the decor. Sometimes the best designs are the simplest and least expensive.

Tags: decorating on a budget

Faux Finishes are Hot – Bare Walls are Not!

2007-11-08T09:54:00.000-08:00

Faux Finishes are Hot – Bare Walls are Not!

Ever seen an artistic wall finish that doesn’t look like wallpaper or regular paint? It just might be a faux finish.

Faux finishes are the latest home improvement craze. A faux finish can be applied to any type of wall surface including dry wall, metal, glass, ceramic, wood, etc.; however, preparation for each type of surface varies.

Faux finishes tend to last longer than wallpaper. Because it's not paper, it will never peel off. And if you tire of it, you'll never have the tiresome chore of trying to peel it off!

A faux wall finish can be coated with polyurethane that is available in satin, matte, or semi-gloss texture for a longer lasting appeal.

There are several different techniques that can be done with faux finishing. Usually the condition of the wall surface determines the best technique to use to hide any imperfections.

With the various techniques possible with faux finishes, a small room can appear larger and more spacious, or a larger room can become cozier.

Faux Finishing Basics

Like any other paint project, the wall surface you wish to paint should be prepared to obtain a long lasting finish. With proper preparation of the wall surface, almost any type of paint can be applied to any surface and be long lasting.

How do you prepare a surface for painting? Simple, make certain that the wall is very clean. Clean interior surfaces with soap and water; however, if mold or mildew is present, use a very mild bleach solution to get rid of them. For exterior surfaces, some scrubbing with a bristle brush may be required - just make sure that the surface is well cleaned.

Once the surface is clean and dried, you can start with your project. There are no special rules to follow when doing faux finishes - do whatever you want to create the desired appearance.

There are techniques that can be applied and instructions available to help you with your first project to get the effect you desire.

First, before you start, gather together all of the necessary tools. The most common tools that you will need are the primer, glaze, coating, brushes, rollers, paint tray, water bucket, gloves, rags, soap, water, and technique-specific materials such as a sponge, feather, and wood-graining tools.

Color is one major consideration in faux finishes. Since you can be as artistic as you would like to get attain the desired effect, you may want to try color blending or other combinations. The paint stores will often have examples, too. If decide to try blending colors, be careful to use only colors within the same color group. You can probably use the same base color with different shades which will be more pleasing to the eye than trying to combine contrasting colors.

Before you start applying the finish to the surface itself - experiment first by using a small piece of the same surface that you will be placing the finish on, or if that's not possible try a small piece of wood. By experimenting, you can practice the technique and also see how it will look. Then you can decide whether to continue with that finish or try a different one.

Here are some examples of the different techniques of faux finishing:

Color blocking – this is when there are different shades of a base color shaped as big blocks; this technique is ideal for nursery rooms.
Smooshing – this is a simple marble effect, something like moiré wallpaper.
Stripe – this uses different variations and shades of one color for a soft effect.
Shadow Striping – if a striped tone-on-tone technique to make an elegant wall finish.
Terracotta tile – a durable alternative to terracotta tiles; and only a fraction of the cost of the real thing.
Fresco – is used for a mottled, parchment look.
Copper patina –is ideal for kitchen surfaces because it provides a rich texture from the old country.
Golden glaze – has a soft texture that adds a glimmering touch to a room.

Faux finishes are hot! Use your creativity and imagination to obtain your desirable effect. Don't have just plain painted walls! Try an artistic faux finish which will last for a long period of time just like a normal paint. It’s faux, it’s practical, its hot!

Tags: faux finishes

4 Easy Tips to Vamp up Your Interiors without Overspending

2007-11-07T11:09:00.000-08:00

4 Easy Tips to Vamp up Your Interiors without Overspending

With the holidays just around the corner, you may be thinking about sprucing up your spaces; however, if you are on a tight budget you may not see any way to do so. Not a problem, there are many ways to improve your surroundings without spending a bundle.

Everybody likes to have a nice and cozy place to come home to at the end of a long grueling day, but not everyone has the talent or creativity to glamorize their home without spending excessively.

If you are on a tight budget but want your home to have an updated appearance and be more comfortable, here are four ideas for you:

Opt for high quality products.
Think you're getting the best deal with cheap home products? Well, the truth is you might actually spend more by using these products rather than choosing those of good quality.

Use smart decorating techniques.
Liven up a dark room with warm colored paints. Alternatively, if the room is so sunny that it always gets hot, cooler paint colors such as green or blue will give it a lighter, cooler feel. Keep in mind that paint colors should coordinate with your fixed interiors such as the furniture and curtains.

Use mirrors to create the illusion of spaciousness in narrow spaces. White or lighter colored paint will make a room appear less cramped. Just must make sure all of the other furnishings' colors coordinate with the paint you choose to create this effect.

One person's trash could be another's treasure. Sometimes all a bargain store or garage sale piece of furniture or other item needs is a bit of retouching, reupholstering or just a strategic spot to place it to add ambience to a room.

Recycle.
Use your grandmother's old boxes, bottles, or linens. Spray painting old itmes with bronze or gold paint can turn them into instant home decor treasures. Recycle old newspaper or other paper into papier-mâché. It could be fun activity for the whole family.

Make use of old decorative scarves as wall decor. Or, create a very personalized theme in your house by greatly enlarging photos to use as room dividers or have them made into mosaics.

Ask for nature's help.
If you have a “green thumb”, use it when decorating your spaces. Creative use of plants will liven up any space, whether at home or at work. Just make sure they're well-maintained and put plants and flowers where they won't make a mess if they shed their leaves.

Tags: decorating on a budget

Spruce up your Kitchen and Tabletop

2007-10-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

Spruce up your kitchen with the latest Le Creuset color - a beautiful Caribbean blue! This cookware is perfect for the holidays, and also makes a great gift.

It's highly functional oven or cooktop to table functionality makes it a great way to decorate your holiday table. Of course it comes in many other lovely colors including cherry red, kiwi, and chestnut.

Check Out The newest Le Creuset Color: Caribbean

Affordable Fall Decorations

2007-10-16T08:02:00.000-07:00

Affordable fall decorations.

Celebrate autumn with affordable fall decorations. Fall is one of the best times of the year. The weather is just beginning to be more fresh and crisp, kids are back in school, and we start looking forward to holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Decorations for autumn tend to be more earthy, with shades of rust, red, brown, and gold, reflecting the changing colors on the trees. It's one of the most beautiful times of the year. Decorate with organic materials such as colorful leaves, branches, dried flowers, gourds, pumpkins and squash.

We found these gorgeous gold and copper bud vases that make lovely centerpieces for the fall tablescape, or for any time of year. Use them in groups of 3 or 5 (remember to always keep it an odd number for the best looking arrangements), or use them one at a time. These vessels may be used as oil lamps or bud vases, so they're extremely versatile. They also make great gifts. Find them at Coni Art Glass where you'll find many other high quality, mouth blown decorative glass items.

Tag:
Affordable Fall Decorations

Christmas Ornament and Wedding Favor

2007-08-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

Christmas Ornament and Wedding Favor
If you are looking for Christmas ornaments for wedding or party favors , look no futher. Coni Art Glass offers beautiful, handmade and mouth blown colored glass balls that make lovely wedding favors, party favors or holiday gifts.

These Christmas ornaments are available in many colors. Hand blown by artisans in Europe, each one is a work of art. Whether you are looking for wedding favors, bridal attendant gifts, gifts for clients or co-workers, or just ornaments for your own tree, you'll find all the colors that you want.

If you use them as wedding or party favors, they can double as decorations. Use one at each place setting. Tie on a ribbon with a card with the person's name as place card. What a beautiful way to decorate your tables, and thank your guests as well.

Go to http://www.coniartglass.com/ornaments.php today to browse the colorful selection of hand made glass ball ornaments.

Tags: Christmas Ornament and Wedding Favor

What Color is Aqua?

2007-07-23T04:18:00.000-07:00

What Color is Aqua?

As with most colors, there is a great range of color when we talk about aqua. It can range from turquoise, from almost green and teal, to a very pale aqua color, as in light aquamarine gemstones. The color aqua can range between a very green hue to a darker blue hue. On the color wheel you'll find aqua between the true green and true blue segments.

The color turquoise, one hue of aqua, is soothing, purifying, and calming and many believe that wearing the stones can help to buildup the immune system and fight off inflammatory diseases. Aqua has long been associated with emotional healing and protection, and is, therefore, a calming influence on your spaces.

Aqua is a great color to use in a bedroom or bathroom. In addition, for those of you who are decorating a seaside home, aqua is a color that imitates the sea. Using aqua as a wall color, or as an accent color ties in the color of the ocean.

The current trend is to combine aqua with espresso brown and beige, but take a look at the color wheel. There are lots of other interesting color combinations. Try mixing greens and blues, with crisp, clean white walls. Paint wainscotting white or beige with aqua colored walls, and aqua, green and blue accents.

There is no right or wrong when decorating with color. If you are on a budget, just add aqua colored pillows or linens to a room, and you will dramatically change the look of the room for just a small amount of money.

Tag:
What Color is Aqua

Decorative Resin Pedestals

2007-06-27T01:22:00.000-07:00

Decorative Resin Pedestals

I found a great source for decorative resin pedestals! Several people have asked me for a good source, and here it is.

Design Toscano is a wonderful source for decorative home and garden accessories, including: historical replicas, antique replicas, sculptures, wall art, furniture, architectural artifacts, imported French tapestries, suits of armor, swords, French art posters, and much more.

Decorative resin pedestals are another of their specialties. You'll find Corinthian, French provincial, and neo-classical style pedestals that may be used in the interior of the house, or outside in the garden.

Browsing through their online catalog is an amazing experience. You can find so many interesting items for the house, including Celtic inspired home accessories.

Best yet - Save up to 80% off original catalog prices on first-quality Design Toscano overstock merchandise!

Tags: Decorative Resin Pedestals

How to Decorate Wedding Reception Tables Lavender and Other Colors

2007-06-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

How to Decorate Wedding Reception Tables Lavender and Other Colors

Choosing the colors and decorations for a wedding is one of the many decisions a bride must make. And these are decisions that must be made as early as possible, because so many other aspects of the wedding depend on what colors and types of decorations have been chosen. For example, the flowers and bridesmaid and mother's dresses are usually coordinated with the general color scheme of the wedding.

How to decorate wedding reception tables? Lavender and many other colors may be used to turn even the most boring room into a wedding show place. Use whatever flowers are in season to brighten up your tables. Talk to your florist to get ideas that will stay within your budget. Colorful vases in various shapes and sizes can do double duty as table decorations, and as wedding favors.

You can find some great wholesale hand blown colored glass balls, small vases, candleholders and more at ConiArtGlass.com. Each piece is a work of art - but it won't strain your budget.

Tablecoths can be plain white to set off the colors of your decorations, or contrasting colors to highlight your color scheme. Take a look at the color wheel to get ideas.

The color wheel shows the relationship between colors. There are three primary colors (red, blue, yellow), three secondary colors which are the result of mixing primary colors (purple, orange, green) and the tertiary colors which are a primary color mixed with a secondary color such as red-orange, yellow-green and blue-violet. Mixing colors with pure colors white or black it creates numerous different tints and shades.

Choose anologous colors, those colors that are next to each other on the wheel for a softer look. For a bold contemporary look, chooHow to Decorate Wedding Reception Tables Lavenderse complementary colors that are across from each other, for example red and green, or dark lavender and yellow.

Be creative and choose what you like, and what you always dreamed of for your wedding.

Tags: How to Decorate Wedding Reception Tables Lavender

Organize Your Clothes Closet in Nine Easy Steps

2007-06-01T10:17:00.001-07:00

If you are like many of us, you are afraid to open your closet door! Finding the right outfit can be a chore when things are not in order. Here are nine easy steps to organize your clothes closet.

Make space - most of us don't have huge closets. Do you have things in your clothes closet that should be stored elsewhere? Make more space by moving out the tennis rackets, and anything else that you are storing in your closet that doesn't belong there.
Be realistic - if you haven't used it or worn it in the past year, get rid of it! Throw it away, or donate it to charity - and be ruthless. Do you really need that old prom dress anymore?
Try it on - Try on everything that you plan to keep, and be honest with yourself. Does it really look good on you? If not, get rid of it too.
Arrange - establish categories, grouping like items. Hang shirts together with shirts, dresses with dresses, etc.
Sort - sort and arrange each category by color, length, season, etc.
Save time - store socks and under garments in the closet in plastic or acrylic boxes you can see through. You'll save a lot of time and effort when you can select the right socks and underwear without having to go into another area of the room.
Sweater Protection - Store sweaters folded rather than on hangers.
Shoes - if you can, fit in a shoe rack or two to organize your footwear into neatly paired shoes.
Accesories - get some of those inexpensive hangers designed especially for ties, belts, or scarves. Then hang the ties near the shirts, belts nexxt to the pants, etc.

Don't wait, take the time to organize your closet and you'll be much happier.

Tag: orgaize clothes closet

Gift Ideas - Crystal and Glassware

2007-05-24T09:42:00.000-07:00

Gift Ideas - Crystal and Glassware

Whether for weddings, new homes, new babies, birthdays, or anniversaries, crystal and glassware are the perfect gift choice. They are not the sort of item that one routinely purchases for them self, making it the ideal gift.

From crystal vases or stemware to colorful hand blown art glass pieces, there is a gift for everyone and every occasion. SPCrystal.com has a beautiful selection of Murano vases and sculptures, as well as crystal vases and contemporary glass art pieces that are sure to please. Be sure to take a look at the Murano Glass Animals - we love them for anniversary and baby gifts especially.

ConiArtGlass.com is another Web site that we love for finding gift and home decorating items. Many of thier lovely mouth blown glass items make great wedding or party favors as well, such as the hand blown colored glass balls, or the small colorful vases and oil lamps.

Whatever the occasion and whatever you choose, you'll always be welcome at any event with a gift of crystal or glassware.

Tag: Gift Ideas Crystal and Glassware

Shabby Chic French Decor for Home

2007-05-14T14:46:00.000-07:00

Shabby Chic French Decor for Home

You have most likely heard of the shabby chic decorating trend. It can be done in many styles, but one of the most interesting is the shabby chic French decorating style. While you may call it by other names, no matter what you call it, this style of decorating can be affordable, comfortable, livable, and downright gorgeous.
Characterized by colors such as muted green, pastel pink or blue and faded gray, shabby chic decorating celebrates the less-than-perfect, even once-discarded furniture and accessories. Vintage bedspreads, well-worn rugs, tables with peeling paint -- they all have a place in the shabby chic home. Even sofas and chairs that may seem ready for the trash can be easily revived with inexpensive slipcovers and paint.
So how do you go about introducing the French shabby chic look into your own home? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Look around your attic or basement (or better yet your Mother or Grandmother's attic or basement.) Carefully examine discarded or unused items and determine if they may be usable. Remember this: "If it has good bones, you can use it."
Go to your local flea markets and yard sales. Try to imagine how pieces that you find will look with a fresh coat of paint.
Forget about the traditional purpose of objects that you find. Old trunks can make great coffee tables. You may use quilts as sofa throws, and large, newly painted baskets can hold everything from toys to fresh linens.
Shabby chic is all about comfort. Put extra pillows on your sofa or bed - make everything cozy.
Shabby chic French decor for home design means lots of blue and yellow, white painted furniture, or pickled pine. Mix it up.

If you're willing to invest some time hunting for treasures, you'll be surprised at the amazing bargains you can find. Wherever you travel, or right in your backyard there are some amazing finds.

Shabby chic French decor is an easy style to achieve because it can include almost anything you love. Have fun, be creative, and enjoy the shabby chic lifestyle!

Tag: Shabby Chic French Decor for Home

Feng Shui

2007-05-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

Feng Shui

Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese art of placement; literally translated, Feng Shui means "wind and water". The philosophy is that often energy is blocked in a space or moves too quickly through a space.

Use the principles of Feng Shui to adjust the energy or the flow of "Chi" in your spaces, and change the way your home or business looks and feels. Follow the nine areas of the "bagua" to understand how to adjust and enhance the areas of your home or office. Using the elements, sounds, colors, movement and more can change the flow of energy in your home and other spaces. Just removing clutter can open up new opportunities to the home or business owner, or painting a door red can add spark to a home and invite more money into the home. Who doesn't want that??

In Feng Shui you will find that it is important to use your front door often and have everything in the house in good working order. Using Feng Shui can bring in a life partner, more money, new career, happier family relationships, better health and more. Feng Shui is for everyone.

It is an art, and a way of life. Learn more about Feng Shui:

Tag: feng shui

Retro Kitchen Appliances and Decor

2007-04-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

Retro Kitchen Appliances and Decor

The latest trend in kitchen design is the retro look. Remember your grandmother's kitchen decorated in the 1950's or 1960's style? It is a comforting feel, and what better spot than the kitchen where everyone seems to want to be. Our family and friends always seem to congragate in the kitchen, no matter how hard I try to move them into other areas of the house!

The retro feel of an AGA range or a Northstar Retro Refridgerator are exactly what the cook ordered up. And it's not just for the retro feel, they are wonderful appliances to use. Another one is the Diva de Provence range - they are as beautiful as they are functional.

Take a look at the collection of retro kitchen appliances at HomeClick.com

We've seen these in red, yellow or bright blue to complete the retro feel, with a black and white checkerboard tile floor. Also, take a look at Anthropologie.com for retro accessories for your kitchen.

Tags: Retro Kitchen Appliances and Decor

Hand Blown Colored Glass Balls

2007-04-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hand Blown Colored Glass Balls

Hand blown colored glass balls are an amazing and inexpensive decorating accessory that bring light and happiness to your home décor. Often used in Feng Shui design, the colors in the balls promote creative energy in the home. Outside in the garden, you can float them in ponds to protect fish from predators. When the sun shines on the colored glass balls, the light scares the predators away.

Used year round in many different ways, these glass spheres also make beautiful Christmas ornaments. The colorful hand blown glass balls, spheres and hearts are a versatile and affordable decorative accessory (used in homes, hotels, restaurants, and offices), party favor, or gift. They come in many beautiful colors and patterns.

We especially like them in centerpiece displays, such as this lovely bowl. It is light and airy, the colors are lovely, and the display creative. The bowl itself, also hand blown colored glass, is a piece of art that will enhance many types of decor, from modern to contemporary, or even rustic country - depending on the color combinations that you choose.

Tags: Hand Blown Colored Glass Balls

10 Home Decorating Tips

2007-04-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

10 Home Decorating Tips

If you don't know where to start, but you want to make some changes in your spaces, don’t worry. Whether you’ve just moved into a new apartment or want to change a look you’ve been living with for years, these ten simple decorating tips are sure to boost your confidence and get you on your way to creating an environment you’re sure to be proud of.

Do your research! Take advantage of all the great resources available for ideas, even if you have a basic idea of what you want to do. Magazines, decorating books and T.V. shows, the Internet, home furnishing stores, paint and project stores and even other people’s homes are indispensable sources.
Choose a focal point or inspiration piece. Pick something in the room that you really like, whether it’s a sofa, an oil painting, an Oriental rug, a fireplace, or a bed with a canopy, and try to draw from it ideas to focus on in the rest of room. Is there a specific color from the painting that you want to enhance? Do you want to use the same gauzy material from your bed canopy for the window treatments? Do you want to duplicate the design of your Oriental rug elsewhere? Do you want the entire room to pivot towards the fireplace? There are many ideas sitting right in front of you in the items you have already selected for your home to get you started.
Make a wish list. List in different sections what you want. In one area, list all of the items you definitely know you want, or basically need, such as a dining room table or a bed frame. If you’ve already seen what you want, note where it was and the price. In another area, list the items that you feel you have a variety of options to choose from, as in book cases or shelves, carpeting or area rugs, or types of window treatments. In a third area, list the areas that you have absolutely no idea of what you want to do and are completely open to suggestion, such as wall art or storage options. Use this as a checklist throughout your shopping and decorating.
Good Measurements. Measure everything thoroughly - every room, every wall, every window, every corner, every piece of furniture you are keeping - everything. Note them clearly, even if you have to make crude sketch drawings for clarification. These measurements will be essential when you are shopping, so always take them with you, as well as the measuring tape itself. This will be important when choosing new items.
Create a Decorating Organizer. Find an "organizer" that you feel comfortable walking around with, such as a planner with pockets or a bag with compartments. Place in it all of the measurements you have taken, measuring tape, your wish list, paint and stain chips in the colors you are considering or have already decided on, fabric and carpet swatches, pictures from magazines that you have liked, a note pad, pencils and so on. These items will be crucial when you finally stumble upon the blue cushioned bar stool you’ve been looking for and aren’t sure if the blue is the right shade or the stool is the right height, for example.
Be true to your style. You don’t have to fall into a specific category, such as classic or country. In fact, most decorating styles are slightly eclectic, combining more than one style in furniture, color and accents. Just be aware of what you find yourself drawn to when shopping, and this will give you a better understanding of what you like to be surrounded with. If you planned on decorating your living room in metallics and monochrome colors for an industrial look, but continually find yourself attracted to the red and white gingham sofa, take a step back and reassess your original plans. Try to incorporate what you know you like into an overall style with some special touches.
Patience is key! Don’t buy impulsively or make rash decorating decisions out of frustration. You’ll find yourself bringing home something that doesn’t work in the room and cost too much, or you’ll end up finding something better the very next day and have to do twice the work. Thoroughly comparison shop, even if it gets tedious. And remember that there is a difference between settling for something and compromising. If you settle for something, you’ll never end up liking it.
Small, simple changes go a long way. Even if you don’t consider yourself "handy", there are probably many small things you can do yourself to fix, enhance or change something, while saving money. Can you sew a slipcover for your couch? Can you do an easy faux finish on your walls? Can you stencil a border around your doorways? Can you cut down a carpet and create a new area rug? Can you change the hardware on your kitchen cabinets? You don’t need to be an expert (or wealthy) to create style and show your personality in any room.
Recycle from other rooms. Before you purchase new pieces of furniture and decorative accents, look around and see if there’s anything throughout your house that can be used elsewhere. Maybe a desk that doesn’t get used often can be placed in the bedroom as a vanity. Or maybe you could swap out light fixtures from one room to another. Perhaps you can gather photographs from around the house and place them together as a collage. Even a small plastic garbage pail can be converted into a lovely planter or be the vessel for a silk floral arrangement. Look around carefully for fun ideas before spending a dime!
Tricks of the trade. Small rooms and low ceilings can be easily enhanced with optical illusions. Hanging window treatments close to the ceiling, as opposed to the top of the window, gives the impression of a long wall and high ceiling. Adding crown molding creates a break between the wall and ceiling and draws the eye upward. Mirrors do a great job of opening up walls and creating the sense of depth to any room. Strategically placed, they can make a room seem much larger and reflect light throughout when placed across from a light source.

Tags: 10 Home Decorating Tips

What Can I Do with Used Greeting Cards?

2007-04-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

What Can I Do with Used Greeting Cards?

I used to send my used greeting cards to St. Judes Ranch for Children. They would take the used cards and recycle them into new ones to sell as fund raisers for the Ranch. However, they recently stopped accepting the used cards.

If you have some vintage greeting cards from your grandmother's attic, you may want to think about selling them on e-bay - there's a large market for them there. Or you could frame them for a nice wall grouping. Another idea, tried and true, is to decoupage them onto a tray, table or other decorative element. Be creative and, as always, have some fun with them.

But if you just have everyday used cards that you would like to recycle, here is a great idea - make decorative boxes and gift boxes from recycled greeting cards.

Recycled Greeting Card Box
Craft supplies you will need:
greeting cards
ruler
scissors
pencil
white glue (optional)
glitter, ribbon, rick-rack or other embellishments (optional)
Printed template
Greeting Card Box InstructionsNote: This project is more difficult to explain than it is to do; once you have made one box, the next ones will go together more quickly and easily.
First print out the full size pattern You can use the pattern many times as you don't need to cut it.
The smaller pattern is the bottom of the box, using the back page of the greeting card. Don't worry about a verse or two, or any other small amount of printing; usually it's invisible when the box is folded up.
The larger pattern makes the box top. There are fold lines indicated, and two cut lines - you will assemble both the top and the bottom of the box in exactly the same way.
Begin by placing the pattern on the back of your card. For the top of the box, try to position it so that the most colorful or interesting scene of the card front will be centered in the middle of the pattern.
Working on the back, transfer 12 dots, as shown on the pattern, to your card. Place 4 dots at each corner of the square, and two more on each side, where indicated.
Now join the dots, copying the pattern. It isn't necessary to draw coloured lines; the colours are only to help with the instructions for the box -- you'll find, when you're done, that it sounds much more complicated than it is!
Next, cut into your card template where indicated on the pattern by the green lines.
It's time to start folding. Work from the blank side of the card, which will be the inside of your box. Begin by folding the four corner triangles outwards, so you're folding toward the printed side of the card.
Figure 1Now take a box side and fold it in half to crease it so the green corner line will meet the red line of the inside square, as shown on the paper template. Repeat with the other sides. See Figure 1.

Figure 2 On the two longer sections, you will need to fold in the ends, as shown in Figure 2.
These form two flaps which hold the box together in the last step.
Figure 3 Fold up the sides to form your box.

Figure 4
Last step is to fold the straight sides over the flaps that were made in Figure 2.
Push all the triangular ends into place at the bottom of the box. Usually no glue is required to keep the box together, however if you find the folds coming open, use a small dab of glue to fasten in place.

Use the same method to make the box bottom and the box top. You will find the top fits over the bottom fairly snugly, so the box when assembled does not fall apart.

Now you have made a tiny treasure box from a recycled greeting card. These are suitable in size to hold small treats, a few coins, candy, earrings or other small gifts.

For Halloween, add treat gifts or a small assortment of stickers, an eraser, pencil sharpener etc.

And for Christmas, embellish with thin ribbon and hang from your Christmas tree as ornaments to be opened on Christmas Day. They can also be added to wreaths, table settings etc. as a colourful little addition that holds a nice surprise.

Coffee Lovers receive illy’s catalog, gifts, state-of-the-art machines, and cup collections. A complimentary gift with purchase offer

Tags: What Can I Do with Used Greeting Cards

How to Decorate a Seaside Home

2007-04-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

How to Decorate a Seaside Home

Whether you live at the beach, have a second home on the shore, or want to pretend that you do - have fun and be creative to decorate for coastal living.

Think of the things you find at the beach - seashells, sea glass, sand, sun...and incorporate them in your decor. For example, the colors of the sea on the walls in varying shades of blue, blue green, etc. Flooring in light wood, or ceramic tiles the color of sand. Let the sun in with sheer window coverings - keep it light and airy. Use seashells and sea glass as focal points in the room in large containers, or larger pieces on their own.

Alternatively, find nice art prints of seashells, coral, palm trees, or fish to hang in groupings on the walls. Seashells and coral wall decorations are very much the trend for 2007. Here's an example of a nice fish print that would be great in a seaside home or even in a child's room.

50% Off Framed Art!

Keep the furniture light in color and density. Wicker and rattan are popular picks, as well as glass top tables or white washed woods. A monochromatic scheme of white furniture, and white walls with splashes of bright colors can be stunning.

Be creative, have fun, and enjoy the seaside!

Tags: How to Decorate a Seaside Home

Heart Shaped Bridesmaid Gifts

2007-04-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Heart Shaped Bridesmaid Gifts

Ok, ok, I know I'm getting off the subject of home decor, but with June weddings just around the corner I wanted to share this idea.

Gifts for the wedding party are always a tough decision. What to get for your bridesmaids and groomsmen? You want something that they can keep forever, and always remember you and your big day, right?

Heart shaped bridesmaid gifts are the latest wedding trend for 2007. These heart shaped glass pieces may be used as sun catchers, paper weights, hung by a ribbon from the rear view mirror, etc. Be creative - use the colors of your wedding and they will love it. Your girl friends will be delighted with this gift, which by the way also makes nice wedding favors.......

Tags: Heart Shaped Bridesmaid Gifts

Ideas for Home Decorating with Color

2007-04-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

Ideas for Home Decorating with Color

Choosing color combinations can be one of the most intimidating tasks for beginning decorators.

To make choosing colors easier, you can rely on the interior designer's most important color tool: the color wheel.

Here's a look at four basic color schemes built using the color wheel:

Primary Colors
For rooms that in which you want a strong and solid feeling, primary colors can provide that strong foundation -- red, blue, and yellow -- is an ideal choice.
Each, red, blue, and yellow, is a pure color that can't be created by mixing other hues. You may use them in pairs or combine all three; they work equally well in country, traditional, and modern rooms.

Purple is an example of a secondary color,made from red and blue.
Secondary colors -- green, orange, and purple -- are created by mixing two primary colors in equal amounts. Like all other colors, each secondary hue can be tinted with white or shaded with black for interesting variations.

While you may not be able to stomach a bold orange and green room, think about pairing up their paler tints of peach and sage. The primary and secondary colors illustrate that you can make a compatible triadic scheme by choosing any three colors equidistant on the color wheel.

Intermediate Hues: Tertiary Colors
Tertiary colors are an equal mix of a primary and its closest secondary color: blue-green, yellow-green, red-orange, red-purple, and blue-purple.
Combine these colors for a sophisticated look in your spaces.

Single-Shot Color: Monochromatic Schemes
A monochromatic color scheme pairs one color with only white or another neutral.

Use variations of a single color's intensity to prevent a monochromatic scheme from being too bland. For instance, pale blue, sky blue, and navy offer variety within the same color family.

Some interesting examples of ways to bring color into a room other than by painting your walls is with decorative accessories, framed artwork (check out BestArt.com) or with colorful rugs. Be creative and have fun with color - you can always change it!

Tags:
Ideas for Home Decorating with Color

Celtic Decor and Home Furnishings

2007-04-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Celtic Decor and Home Furnishings

If you have an interest in Celtic decor, or perhaps a Celtic heritage, I found an amazing Web site with so many wonderful Celtic items! Design Toscano offers unusual and interesting historical reproductions for the home and garden.

Celtic decor and home furnishings, furniture, accessories, interior statuary, garden statuary, and even jewelry and apparel - you'll find everything you are looking for at Design Toscano.

I was quite taken with this reproduction Celtic Rosewood Tara Harp (about $125) which would make a good conversation piece, or you can also purchase the accompanying book to learn to play the harp.

The "Three Faces of Man" wall sculpture (about $24.95) was cast from a gravestone in Scotland. It depicts the ancient Celtic belief in the sanctity of the number three, with the three-layered nature of the human soul. It is a stunning home or garden wall piece, finished to replicate the pitted stone of the original.

These are only two of many wonderful Celtic inspired home decor furnishings available at Design Toscano.

If Celtic decor and home furnishings are what you are looking for, take a look at the collection at Design Toscano - you'll be amazed at the number and quality of the items they offer.

Tags: celtic decor and home furnishings

Centerpieces and Table Decorations for Weddings

2007-04-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Centerpieces and Table Decorations for Weddings

Choosing the centerpieces and table decorations for your wedding is one of the many details that a bride must take care of well in advance of the wedding. We have found some lovely ideas not only for centerpieces and decorations, but items that we have also used as party favors for many different types of parties and receptions.

Here are a couple of ideas:

A beautiful centerpiece bowl filled with glass balls in the colors you have chosen for your big day. The mouth blown glass balls make lovely favors to give to your guests too. Use a contrasting color ribbon to tie on a note thanking each guest for attending.

Or you could tie place cards to each ball with beautiful ribbon, and put them in the middle of each place setting. This is a favor that is sure to please.

Don't be afraid to use color on your tables! Often we think that we can only use clear glass for table and flower decorations; however, colored glass is one of the best and most economical ways to brighten up a table.

Use your creativity and imagination, and then enjoy one of the biggest events of your life!

Tags: centerpieces and table decorations for weddings

Do-it-Yourself Toolkit

2007-04-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

Do-it-Yourself Toolkit

Here's a handy list of items that you should have on hand if you plan to do any do-it-yourself projects around your home. These are the basics:

Measuring tape, 16-foot metal
Picture hangers and wall anchors - for hanging heavy items
Glue gun - good for craft projects and repairs
All-purpose glue and super glue - for quick repairs
Pencil and eraser - for marking measurements, etc.
Putty-knife and hole-filling compound
Sand sponges - for small sanding jobs they are helpful and re-usable
Miscellaneous screws, washers, bolts, and nails
Two-foot level - great for making sure you are hanging pictures and mirrors straight
Pair of C-clamps - for holding items together that you are glueing
Card of thumbtacks - good for temporarily hanging things, etc.
Duct and masking tape - repairs and masking trim around walls that you are painting

Other tools to have on hand:

Hammer
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Screwdrivers
Electric Drill

With the items on this list you can fix, repair, or create many decorative projects in your home.

Tags: do-it-yourself toolkit

Decorative Concrete Gives Homeowners Unique Options for Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Room

2007-04-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

Decorative Concrete Gives Homeowners Unique Options for Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Room
Most homeowners not only have indoor spaces to decorate, but outdoor areas, as well. More and more homes have outdoor kitchens and other family areas in which they spend quality family time.
"The Concrete Network offers design tips for creating the perfect outdoor room using decorative concrete. From concrete countertops to elaborate pizza ovens, homeowners are discovering how useful, durable and versatile concrete has become.
Yucaipa, CA (PRWEB) March 22, 2007 -- According to The Concrete Network, the largest and most comprehensive source for concrete information online, outdoor living rooms are quickly becoming one of the most popular amenities featured in today's back yard. As temperatures rise around the country, Americans are taking inside entertaining outdoors, and are using concrete as their medium for creating beautiful barbeques, custom countertops, elaborative pizza ovens, and decorative concrete patios.

Helvetica, sans-serif; TEXT-DECORATION: none" href="http://www.concretenetwork.com/" alt="Link to website">We've come a long way from the charcoal grill by including gas ranges, sinks, faucets and countertop prep areas along with pizza ovens, fireplaces and even concrete seating Because of the versatility and durability of concrete, many homeowners are choosing concrete for a variety of applications in their outdoor rooms, especially for their outdoor kitchen space. Through methods of stamping or staining, there are hundreds of color choices, patterns and designs that can be used to create any shape you can imagine."We've come a long way from the charcoal grill by including gas ranges, sinks, faucets and countertop prep areas along with pizza ovens, fireplaces and even concrete seating," said Jim Peterson, CEO of The Concrete Network. "Long gone are the days of drab, grey concrete."
The Concrete Network offers a few key factors to consider when designing an outdoor room, including selecting kitchen materials, creating the dining area, furnishing the outdoor room, and incorporating an outdoor fireplace. One key feature regarding concrete is to remember is that it has the ability to handle a large range of temperatures - it will stay the same through the dead of winter to the height of summer.
Visit the site's outdoor living photo gallery for a multitude of design ideas and examples of furnished outdoor rooms, pizza ovens, concrete countertops, concrete fireplaces, and more.
Established in 1999, The Concrete Network's purpose is to educate consumers, builders, and contractors on popular decorative techniques and applications including stamped concrete, stained concrete floors, concrete countertops, polished concrete, and much more. Over 872,000 visitors researched The Concrete Network Web site in June, 2006.
The site excels at connecting buyers with local contractors in their area through its Find-A-Contractor service. The service provides visitors with a list of decorative concrete contractors throughout the U.S. and Canada, and is fully searchable by 23 types of decorative concrete work and 200 metropolitan areas throughout North America."

Tags: decorative concrete

The Art of Glass Blowing - Coni Art Glass-Handmade Decorative Glassware and Home Accessories

2007-04-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

Coni Art Glass-Handmade Decorative Glassware and Home Accessories
"The art of glass blowing was first performed in the Middle East along the Phoenician coast in 20 B.C. This new technology changed the way glass was used, from jewelry and ornamentation to necessities. Amazingly glass containers and other items of high quality blown glass (even window glass) were found in the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

Today glass blowing of vases and other objects of art, or accessories is still done in basically the same way as it was originally done in 20 B.C.. Glass blowers, called gaffers, use a hollow iron pipe usually about four feet long. The gaffer dips the pipe in the melted glass and rolls a small amount of the molten glass, called gather, on the end of the pipe. Then the gaffer rolls the gather against a paddle or metal plate to give it an initial shape (marvering). The gaffer blows into the pipe which creates a bubble (parison).

The gaffer can control the shape and thickness of the glass by reheating the parison at the furnace and shaping and blowing to create the final form. From wooden paddles with holes, to wet newspapers held in the hand, many tools are used to shape the glass. Shears are often used to cut the soft, hot glass. Additional gathers, sometimes in other colors, can be applied and shaped into stems, handles, and other decorative artwork, or useful parts. The hot item of glassware can be dipped into molten glass of another color (flashed), to add dimension and beauty to the piece. The gather is fixed opposite the blowpipe to a solid iron rod called a pontil. After the blowpipe is taken away, the gaffer can then shape and fire polish the open end of the new piece of glassware. When the pontil is taken off, the rough spot that is left (pontil mark) is removed by carefully grinding and polishing the spot."

Tags: art of glass blowing

Checklist for Spring Cleaning

2007-04-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Checklist for Spring Cleaning

Nothing updates your house more than a thorough spring cleaning. Even if you can't afford to remodel or re-decorate your home, take the time instead to clean and de-clutter your house. You'll think it's new again!

Checklist for spring cleaning:

Wash windows
Clean window screens
Wash or dry clean drapes and other window coverings
Wash shower curtains - use bleach and water, or replace with a new shower curtain
Wash walls and woodwork where needed.
Shampoo carpets and rugs
Have upholstered furniture professionally cleaned
Clean out closets - donate, give away, or toss anything that has not been used in the past year
Clean and organized linen closet
Clean out medicine cabinets - be sure to throw away any expired medicines
Clean out and organized kitchen cabinets - throw away any expired foods, wash shelves, and replace liner with new shelf paper
Move large appliances and clean under and behind. Remove dust from the front coil of the refrigerator at minimum 3-4 times each year.
Clean the refridgerator - empty it out and clean shelves and walls of the unit
Clean oven and stovetop
Clean and reorganize bookshelves - once again donate, give away, or sell any unused items. Dust books thoroughly.
Clean ashes from the fireplace and scrub the hearth. If the fireplace is well used, consider hiring a chimney sweep to clean the flue to avoid the possibility of fire.

DELIGHT YOUR COFFEE LOVER- Receive illy’s catalog + special offers for coffee gifts, machines, and cup collections

Tags: checklist for spring cleaning

Decorating a Princess Room

2007-03-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

Decorating a Princess Room

Every little girl dreams of having a princess room right out of a fairy tale. You can make the dream come true for your own little princess.

Find wall art at WallNutz.com and add a mural of a fairy tale kingdom that is sure to delight any little girl. Notice the crown above the bed. Simple to make, paint the crown metallic gold and drap it with a length of tulle. (instuctions to make the crown available at http://www.wallnutz.com)

Create fantasy window treatments to complete this delightful theme. Use rich, plush fabrics like velvet together with sheer fabrics. What little princess wouldn't love this?

Decorating a princess room is fun and allows you to use your creativity to make a fairy tale illusion.

Tags: decorating a princess room

What Color to Paint Wainscoating?

2007-03-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

What Color to Paint Wainscoating?

If you have beadboard wainscoating you can make a dramatic impact on your room by painting it a contrasting color to your wall above.

For example, one of the hottest colors for 2007 is a soft botanical green. Try a mossy green above a soft beige wainscoating for your dining room. Another big color for 2007 is blue - once again blues from nature. The color of the sky, or water (think Carribean blue), and other blues from nature dominate the color scene this year. A blue wall with white wainscoating below is a fresh up-to-date look that will add character to your room, even if you don't change anything else.

Check out HomeClick's great selection of Rugs, Furniture, Home Accents and More.

Dress the room up with coordinating accessories like pillows, window coverings, and linens. Make the room a statement about you, and your creative spiHide allrit, but most of all have fun!

Tags: what color to paint wainscoating, budget home decorating

Ciao Bella! Decorations for Italian Dinner

2007-03-27T09:12:00.000-07:00

Ciao Bella! Decorations for Italian Dinner

Put on some Italian music, cook up some pasta, and you have the makings for a fun and inexpensive dinner party. If you have been looking for something different and fun to do with your friends, look no more. But be sure to add the right decorations for Italian dinner.

Italians are the masters of the art of fine living. That includes eating...dinners are long, delicious, and offered on delightfully colorful dinnerware. Lengthy, multi-course lunches and dinners and endless hours sitting in outdoor cafés sipping espresso with family and friends are the norm. Americans eat as fast as they can before an evening event and complain if the check is too slow coming. Italians, on the other hand, enjoy the meal as an end in itself, and only a very rude waiter will rush you. So when you dine on an Italian meal, take your time and enjoy your surroundings.

Decorate your table with old wine bottles topped with candles or filled with flowers. Use colorful dinnerware and linens on your table. If you are lucky enough to own some fine Italian Deruta pottery, by all means use it on your table. You can also find more inexpensive Italian and other colorful serving pieces at discount stores such as TJMaxx or Marshalls. Some flowers, candles, colorful serveware go a long way towards establishing the ambiance.

Colorful glassware accessories add to the theme as well. Look for vases, and really any colorful pieces that will enhance your tablescape and your surrounding areas.

Shop Chefs Corner for Tabletop and Cookware and Save

Decorations for Italian Dinner do not have to be expensive. You can even decorate with the beautiful food that you serve to your guests. Let their eyes feast on a serving tray or platter lined with some lovely BRUSCHETTA WITH GOAT CHEESE, ROASTED PEPPER, AND BASIL (recipe) as a first course. Garnish with edible flowers, lettuce and herbs. Or, serve a colorful ANTIPASTI, it's beautiful and decorative as well as tasty! Move on to the pasta course. You can find nice pasta serving sets that set the mood- go for the CLASSIC SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS, everyone's favorite. One of my most memorable dinners in Rome was just a plate of spaghetti with meatballs..... the spaghetti was cooked perfectly al dente and the meatballs just melted in my mouth.

Don't forget to make a green salad with Italian dressing. Get creative, serve the salad in a large lettuce lined ceramic planter for an alfresco meal served outdoors. Dessert in Italy is usually simple. Serve cookies and Illy Italian coffee or Limoncello.

Have fun, be creative, and enjoy the meal!

Tags: decorations for Italian dinner

The Five Most Popular Remodeling Projects for Home Owners

2007-03-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

The 5 Most Popular Remodeling Projects for Home Owners

Have you been thinking about remodeling your home? Are you curious about the best remodeling projects to increase your home value? Your home is probably the most valuable asset you own - it's more than just a roof over your head or a place to go after work.

If you maintain, nurture and enhance its appeal, you will also maintain and even increase its value. And you don’t need a bulldozer to increase value; you’ll find that quality wins over quantity in most cases. A touch here and a tweak there often can add more value to your living space than the most extravagant additions or renovations.

Here are the five most popular remodeling projects for home owners that will increase your home value without breatking the bank:

Minor Kitchen Renovations - reface your cabinets, paint the walls, and replace outdated appliances for a major impact without tearing out walls, plumbing, etc.
Remodel the Bathroom - once think about the changes that will make the most impact such as new plumbing fixtures, fresh paint, new linens and shower curtain, or a really nice shower/tub door, mirrors and the like can make a big change
Add a Deck - It doesn't have to be huge, but a nice deck can make maximum impact on your backyard space. Add some landscaping around the deck, plant some flowers or shrubs appropriate to your area of the country
Replace Your Siding - this will make your house look like new, and goes a long way towards protecting your house against the elements over time.
Replace Windows - again this is something that will update the look of your house, and add both protection and energy efficiency.

Visit Bellacor the Largest Online Source for Lighting & Home Furnishings

These five remodeling projects will give you the most bang for your buck in terms of adding to the market value of your home. Whether you plan to stay in your home for a long time, or if you are thinking about selling in the near future, it pays to keep your home up-to-date and well maintained.

Say Cheese! Create Gifts With Your Digital Photos

2007-03-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

Say Cheese! Create Gifts With Your Digital Photos

Did you ever wonder what to do will all of those great digital photos you have? You can create gifts with your digital photos, and it's fast, easy, fun, and inexpensive.

Photo keepsakes are always sentimental favorites. Think of the smiles on the faces of your loved ones when they receive a personalized gift you designed with a few clicks of your mouse. Photo gifts are treasured forever.

At Web sites like Photoworks.com it is possible for you to create photo books, calendars, digital prints, photo greeting cards, mugs, tee shirts, photo key rings, coasters, and more. Any of these items are sure to please.

You can make wonderful party favors - think photo coasters of the bride and groom for wedding favors, or photo key chains for a child's first birthday party. Wedding party gifts? How about mousepads with photos of the bachelor or bachelorette party for the bridesmaids and groomsmen? The ideas are endless. People love these gifts.

Photoworks.com also offers photo sharing. Share your photos with friends and family who live far away, or even near by immediately after taking them. It's fun and easy.

Personalized photo presents will bring a smile to your recipients face each and every time they use them. Look through your digital photos and you are sure to find one or more that would be perfect for a customized photo gift.

Currently you can get Free Standard Shipping at PhotoWorks.com.

Tags: create gifts with your digital photos

American Chronicle: Inexpensive Home Decorating Ideas at Your Fingertips

2007-03-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

American Chronicle: Inexpensive Home Decorating Ideas at Your Fingertips
Inexpensive Home Decorating Ideas at Your Fingertips
By: Jaime Carpenter
March 20, 2007

"Home decorating on a budget doesn’t always mean having to settle for second rate. Think don’t spend. If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and get busy, you can have a house to drool over by using these budget decorating ideas. ! You don’t have to be that handy, but a few power tools will help!
1. Shelving- buy a couple of sheets of smooth particle board. Measure the desired width and length of your shelves and mark. Chalk a line down each and then saw. You’ll want to have 5 shelves when you’re done. Paint the shelves your desired color. A glossy paint is easiest to clean. Buy 8 inexpensive terra cotta pots 8” in diameter or so. Big enough so they will support the weight of each shelf, but not so large they will fall off. Decorate the pots with paint as you like or leave plain. Place one shelf on the floor for the base then 2 pots then 2 shelves, etc. TaDa! Inexpensive home decorating ideas are at your fingertips.
2. Easy Headboard- Create a headboard effect by purchasing a curtain rod slightly larger than the width of the bed. Purchase 3 or 4 chair cushions and string onto the curtain rod and tie. Easy!
3. Here's another inexpensive home decorating idea...Kitchen curtain tiebacks- Go shopping at a thrift store for some cheap metal kitchen utensils or flatware. You will need 2 for each window. Bend them in a U shape with vice grips or with a hammer by pounding it against a brick. It’s okay if you beat it up a little. That gives it a shabby look . Make sure to bend it so the front is on the outside. Attach the end to the wall with screws so that the open U is facing away from the window. Voila! A whimsical tieback. You can even do this for drawer pulls. Just don’t bend as much. Who new silverware could turn into inexpensive home decorating ideas?
4. Another inexpensive home decorating idea is to go to yard sales to find old trunks, hard suitcases, barrels, etc. Use all around the house for storage, a coffee or end table or extra seating. You may want to try some decorative painting to dress them up a bit.
5. Inexpensive Home Decorating Ideas for a Backsplash - Collect cheap colorful dishes from garage sales or thrift stores. Flat pieces work the best. Put them in a sturdy plastic sack and crunch them gently with a hammer. Install the cement board on the wall in desired area for the backsplash. Then arrange the flat tiles in a mosaic pattern in the tile mud. Let dry and grout. Definitely unique!
6. Hard Wood Floors Need Refinishing? – Gently rub a rough grained then fine grained sand paper all over so that some of the unfinished wood shows through. Then try a liming technique to give it that French country feel. This involves slightly thinning paint and brushing it over the floor. Last, seal with a satin polyurethane.
7. Budget Rug- Buy a large piece or roll of artists canvas that has been primed but not stretched over a frame. Paint with acrylic paints in your own original style. Then paint with 2 coats of polyurethane. This is one of many inexpensive home decorating ideas and works best when placed on hard wood floors or low pile carpet.
8. Need to Make an Area Appear Larger? Buy mirror tiles ($8 for a pack of 12 at Wal-Mart) and stick to the wall in a large rectangle or other design.
9. Inexpensive Home Decorating Ideas For Wall Art - Frame a piece of your child’s or grandchild’s artwork and display like a cherished painting. It will make a terrific conversation piece!
10. Do you have a 1970’s yellow toilet and bath you can’t stand? Go with it. Retro is back! Another inexpensive home decorating idea is to choose a paint color combination that has several shades of the yellow and add a few shades of brown. Add a funky shower curtain and rug. Paint the cabinets, walls and ceiling different shades of yellow. Make it look like you’re going with the mod look on purpose!
11. Budget Flooring- Pry up the old junk ‘til you hit the bottom. Install vinyl squares yourself! You can find them at Lowe’s or Home Depot for around $1. It’s a cinch to cut with a razor knife, peel and stick.
12. Budget Lighting- Attach a hanging lamp-cord set to just about any item you can find around the house. You can buy these cord sets at your local hardware store. Use a metal bucket, wicker waste basket or metal colander as the lamp shade. Drape the cord over a simple screw in hook in the ceiling. Allow the cord to fall down from the ceiling along the wall and plug in. Wow! Another inexpensive home decorating idea! Check out the March Newsletter to view step by step instructions on how to make a light fixture.
13. Group a mixture of decorative picture frames without pictures on top of a mantle or shelf to create a sculpture-like appearance. Just lean them against the wall. Find them at flea markets and yard sales.
14. Take one large decorative picture frame without picture and hand on wall. Use your imagination to paint a landscape or portrait right on the wall inside the frame. Not much talent? You can just stamp designs inside with paint.
15. Make a collection of mittens and gloves by hanging in pairs and nailing to the wall. Each year you can add a pair that your child has outgrown. When dreaming up inexpensive home decorating ideas, anything can be wall art!
16. Make your own magnetic board by taping off a designated area. Then paint with 4 or so coats of magnetic paint, yes they do make such product! It’s very handy! If you choose you can paint it a color to match your décor. Then make your own magnets. Buy a bag of plain magnetic circles at a craft store. Use a hot glue gun to glue anything from silk flowers to photographs onto the magnets.
17. Make a royal bed head board. Purchase a semi circle wall pot rack, 2 bed sheets, 2 curtain tiebacks that attach to the wall and curtainclips.
Curtain clips have a circle hooked to a clip. The circle is designed to go over the curtain rod and the clip is to hold the fabric. No sewing required! Attach the pot rack to the wall above the bed at desired height. Hook the curtain clips to the edge of fabric at even intervals. Place the pot rack hooks on the pot hanger. Then hook the circle part of the curtain clip over the pot hooks on the pot rack. Install curtain tiebacks to the wall, one on either side of the bed. Drape the ends of the fabric over each of the curtain tiebacks. Add an oval mirror or painting above the bed, between the 2 bedsheets to complete the look. Voila! Instant royalty!
18. Save those old game boards. Attach L brackets to the wall and super glue an old Monopoly game board to the brackets. Display theme related décor on the boards. Create a masterpiece by repeating this with 3 or 4 game boards.
19. Budget Flooring Tile- Install miscellaneous left over tile in a random patchwork quilt like pattern. Call local contractors who most likely keep scraps or try searching online.
20. Turn stemware upside down and use base as a candle stand. Group in 3 or more for an elegant centerpiece.
21. Use unusual items such as coffee cups, bowls, waste baskets, pails or watering cans for potted plants.
Now you can see that inexpensive home decorating ideas can be discovered just by using a little imagination! Every day items can turn into fantastic interior design tools! When looking for inexpensive home decorating ideas , remember that anything goes! As long as you like it everyone else will be jealous they didn't think of it first."

Tags: inexpensive budget home decorating ideas

Creating a Mood with Scents - Aromatherapy Ideas

2007-03-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

Creating a Mood with Scents - Aromatherapy Ideas
Creating a Mood with Scents by: Jennifer Hall

"Have you ever noticed how the warm scent of a candle wafting through the air can be uplifting, energizing, or make you cozy? Or maybe there's a certain body spray, soap, or perfume that just keeps you going through the day. Did you wonder why maybe that Key Lime candle smelled yummy but also energized you or even motivated you to clean? Or why that Apple Pie scent really helped you appreciate fall? Wonder no longer, study after study has shown that scents do affect your mood! Take a look below of some scents that can really enhance your moods:

1. Citrus Scent - Energy
Need a pick-me-up? Grab a cup of java and light a citrus candle, citrus scents enhance energy and boost mood; so look for candles with lemon, lime, grapefruit, verbena, or orange scents.
2. Lavender Scent - Relaxation
When it's time to wind down try burning a lavender candle. In studies, lavender has been found to correlate with slower heart rate, lower blood pressure, and lower arterial pressure. It has also been found to decrease muscle tension. Other scents that have been found to have relaxing effects are bergamot and sandalwood.
3. Citris, Minty, and Pine Scents - Uplifting, Clean
If you want to create a cheerful, clean environment in your home, choose candles scented with citrus, mint, or pine. Often these scents can be not only uplifting and motivating, but just give that "clean" feel. When you or your guests walk in, these scents will be a fresh breeze to welcome anyone.
4. Jasmine, Gardenia, Sandalwood, and Rose Scents - Romantic
There's romance in the air if you're burning scents such as these. Floral and woody scents give that wistful, romantic feel to a room.
5. Season Enhancing Scents
Delve into the season with your favorite candles scents! Autumn's a great time for burning pumpkin spice candles, as well as other baked good candle scents, as is winter. To create that cozy winter environment, choose cinnamon, apple, berry, and pine candles. Fresh candle scents such as cucumber melon are great for spring, as well as fresh cut grass candles which carry into summer. Nothing says summer like a nice citrus, like a lemonade candle scent drifting through the air.
If you love a certain candle, soap, or body spray - whatever the scent may be - don't do what I too often do, which is save it until that scent runs out! Light it and enjoy, it's sure to affect you in a positive way! "

I love these ideas. What a great way to create a mood and ambiance in your home.

Tags: create mood with scents aromatherapy, budget+home+decorating+ideas

HomeClick - Low Prices on Premium Home and Garden Products

2007-03-12T07:07:00.000-07:00

HomeClick - Low Prices on Premium Home and Garden Products

I just discovered a website that offers low prices and free shipping (for all orders over $75) on luxury brand bath and kitchen fixtures, lighting, tableware, outdoor furniture, appliances, and more. I simply love it.

It's one stop shopping for most anything you may need for home decorating. If you are remodeling, you will find great luxury brand bath and kitchen fixtures at some of the best prices that I've seen. They have items for your garden, including furniture and fixtures. Products for your fireplace, hardware, and framed artwork. You can find just about anything that you need.

Take a look at HomeClick today.

Tags: low price premium high quality luxury brand home and garden products

DeClutter Fast - How to Get Your Home in Order

2007-03-09T07:57:00.000-08:00

Most people have a clutter problem. That's why so many people can make a living helping other people get their clutter under control. I found some amazing advice and tips for getting your house in order - and don't worry it's a really fast read, but it will help you tremendously: Declutter Fast: How To Get Your Home In Order Almost Immediately.

I am fascinated with the subject of decluttering. Why? Because, other than completely remodeling your home, there is nothing in this world that feels quite the same as looking around your home and seeing it in order and glowing. Likewise, there's nothing more energy-draining and depressing than living with clutter. Some people have to literally clear paths in their home just to find their way to the bathroom, while there are many others who sleep every night on a bed that is piled with junk!!!

Sometimes we just don't have the closet space we need for the items we accummulate. Some of us are pack rats, and have clutter problems for this reason. But often even if you give up being a pack rat, clutter is still a major issue that has to be dealt with!

Don't get frustrated with clutter and give up. Read Declutter Fast: How To Get Your Home In Order Almost Immediately for the best advice you'll ever get on this subject.

You can live every day with the peace of mind and soul that results from having your home de-cluttered exactly the way you want it. You can be in control of your stuff, and not the other way around. The effects of decluttering your home or office may open door after door for you in your personal and career life. Decluttering releases the bonds that have been holding you back in life. Decluttering ignites the energy within you - positive energy you didn't even know you had! The stress in your face and body will ease and your confidence will return. Things start to fall into place in your life. DeClutter your spaces now for that peace of mind, and for a major improvement in the look of your home.

Good luck!

Tags: declutter and organize your home

Looking for a new way to color your world? - Home & Garden - MSNBC.com

2007-03-07T06:13:00.000-08:00

Looking for a new way to color your world? - Home & Garden - MSNBC.com
Looking for a new way to color your world?
House & Garden offers help with a look at the latest hues for your home

View related photos
Tim Lee / Courtesy Of Sherill Canet

Looking for a new way to color your world? Need some advice on the latest hues in paint for your home? Well, you’re in luck. There are more choices than colors in the rainbow, but there are tricks to help you choose the right one for your room? House & Garden magazine's latest issue is all about color trends. Susanna Salk is the special projects editor and she was invited to appear on TODAY to share some hints from the magazine. Here's more on what she discussed on the show:
Colors immediately impact our emotions and the mood of the room. Choosing the right color is like meeting many people at a big party: It's stimulating but overwhelming. My advice: Spend time on the ones that instinctively make you feel good or to which you are drawn, instead of trying to get to know a little bit about all of them. It’s less overwhelming that way. Here are some tips about choosing the best hues for your room...
There is no such thing as a "bad color". Forget all those color "rules" about “this can't go with that,” etc. Instead, consider:
The function of a room can sometimes help you determine the kind of color: Bedroom= serene; kitchen= cheerful; dining room= whimsical or sophisticated.
The light or lack of it: Sometimes the brighter the room the deeper the color it can handle.
Its view or orientation: Is it reflecting what is going on outside (nature/sunsets) or is the color in charge of creating its own setting?
What colors do you love? What rooms make you happy? Let these answers inform you and go with your gut.
Let's experiment a little and show you how color can impact even the simplest settings:
• Color trends for your homeFeb. 15: TODAY's Al Roker talks with Susanna Salk of House & Garden magazine about tips on how you can color your rooms with the latest hues in house paint.
Today Show HomeWall 1 Color: Decorator’s WhiteThere's nothing chicer than white on white. It makes your room look large and serene. There are so many whites out there, so decide what kind you want: There are creamy/whites, grey/whites and white/whites. Finish in flat: Flat is best for surfaces with imperfections and flaws because there's minimal shine. It's good for ceilings; not so great for walls in high traffic areas because it won't stand up to stains or washing.Wall 2 Color: Sheer Romance 837 Blue gives instant sophistication to any room and warms up when paired with a warm white.
Finish in eggshell: Eggshell has a light, satiny sheen making it more resistant to stains and more washable. It's a popular finish for walls in high-moisture areas such as baths and kitchens. Wall 3 Color: Yellow (Little Angel 318, Amarillo 32O -- split by a chair rail)Don't forget to explore the possibilities of putting 2 ranges of one color on a wall: It gives diversity and depth without having to be too overt. I love how yellow can work in any season and in any room: Kitchen or living room.
Finish for both in matte: Matte is a great alternative to flat, has minimal sheen, and was developed to be washable.
Creating exciting, but workable color combinations: Color is all about context and what its next to. Professional color forecasters predict the use of bolder colors for shutters, doors, window frames and other trim will be big in 2007. Now, a more self assured public is asserting itself by using color to make dramatic statements. Colors are more saturated and deeper. And we have tapped other cultures for ideas. Bold color is exciting to use, but there's a trick to using it without hating it the next day. Try pairing it with the correct neutral hues. This will relax the contrasts. Here are some examples:
Emerald green with black and white (See photo above.) Malachite is so big these days. Here we pair it with graphic black and white for a high energy, sophisticated vibe. This kind of color combination really specifies the way a room will be used.
Francois Halard
Tangerine with stone For a softer alternative to bold orange, try warm, sunny tangerine paired with stone.
--------------------------------
Eric Boman
Yellow with silverCitron and charteuse need only silver's shimmer to take on a glamourous glow. Balance the acid tones with strokes of deep brown and white.
--------------------------------------------------------
Eric Boman
Pink with brown Chocolate browns coupled with exotic patterns and splashes of girlie pinks give a mature feminine touch.
Other hints on color:
Enveloping a space all in one color is a chic way to solve a "mystery" room.
Dont just rely on a paint chip: Paint a bit of the color onto the wall: It can sometimes look completely different in the light, etc. But paint chips are helpful in terms of seeing the range of colors you've chosen for your house (hallways that lead into rooms, etc.)
It's nice to color code your rooms so each has an identity.
Using two tones adds interest to small spaces and helps it from getting too dark. Objects are highlighted by what they are contrasted against: Matte against glossy, etc. Pair homey with glam; folksy with ornate: Do it against a dark backdrop to add a glam effect.
The bottome line: Dont be afraid of color: It's the easiest way to renovate."

This information is very timely for any of you who are thinking about spring cleaning, and making changes to your spaces. Think color!

Tags: home decorating with color, easy home renovations with paint

Study Interior Design

2007-03-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

Study Interior Design

If you have ever thought you may like to establish a career in Interior Decorating and Design, now you can learn from home. It is convenient and easy to complete this excellent course via the Internet.

Penn Foster Career School offers over 80 well respected, nationally and regionally accredited distance education programs, including Interior Decorating, and Floral Design. Penn Foster's Interior Decorating classes are designed to give you the skills you need to succeed in a new creative career. Now you can study for your career diploma online, in print, or with a combination of the two; you select the method that's best for you. Penn Foster's expert faculty and friendly student support staff are dedicated to helping you successfully earn your career diploma! Learn the skills you need to be successful in today's competitive work environment. Penn Foster offers the following Diploma Programs: Floral Design and Interior Decorator.

Before you know it, you could be working in a well paid creative career. Penn Foster
allows you the convenience to study at your own pace, in the convenience of your home. Many of the Penn Foster career diploma programs qualify under the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program. The Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency, for online and distance learning schools.

Tag: learn interior decorating at home, online career training,

Kane County Chronicle - Internet swap sites offer great deals for home decorating bargain seekers

2007-03-04T06:18:00.000-08:00

Kane County Chronicle - Internet swap sites offer great deals for home decorating bargain seekers
"WASHINGTON – Two weeks before closing on her first home in suburban Washington, Olivia Doherty saw an ad on Craigslist for the couch of her dreams: Simple lines, neutral color, plush fabric, terrific price.The posting, with photo, went up at 8 p.m. Within minutes of its appearance Doherty shot back an e-mail making clear she wanted it. Grabbing her brother, she bolted from their parents’ house, jumped in his truck, hit an ATM and arrived on the sellers’ doorstep with $200 in hand. By 10 p.m., the deal was done. A few days later, she scored a pair of end tables for $37.50 each (retail value, $260 each).Doherty, a public relations associate, and her husband, Seth, a Navy petty officer, have an equally strong aversion to paying retail, or even discounted, prices for new furniture.Countless fellow cyber-shoppers have strategies for snagging bargain furnishings on the Internet. Some intrepid trollers have filled an entire home or apartment for what it would cost to buy a brand-new sofa.Much of this nest-feathering is done through sites such as www.craigslist.org and www.freecycle.org. Another site, newcomer www.swapthing.com, relies on barter – a rug for a crib – rather than sales or giveaways.The operative words are speed, cash, brawn and “as is.”“If you don’t respond within five to 15 minutes of a post, it’s either physically given to someone or spoken for,” says Amanda Wimmer, whose Washington walkup is a case in point.Her favorite deal is the $200 three-piece white sectional sofa that looks a lot like a $2,500 Pottery Barn model. A counter-height table and two high-back swivel stools in the living room (comparable retail, $570) were free.They came with a set of dishes, all given to her by a seller whom she asked in passing, “Do you have anything else you’re getting rid of?”Another Wimmer axiom is, “You have to go further out for good deals.” A recent 45-minute drive to the suburbs yielded a six-piece art deco bedroom set for $200. The price was so low she didn’t bother to haggle.Used furniture rarely will be showroom perfect. But Melissa Petersen shrugged off a coffee stain on the 8-by-10-foot Pottery Barn rug she bought. “We have a dog. Excuse the visual, but I knew he was sure to vomit on it within the week, which he did, so I was much happier to pay $120 than the $700 it cost new.”With furniture so inexpensive, it is sometimes regarded as temporary by its new owners.Last year, roommates Chor Li and Amanda Clemmons paid $600 for a Queen Anne sofa and matching love seat, two wing chairs, a pair of mirrors and a hall table from Craigslist.Because neither piece works well for lounging, the women plan to resell the couches and chairs on Craigslist ($400 to $500 for the set) and buy something slouchier for their apartment.Library acquisitions specialist Alicia Jones is such an avid Web shopper that she finallydecided to quit imposing on friends with trucks. “So I went on Craigslist and found a van for $250.”Although Craigslist posts giveaways as well as sales, Freecycle is totally anti-cash. The site is applauded by consumers aiming to keep as usable items out of landfills.“The items are seemingly ridiculous,” says David Cheng, a Washington “moderator” who oversees the Washington Freecycle group. “Diaper-related stuff, paint, plastic containers, old cat food. A lot of people don’t want anything to go to waste.”Attorney Janet Benson Forville says simply: “I love Freecycle. It’s amazing what people want. We have given away extra sheets of drywall, paving stones and a driveway full of mulch we over-ordered.”Elizabeth Buchbinder happily Freecycled high-end furniture she had bought 25 years ago because it took up space in the Georgetown basement she wants to redecorate.“It costs a lot of money to have someone haul a sleep sofa, a very heavy three-piece bookcase unit, a coffee table and end table up a flight of stairs and take it all to the dump,” says Buchbinder, an Ernst & Young national tax principal. “I was much happier giving it to people who needed it.”Swapping sitesCraigslist: Most transactions on www.craigslist.org are buy-and-sell, with some free items and a few outright swaps. The list has mushroomed to include job, real estate and singles ads in citiesnationwide.Freecycle: This site (www.freecycle.org) is strictly for people looking to give things away or get things free. One drawback: Users must register in the specific area where they live or work; metropolitan areas can be divided into dozens of localities.SwapThing: This site (www.swapthing.com) is dedicated to bartering, with cash sometimes used to equalize trades. It emphasizes “community circles” of mutual help. Baby furniture is big on this site. There’s a $1 fee per transaction.How to get the deals To get what you want– Check sites several times a day, starting first thing in the morning for items posted the night before. Good stuff can go within minutes.– Friday is a busy day for postings, in anticipation of weekend sales.– When you see something you like, reply ASAP, preferably by e-mail; phone numbers are rarely provided.– Pick up your purchase as soon as possible. Most sellers, fearing no-shows, sell on a first-come, first-served basis.– If you can’t collect your purchase right away, expect to leave a deposit or pay in full.– As long as you’re making the trip, ask what else might be for sale that wasn’t listed.– Exchange phone numbers with the seller so you candouble-check that the item is still available and, if necessary, get help with directions.– To avoid getting stuck with furniture that smells bad, ask if the home is smoke- and pet-free.– If you need to rent a vehicle, consider a trailer rather than a truck. Trailer rates are cheaper, and there are no mileage fees or gas fill-ups, but they might require a permanent hitch on your vehicle.– Take plenty of cash, because most sellers won’t accept checks.To get rid of what you don’t want– Think seasonally: Lawn mowers and hammocks sell well in the spring; fireplace screens and artificial Christmas trees do better in fall.– Give full descriptions and detailed dimensions. Specify where you got it if it’s a name store. Reveal all defects (stains, a wobbly leg).– Post clear pictures. Buyers are likely to scroll past ads with blurry photos or no photos.– Give a deadline for an item’s removal; state whether you’ll bargain.– Keep a backup list of potential buyers to call if early responders don’t show up.– State if furniture is heavy and located in a basement or attic, and how many people might be needed to move it.– You can agree to leave an item on your porch or somewhere else outside your house for pickup. You’ll be taking a chance it will be stolen – but at least you’ll be rid of it.– It’s a friendly network, but remember: You’re dealing with strangers. If you live alone, arrange to see buyers during the day; if possible, consider having a friend at home with you. Keep valuables, such as your purse, out of sight. "

This article provided lots of very good advice for buying furnishings over the Internet, and staying safe - to which today you must give some thought.

Here's another really great product - Before you buy a new mattress, take a look at AngelBeds. These unbelievably comfortable mattresses were developed using NASA technology. For a good night's sleep, you need a good mattress. AngelBeds.com Compare Us to Tempur-Pedic NASA Developed Technology .

Tags: budget decorating with internet swaps and auctions

Planning is Key for Decorating Projects

2007-02-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

Planning is Key for Decorating Projects

When you are considering decorating or changing any room, first think through the entire project, big or small, and formulate a plan. What type of changes do you want to make? How can you make the most impact on your spaces for the least amount of cash? What do you really need in order to make the kind of space that you and your family will enjoy for several years to come? Develop a schedule for larger projects that require remodeling, or changes to flooring and structure.

Research Internet sources like BestArt.com for great deals on framed artwork, or find great
Historical & Antique Replicas for the Home & Garden at Design Toscano. Don't forget that you can make a big impact for little money with some paint and fabric. So don't despair, whatever you budget, you can create the kind of living environment that you'll love.

Tags: plan decorating projects for the home

Great Idea for Child's Room

2007-02-26T17:34:00.000-08:00

Try painting a wall with magnetic primer, and then cover it with chalkboard paint. Kids can then hang magnets, and draw and write on the washable wall with chalk!

Busy families can also benefit from the same paint in the kitchen. Hang magnets and keep schedules and lists to keep everyone in the family up-to-date.

Look for these paints at rustoleum.com......

Tags: decorate kids rooms

Coni Art Glass- Handmade Glass Balls, Christmas Ornaments, and Spirit Balls

2007-02-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Coni Art Glass- Handmade Glass Balls, Christmas Ornaments, and Spirit Balls

"Glass Balls ...
These handmade glass balls bring light and happiness to home décor. Often used for Feng Shui design, the colors promote creative energy in the home. Float them in ponds to protect the fish from predators. When the sun shines on the glass balls, the light scares away the predators.
Used year round, these glass spheres also make beautiful Christmas ornaments. The colorful hand blown glass balls, spheres and hearts are a versatile and affordable decorative accessory (used in homes, hotels, restaurants, and offices), and make great gift items. They come in many colors and patterns. We welcome special orders for your design ideas, and color combinations.
The wholesale glass balls are the perfect home decorating idea, or party decoration. They make unique gifts and party favors. Interior Designers love to use the decorative balls grouped in a beautiful glass bowl, as a centerpiece or focal point of a room.
Hang them in windows as sun catchers. Also known as Friendship Balls, Spirit Balls, Witch Balls, Fairy Balls or in German as "kugels", which means ornamental balls, they are beautiful called by any name. Lighting designers are making beautiful light fixtures with these handmade glass balls, too. The witch balls (also known as spirit balls or fairy balls) and Gazing Globes, were traditionally used to protect the garden. The 5 inch diameter mouth blown balls can also be used as gazing balls. Spheres come in the following diameters:3 ¼ inch ( 8 cm ); 4 inch ( 10 cm ) and 5 inch ( 12 cm ). "

Tags: mouth blown glass balls,decorate with hand made glass accessories

Home Decor: Little cash, big changes

2007-02-19T06:27:00.000-08:00

Home Decor: Little cash, big changes
Take a look at this insightful article to help you make the biggest impact on your spaces with the least amount of cash.
Home Decor: Little cash, big changes
"A change of color is the quickest way to transform the look and feel of a space.
By HEATHER WOOD The New Mexican February 17, 2007
Use imagination, fresh eye to enliven that tired roomAre you tired of your living room décor but don’t know where to start to transform your space? Stuck with the same old stuff and short on cash? Ready for a new look but not the credit-card bills that come with it? With a little creativity and effort, you can bring a fresh look to any room in your home or office at little or no cost. Resources such as the Internet offer nearly limitless information, photos and products for affordable decorating. An increase in catalogs from home retailers such as Pier One, Crate and Barrel and Restoration Hardware means more inspiration. The explosion of do-it-yourself home-decorating shows on cable TV has encouraged average homeowners to become weekend warriors of paint and fabric. There’s never been a better time to become a hands-on home-improvement type.

Where to startBefore you start tearing your home apart, take a good look at the space you want to redo. What is it that’s really bothering you? Too much clutter? A cramped room arrangement? A lack of color — or, on the contrary, a circus of colors? By assessing what doesn’t work, you’ll be better prepared to determine how to fix it. Make a list of the space’s challenges, jotting down ideas for your ideal room. Go online and search “no- and low-cost decorating.” Pick up one of the many home-retailer catalogs you no doubt have stacked somewhere in your home and see what appeals to you. Get out your camera, stand in each corner of the room and snap away. It’s amazing what a picture can reveal by offering us an image of the entire space. It’s hard to envision a new look when you’re staring at your usual surroundings. Start by clearing the room of all clutter. That’s right — piles of papers, books, magazines and catalogs, random objects and other things without a home. Next, clear the room of all accessories, tabletop photos and mementos. When you move them, group like items together: metal objects, ceramics, glass and wooden items. Group by color, theme and style, keeping collections intact. Finally, remove the artwork, plants, lamps, etc. Now you’ve got some breathing room in which to start creating your “new” space.Pieces of a puzzleGood room arrangements always consider traffic flow — and yours should, too. Perplexed about how best to go about it? There’s a reason highly trained professional interior decorators and designers work first on paper to create a room: It’s called space planning. By making scale models of a room and the furniture to go in it, you can save your back — and a lot of the time you would have spent trying to fit your 8-foot sofa into a 7-foot, 5-inch space. There is myriad space-planning software available via the Internet. Better Homes and Gardens offers a free “arrange-a-room” utility on its Web site. If you’re electronically challenged, there’s also good, old-fashioned graph paper. However you choose to do it, you’ll need to measure the width and depth of all your furniture and cut out little replicas drawn to scale. (Usually, a quarter-inch equals a foot.)Sound like too much work? Start sliding pieces around the floor. Regardless of how you approach it, take into account the following:
The room’s intended purpose — TV watching, for example, or book reading, or both.
The number of people who normally use the space.
Whether you entertain in the room. If you do, is there a place for everyone to set a drink or book?
Whether there are too many or too few furnishings in the room.
The room’s focal point. Is it a fireplace, a picture window, an entertainment unit?
The purpose of each furnishing, piece of art or accessory. What does it bring to the room? What story does it tell us about the person or people who live here? What does it offer in terms of form and/or function? Don’t be afraid to try something new as you move your pieces around on paper, on your computer or on your floor.Cost-free creationsOnce you’re comfortable with your floor plan, it’s time to make the room look fresh. ► PaintA change of color is the quickest way to change the look and feel of a space. Painting walls, baskets and other wooden items gives a quick update. (This approach is not recommended for antique or heirloom pieces, however.) Most people have a variety of leftover wall paint in the garage or shed. Why not make a bold move and paint a large “frame” around the area where a bed’s headboard would go in a color that works with the wall color? With a level and some careful taping, you can add a classic yet hot-and-trendy stripe to a wall in a day. ► PillowsIf you’re handy with a sewing machine, you can take scrap fabric from almost anything — sheets, clothes and vintage fabrics — and update your throw pillows in an afternoon. Stretch a decorative fabric over an inexpensive canvas and staple to affix — instant wall hangings. Or create instant valances for window coverings with tapestries from your travels. ► Excess lumberThe extra door molding or window framing hiding in your garage could make a lovely border for an unfinished bathroom mirror. Just paint or stain and install. It’s a quick change that can be easily modified each time you change the color scheme in your bathroom. Karen McAloon, host of HGTV’s popular series Design Remix, is a master at turning excess lumber into picture frames, side tables, shelves and ceiling beams. Granted, she’s armed with a team of tool-savvy technicians, but shows like this give us an idea of what’s possible when we look at something in a different way. ►ArtworkOne of the most daunting aspects of a room makeover is hanging the art. A good rule of thumb is to hang items lower than you think you should. And don’t be afraid to try wall groupings. There are endless possibilities for creating groupings — even entire how-to books dedicated to the subject. Pull out some paper grocery bags or other scrap paper and cut them to the exact sizes of the pieces you wish to hang. Lay the “paper arrangement” out on the floor near the wall it’s to be hung on. Once you have a good feel for the arrangement — keeping in mind balance, scale and symmetry/asymmetry — hang your paper mock-ups on the wall using easily removable sticky tack. This allows you to move the mock-ups around until you have the configuration that works best. You can even mount your picture hangers and hardware over the paper dummies, ripping them off just before you hang the actual piece. ►LightingA common decorating oversight is the lack of proper lighting. The average homeowner rarely invests in enough lighting. Now’s the time to “shop” your home, borrowing table and floor lamps from other rooms to create a warm, well-lit space. Make sure you have ample task lighting — overhead lighting is rarely adequate for reading. Arrange your lamps according to necessity. A floor lamp in a dark corner can create the feel of a larger room. An uplight behind a plant creates drama and interest.A table lamp provides reading light and a warm glow. When you do come into some decorating cash, lamps should be at the top of your list.►RepurposingOne of the hottest decorating trends in the last decade is “repurposing.” Years ago some creative designer took a bold step and used an ottoman as a coffee table. While this was probably considered avant-garde at the time, it’s now a mainstay decorating approach. Look around your house for items that could serve another purpose. A large basket, turned upside down, becomes a bedside table. A bookshelf becomes a headboard. A petite antique china hutch becomes a unique dresser with a place to display pretty perfume bottles, family photos and the like. A retro thermos becomes the base of a hip lamp. You get the idea.► Natural interestOften overlooked, Mother Nature offers us a large array of items to use in our decorating scheme. Just as the addition of plants makes a room immediately feel both calm and alive, bringing in the outdoors keeps us connected to our larger natural environment. Pine cones, rocks and branches ground and add interest to a room. A collection of rocks in a bowl makes a unique centerpiece, as do willow (or other) branches displayed in a large vase. But before you go ravaging your backyard, see what’s already available. Many people are surprised to find they’ve got collections of rocks or other natural elements spread throughout their home.► AccessoriesYou’ve arranged your room, played with color, hung your art, added lighting and relished the results. Now it’s time to accessorize. Accessories are what make a room unique. They reflect the homeowner’s specific tastes and interests. And they tend to be highly personal. Keep like items together: Group metals, ceramics or glass pieces together. Arrange in odd numbers, stagger heights — nature’s landscape is filled with irregularity. If you adore symmetry, be sure to throw a curveball in the mix by trying something at a unique angle or by staggering heights of objects in the grouping. Even if you love a busy backdrop, be sure to leave plenty of “white space” for the eye to rest. Too many objects d’art can result in none of them standing out.If you find yourself with some holes to fill, discount home retailers have created a nationwide passion for “all things home improvement.” The abundance, and relative affordability, of home décor items is unprecedented. Consider chains like Target, which offers Design For All; West Elm, which has Polished Style; and Pier One, with the It’s Your Thing line. All offer a continually rotating stock of styles, colors and price points. These may not be original, one-of-a-kind heirloom pieces, but, for the average consumer, they can offer a good fit both for both budget and style.You don’t have to break the bank to have a beautiful space. Ask yourself if there’s a different way to showcase a vase of flowers or a seating arrangement. See if you can push your comfort zone when it comes to color. And last, but not least, trust your instincts. It’s your room, after all."

Tags: decorating on a budget with color and paint

Decorate Your Bedroom

2007-02-15T07:03:00.000-08:00

Decorate your bedroom with things you love. Use soothing neutrals, soft pastels, calming blues, or restful greens. Your bedroom should reflect the things that make you happy.

Add fluffy pillows and duvets, comfortable furniture, and any items that will make you more relaxed and happy in your surroundings. If at all possible, avoid having your home office/computer in your bedroom. Make this room a soothing oasis.

After all, this room is for you.

Tags: bedroom home decorating

Coni Art Glass-Handmade Decorative Glassware and Home Accessories

2007-02-14T06:17:00.000-08:00

Coni Art Glass-Handmade Decorative Glassware and Home Accessories
"Coni Art Glass is an importer of fine mouth blown art glass and decorative glassware, offering high quality handmade glassware at good prices. We design many of our own pieces. All handmade, mouth blown glass pieces are crafted by skilled artisans in Romania, many of whom studied their craft in Murano, Italy. Each piece of glass is beautiful and unique. The innovative and creative aspects of mouth blown glass and hand blown glass art, indicate how inventive and masterful our artists are. They conceive contemporary art glass works that are imaginative, innovative, colorful and elegant.
Romanian glassware, with its exceptionally high intrinsic worth, has been sought after and treasured for many generations. We are supplied direct from Romania Glass Factories – no middlemen- designing or choosing every individual piece ourselves, and supervising the production very closely. The hand blown oil lamps, tea light holders, votive candle holders and glass balls are welcome gifts or home accessories that will be loved and valued for years to come. The mouth blown glass balls are also used as Christmas ornaments. The Christmas ornaments are treasured collectibles, too.
The Romanian blown glass makes a wonderful wedding gift, or a great party favor or party decoration that will make your event truly unforgettable. The vases, mouth blown oil lamps, plates and bowls are sought after wedding accessories, or wedding décor, and make great wedding favors! The wholesale vases are favorites of florists, and florist supply houses. Romania is the home of contemporary glass art that is not widely available in the rest of the world, but is universally exhibited and recognized. We endeavor to keep prices affordable so that your gallery or home be graced with the sought after works of mouth blown glass and hand blown glass art."

Tags: decorating with glass accessories and glass balls

Choosing your shower door

2007-02-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

Choosing your shower door
Choosing your shower door
Tips on buying a shower door for your bathroom renovation project, including price, material and styles. Something as simple as changing your shower door can update and totally change the look of your bathroom.

"Replacing a shower door can be part of a total bath renovation or a simple way to rejuvenate the look of your bathroom. Following these tips will help you select the shower door that will work best for you.
The first point to consider is how much money you have to spend. This will help you to narrow your selection to the shower doors you can afford. Next, measure the opening the shower door needs to cover. Allow this measurement to help narrow your choices down even further. Once you have a budget in mind and measurements in hand, you still aren’t quite ready to start looking at new doors. Take a good look at the bathroom where the shower door will be hung (or the other fixtures you have selected if your shower door purchase is part of a complete renovation).

Hudreds of brand name Bathroom Vanities and Cabinets at QualityBath.com to choose from - Lowest price Guaranteed plus Free shipping.

Take your cues from the existing furnishings of your bathroom. If you have brass-toned accents, continue the look in your shower door frame. The same is true for chrome. Is your look modern? The clean, contemporary lines should be complemented in your shower door. Rose etchings in the glass would be best suited to a romantic or traditional look.
Speaking of glass, the doors of your shower can be made of glass or a hard plastic such as plexi-glass. Plexi-glass is often easier to install because it is much lighter than glass and is much less cumbersome to handle. Whether you select glass or plexi-glass, you can still choose frosted, lined or plain glass. Frosted glass is a particularly good choice if you are modest and will not be using a decorative curtain in front of the shower door. Mirrored surfaces are yet another choice for your shower door. Finally, think about the way you want the door to open. It can rest on top of the tub and slide open like a pocket door or it can sit on hinges and swing open like a regular door.
You are finally ready to start looking for the shower door that will satisfy your design elements and your wallet. Look at doors outside of your price range first to pick out features you hope to find in a less costly version. You can find designer doors at boutique-style fixture stores and their less-expensive counterparts at chain store “big box” stores. You can also scour close-out stores and liquidation sales to find a pricey door within your budget. Many times these doors aren’t imperfect – they are overstock or the byproduct of a business that has decided to close. Occasionally you may need to replace a screw or smooth out a small imperfection, but typically the savings is enough to make it worthwhile.
If your home is full of unique pieces and architectural elements, you may want to consider hiring an artisan to make the door for you. It may surprise you just how reasonably priced a custom-made door can be. A shower door can be small enough to be an affordable piece of functional art.
You may find the perfect shower door for your project only to find it is too small to fit across the space you need to enclose. Many times you can extend the wall far enough to make the door fit. Framing out the wall and affixing the drywall is a relatively easy project, and is fairly inexpensive to hire a professional if it is beyond your skill level. Just make sure the cost of adding the extra wall doesn’t take too much of an extra bite out of your budget. Remember that tiling can be very expensive – even for small areas. In addition, it is exceedingly difficult to match new tiles against ones already in the room. Unless you have surplus tiles left over from the original tiling project, you may want to avoid buying any shower doors that may require any tile work.
Buying a new shower door for your bathroom can be a fun project. Taking a little time to think about what door is right for you before heading to the store can save you time and aggravation – and perhaps some money. "

Tags: redecorate bathrooom, interior decorating and design

Interior Design 101, Texture-Patterns

2007-02-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

Interior Design 101, Texture-Patterns
Textures and Patterns
Staff Writer

"Patterns and textures will serve an important function in your decorating. They will add interest and character to an otherwise plain color scheme. Your choice of patterns and textures will follow your decorating style, the limitations of your environment and you personal preferences.

There are so many choices of available that the task of selecting textures can be overwhelming. If you keep these rules of thumb in mind you will be able to make knowledgeable selections and maybe even use optical illusions to create a dramatic arrangement.

Patterns can effect how you see proportion. By following these rules of thumb you can wisely select patterns to enhance any room.

Complex Patterns that use several colors and diagonal, criss-crossing lines are busy for your eye. They can liven up a large area, but it may be overwhelming for a small room.
Vertical Lines add height to a short room, or add more height to a high ceiling.
Horizontal Lines add space, width to an area.
Remember the Size and Scale of your space. General rule of thumb, the larger the space, the larger the print, the smaller the space the smaller the print. Yet adding a large print to a small area can give you a feeling of grandeur.
The same grouping or pattern used throughout an area can draw together a wide open plan. It will create a flow and sense of continuity.
Colors affect how we see patterns. High contrast patterns create an energetic feeling and colors close in value create a more subdued environment.
Texture affects color. Rough textures will absorb light while smooth textures will reflect light.
Always remember to select patterns and textures that appeal to you and work well with your overall plan. It is always wise to collect samples of what you love be it pictures, paint chips or color swatches. Feel free to experiment, remember as a renter, if you buy it, you keep it. If you love something in an apartment, you will probably love it your house too!"

Tags: decorate samll areas with texture patterns

Glass Accessories: Decorating Tips for Your Home Interiors

2007-02-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

Glass Accessories: Decorating Tips for Your Home Interiors
How to Select Glass Accessories for Your Home Decorating Needs

"I've come to love glass accessories, whether they are candle holders, vases, figurines, sculptures or bowls. I think it's important in your decorating to have
at least one really great, artistic glass piece.

There is a mystery to glass, perhaps because it catches light and glows from within. It can be an explosion of visual and tactile possibilities. And I found
a whole new appreciation for pottery, in general, after taking a class in pottery making. It's much, much harder to achieve than you would think.

Most interior designers incorporate studio glass objets d'art into their designs. So do I. But before you run out to buy some, educate yourself a bit and
find artists whose work touches you.

There are different types, sizes and techniques of art glass, so here are a few basic things you should know before you make your selections.

Stained or Art Glass - Stained glass art first showed up primarily in religious and public buildings, especially in French and German churches.
However, now stained glass is making it's way into the home. After WWII, abstract and expressionist artists began to explore stained glass, developed new technologies and developed a growing interest in art glass. Think about bringing in beveled glass to your entry way or turning your bathroom windows into stained glass art. You can also incorporate the art form on to tables, walls and cabinets, as well as hanging panels in your windows.

Crackle Glass - Invented in the 16th Century, crackle glass is produced by briefly submerging very hot glass into cold water during the glass-forming process.
When you reheat the glass, you can expand it by blowing into the blowpipe. the cracks grow larger as a result. The most unique pieces are made using either transparent or opaque glass.
Fused Glass - Another old technique is to fuse melted glass together during the firing portion in the kiln after heating it to a high
tempoerature. It's a difficult method that requires constant experimentation. The colors and textures of the glass come from the various minerals and chemicals added at the time the
glass is manufactured. Compatible metal pieces, enamels, paints and other substances enhance individual art objects.
Dichroic Glass (Two Color) - Depending on the viewing angle, this type of glass shows different colors. It has been coated with thin layers
of different metals to a thickness of one-millionth of an inch. The metals are evaporated and vacuum-deposited on the glass to such a fine degree that certain wavelengths of light will pass throug the glass and others will be reflected.
Studio Glass - With studio glass, the artist melts the glass, forms it, colors it and anneals it. Glassblowing was invented 2000 years ago, but it
wasn't until the 1960s that individual craftspeople, working alone instead of in a factory, began to blow glass, starting the Studio Glass Movement.
Hand-Blown Glass - When you dip the blowpipe into a pot of molten glass, inside a high-temperature furnace, you get hand-blown glass. The pipe and
glass are removed from the furnace and by blowing through the pipe, the ball of molten glass is expanded into a thick bubble. Additional glass is added to the bubble along with color. The bubble of hot glass is then formed. During the shaping process, the piece is frequently returned to the furnace to keep it soft and pliable. Halfway through the process the piece is transferred to an iron rod that allows it to be opened up to form the mouth of a vase or bowl.
When the artist is happy with the shape, it is carefully broken off the punty and placed into a temperature-controlled oven (annealer). There it is slowly cooled down to room temperature. When finished the piece is inspected by the artist and signed."

We have found beautiful examples of both Dichroic Glass (Two Color) and Studio Glass at Coni Art Glass. The glass artist, Cornel Plescan, lovingly designs each piece. We especially like the glass balls, which can be used as beautiful Christmas ornaments, but also year round as centerpiece decorations, or hanging in windows. All of his glass pieces are mouth blown, and well proportioned. The glass is of very fine quality, and best yet - his prices are far below what you will find in the stores! Unbelievable quality and value.

Tags: decorate with glass accessories, mouth blown glass balls accessories

Making a Decorating Trend Your Own

2007-02-05T07:40:00.000-08:00

Making a Decorating Trend Your Own

Eight Great Ways to Incorporate the Black and White Trend Into Your Home

2007's hot trend may be black and white, but next year it may be shades of red and coral.No matter what the decorating trend, most of us can’t afford to redecorate whenever the latest and greatest hot new trend appears.

So, what do you do when a trend shows up that you love and can't live without? Take a look at one trend for 2007– using black and white – let's see how many ways we can incorporate that color scheme, without spending a fortune.
Here are eight fabulous ideas:

Invest in inexpensive soft goods with a shorter lifespan.
Items like pillows, bedding, tablecloths, placemats or throw rugs. No matter if the room you are decorating is painted white, tan, or even red, bringing in soft goods in black and white should fit well into the existing scheme. Without major investments in furnishings, you can use the trend to your advantage.
Use paint to full advantage.
Use black paint and refurbish a dining room table, or your old coffee table in your living room. Complete the look with a couple of yards of black and white fabric stretched around the seats of the dining room chairs and stapled on, or make sofa and chair throw pillows in the living room. You can use a patterned fabric to make a simple slipcover for each seat. On your table, use placemats in bright green, turquoise, or red, and your everyday white dishes will look polished and new - like a designer planned the whole thing.
Do over a small room.
A tiny powder room, guest room, or laundry room could be just the spot to indulge your black and white fantasies. Put up some subtle patterned black and white wallpaper, or add a fresh coat of white paint to the walls and lots of black and white graphic art framed in black. Add a valance or window treatment in black and white to tie it all together.
Walk on it.
Vinyl floor tiles are inexpensive and easy to install - just figure out how much you need, then buy half of the tiles in white and the other half in black. This classic look is great for an entryway, kitchen, or hall. It is also a look that pairs well with many other colors – think golden yellow walls, mirrored furnishings, or even a crystal chandelier. To create an illusion of more space, even in a small area, install the tiles on the diagonal, so when you enter the room you see the pointed corners of each tile facing you.
Timeless.
Use classically timeless patterns or prints like stripes or toile. These patterns can outlive a trend and often become a treasured favorite. Toile patterned wallpapers, drapery fabrics, pillows, placemats, or tablecloths might be added into your existing living or dining room and feel right at home.
Add trim.
If you are you tired of plain white drapes or boring white chandelier shades, give them a trendy pop with borders of black braided trim from a fabric store. You could even use black grosgrain ribbon attached with fabric glue, for an even less expensive upgrade.
Stencil it.
Stenciling is a craft that is easy to learn and quick to do. Try stenciling a narrow scrolling black border above a chair rail or choose an arched design for over a doorway. Stencils can add the extra punch your room needs. And, if you don't like it, or tire of it – it is only paint so can be covered up in the future as your taste changes.
Spray paint.
Take a garage sale find and turn it into a trendy piece by spraying it with white or black spray paint. Use white with black details, or do the opposite beginning with a coat of black paint and add white embellishments.

There you have it – eight great ways to use 2007's black and white trend – and it hardly cost anything. Everyone you know will think you’re the most creative (and trendy!) decorator around.

Tags: 2007 decorating trends,budget home decorating, paint, decorating small spaces

Top Picks for Kitchen Countertops

2007-01-30T14:41:00.000-08:00

One of the biggest decisions you will make about your kitchen is the countertop. There are many options, and depending on your lifestyle, how you use your kitchen and, of course, your budget will determine what type of surface is best for you.

Top Picks for Kitchen Countertops
Top 10 Kitchen Countertops

From Coral Nafie,Your Guide to Interior Decorating

There are lots of options on the market for kitchen countertops. Our list of top picks gives the pros and cons of the top 10 choices so that you can make an educated choice when you remodel your kitchen. Follow the links to more information about each countertop material.

1) Granite Counters
Granite is the countertop material of choice when there are no other things to think about - like money. It defines elegance in a kitchen. The beauty of the stone contributes to the beauty of even the most modest kitchen.Pros: holds up to heat; comes in beautiful colors; looks permanent and substantial.Cons: very expensive, requires lots of maintenance, including periodic sealing; absorbs stains; can crack; limited range of colors available.

2) Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is composed of quartz particals. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists scratches. It's easy to maintain, without the annual sealing required by natural stone. Brands on the market are DuPont Zodiaq®, Cambria Quartz, and Silestone.Pros: resistant to stain and acid; easy care. Cons: Expensive.

3) Solid Surface
Because solid surface counters are just what they're called, solid, any scratches can be sanded out. The countertops are custom-made to your specifications by companies such as Avonite, Corian, and Swanstone.Pros: comes in a rainbow of colors and patterns; seamless; stain resistant.Cons vulnerable to hot pans and stains which can damage the surface; can be moderately expensive.

4) Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. Add to that inexpensive and you've got a really good choice for countertops for the average home. Because it's installed a section at a time, it can be done by most resourceful homeowners.Pros: takes hot pans; easy to clean; wide range of price, color, texture and design.Cons: counter surface is uneven; tiles can easily chip or crack; grout lines become stained; custom-designed tiles are very expensive.

5) Laminates
Laminate counters bear trademarks such as Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart. They're made of plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that's easy to clean. The pieces are cut to size and finished on the ends.Pros: you can buy laminates in lots of colors; easy to maintain; durable; inexpensive.Cons: scratches and chips are almost impossible to repair; seans show; end finishing and front edge choices can be pricey.

6) Wood or Butcher Block
Wood countertops offer a beautiful warm look and are available in a wide range of colors and finishes. Hardwoods such as maple and oak are most often used as countertop woods.Pros: easy to clean; smooth; can be sanded and resealed as needed. Cons: can be damaged by water and stains over time; scratches must be oiled or sealed according to manufacturer's instructions.

7) Stainless Steel Counters
For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice. They are heat resistant and durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop.Pros: takes hot pans; easy to clean. Cons: Expensive; noisy; may dent; fabrication is expensive; you can't cut on it.

8) Soapstone Counters
Soapstone is generally dark gray in color and has a smooth feel. It is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material. Pros: rich, deep color; smooth feel; somewhat stain resistant. Cons: requires regular maintenance with applications of mineral oil; may crack and darken over time.

9) Marble
Because of it's extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of whole kitchens. To get the luxurious look, use it on an island or inset at a baking center. Marble requires constant maintenance, as it easily stains. Some new sealers retard staining. Pros: waterproof; heatproof; beautiful. Cons: expensive; porous; stains easily unless professionally sealed; can scratch; may need resealing periodically as per manufacturer.

10) Concrete Counters
If you have countertops in unusual shapes, concrete may be a good choice, as they're often cast right in your kitchen. The high price tag may be beyond most people's budget.Pros: heat and scratch resistant; can be color-tinted; looks exotic and unusual; new treatments eliminate cracking; additives reduce porosity; new finishes are more decorative. Cons: mid to high range on cost due to custom work; cracking is possible; can look somewhat industrial; porous but can be sealed."

Give a lot of thought to how you use your kitchen before you make a decision about your countertop- do you cook often, or is your kitchen more for show? Do you use your kitchen for other activities, i.e. kids homework or school project, crafts, etc?

Tags: home decorating kitchen remodel, Tags: kitchen countertop materials

Decorating Color Trends for 2007 - Rental Decorating Digest

2007-01-25T06:44:00.000-08:00

Decorating is like fashion - colors and styles go in and out of vogue as time goes by. While avocado and harvest gold were the hot colors of the 70's , here is what you can expecct for 2007.

Decorating Color Trends for 2007 - Rental Decorating Digest
Color Trends 2007: Home Hues That Comfort and Excite
By Debbie Zimmer, The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute

"From spicy color combinations to hues that warm the soul, our 2007 color trends contain palettes that work independently as a “statement color” or as a subtle backdrop where home furnishings and accessories take center stage. We are excited to share the annual trend report, which contains color hues appropriate for all areas of the home or living space.

Comfort Colors
Just like the comfort foods we return to when searching for familiarity and simplicity, the comfort color palette provides a pleasant association with uncomplicated times and a respite from our hectic, technology-overloaded life. Their warmth envelopes us and provides a simple reward and feeling of security.

Biscuit and wheat neutrals, cocoa brown, pumpkin orange and cinnamon apple pie, are just a few of the comfort colors that will wrap your room with warmth and promote a stress-free space.

The comfort color palette is an especially good choice for kitchens and family rooms.

Back to Nature
A growing focus on the environment and sustainable products continues to push natural, earthy hues to the forefront. Yellows and blues, leaf-like greens, along with organic browns combine to bring the outdoors in. Add translucency and a glass like quality by incorporating varying paint sheen levels. As a subtle accent color, add rust or copper-like metallics into the scheme.

Bathrooms and bedrooms are perfect places to incorporate the back to nature hues or in rooms where an accent wall is employed.

Stark Contrast
What’s black and white and red all over? The 2007 stark contrast palette! With the 2008 Summer Olympics just around the corner and a keen and continuing interest in Asian culture, these and other events have helped to shape this bold and striking group.

From clean, clear reds and deep plums to the sophistication of black and white, this color group works both as an accent and as an elegant backdrop for many living spaces. Polished brass metallics complement this scheme.

Dining, living rooms and especially powder rooms will benefit from this bold and spicy palette."

If you have been thinking about updating your living space, try changing wall and fabric colors. These are inexpensive changes that can make a big difference in your rooms.

Tags: home decorating color trends

Coni Art Glass Decorative Home Accessories

2007-01-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

I found these glass balls at ConiArtGlass.com. They make a great room accessory any time of the year. I like them stacked in a centerpiece bowl or tray. They bring light and color to any space.

Coni Art Glass- Handmade Glass Balls, Christmas Ornaments, and Spirit Balls

"These handmade glass balls bring light and happiness to home décor. Often used for Feng Shui design, the colors promote creative energy in the home. Float them in ponds to protect the fish from predators. When the sun shines on the glass balls, the light scares away the predators.

Used year round, these glass spheres also make beautiful Christmas ornaments. The colorful hand blown glass balls, spheres and hearts are a versatile and affordable decorative accessory (used in homes, hotels, restaurants, and offices), and make great gift items. They come in many colors and patterns. We welcome special orders for your design ideas, and color combinations.

The glass balls are the perfect home decorating idea, or party decoration. They make unique gifts and party favors. Interior Designers love to use the decorative balls grouped in a beautiful glass bowl, as a centerpiece or focal point of a room.

Hang them in windows as sun catchers. Also known as Friendship Balls, Spirit Balls, Witch Balls, Fairy Balls or in German as "kugels", which means ornamental balls, they are beautiful called by any name. Lighting designers are making beautiful light fixtures with these handmade glass balls, too. The witch balls (also known as spirit balls or fairy balls) and Gazing Globes, were traditionally used to protect the garden."

Interesting and cost effective decorative accessory.

Tags: home accessory,home decorating

Finishing Touches Perk Up a Room

2007-01-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some great ideas for the finishing touches, or decorative accessories, that can make an otherwise lackluster room into a spectacular living area.

Finishing Touches Perk Up a Room
Finishing Touches Perk Up a Room
From Coral Nafie

"Get it Just Right! Once you have painted the walls, put up the window treatments, moved the furniture around, and cleaned up the mess, you might think that the job of redecorating your room is done. But it just doesn't look finished! What to do? Read on.

Once you have the shell of your room just the way you want it, you're not done with the job. There are lots of finishing touches that you can add to make the room look finished and welcoming. Some decorators feel that decorating a room or home should always be a work in progress.

Whether it takes a week, a month, or a whole lifetime, finding just the right finishing touches for a room is really the fun part of decorating. You'll be adding the jewelry to the room, the personality that makes the room reflect who you are, what your interests are, and where you've been.

Get some ideas from our list of finishing touches for decorating a room.
Remember, you may never be finished, but you'll have fun along the way.

Plants and Flowers It's amazing what a quick transformation can be made with fresh plants and flowers. You don't need to find something dramatic and expensive. A simple plant potted in a decorative pot set on a coffee table, bookshelf, on top of a cabinet, almost anywhere, adds life and color instantly. Be sure to keep fresh plants shiny and dusted. You might even want to have two plants for each location, one for display, one "on the mend." If a plant gets scraggly or droopy, get rid of it! You might nurse it back to health, but not in your living space! If you just don't have time to tend plants or if your room is dark, find some new artificial plants. These work great for out-of-reach spaces. But be sure to keep them dusted and perky, too.

Expand on a Theme Everyone has a special interest. Traveling, sports, pets, flowers, children, and even a favorite book or movie can all provide focus for a room and offer ideas for adding finishing touches. By choosing a theme for your room, you'll know what to zero in on and be able to select accessories, art, and colors to expand and enrich the theme.

Deck the Walls Bare, boring walls get a real lift with a painting, colorful poster, collection of prints, or family photos. When working with art, try to focus on a color scheme or theme. Unify the works with common mat colors, similar colored frames, and size and shape. One large piece can create a focal point in a room, while a small collection of pieces draw the eye for a closer look.

Get Grounded A hardwood floor looks sleek and smooth, while wall to wall carpet adds softness and unifies large spaces. But an area rug, placed on top of the flooring, can create a special area, provide a boundary for furniture, and even divide a room into several spaces without walls. Classic oriental rugs can be found to fit almost any decorating scheme and contemporary patterned or color-blocked rugs add color and character to the floor and the room.

Gather Together Some of Your Favorite Things If you collect anything such as dolls, books, teapots, cameras, or sporting equipment, use the collection as a point of interest. Gather the whole collection into one place or arrange the items around the room. Celadon plates, blue and white porcelain, carved wooden pieces all offer themselves as works of art for a room. What do you love?
Combine Textures and Feel Contemporary interiors are often sleek and smooth, while cottage style rooms are usually soft and snuggly. For a really interesting look and a comfortable feeling for a room, combine smooth and rough, shiny and matte, hard and soft in one room. The contrasts will add interest and help to avoid a boring room.

One Piece to Stand Out Neutral walls and fabrics look clean and neat in a room. But to really draw someone's eye, add a punch of color with lime pillows, orange mats on black and white photos, a hand-painted piece of furniture on the main wall, an animal print ottoman. Just one interesting accessory or piece of furniture will help make the room spectacular."

Take a look around your rooms. Are they finished? Or, do they need a few of these finishing touches to add interest? Have some fun, and try some of these excellent home decorating ideas.

Tags: decorative accessories, home decorating, home decorating on a budget, interior design.

Apartment Bathroom Design

2007-01-20T08:21:00.000-08:00

Create a stylish, easy care bathroom in small spaces. These ideas are especially good for city dwellers, where space is at a premium.

The newest bathroom designs are focused on using the most up-to-date technology to meet needs, with high-tech steel appliances, streamlined ceramics and tough, durable surfaces.

An apartment bathroom is a good place to experiment with color, since the areas to be covered are never large, and are generally seen for short periods of time only. Try unusual color combinations, or keep to cool, clinical white and steel, with small pools of concentrated color provided by bath linens and accessories.

Aim for a simple, functional look; keeping in mind the following style fundamentals for apartment bathrooms:

Walls - Neutral or strong: latex paint in flat colors, either subtle, stark white, or bold combinations. Stay away from wallpaper which tends to give a dated look. Tiles: plain glazed ceramic, in colors or white, natural stone, glass, slate, or sealed cork
Windows - Frosted glass: replace clear glass windows with frosted. Window coverings should be narrow Venetians in metal or wood, Roman or pleated shades.
Flooring: Smooth: pale wood, tiles, stone, linoleum, vinyl in plain or semi-plain designs. Rugs with short pile , or a wood-slat bathmat.
Plumbing Fixtures - Contemporary simple shapes in white ceramic or steel.
Lighting - High tech bath lighting: recessed ceiling spotlights or simple modern central light fixture.
Bath Accessories - Modern gleaming, shiny or satin steel fixtures (towels bars, toilet roll, toothbrush holder, etc.), simple mirror, and colored or white towels.

Tags: bathroom design, decorating small spaces, home decorating on a budget, interior design.

Express Yourself With Color!

2007-01-18T06:43:00.000-08:00

Using paint in home decorating is a powerful way to express who you are, and how you want others to perceive your home. Most people are afraid to paint the walls of a room, thinking that the room will seem smaller, or because the commitment of color on the walls is intimidating. But don't depair! Redecorating with wall color can give your room a whole new updated look and feel!

Painting a room in your house can have many of positive effects. Color can make your home feel more comfortable and inviting to both you and to your guests, and your space will have a whole new updated and stylish appeal. You'll be surprised how such a simple change like changing the color of your room can improve your home!

Set a mood or tone with paint color

Something as simple as adding a splash of color to your walls can set any particular mood you might be going for.

Earthy tones like browns, and dark reds or greens give a warm and cozy feeling
Bold colors like bright blues, reds, or even purples are fun and funky
Subtle pastels like yellows, pinks, or light grays and blues are light and airy

Establish a theme with paint color

Wall color is an excellent start for a particular room theme that you may want to achieve. For example, if you are planning a nursery with a “moon and stars” theme, you could use a dark blue paint color, or even a lighter blue (for a baby girl’s room), to simulate the night sky. Wall color can literally be the backdrop to the room’s theme!

Express your personality with wall color

Adding wall color to a room not only improves its appearance, but it can also be a fun way to extend your personality. Your home is an extension of who you are. By expressing yourself through color and décor, you are showing the world your personality. Are you fun, laid back, or intense? Express yourself!

Make a room feel larger with wall color

Often people resist wall color fearing that it will box the room in, making it feel smaller. This is simply not true! In fact, many professional decorators use bold and darker hues to actually make a room feel larger. These colors help to blend the corners of a room together, literally making it feel larger, and giving the feeling of continuous space, and therefore, more space!

Define the limits of a room

Many modern floor plans are open. It is difficult to define where one room starts and another room begins. This can make painting somewhat difficult. However, by defining your spaces with wall color, you not only break up big white spaces, but you create a stylish living environment. Remember to try to coordinate the colors you choose for each space, though. Otherwise, the walls will look choppy rather than cozy or modern, and the effect you are going for will just not happen!

If you are afraid to paint the whole room one solid color then start with one wall in the room. Paint it the color of your choice! This one wall can act as an accent wall, or even be used to establish the focal point of the room, such as a fireplace, or a piece of art. You will be surprised at what a difference painting just one wall can make! Even the smallest change can make a big difference!

Don't be afraid of color on your walls! The good news is it’s only paint, it can be changed if it doesn’t look the way you envisioned it! Anyway, you never know. Take a chance with wall color, and you might just end up tapping into a hidden creativity that you never knew you had! Redecorating a room with paint color can change the entire look and feel of your home, and how you feel in it!

Organize for the New Year!!!

2007-01-17T14:47:00.000-08:00

It's a New Year, and it's time for a new start. If your New Year's Resolution was to get more organized, you are definitely not alone. The MyGoals.com survey indicates that for 2007, a whole lot of you made Time Management & Organization Resolutions. In fact here is the percentage of the people in the US polled who made the following resolutions:

Getting Organized 44%
Time Management 22%
Cleaning & Reducing Clutter 11%
Goals About Setting Goals 11% (now there's an interesting one)
Projects 11% (Actual goals people have recently set in this category:"To fix up the upstairs office""To plan my wedding""To weed all of the gardens""To wake up at 8:00""To control paperwork")
Read More

Here are some ideas to help you get more organized:

Plan ahead. Schedule the hours that you think it will take to get the job done. Start with one room at a time; you don't have to organize the whole house in one day. Break the job up into managable slots.
Reduce the clutter - give away or throw out anything that you haven't used in the past year. If you haven't used it in the past 12 months, you are not likely to use it in the future.
Recycle old magazines and newspapers.
File away bills and other papers that are important, shred everything else with any personal information on it to prevent identity theft .
Identify zones in each space. For example, the kitchen has cabinets to be reorganized, the refridgerator and freezer, workspaces, etc. Work on each zone, one at a time.
Take advantage of the many organizer products available on the market. For the kitchen, Cooking.com has great drawer organizers, spice racks, canisters, and the like to help you to organize your kitchen. There are products for the office, and for time management, as well.

It will take you less time than you think to get organized, and you'll feel great about finishing this project!

Update Your Kitchen - Even If You Are On A Budget

2007-01-16T13:32:00.000-08:00

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house, and one that you may want to redecorate first. If you can't afford new appliances, countertops, fixtures, and floors, don't despair! You can update your kitchen even if you are on a modest budget.

First, give some thought to how your kitchen is used. Do you entertain a lot? Do you need more storage? What is it about your kitchen that you don't like, or that you're uncomfortable with? Do your children use the kitchen to do their homework, or school projects? What color is your kitchen - are you happy with the color? What kind of shape are your cabinets in? Do you need more organization and storage?

Even if you have a living room, great room, and/or a family room, we often find everyone congregating in the kitchen. It tends to e the most important room in the home. The kitchen is the place where food is prepared and shared, an important gathering place for activities and chats, and often the most warm and cozy room in the house.

I once had an apartment in New York City with a very small kitchen - we're talking very, very small. Whenever I had guests over I noticed that everyone would gravitate to the kitchen! There was hardly enough room to turn around - imagine, I was trying to cook or prepare drinks and there would be 6 or more people trying to crowd in! We couldn't move. Something had to give.

After giving it a lot of thought, I had part of the wall between the kitchen and the dining area cut out to create a pass-through. We added a granite counter/ledge to create a bar-like area. After making this simple change, I could banish everyone from the kitchen without anyone feeling "left out".

Here are some other ideas for mixing the old with the new, making the most of limited space, and creating your dream kitchen even if you are on a budget:

If your cabinets are in good repair, paint them instead of replacing them. Even old laminate cabinets can be painted. Ask at the hardware or paint store for a good primer that sticks well to laminate surfaces. If your cabinets must be replaced, save money by ordering them unfinished and paint them yourself.
Cover imperfections in the floors with a rug. Take a look at Natural Area Rugs you can buy sturdy area rugs direct from the manufacturers and save up to 80%! These type of natural rugs are a good choice for the kitchen, and cost effective. Bamboo or seagrass rugs add warmth, and can be an economical upgrade from a worn vinyl floor.
If your kitchen has a nice private view, leave the window curtainless to open up the room. When you let in more light, you'll make the space feel less cluttered. Alternatively, use blinds that can be opened completely during the day, and then closed at night when you want more privacy.
Paint the walls a bright new color. Add some fabric accents in contrasting colors to create a completely new look. Think placemats, napkins, tablecloths, seat cushions, etc.
Update your lighting, if possible. The more light you bring in, the more cheerful, and welcoming your kitchen will be. You can find great light fixtures online. I like Bellacor.com; they have the largest online source for lighting and home furnishings. Their prices are great, and they offer free shipping. Not to be missed.
The kitchen is a great space in which to display your collectibles. Do you have a collection of colorful mixing bowls, or glassware? Display them on open shelves to add interest and color. Vintage kitchen linens, old bottles or china make beautiful displays on shelves, or hanging on the walls. Check out the flea markets, and discount stores like TJMaxx or Tuesday Morning for bargains. Alternatively, you can use artwork on the walls to update your kitchen. Did you ever think about framing some of your children's artwork? You can also find nice framed prints at ArtprintCollection.com , or BestArt.com at great prices.

Home Decor Ideas - The Six Basics for Budget Decorating

2007-01-15T09:06:00.000-08:00

Express your personal style! Decorating your home allows you to have fun and be creative. Keep the following six basics in mind as you approach your project, and remember that with a little imagination, you can realize your dreams.

Paint. This is always the least expensive way to change the look of any room, and often you can do the job yourself. Go neutral and light, or bright and bold. Think about the look that you want to achieve. Look at magazines and advertising brochures to get some great ideas.

Slipcovers. You can find custom or ready made slipcovers to cover worn furniture. As long as the furniture has good structure, slip covers can make a blah room look like new.

Fabrics. For maximum impact, use colorful fabrics to brighten a room. Contrasting or matching throw pillows, table covers, or linens can make a major difference in an otherwise lackluster room. Check your closets for items you may already have; flea markets, and fabric stores often have great finds, too. You can also make a splash with area rugs that complement your setting. I like Rugs Express because they offer free shipping, and have low prices for nice quality area rugs.

Artwork. You may have artwork that you haven't thought of using. A grouping of architectural shots from your last vacation can make an interesting accent to a room. Take a look at ArtprintCollection.com , they offer high quality canvas-textured art prints. BestArt.com also offers framed art at great prices.

Collectibles. Do you have a collection that is stored in an attic or closet. Make use of collectibles such as art glass, pottery in bright and complementary shades and shapes, or vintage quilts, for example. You can find contemporary pieces in retail stores, or other decorative touches that are not expensive at flea markets and antique fairs. Use collectibles that you like - whether they are seashells and stones, or fancy Limoges porcelain collectibles.

Windows. There are so many beautiful window treatments available online or at retail stores. When you change the window covering, you change the amount of light that is available in a room, changing the mood of the room. Do you want a bright and airy room, or something more subdued? You can make big changes to the mood and feeling of a room just by changing the window treatments.

Stick with the basics, and watch your rooms take on a new peersonality - one that expresses who you are, and your personal style.

Inspiring Home Decorating Ideas

2007-01-14T16:55:00.000-08:00

Transform your home inside and out with great ideas for decorating your home. Whether you are on a tight home decorating budget, or the sky's the limit, we'll bring you home decorating ideas that you'll love.

Home improvements can be an exciting but challenging process. Whether your goal is to make your living space more functional or to create a look that suits your personal taste, realizing your dreams is often frustrating - especially if you are on a limited budget. It's often difficult just knowing where or how to begin.

We'll bring you solutions for transforming every room in your house, with valuable ideas for everything from seasonal makeovers to simple do-it-yourself home decorating projects. From your living rooms and bedrooms to kitchen and bath - you'll find the ideas here. You don't need to spend a fortune to achieve a stylish renovation - fabric, paint, and other decorative details can make a major impact on your space at a minimal cost.

Check back often for all the best home decorating ideas.